Welcome to The Needles Battery
The Needles Batteries were constructed between 1861-95 for coastal defence against a threat of invasion by France. The
Batteries are on the most westerly point of the Isle of Wight and overlook one of Britain's most famous coastal landmarks, the
Needles. Click here for a map showing the location.
The Batteries played an important role in the defence of southern Britain during two world wars. Between 1956-71 the New
Battery was used by Saunders Roe for testing the Black Knight and Black Arrow space rocket engines, prior to the rockets being
shipped to Woomera for launching. The Batteries, and the surrounding downland, were acquired by the National Trust in 1975 and
after extensive restoration work the Old Battery was opened to the public in 1982. The surviving buildings are maintained to a
high standard by the National Trust and its team of volunteer helpers.
Spectacular views of the Solent, Dorset and Hampshire are visible from the ramparts, and the old searchlight emplacement, at
the end of a 65 metre tunnel, provides the closest view of The Needles from land.
New Exhibition: From the 2nd to 26th February there will be an exhibition titled "Once there was a
rocket" at the Dimbola Lodge Museum, Gate Lane, Freshwater. It is about the Highdown test site and it's impact on the island
and local people. Dimbola Lodge Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00am - 4:00pm and admission to the exhibition is
free. Click HERE for more information about Dimbola Lodge.
Keep up to date with the Battery blogspot. Read about life on the edge!
