Transforming Thorne Island: A Journey from Dereliction to Opulence

Mike Conner’s ambitious renovation of a historic Napoleonic fort presents both challenges and triumphs, as he revives Thorne Island into a unique getaway, showcasing the potential of historic properties in Wales.

Reviving History: The Incredible Transformation of Thorne Island

Many of us dream of taking on a renovation project, imagining the satisfaction of transforming a space to make it our own. But for Mike Conner, a former software company owner, the opportunity to revive a derelict 19th-century Napoleonic fort came with challenges he never anticipated.

A Leap of Faith

In May 2017, Mike Conner purchased Thorne Island, a historic fortress located near Milford Haven in Pembrokeshire, for £555,000. The property had been dormant for 17 years, and initially, it was hard to imagine the possibilities that lay ahead. According to Conner, “I really didn’t know what I was getting myself into.”

When he acquired the island, it lacked even the most basic amenities—running water and electricity were nonexistent. Fast forward five years, and the fort has undergone a stunning transformation. It now boasts 40 beds, four en-suite bathrooms, and its own nightclub—an impressive feat for a property that was once in a state of disrepair.

A Historical Gem

Constructed in the 1850s as a deterrent against French naval attacks on the busy port of Milford Haven, the fort was originally designed to accommodate up to 100 soldiers. Over the years, it has served various purposes, including a hotel that hosted celebrations from 1947 until its sale in 1999. Despite grand renovation plans by the Von Essen hotel group in the early 2000s, the site fell into abandonment until Conner stepped in.

The Renovation Journey

Bringing Thorne Island back to life wasn’t for the faint-hearted. The renovation process took nearly five years and required significant investment and effort, both financially and physically. Conner humorously remarked, “Many have described it as a midlife crisis.” His wife was initially skeptical, joking that she would only join him once there was a flushing toilet. That flushing toilet proved to be a monumental task itself, requiring the cutting through of 16 feet of rock and costing approximately £200,000.

Living conditions for the workers were also tough. Conner indicated that most of the laborers lived on-site for two-week stretches, often without the luxury of showers. Yet, the camaraderie formed during those challenging times helped foster a dedicated team, many of whom Conner still works with today.

A Tribute to the Past

Conner expressed his admiration for the Victorian craftsmanship. “I couldn’t believe they could build something so magnificent,” he noted, revealing that about a thousand men worked on the original structure for two years. For him, the renovation was more than just a project; it felt like a tribute to the labor that had gone into constructing the fort.

The island has hosted everything from 80-person parties to tranquil evenings with “millpond serenity.” Thorne Island even hosted a festival for Conner’s 50th birthday, complete with a tightrope performer—an event that would have seemed unimaginable during its years of neglect.

The Future Awaits

As Thorne Island now stands proudly back on the market for £3 million, Conner envisions a vibrant future for it. He believes it has the potential to serve as a unique tourist attraction or even host unforgettable events. “If it could generate revenue and sustain itself, that would be a fantastic outcome,” he added.

“Wales has some absolutely fabulous historic buildings that are in really sad states,” he stated, emphasizing the need to draw attention to such treasures. He hopes that the next owner will embrace the fort’s rich history and explore its potential.

With stunning views and endless possibilities, Thorne Island exemplifies the beauty and challenges of restoring a piece of history. As Conner reflected on his journey, he shared a sentiment many can relate to: “Time seems to stop here, and people are present.”

In summation, Thorne Island is not just a renovated property; it’s a rebirth of history and a canvas of opportunities for the future, making it one of the most fascinating locations in Pembrokeshire. The next chapter for this storied fortress is yet to be written, and its potential is limitless.

Whether you’re a history buff, a renovation enthusiast, or simply looking for unique adventures in Wales, Thorne Island is a remarkable testament to what can emerge from vision, passion, and relentless hard work.