Beechen Grove Baptist Church

A red-brick Baptist chapel tucked away just east of Watford, Beechen Grove is one of those quiet corners of Hertfordshire that most people drive straight past without noticing. Built in the 19th century, it's a proper period piece - all solid Victorian construction with that particular flavour of nonconformist architecture you find dotted across the Home Counties. The interior is simple and functional, which is rather the point. There's no ostentatious decoration, just clean lines and decent acoustics that must have carried a decent sermon back in the day. Worth popping into if you're staying at one of the nearby park homes like Bushey Hall Park or Aldenham Country Park. It won't eat up your afternoon - twenty minutes is about right - but it gives you a real sense of how rural communities actually worshipped outside the grand parish churches. The approach is pleasant enough, and the surrounding area is proper countryside, which makes it a decent spot for a gentle walk if the weather's on. If you're the type who enjoys architectural history and social heritage rather than being entertained, you'll get something out of it. Families with young children might find it a bit dull, to be honest. Contact the Watford visitor information centre for current opening hours before you visit - these smaller chapels can be kept locked. No admission charge as far as we can tell, though donations are usually welcome.