Debenham Parish Church of Saint Mary Magdalene

The Church of Saint Mary Magdalene sits quietly in Debenham, a few miles east of Stowmarket, and it's one of those places that rewards a proper wander around. The building itself is substantial - medieval flintwork, a tower you can spot from the village approaches, and inside there's genuine character rather than the over-restored feel you get in some parish churches. The real draw here is the chance to understand what rural Suffolk looked like centuries ago. You'll find decent medieval windows, and the kind of fittings that tell you how ordinary people once worshipped.

It's the sort of stop that works brilliantly if you're doing a caravan holiday at one of the nearby parks - Goldings CL or Stonham Barns are both close by - and want to break up the usual seaside-and-attractions loop. History buffs will get something from it. Families with young kids might find it a bit quiet, unless they're genuinely interested in old buildings. Walkers definitely should go - the village itself is pleasant for a proper leg-stretch, and there's an unhurried feeling to the place.

No admission charge as far as anyone can tell, and you can usually wander in during daylight hours. Allow twenty minutes to half an hour inside unless you're really into the architectural details. The approach from Stowmarket takes about ten minutes, making it an easy detour if you're passing through on the way to somewhere else in Suffolk. Worth seeing, but go in with realistic expectations - it's a village church, not a cathedral moment.