Cavell Memorial Van

There's a small memorial van parked near Robertsbridge that marks one of the quieter corners of First World War history. It commemorates Edith Cavell, the British nurse executed by German forces in 1915 - an act that shocked the nation and turned her into a symbol of resistance. The van itself isn't much to look at, but it's the kind of stop that rewards a bit of reflection rather than a lengthy visit.

You won't spend hours here. Twenty minutes is more than enough to read the plaques and take in the significance of the spot. It's the sort of thing that appeals to history enthusiasts and walkers doing longer routes through the Sussex countryside rather than families looking for activities. If you're camping at The Original Hut Company just down the road, it's an easy detour on a country walk - flat terrain, no drama.

The memorial feels deliberately understated, which suits the subject. There's something proper about that restraint. It's free to visit and accessible whenever you fancy passing through, though do check conditions in winter as country lanes around Robertsbridge can get boggy. If you're basing yourself at Seven Acre Woods further out, you might combine this with a proper circular walk through the area rather than making it a destination in itself.

Worth the stop if you're already in the neighbourhood. Don't go out of your way unless you're specifically interested in wartime history.