麻豆社

The world鈥檚 first ever purpose built aircraft carrier was built in Blyth in Northumberland and launched in 1914.

HMS Ark Royal was purchased by the Royal Navy shortly after her keel had been laid and was modified to accommodate seaplanes which were winched on and off the ship.

She participated in the Gallipoli campaign in early 1915 with her aircraft conducting aerial reconnaissance and observation missions.

In 1934 she was renamed HMS Pegasus to release her name for a new carrier but was used during World War Two.

She was the prototype for the most important military vessels of the 20th Century and many of her features are still seen in modern aircraft carriers.

Location: Blyth, Northumberland NE24 3PB
Image: HMS Ark Royal in 1915 off Gallipoli, courtesy of Commander David Hobbs