Martello Towers began to appear along England's coastline around 1805 as a defence against invasion from the sea, particularly by Napoleon. 

The Longhope Martello's are unique in Scotland and were a newer design built around 1813-1815, however they were not designed to keep the French at bay but to protect the Baltic Convoys from the United States Navy and American privateers! 

Crockness Martello Tower

Hackness Martello Tower & Battery

Hackness Martello & Battery are open to the public - evidence of life at the barracks can be viewed including examples of furniture and other military memorabilia.