Bellmount Tower

The tower stands alone on the skyline between Grantham and Colsterworth, a squat stone landmark that stops you in your tracks. Built in the 1830s as a folly - apparently someone's answer to a wager or a fit of architectural whimsy - it's only about 60 feet tall but commands proper attention from miles around.

Climbing up involves a narrow spiral staircase and your legs will know about it, but the views across the Lincolnshire countryside are worth the huff and puff. On a clear day you can see for miles across fields that roll away to absolutely nothing interesting, which somehow makes it better. The tower itself is austere - no fancy trim, no gift shop pretence, just stone and windows.

Historie types will find it genuinely interesting as an example of Victorian eccentricity, though walkers get more from it as a landmark halfway through a ramble. Kids might manage ten minutes before boredom sets in unless they're serious about climbing stairs. The real magic is the walk itself - Colsterworth village is close by and worth a look around.

Access and opening hours are vague, so best call ahead or check locally in Grantham before making the journey. If you're staying at Wagtail Country Park nearby - a proper solid operation just 3.6 miles away - it makes an easy afternoon outing that breaks up a quieter holiday. Not essential, but oddly compelling once you're there.