Brittania

The Roman settlement at Britannia sits quietly in the Wiltshire countryside near Bradford-on-Avon, far enough from the tourist trail that you'll likely have the place to yourself. What remains are the foundations and scattered remains of a Romano-British village that flourished in the second and third centuries - not dramatic, but genuinely interesting if you're into archaeology or Roman Britain.

You're looking at earthworks, post holes, and fragments that tell the story of ordinary people rather than emperors. The site requires some imagination to piece together, which appeals to history buffs and makes it educational for older kids without feeling like a lecture. Younger children might find it a bit abstract unless they're already keen on Romans.

The biggest draw is the walk itself. This corner of Wiltshire is proper walking country, and combining Britannia with a ramble along the Avon Valley or towards nearby Trowbridge makes for a solid afternoon. The site is free and accessible year-round, though there's no visitor centre or facilities - bring a map and expect to spend 30 minutes to an hour depending on how long you linger.

If you're camping in the area - Stowford Manor Farm sits just over a mile away - it's a good excuse to explore beyond the usual suspects. Not essential viewing, but worthwhile if you're already staying locally and fancy something off the beaten path.