The Needles Old Battery (National Trust)

The threat of a French invasion prompted the construction in 1862 of this spectacularly sited fort, which now contains exhibitions about the Battery's involvement in the First and Second World Wars and the Headland's intriguing past as a secret rocket testing site. The Battery retains two of its original gun barrels, and the laboratory and position-finding cells have been restored. A 60yd tunnel leads to dramatic views of The Needles rocks and the Dorset coastline beyond.No WC or seating for refreshments at the Highdown Visitor Point. No vehicle access to Battery (visitors with disabilities by arrangement). Many paths are steep and not suitable for people with walking difficulties. Access to the searchlight is by narrow spiral staircase, with further steps to tea-room and headland beyond the Battery.