Bognor Regis Museum

The museum sits bang in the middle of Bognor Regis town centre, occupying a Victorian villa that's seen better days but still has plenty of character. Inside, you'll find the sort of local history collection that makes sense only if you've got a genuine interest in the town's past - Roman finds, Edwardian seaside memorabilia, photographs of Bognor when it was actually fashionable.

It's free to get in, which is the main draw. Allow an hour maximum unless you're the type who reads every label. Families with young kids will find it a bit thin on engagement; there's not much here to hold their attention beyond "Mum, look at the old bathing costumes." Adults interested in local heritage and the Victorian seaside boom will get more out of it, particularly the material on Bognor's development as a resort town.

Open Tuesday to Saturday, April through October (10am-4pm), with reduced hours in November. Winter closures mean you'll need to time it right. The location is convenient if you're staying at Butlins just down the road - a quick rainy-day option rather than a main event. If you're camping at Haven Church Farm or Chichester Lakeside, it's worth a morning visit while exploring the wider area, but don't rearrange your holiday around it. The seafront and pier are genuinely more rewarding uses of your time in Bognor.