Apollo Belvedere

You'll find this classical statue standing in the grounds of a private estate near Buckingham - it's a replica of the famous Vatican original, and honestly, spotting it here in rural Buckinghamshire feels like stumbling onto something you shouldn't quite have access to. The Apollo Belvedere is an 18th-century copy, cast in lead, and it catches the light beautifully on a clear day.

The main challenge is actually getting a proper look at it. It's on private land, so you can't exactly waltz up for a close inspection - you'll need to check ahead about visiting rights or catch it from the periphery if you're passing through the estate grounds. This isn't a destination you'd plan an afternoon around, but if you're staying at Embers Camping in Claydon, just down the road, and you've got a thing for classical sculpture, it's worth asking locals how to view it properly.

Really, this works as a quiet curiosity for art and sculpture enthusiasts rather than a main attraction. Kids won't be bothered, walkers might enjoy the grounds if access allows, and history types will find the 18th-century casting interesting - it tells you something about how Georgian landowners collected classical references for their estates. Best approach it as a bonus spot rather than a reason to visit the area. Ring ahead before you go, as access isn't guaranteed.