Sebastopol Cannon

A cast-iron relic from the Crimean War sits quietly near Preston, Lancashire - a cannon that actually saw service during one of the Victorian era's bloodiest conflicts. The Sebastopol Cannon is precisely what its name suggests: a piece of heavy artillery that was captured by British forces and brought back home as a trophy. It's mounted on a sturdy stone plinth, and there's something genuinely arresting about standing next to something that was fired in anger over 170 years ago.

The cannon itself isn't enormous - visitors often arrive expecting something more imposing - but that's rather the point. What you're looking at is a working weapon, not a monument to peacetime industry. History enthusiasts will find it worthwhile, particularly anyone interested in 19th-century military campaigns. Children tend to appreciate the tactile reality of it, though it won't occupy them for more than fifteen minutes.

It's free to see, naturally, since it's essentially an outdoor monument. There's no formal visitor centre or opening hours to worry about - just pop round whenever you're in the Preston area. The cannon doesn't demand a special trip on its own, but if you're staying at either Brylea Caravan Park or Smithills View Campsite, both within easy reach, it's a decent half-hour diversion. Combines well with a walk around Preston's other Victorian attractions if the weather's decent.