Ely Cathedral

The moment you walk into Ely Cathedral, you're confronted by one of the most audacious pieces of medieval engineering in England. The octagonal lantern tower - built in the 14th century after the original collapsed - dominates everything. It's a proper architectural statement, catching light in ways that make you understand why people once thought God lived here.

You can spend a good hour just walking around the interior, craning your neck at the painted ceilings and running your hand along stone worn smooth by seven centuries of visitors. The Lady Chapel is particularly striking, with its intricate tracery and vast windows that must have been wildly expensive when they were installed. History types will lose themselves in the details; families with younger kids might find it a bit long and cold after 45 minutes.

Admission and opening hours are worth checking before you visit - the cathedral's website will have current details. It's right in the centre of Ely itself, so you can pair it easily with a walk around the town's Georgian streets and a proper lunch at one of the riverside spots.

If you're based at Heatherbield Lodge or Hatters Meadows - both just over two miles away - this is a straightforward 10-minute drive or a decent walk if you're feeling it. The cathedral rewards a slow visit rather than a quick tick-box, so give yourself proper time and arrive early to avoid coach groups.