Fort Scratchley is located in the suburb of Newcastle East, on Flagstaff Hill, overlooking the Hunter River. Coal was discovered on the hill in the late 18th century and was exploited until the hill was claimed by the army in 1843.

The fort was built as a coastal defense in 1882 and armed, in response to hostilities between England and Russia. The guns were only fired in anger in 1942 against the Japanese during the bombing of Newcastle. They are now used to salute departing cruise ships. The fort is an interactive museum. Volunteers offer guided tours above ground and through the extensive network of underground tunnels.

Address: Fort Scratchley , 1-3 Nobbys Rd, Newcastle East NSW 2300, Phone: 02-49-29-30-66

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