Church Knowle: St Peter's Church

The churchyard sits quietly on the edge of Church Knowle village, a mile or so inland from Wareham, and St Peter's is one of those churches that rewards a proper wander round. Built in the 12th century, it's got that solid Norman look - sturdy walls, a decent tower - and the sort of interior that makes you want to sit on the pews for a good ten minutes just absorbing the atmosphere.

Inside, there's some lovely medieval wall paintings if you know where to look, plus a handful of decent monuments. It's not going to hold anyone's attention for hours, mind you - this is a forty-minute stop at most, probably twenty if you're just poking your head round. The real appeal is the walk itself. If you're staying at Norden Farm or Woodyhyde, both within three miles, you can make a gentle ramble through the village and fields to reach it. Combine it with exploring Wareham's Saxon walls or pushing out towards the Isle of Purbeck, and it slots neatly into a broader day out.

Historyminded types will get more from it than families with restless kids, to be honest. There's no visitor facilities, and the churchyard, while peaceful, is basically just a churchyard. Free to wander in during daylight hours, as these things typically are. It's the sort of spot that appeals to walkers and church enthusiasts - people who treat a visit as part of a longer ramble rather than a destination in itself. Well worth a detour if you're already in the area.