History Lives Here — Because of You: A Special Day at Landguard Fort

May 26th marked a truly meaningful moment for everyone who cares about Landguard Fort — a day that celebrated not just our heritage, but the people who protect it, champion it, and bring it to life every single week.

At the heart of the event was a simple truth: Landguard thrives because of its community. Volunteers, supporters, families, local leaders — all standing together to honour the past while shaping the future.

A Tribute to Legacy, Service and Shared History

Left to Right: Felixstowe’s Mayor, Darren Aitchison, Dave Wood’s Family & Jenny Riddell‑Carpenter MP

One of the most poignant moments of the day was the unveiling of a commemorative plaque dedicated to Dave Wood (1947–2023) — a founding trustee, fortification historian, and a man whose passion helped transform Landguard Fort into the landmark it is today.

Members of Dave’s family joined volunteers, supporters and friends to honour his legacy. It was a reminder that places like Landguard are not preserved by accident — they are protected by people. People who give their time, their energy, and their hearts.

A New Chapter: The Opening of the Landguard Timeline Exhibition

Jenny Riddell‑Carpenter MP and Felixstowe’s Mayor, Darren Aitchison, who together led the official opening ceremony for our brand‑new Timeline exhibition.

This immersive new display charts over 400 years of Landguard’s history — from its earliest days as a coastal defence, through centuries of military innovation, right up to the community stories that continue to shape the peninsula today.

Dave Wood's Family at the Opening Ceremony for the new Timeline Exhibit
Mayor Darren Aitchison and Dave Wood’s Family getting a guided tour of the new exhibit by Steve Curtis (seen left) one of the Fort Forward team
The concept model for the exhibit.

Jenny Riddell-Carpenter MP cut the ribbon surrounded by volunteers, supporters and visitors, marking the beginning of a new way for people to experience the Fort’s extraordinary past. The exhibition is more than a timeline — it’s a reminder of how Landguard has stood watch over Felixstowe for generations, and how its story continues to evolve with the help of the community.

This incredible exhibit was only made possible by the hard work of a dedicated team, the “Fort Forward” team who constantly work towards creating the experiences that tell the story of Landguard Fort for all those that visit. An entirely Volunteer group that have created something that not only immerses the visitor in the past but promises a bright and exciting future for the Fort.

The Power of Volunteers: The Heartbeat of Landguard

Our Volunteers with (L-R) David Gledhill (Landguard Trust Trustee) Jenny Riddell‑Carpenter MP, Felixstowe’s Mayor, Darren Aitchison, John Ogden Fort Trustee, Dave Wood’s Family, Some of the Fort Forward Team and a selection of our amazing volunteers and staff.
A small selection of the incredible team of Volunteers that keeps Landguard Fort open for visitors.

Every brick, every story, every tour, every event — they all exist because of volunteers. Their dedication ensures that Landguard Fort remains a living, breathing part of our community rather than a forgotten relic.

  • Volunteer roles — whatever your skills, there’s a place for you.

Their work is not just appreciated — it is essential.

A Thank You From All of Us

To everyone who supports the Fort, shares its stories, or gives their time: thank you. You are the reason Landguard continues to inspire. You are the reason our history remains alive. And you are the reason future generations will still be able to walk these walls and feel the weight of the past beneath their feet.History lives here — because of you.

If you’d like to explore more about the volunteer community or how to get involved, please email us at:
general.manager@landguard.com