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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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.
Published
April 2, 2021
