Fort Henry

The River Welland curves round Stamford in a way that makes you understand why this town mattered. Fort Henry sits on a rise overlooking the water - a proper Civil War stronghold, built when Parliamentarians needed to hold the line. You're looking at earthwork ramparts that have survived nearly four centuries of weather and neglect, which is remarkable in itself.

Walking the site takes the best part of an hour if you're actually interested in the layout rather than just standing at the gate. The views across the valley are solid, though they're more functional than dramatic - you can see why soldiers would have chosen this spot. History types will get genuine value out of it. Families with young kids might find it a bit static unless they're already into that period; there's no visitor centre or interpretation, just the landscape itself and your own imagination.

It's free to access and there's no barrier stopping you wandering the earthworks. Best to go when the ground isn't waterlogged - it gets boggy in winter. The walk up from Stamford town centre is manageable if you're staying at Stamford Meadows Glamping nearby, and it makes a decent addition to a day exploring the town's Georgian architecture.

Frankly, it's worth thirty minutes if you're passing through Stamford anyway. Don't make a special trip for it, but don't skip it either.