TUCKED away in a nondescript brick building is a pioneering piece of tech nology that helped to keep Harwich’s harbour safe during the Second World War.
According to figures released by Visit England, a couple of years ago just six people visited Radar Tower, making it one of the least visited attractions in the country.
The hidden gem is tucked away from sight next to Harwich’s Beacon Hill Fort, off Barrack Lane.
The structure was the first purpose-built radar tower and was built in 1941 to protect Harwich Harbour against German fast-attack E-boats.
The building is one of the best-kept tourism secrets in the country, but the Harwich Society, which runs the tower, is keen to encourage more people to experience it.
Colin Farnell, chairman of the society, said: “The building was derelict for a long time.
“The Harwich Society wanted to take over the neighbouring Beacon Hill Fort, but found it was in private ownership.
“But the Radar Tower was owned by Tendring Council and we decided to take a look at it.”
He added: “When it was opened up in 1993, it surprised everyone to find the 15-foot radar scanners were still inside – it was a bit exciting.
“They had been sealed up with the building because they were too big to take out.
“They had fallen through the building, but have since been returned to their original position.
“It is an amazing and pioneering piece of technology, and it does have that wow factor when you first walk into the room.”
The Radar Tower is open from 2pm to 4pm on the first Sunday of every month between May and September. Entry is £1.
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