HMS Caroline

A First World War light cruiser frozen in time on the River Lagan - HMS Caroline sits in Belfast's Odyssey Pavilion, and she's genuinely extraordinary if you've got even a passing interest in naval history. Walking across the gangway onto the actual deck where sailors stood a century ago is properly moving. You can peer into the cramped crew quarters, climb the narrow ladders, check out the gun turrets, and get a real sense of how claustrophobic life aboard must have been. The museum does a solid job explaining her role at the Battle of Jutland in 1916, and you'll find interactive displays that don't feel patronising - even if naval warfare isn't your thing, the engineering alone is fascinating.

History buffs will spend a good two to three hours here; families with younger kids might find it gripping for an hour before the tight spaces and lack of action become a bit tedious. Teenagers tend to get more out of it, especially if someone explains what they're actually looking at rather than just letting them wander. There's something humbling about standing on a warship that saw actual combat.

It's free to wander the exterior, though the full museum experience costs a few quid. The location on the Lagan is convenient if you're staying at Dundonald Touring Caravan Park or fancying The Pods at Streamvale's glamping option - both a short drive away. Worth combining with a Belfast city walk rather than making a special trip, but don't skip it if naval heritage interests you at all.