Events in Isle of Wight

Filter Events by Sub-Category

Please select a Date first.

Search for a company in Isle of Wight

The Needles New Battery

Isleofwight

Historical Sites

There are two parts to this fascinating National Trust site, the Needles New Battery as detailed here, plus The Needles Old Battery. They are a five-minute steep walk up/down hill from each other, or you can catch the bus between the two.

The Needles New Battery is free to enter.

Completed in 1895, the new battery was built further up the hill than the Old Battery, as there was concern of subsidence due to the larger guns. Placed in care and maintenance in 1918, the Needles New Battery was re-activated again for the second world war.

However, 1956 - 1971 were perhaps the most exciting years for the new battery, as the site was used for testing Black Knight & Black Arrow rocket engines before they were shipped to Woomera for launching. The Needles New Battery reveals the little known story of Britain's Cold War 'Race for Space'. Rockets were tested under strict secrecy here on the Isle of Wight. You can find out more of the interesting history and check out the underground museum, along with getting the best view of The Needles for photos at the viewpoint.

By 1975, the National Trust took on the Needles Old and New Battery, along with the surrounding downland. The underground rooms were opened to the public in 2004.

Please see the official National Trust website on the link provided, for full information including opening hours, or to find other National Trust attractions on the Isle of Wight.

Directions

West High Down, Alum Bay, Freshwater, PO39 0JH

View Larger Map
My Guide Book Now! The Needles New Battery

My Lists

Create New Guide

OR

Mini Guides
Arrow

Login to create your guides for Isle of Wight.

Add to My Guide

Create New Guide

Cancel

Cancel

Recommended Experiences in Isle of Wight

500+ trusted car hire partners globally

Create & Share your own Guide to Isle of Wight with friends and family!

Add your recommended places to visit by browsing the website and pressing the icon.

Create your own guide of favourite 'must see' places

Earn your Local Expert badge by Sharing your guides with others

Get your guide seen by submitting it to the Mini Guides section

Lists

We Are Part of the My Guide Network!

My Guide Isle of Wight is part of the global My Guide Network of Online & Mobile travel guides.

We are now in 120+ Destinations and Growing. If you are interested in becoming a local travel partner and would like to find out more then click for more info about our Website Business Opportunity.

Nearby Destinations