Afghan War Memorial

This memorial in Nottinghamshire honours those who died during operations in Afghanistan, and it's one of those places that hits differently than you expect. The mood is entirely respectful and reflective - there's no grandstanding here, just names and dates and the weight of what they represent.

You don't need more than twenty minutes to pay your respects, though many people linger longer. It's the sort of visit that works best on a quiet afternoon rather than when you're rushing between other attractions. Given how close Nottingham is - practically on the doorstep - it's straightforward to fit in if you're camping in the area.

The nearby holiday parks cluster pretty densely around the two-to-six-mile mark: Holme Pierrepont Campsite and Caravan Park and Campsite are closest, while Nottingham Camping and Caravanning Club Site offers a bit more space if you want to spread out. It's not the sort of stop you plan a whole trip around, but if you're based at any of these sites and want to mark the visit, it's worth the short drive.

Families will want to approach this thoughtfully - it's educational, yes, but the solemnity means it works better for older children who understand the context. For anyone with a military connection or interest in modern history, though, it carries genuine significance. Free to visit, as these memorials typically are.