Adjacent to this tower is an underground Cold War bunker built in the 1950s and decommissioned only a few years later, adding another layer of historical significance.
HM Coastguard built the first lookout on Martello tower P in 1934. The current lookout was built in 1979. With changing priorities and efficiency drives in the 1990s coastal lookouts were closed down and HM Coastguard focused more on the provision of co-ordinated search and rescue services. HM Coastguard closed their Felixstowe lookout in 1994.
In 1995 the National Coastwatch Institution (NCI) Felixstowe station was a caravan which was towed each weekend into position for observations. This graduated to a large beach hut mounted on oil drums and concrete and, on 26 April 1996, moved into its present home - the recently vacated HM Coastguard lookout on top of Martello tower P.
A Sustainable Future for Martello Tower P
In 2025, East Suffolk Council was awarded £87,000 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to enable development of a feasibility project for Martello Tower P. The project will include building surveys, business models, audience development and architectural designs, to explore a sustainable future for the prominent seafront landmark.
As part of this investigative project, we want to hear from you!
The roof is home to the Felixstowe branch of the National Coastwatch Institution (NCI) and the tower is opened up occasionally to the public for events. We are currently working with external consultants, SC Insight and The Visitor Business, to seek feedback to understand awareness and experiences of the tower, as well as thoughts on its future potential, via a short survey, conducted by SC Insight.
Take part in the Martello Tower P survey
Events and volunteer opportunities
May Half Term:
Tower Open Day Friday 29 May, 11am - 2pm
August Summer Fun Day:
Friday 14 August, 10am - 3pm
Heritage Open Days:
Saturday 19 September, 11am - 2pm
Volunteering supports your community, whilst building your confidence and supporting your general wellbeing. These events cannot take place without a team of wonderful helpers. There are specific roles available and full training will be given on the day. Opportunities include help with set up, clear away, volunteer and stall holders’ welfare, Kids Trail and handing out prizes, waste control and general marshalling duties. Communications via 2-way radios available for all volunteers.
All helpers will receive an exclusive Martello P pin badge and free hot/cold refreshments are provided on the day.
Get in touch if you are interested in helping at any of our upcoming events.
To sign up, please email: felixstowe@eastsuffolk.gov.uk.
Guided tours of Martello P
Book a guided tour of Martello P in Felixstowe
Heritage open days
You can book a place on a Heritage open day on the website or by emailing: felixstowe@eastsuffolk.gov.uk.