The National Waterfront Museum

The National Waterfront Museum sits right on Swansea's old docks, in a converted Victorian warehouse that's been given a proper overhaul. Inside, you're walking through Wales' maritime story - from the days when Swansea was pumping out tin and copper to the world, through to modern shipping and industry. The exhibits are hands-on enough to keep kids engaged without feeling patronising, and there's genuine substance here for adults who actually care about industrial heritage.

Allowances would be around two to three hours to do it justice, though you could whip through in ninety minutes if you're rushed. Free entry is a massive draw - it genuinely is - and the café overlooks the water, which beats staring at a car park wall. The building itself matters as much as what's inside; the architecture tells you something about Swansea's past just by standing in it.

It pairs well with a caravan holiday at Swansea Marina Tourer Park, practically on the doorstep at less than half a mile away. You're minutes from the regenerated waterfront, proper pubs, and decent restaurants without having to drive anywhere. Riverside Holiday Park and SWDA Riverside are further out at just over four miles if you want a bit more space, though you'll need transport to get back here easily.

History types will find it worthwhile. Families with younger children might find an hour enough. If maritime museums bore you senseless, skip it.