Solent Sky - Hall of Aviation is a must-see for aviation buffs and a great tribute to one of Southampton's heroes, R J Mitchell, the designer of the legendary Spitfire, which was built in Southampton. Exhibits at the museum include a real Sandringham flying boat, a Spitfire and 13 other aircraft, plus masses of photos, models and engines. After taking in the exhibitions, why not stroll across to Ocean Village for a look at the yachts.
This is the last surviving steam-driven brickworks in the country. Founded in 1897, it closed in 1974 but was acquired and restored by the Hampshire Buildings Preservation Trust in 1990. It contains a fully restored steam engine, together with a brick-making plant, drying sheds and a kiln. Exhibitions and displays covering the history of the brickworks, along with building materials and conservation practice, may be viewed by the public on Thursday afternoons between May and September. Regular open days are also held, featuring live steam and hands-on activities such as brick- and tile-making.
The National Motor Museum at Beaulieu has a collection of old and unique vehicles unlike any other museum in the world. Whether you are visiting the museum for entertainment or for education, it is an interesting and fun experience either way! The National Motor Museum holds about 250 vehicles, from antique cars to speedy record breakers. To see everything in between, pay this spot a visit.
Situated on the northern frontiers of Portchester, Fort Nelson was built in 1867 by Lord Palmerston on the orders of the Royal Commission of the United Kingdom in a bid to deter foreign powers from invading their lands. Tours around the fort help you learn about the history of artillery, from ancient ornate weapons to modern firing systems, at this museum. You can also explore the fort's 19th Century underground tunnels, while regular artillery is in action too. Exhibitions such as Decorative Armour of the Knights of Malta are regularly held, along with special theme events like Thundering Hooves.
The unique Royal Navy Submarine Museum gives you the opportunity to walk on board a real submarine, the HMS Alliance. You can also try hands on exhibits like the Globe Probe diving bell and the working periscopes of HMS Conqueror, which saw service in the Falklands War. The history of the submarine, dating back to the days of Alexander the Great to present day, is covered and diving suits and other deep-sea related artifacts are also on show. The museum is easily accessible through a frequent ferry service. A gift shop, cafe and waterfront picnic site are all on site.
Charles Dickens was the second of seven children and his birthplace is now an interesting museum. It is open between April and October and also opens every year on Charles' birthday. Charles lived with his family in two other houses, but both were destroyed in the World War. After moving from the area, he did not see Portsmouth again until he was nearly 30, whilst researching for Nicholas Nickleby.