It's impossible to understate the importance of Portsmouth in the history of the United Kingdom. Perhaps not so much in modern times at a time when recent governments have been slashing the Royal Navy to the bare bones but there was a time a good century ago when the culture of the Navy was the very embodiment of all things British.

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is a trip through 450 years of British Naval History. I booked my e-ticket online for £19.50 in advance and this gives access to a variety of attractions.

Old ships HMS Victory & HMS Warrior are visitor attractions on their own. HMS Warrior, the ironclad is perhaps overshadowed by Nelsons old ship HMS Victory but it shouldn't be because it was the largest ship in the world at one point. Both ships can easily take a couple of hours to get round if you are into your history. You can tell HMS Warrior is the more modern ship because it has far greater access - I challenge you not to bump your head at least once on your visit to the Victory! Standing on the spot where Nelson was shot did give me a tingle up the back of the spine.

At the time of writing the Mary Rose is closed to the public (though you can still go to the Museum) It is scheduled to repopen in 2012.

These 3 ships form the major attractions for any visitor but I actually loved two other sections of the Dockyard. Firstly in a dark air conditioned room the original Victory sail full of pockmarks is laid out on the floor for viewing. I loved the atmosphere in this room, almost deadly silence with people taken aback at the actual size of it.

Finally, included in the price of the ticket is a boat tour of Portsmouth Dockyard where you can see some modern Navy ships. Lasts about 40 minutes and includes some fun commentary. Just don't expect to see any aircraft carriers for the next decade!

Certainly plan for a full days outing, I got the at half past ten and left shortly before 5pm. One word of advice, if you are hungry leave the Dockyard and find somewhere to eat nearby, catering prices are ridiculous (you can wander back in at any time, its free to walk around the dockyard)

In summary 5 top attractions and a days entertainment for less than £20. Top Notch!