If you’re gearing up to tackle the best that the UK has to offer, travel guide Lonely Planet has ranked the 500 “unmissable experiences and hidden gems” across the UK for the ultimate UK travel guide, and this is the best of the best in the south coast.

1. See the ships at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
Check out the massive masts of the Victorian powerhouse HMS Warrior 1860, learn about the Battle of Jutland and test your limits at the Action Stations and learn what it's like to be part of the modern Royal Navy
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2. Climb the spire of Winchester Cathedral
With more than 1000 years of history, Winchester Cathedral is Europe's longest medieval Cathedral. Witness the incredible illuminated Winchester Bible, the 12th century wall paintings and even a free children's trail
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3. Cycle through the magical world of the (not so) New Forest
With ancient woodland, heaths, beautiful villages and a 40-mile "secret" coast, explore what New Forest has to offer via cycling with over 100 miles of car-free approved cycle trails
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4. Seek inspiration on a poet's footsteps on Keats' Walk
Retrace the daily route that Keats took during his time in Winchester - enjoy a self guided walk in his footsteps, from the city to St Cross, passing through the incredible landscape that inspired his famous ode 'To Autumn'
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