Discovery centre

The Discovery Centre in Saint Leonards-on-Sea is one of those places that sneaks up on you. It's a proper hands-on museum where you can actually touch things and have a go at activities rather than just stare through glass cases. The focus shifts between local history, natural world displays, and interactive exhibits that keep younger visitors engaged for a good couple of hours.

What you get depends entirely on what's on when you visit, as the programme rotates. I've found it works brilliantly for families with kids aged five to twelve - that sweet spot where they're curious but not yet rolling their eyes at everything. Adults tagging along won't be bored either, especially if you're into local Sussex heritage or maritime history.

The real advantage is the location. You're right on the edge of Saint Leonards, which means it pairs nicely with a seaside walk or fish and chips afterwards. Several holiday parks sit within easy reach - Combe Haven is barely half a mile away, while Crowhurst Park and Beaulieu Farm Campsite are only a short drive if you're based further inland.

Admission is reasonable and it fills an afternoon without eating into your entire holiday budget. Allow two to three hours depending on what's running. Go mid-week if you can, because weekends pull in school groups and it gets a bit chaotic. On a quiet day, it's exactly the sort of place that reminds you why seaside holidays work so well - accessible, low-pressure, genuinely informative.