Genesis Expo

The Genesis Expo sits inside the Coastal Studies Centre in Lee-on-the-Solent and tells the story of how the Hampshire coastline actually formed. It's free to wander round, which is brilliant, and the interactive displays explain glacial processes, coastal erosion, and why this particular stretch of shore looks the way it does. You'll see real geological specimens and learn about the Solent's complex past - all quite visual and hands-on rather than being a wall of text affair.

Geologists and anyone with even a passing interest in how landscapes work will find genuine value here. Kids under ten might get restless after thirty minutes or so, though the interactive bits help hold their attention. If you're staying at Kingfisher Caravan Park just down the road, or at Hayling Island Holiday Park further along the coast, it's absolutely worth a morning visit before heading to the beach proper.

Allow about an hour, maybe ninety minutes if you engage with everything. The centre itself is modest but well-organised, and the fact it costs nothing means you're not out of pocket if it turns out to be shorter than you expected. Summer weekends can get busy, so weekday mornings tend to be calmer. The location means you can easily combine it with a walk along the seafront or a visit to Lee-on-the-Solent's modest but pleasant shingle beach. Proper educational without being dull.