Norman Holbrook

The Norman Holbrook sits in Lee-on-the-Solent as a submarine - specifically a British S-class sub that saw active service during the Second World War. It's a proper piece of maritime history, the sort of thing that makes you realise just how cramped life was for the crew. You can walk around the exterior and get a sense of the vessel's scale, though access inside varies depending on when you visit and maintenance schedules.

History enthusiasts will find it worthwhile, especially those with an interest in naval warfare or submarine engineering. It's not a major attraction that'll eat up half your day - most people spend 45 minutes to an hour here, maybe longer if you're reading every information board. Kids sometimes find it a bit underwhelming unless they're already keen on warships; it's more about standing outside and imagining than hands-on interaction.

Lee-on-the-Solent itself is a quiet coastal town with decent waterfront walks, so you could easily pair this with a stroll along the seafront. If you're staying at one of the nearby parks - Kingfisher, Hayling Island, or Mill Rythe are all within five miles - it's worth a quick stop rather than a pilgrimage. The real draw of this corner of Hampshire is the broader coastal experience: sailing, walking, and messing about on the water. The submarine fits that picture nicely without demanding hours of your time.