Great St Mary's

The tower of Great St Mary's dominates Cambridge's skyline from Market Square, and climbing it is one of those small decisions that pays off properly. This is the university church, and unlike the colleges that hoard their chapels behind gates, it's genuinely open to visitors who fancy the 123 steps up through the belfry.

What strikes you first inside is the light. The interior is bright and surprisingly uncluttered for a medieval church - lots of pale stone and clear glass that lets you actually see the roof timbers working. The climb itself isn't a trial, though it's narrow in places and the spiral staircase gets tighter as you rise. The reward is a 360-degree view across the colleges, the Backs, and out toward the Fens beyond.

It's worth allowing an hour, including time to explore the church itself below. Walkers and photography types will get the most from it - the views change dramatically depending on light and season. Families with younger children might find the climb tedious rather than thrilling, and anyone with knee trouble should skip it.

Check opening hours before you go, as it's sometimes closed for services or events. If you're based at one of the nearby sites like Cambridge Cherry Hinton Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite or Gayton Farm, it's an easy day trip into the city centre. The church sits right in the heart of things, so you can easily fold it into a broader Cambridge visit without any real detour.