Chapel Head

You'll find Chapel Head just outside St. Ives, though "chapel" might mislead you - what remains is an archaeological site rather than a standing structure. The site marks an early medieval settlement, and if you're into Saxon history or just fancy a bit of detective work with the landscape, it's worth the drive east from town.

The appeal here is subtle. There's no visitor centre, no interpretation boards, no entry fee that I could pin down. What you get is the chance to walk the site and see where archaeologists have uncovered evidence of occupation from around the 5th to 7th centuries. It's less dramatic than climbing a castle, but there's something rather satisfying about standing where people lived 1,500 years ago, trying to imagine the settlement as it was.

History enthusiasts will find this properly absorbing. For families with young children, it might feel a bit thin - there's no playground, no activity trail, just open ground and your imagination. Allow an hour or so if you're making a dedicated visit, less if you're combining it with a walk elsewhere.

If you're based at one of the nearby parks - Long Island Lake and The Cambridgeshire Glamping are both top-rated options within five miles - Chapel Head makes an interesting morning detour before heading into St. Ives proper for lunch. It won't keep you occupied all day, but it's exactly the kind of off-the-beaten-track stop that justifies a week in the fens.