Action Stations

Action Stations sits right on the waterfront at Lee-on-the-Solent, a former Royal Navy firing range that's been transformed into something genuinely engaging for families who want a bit more than the usual seaside walk. You're looking at interactive displays, a proper hands-on experience where kids can get involved rather than just stand and stare at exhibits. It's military heritage done properly - the kind of place where a ten-year-old actually stays interested past the first five minutes.

The location itself is the real draw. You're on the coast looking out across the Solent, and the whole setup works brilliantly as a stop-off during a holiday park break. Kingfisher Caravan Park is just a couple of miles up the road, and Hayling Island Holiday Park another few miles beyond that, so it slots neatly into a week's worth of activities without requiring a long drive.

Allow a solid two to three hours if you're making a proper afternoon of it. It's especially worthwhile if you've got children aged 6 to 14 - they'll actually engage with the interactive elements rather than drag their feet. The waterfront setting means you can grab a decent walk afterwards along the seafront, which rounds out the visit nicely.

Timing-wise, go mid-week if you can. Weekends get rammed with school groups and day-trippers, which takes some of the shine off the experience. Best during warmer months when you can hang about outside without freezing.