All Saints Church, Kingston upon Thames

The high street in Kingston upon Thames opens out quite suddenly, and there it is - a proper medieval church sitting among the traffic and modern shops like it's been waiting centuries for you to notice it. All Saints Church is exactly the sort of building that rewards poking about, with a tower dating back to the 12th century and enough architectural detail to keep history buffs occupied for a good hour.

Inside, the space is surprisingly peaceful given the town centre bustle outside. The chancel and nave have that authentic worn stone feel, and the windows cast particular light when the sun's in the right place. There's serious heritage here - various rebuilt sections, monuments worth reading, and the kind of quiet that makes you forget you're yards from the high street.

It's free to wander in, and you won't need more than an hour unless you're really into tracking stone masons' marks and studying every brass plaque. History enthusiasts will get the most from it; kids might find it a bit dull unless they're already fascinated by old buildings.

If you're based at Walton on Thames Camping and Caravanning Club Site or staying over at Chessington World of Adventures Resort, Kingston's close enough for a quick stop. The town itself has decent pubs and cafes, so you can make an afternoon of it without stretching too far. The church works best as part of a wander round Kingston rather than a destination in itself.