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Isle of Wight AttractionsAdditional Features
Cartoon DisplaysFamily Activity Packs
Panoramic Views
Shipwreck Display
Tea Room
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BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN FOR SCHOOL & OTHER GROUP VISITS FOR 2008. Please contact the property for further details.Description
This spectacularly sited Victorian cliff top fort is in the care of the National Trust and has a fascinating military history. Its elevated location provides fine views over to Dorset and Hampshire and the tunnel through the cliffs leads to a unique panorama of The Needles Rocks.Built in 1862 following the threat of a French invasion, the Old Battery contains exhibitions about its involvement in both World Wars. Two original gun barrels are displayed in the parade ground and a tunnel leads to a searchlight emplacement perched above the Needles Rocks.
There is no vehicular access (visitors with disabilities -please phone property for arrangements). The site has a number of steep paths and uneven surfaces. Access to the tunnel is via a narrow spiral staircase. Toilet facilities are available for visitors to the Old Battery but there is no WC at the Needles New Battery site.
For Your Enjoyment
· Tea room situated in the former Port War Signal Station
· Cartoon displays by Geoff Campion, leading comic book artist of the 1950s
· Family Activity Packs
· Shipwreck display
THE NEEDLES NEW BATTERY further up the headland contains a refreshment kiosk and a new exhibition about the part the site played in Britains race for space. There is no admission charge to the Rocket Exhibition which is situated next to the bus turning point.
Opening Times
Old Battery and Tea Room:
Mar 15 - Jun 30 '08: Open every day (except Monday), 10.30am - 5pm.
Jul 1 - Aug 31 '08: Open every day, 10.30am - 5pm.
Sep 1 - Nov 2 '08: Open every day (except Monday), 10.30am - 5pm.
Tea Room only:
Nov 8 - Dec 14 '08: Sat & Sun, 11am - 3pm.
Jan 10 - Jan 31 '09: Sat & Sun, 11am - 3pm.
Needles New Battery:
Mar 15 - Nov 2 '08: Tuesdays and Saturdays 11am - 4pm. Plus most Sundays and additional opening days as advertised.
Needles Old and New Battery also open both May Bank Holiday Mondays. Property closes in high winds; tel. on day of visit to check. Last admission to Old Battery 30mins before closing.
Admission Prices
Admission prices apply to the Old Battery. National Trust members free.