Unlike other Roman Forts, Pevensey is “round”:https://aeroengland.photodeck.com/media/8b7a392d-4283-4efe-86c5-e9124e57abd4-aerial-photograph-of-pevensey-castle-east-sussex-england-uk rather than square, taking its shape from the promontory it was built on. The walls still stand to almost their original height and are intact apart from part of the south wall, which would have adjoined sea or marsh and a short stretch on the north west side along the B2191, marked by a clump of trees. This is thought to have collapsed from siege damage in 1264. Along with their projecting bastions, they are among the best preserved Roman shore fort walls.
Wooden piles were driven into the ground with a layer of flint and chalk with an oak lattice frame embedded in it. These formed a s firm foundation on the wet marshy land for the stone wall. These were built from shaped greensandstone blocks with Wealden sandstone forming decorative bands and layers of tiles.
It was surrounded by a ditch that can still be seen near the west gateway.
The main entrance to the fort was through the west gate on the landward side. The guardroom towers protecting the gateway have been demolished.The east gate is a simple arch, indicating security on the seaward side of the fort wasn’t a major concern.
The area inside the fort would have been filled with timber frame buildings and barracks for the soldiers. The remains of the castle in the east corner. There are good views from the top of this across the surrounding flat marshy levels.
Now rough grass, the fort is free to enter and is popular with localsas a place to sit and relax or exercise dogs. It is an amazing structure and the walls must be among the best preserved Roman fort walls in Britain.