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All the United Kingdom Northern Ireland Antrim Lough Neagh Torpedo Test Platform
AO Edited

Lough Neagh Torpedo Test Platform

This former World War II torpedo testing location is now an important nesting site for migratory birds.

Antrim, Northern Ireland

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Alan Newman
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Lough Neagh Torpedo Test Platform   Albert Bridge
Lough Neagh Torpedo Test Platform   Ryan Kirk
Mk VIII torpedo as tested at Lough Neagh being loaded on a sub in 1943   Unknown
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About

During World War II, this platform was built on Lough Neagh, a large lake to the west of Belfast. It allowed for testing the depth and directional accuracy of Mk VIII torpedoes. The torpedoes were built at the nearby torpedo factory on Randalstown Road in Antrim.

Along with the testing facilities, there were also dormitories and kitchens, necessary because stormy weather on the Lough could sometimes make the trip back to the shore impossible. 

Since the end of the war, the structure has fallen into disrepair and has become an important site for both Common terns and cormorants. In fact, it is home to the largest colony of breeding terns on Lough Neagh, but only during the summer. During the winter, these birds return to West Africa.

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World War Ii History & Culture Birds Animals Military

Know Before You Go

Other than going on one of the many available boat cruises, one of the best places to see the platform is from the Antrim Lough Shore Car Park. Similar torpedo test facilities are present in Poland and Croatia.

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Added By

Dr Alan P Newman

Edited By

ewanmunro

  • ewanmunro

Published

April 2, 2021

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Lough Neagh Torpedo Test Platform
72 Lough Rd
Antrim, Northern Ireland, BT41 4DQ
United Kingdom
54.715848, -6.239494
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Nearby Places

Antrim Castle Gardens and Clotworthy House

Antrim, Northern Ireland

miles away

The Holestone

Doagh, Northern Ireland

miles away

WWII Royal Air Force Crash Sites

Mid and East Antrim, Northern Ireland

miles away

Explore the Destination Guide

Photo of Antrim

Antrim

Northern Ireland

Places 2

Nearby Places

Antrim Castle Gardens and Clotworthy House

Antrim, Northern Ireland

miles away

The Holestone

Doagh, Northern Ireland

miles away

WWII Royal Air Force Crash Sites

Mid and East Antrim, Northern Ireland

miles away

Explore the Destination Guide

Photo of Antrim

Antrim

Northern Ireland

Places 2

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