Anchor from Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2)

Southampton's waterfront holds something genuinely unusual - the actual anchor from the QE2, that legendary liner that ruled the transatlantic routes for decades. It's a substantial lump of metal with real weight to it, quite moving if you know anything about the ship's history. The kind of thing that makes you pause and think about the thousands of voyages, the storms weathered, the celebrities who sailed on her.

You'll find it displayed near the docks where the ship herself once berthed, which adds to the atmosphere. It's not a major production - no fancy visitor centre or queues - which means you can have a proper look without the usual tourist circus. The sort of spot that appeals to maritime enthusiasts and anyone with a soft spot for ocean liners, though families won't get much from it beyond five minutes of "oh, that's big."

It's free to view and takes about as long as you need - could be ten minutes, could be half an hour if you're the type to read all the plaques and imagine the ship's voyages. Best visited on a clear day when the waterfront itself is pleasant for a walk.

If you're camping in the area - Dibles Park Caravan Park is excellent and just six miles away - this makes for a brief, easy detour on your way in or out. Pairs well with a proper mooch around Southampton's maritime museums if the weather turns, but on its own, it's a straightforward bit of nautical history rather than a reason to plan your whole trip around.