Bow St Bartholomew Church

The church sits quietly on Bow Street in Exeter, a medieval building that rewards a proper look around if you're already in the city. St Bartholomew's is one of those places that locals walk past without noticing, which means you'll have it largely to yourself. Inside, there's solid Devon stonework, some decent stained glass, and that particular smell of old churches - damp stone and hymn books - that either appeals to you or doesn't.

It's genuinely worth a detour if you're interested in ecclesiastical architecture or just fancy a moment's peace away from Exeter's high street. The exterior is less showy than some parish churches, but that's part of its charm. You're looking at maybe thirty minutes here, tops, unless you're the type who reads every memorial plaque.

Historically minded visitors will get more from it than families with restless kids, though it's perfectly safe and accessible. There's no admission charge as far as I can tell, which is standard for working parish churches. Check ahead on opening hours though - they're not always predictable.

If you're based at one of the nearby parks - Barley Meadow or Sunsets & Marshmallows are both solid choices with good reviews - this sits easily within Exeter itself, so you could bundle it into a morning in the city before heading back to the campervan. It's the sort of place that makes sense as part of something bigger rather than a destination in itself.