Welcome to the Friends of Stokes Bay
Stokes Bay, often referred to as ‘The Jewel in Gosport’s Crown’, has a rich heritage both natural and man-made.
It is unusual in that it has remained as an open area available to local people and visitors for a wide variety of recreational purposes including sailing, windsurfing, kite flying, football, tennis, miniature golf, pétanque and a toddlers’ paddling pool.
The shingle shore is noted for its remarkable flora and many varieties of birds. The lagoons east of Gilkicker, a Site of Special Scientific Interest and the unspoilt natural area to the east, are a delight for walkers.
The Bay owes its unspoilt character to its past as an area of military defence. In the 19th century a line of defensive forts, batteries and a moat were constructed. Two of the batteries remain today and recently No. 2 Battery was opened as a Diving Museum.
During World War II the Bay was an important location with much of it being concreted over in preparation for the D-Day landings and the building of parts of the Mulberry Harbour Caissons. It was from here that large numbers of troops including the Canadians embarked for the landings.
About the Society
The Friends of Stokes Bay is a society founded in 1975 to safeguard the environment of Stokes Bay for present and future generations.
Become a Member
To become a member you can download a form to print and fill in.