Blackwell Point

Has been described as a Possible Artillery Fort, and also as a Possible Chain Tower

There are no visible remains

NameBlackwell Point
Alternative Names
Historic CountryLondon and Middlesex
Modern AuthorityLondon Borough of Tower Hamlets
1974 AuthorityGreater London
Civil ParishTower Hamlets

A boom was put across the Thames at Blackwall with fortlets on both banks as part of London's defences against the Spanish armada. Known from a 16th century map by Adams although not reported in official records of the defences of the Thames. There were also gun emplacements at Woolwich and Erith and the fort at Tilbury. (Greater London HER)

Gatehouse Comments

Appears to be portrayed as a star shaped work, presumably earthwork, with a boom or pier into the Thames with possibly 2 artillery pieces on the end of the pier. As with some of the maps associated with Henry VIII coastal fortifications it may be these were proposed rather than actual defenses although London would have had the resources to build, arm and man such defences.

- Philip Davis

Not scheduled

Not Listed

County Historic Environment Record
OS Map Grid ReferenceTQ385803
Latitude51.5051498413086
Longitude-0.00514000002294779
Eastings538500
Northings180300
HyperLink HyperLink HyperLink

No photos available. If you can provide pictures please contact Castlefacts

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Books

  • Adams, R., 1990, 'Thamesis Descriptio' in Barker, F. and Jackson, P., 1990, The History of London in Maps (Barrie and Jenkins)p. 16-17

Primary Sources