Lytton

Lytton, near the mouth of the Brisbane River and Port of Brisbane, is one of the most historically significant areas of Brisbane. The suburb is home to Fort Lytton, built as a first-line naval defence between 1880 and 1881.

Constructed more than 30 years before the outbreak of World War One, Fort Lytton's role was to protect the city and its shipping routes from naval invasion. One of the most well-preserved forts of its kind in Australia, Fort Lytton is encircled by a water-filled moat, and is concealed behind large grassy ramparts. Hidden underground passages secretly connect different sections of the Fort and many of the original guns have been restored to working order. If you visit the Fort on special occasions you might be lucky enough to see a military re-enactment and hear the booming 64-pounder guns in action.

To get the most from your visit to the Fort join a guided tour and immerse yourself in Brisbane's wartime history at the Fort Lytton Museum. On Sundays and Public Holidays, volunteer guides offer tours, sharing their knowledge and insights of Fort Lytton and the heritage it preserves.

Aside from its military importance, the Fort also claims a place in history as an airstrip once used by Australia's most famous aviator, Sir Charles Kingsford Smith.

Surrounded by scenic river views, Fort Lytton is a great place for a picnic and is just half an hour's drive from the centre of Brisbane. Good accommodation options can be found nearby at the seaside Wynnum. Hotels, motels, hostels, self-contained units and holiday rentals are all available.