Fort Scratchley Newcastle: Exploring Australia's Only Combat Fort
Perched on Flagstaff Hill with a commanding view of the Pacific Ocean and the Hunter River, Fort Scratchley is more than a scenic lookout. It's a network of underground tunnels and heavy artillery on a hill of deep significance to the Awabakal people. It's one of the places we cover in Hidden Gems NSW.
Find this and dozens more in Hidden Gems NSW: directions, access notes and safety tips. Printed guides include 12 months of the Explorer app free. Get the guide →
Completed in 1882, Fort Scratchley made history on 8 June 1942. When the Japanese submarine I-21 began shelling Newcastle, the fort's gunners fired back, making it the only Australian coastal fort to fire on an enemy ship.
Fort Scratchley: Quick Stats
- Access: Free entry to the fort; the tunnels can only be seen on a guided tour.
- Location: Nobbys Road, Newcastle East.
- Hours: 10am to 4pm (last entry 3:30pm), closed Tuesdays.
- The 1pm Tradition: The time gun fires at 1pm every day the fort is open, weather permitting.
What to See at Fort Scratchley
1. The Fort Scratchley Tunnels
This is the real hidden gem. Beneath the fort is a maze of tunnels once used to move shells from the magazines to the guns.
- Note: The tunnels are open by guided tour only, run by Fort Scratchley Historical Society volunteers, and tours may be weather-dependent. Stay with your guide and don't touch the fittings. It's worth every cent to see the shell hoists and the rooms where soldiers tracked enemy movements.
2. The Command Post & "Battle of Newcastle" Site
Stand at the observation post where, in 1942, the order was given to fire. You can still see the engineering that let the big guns swing round to cover both the harbour and the coast.
3. The Flagstaff Hill Views
Even if you aren't a history buff, the views here are among the best in the city. Watch the giant coal ships being guided through the harbour entrance by nimble pilot boats.
How to Get to Fort Scratchley
- By Car: There's a car park at the top of the hill, reached via Nobbys Road.
- By Light Rail: Take the Newcastle Light Rail to the Newcastle Beach stop. From there, it's a lovely 10-minute uphill walk through the historic East End.
Tips for Your Visit
- The 1pm Gun: If you have sensitive ears, be prepared. The time gun is loud and can be heard across the Newcastle CBD.
- Whale Watching: In the winter months, the fort is a great land-based whale-watching spot.
- Museum Rooms: Spend some time in the fort's museum rooms, which cover its history from the Victorian era to WWII.
- Uneven Ground: Parts of the site are uneven, so wear comfortable shoes. Only assistance animals are allowed.
Fort Scratchley FAQs
Is Fort Scratchley free?
Yes, entry to the fort is free. The tunnels can only be visited on a guided tour, which is ticketed.
What time does the Fort Scratchley gun fire?
The time gun fires at 1pm every day the fort is open, subject to weather.
When is Fort Scratchley open?
Six days a week, 10am to 4pm with last entry at 3:30pm. It's closed on Tuesdays.
Did Fort Scratchley really fire on the enemy?
Yes. On 8 June 1942 its guns returned fire at the Japanese submarine I-21 after it shelled Newcastle.
