New Battery Open Days for Cold War Heritage Week
Go underground and uncover Britain’s Cold War space secrets.
- Booking not needed
- Free event
As part of Cold War Week, take a rare opportunity to explore the underground rooms of the New Battery at The Needles. From the 1950s to the 1970s, this hidden site was the nerve centre of a top-secret mission to test Britain’s space rockets - Black Knight and Black Arrow - before launch.
Discover the Isle of Wight’s surprising role in the space race and its contribution to pioneering rocket research at the height of the Cold War.
Times
The basics
- Suitability
Would best suit adults and families with older children
- Meeting point
Head to the Gun Position at the New Battery.
- What to bring and wear
Practical clothes for the weather are recommended. Bearing in mind the battery can get cold and windy at times, even in the summer.
- Accessibility
Adapted toilet and toilets available at Needles Old Battery. There are some steep slopes and uneven surfaces inside the Battery but they can be avoided. Onsite parking is not available – nearest car parks are at Alum Bay or Freshwater Bay (not National Trust).
Upcoming events
Needles Old Battery Tour
Uncover the rich history and hidden secrets of The Needles Old Battery with educational and fascinating guided walks led by the knowledgeable team at Restore the Story CIC.
Needles New Battery Tour
Uncover the rich history and hidden secrets of The Needles New Battery with educational and fascinating guided walks led by the knowledgeable team at Restore The Story CIC.