HMS Warrior

The first iron-hulled warship to see active service sits moored in Portsmouth Harbour, and walking across her gangway feels genuinely odd - like stepping onto a piece of Victorian industry that somehow floats. HMS Warrior was revolutionary when she launched in 1861, and you can still feel it in the way she's built, all that exposed ironwork and the sheer scale of her below decks.

You'll wander through gun decks, cramped crew quarters, and engine rooms that must have been absolute hell in summer. The ship's impressively intact, and the audio guide actually works and doesn't treat you like you're five. Allow a good two hours if you're thorough, longer if you're the type to read every placard.

HistoryHeads will absolutely love this. Military enthusiasts too. Families with younger kids might find it a touch dull after the first half hour - there's limited interactive stuff, and it's mostly just walking and reading. Teenagers who've done any history at school will get more from it.

Head there from Lee-on-the-Solent and you're well-positioned for the holiday parks nearby. Kingfisher Caravan Park is less than three miles away, and Hayling Island Holiday Park about five miles if you're after somewhere to rest up after your maritime wandering. The harbour area has other attractions clustered about, so you can make a proper day of it without it feeling forced.