Fort Denison

Fort Denison

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Posted 2013-11-21 by Ian Gillfollow
Along with the Harbour Bridge and Opera House Ford Denison , or 'Pinchgut' as it's known, is one of Sydney's most recognisable landmarks.



Since the arrival of the First Fleet this once rocky outcrop has served as a convict prison, place of execution, a fort, a navigation aid for shipping, a tidal gauge station, a weather station, time signal and finally a restaurant and events venue.

In the very early days of settlement it was known as Rock Island and used as a source of sandstone for the construction of sea walls at present day Circular Quay.

By then levelled the island had a Gibbet installed on it in 1796 and the first execution, that of convicted murderer Francis Morgan took place that same year.



In the period 1841 to 1857 various works were undertaken to fortify 'Pinchgut' for the defence of Sydney. In 1857 the newly completed structure was named after the incumbent Governor of NSW Sir William Thomas Denison.



The forts distinctive tower is a Martello Tower, a defensive rounded structure with walls more than 3 metres thick which naval artillery found difficult to breach. 's Martello Tower was the last built in the British Empire and the only one to be constructed in Australia.

In 1992 the site was taken over by National Parks and Wildlife and considerable money and effort has gone into conserving the structure and improving facilities. though remained under some threat from rising sea levels and salt eating away at the porous sandstone.



Today the fort is a major tourist attraction featuring a museum full of artefacts and detailing the history of the island dating back to pre-settlement. It's also a very popular wedding venue.

The firing of the 1 O'clock time gun is a popular daily event.

Unfortunately is not wheelchair friendly with the fixed-level wharf difficult to access at times and featuring stone steps and some rough ground.

Regular ferry services operate to between 10.30 AM and 4 PM 7 days a week, departing from Wharf 6 at Circular Quay. Tickets purchased through Captain Cook Cruises include the price of admission to the Martello Tower and the guided tour.



The restaurant is open for lunch Monday – Saturday 11.30 AM – 3 PM, Sunday Brunch from 10.45 AM and Lunch 12 PM – 3 PM. The restaurant also takes group bookings for dinner.

is one of Sydney's great historical sites and provides sensational views across the harbour and city skyline. Just a short ferry ride from the centre of the city it is a must-see attraction for visitors to the harbour city.



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%wnsydney
209953 - 2023-06-16 06:23:53

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