A composite tubular structure is described suitable for transmitting axial loads in compression or tension. It comprises an elongate composite member 70 having a nut 50 retained in each end for forming a connection with another component. The composite member further comprises an inwardly tapered section at each end, each of which has an inner surface that follows a tapered outer surface of one of the embedded nuts. The inwardly tapered section narrows the composite member in a longitudinal direction towards one end so as to provide a constriction which retains the respective nut within. A connector 80, 84, 86 may clamp the end with a pre-load. A liner 60 may be used to support the nuts during deposition of the filaments in order to form the two inwardly tapered sections at the ends. It can allow the wall of the structure to be formed with different profiles.