Henry Jenkins Memorial

This small memorial marks the final resting place of Henry Jenkins, a man who claimed to have lived 169 years - from 1501 to 1670. Whether you believe the legend or not, the spot itself is rather moving. It's located in the churchyard near Richmond, a proper slice of Yorkshire history that most visitors walk straight past.

The memorial itself is modest: a stone marker that tells you just enough to spark curiosity. Jenkins supposedly outlived nine wives, worked as a fisherman, and lived through more English history than seems remotely plausible. Local records seem to support at least some of his claim, though historians debate the exact dates. Either way, it's the kind of thing that makes you pause and think about what 169 years might have meant in Tudor and Stuart times.

Worth a detour if you're already exploring Richmond's town centre - which you probably should be. It takes ten minutes maximum, so this isn't a destination in itself. What makes it work is the context: pop down here after wandering Richmond's Georgian streets or visiting the castle, and you've got a proper rabbit hole of local legend to chase. History nerds will find it fascinating; families might find the longevity claim amusing enough to keep kids interested for a few minutes.

The churchyard is free to access, and there's nothing to book or plan. Go anytime. Kiplin Country Park sits just 1.6 miles away if you're basing yourself nearby for a caravan holiday - easy enough to combine with a morning in Richmond and an afternoon exploring the wider countryside.