Holy Cross Catholic Church

You'll find Holy Cross tucked away in Exeter, a Victorian Catholic church that catches most visitors by surprise. It's a proper piece of 19th-century religious architecture - all Gothic Revival lines and thoughtful design - in a city better known for its cathedral and medieval streets. The interior has that hushed, reverent quality you get in working churches, with decent stained glass and the kind of craftsmanship that rewards a quiet ten minutes of looking around.

This one appeals mainly to architecture enthusiasts and anyone interested in how Victorian Catholics built their places of worship during a time when that wasn't exactly fashionable in Protestant Devon. It's not a major tourist draw - you won't find crowds - but that's rather the point. If you're exploring Exeter's religious heritage beyond the cathedral, it's worth a look. Families with older kids who appreciate older buildings will get something from it; younger children will likely find it dull after five minutes.

Access appears straightforward enough, though opening hours can be variable depending on services and local availability. It's worth ringing ahead or checking locally if you're making a special trip. The church sits conveniently close to Exeter's town centre, making it easy to slot into a wider day exploring the city. From here, you're well-positioned to reach the nearby holiday parks - Castle Brake is just 3.9 miles out, Cofton Holidays 5.1 miles - so a morning wander through Exeter's churches before heading back to your caravan works neatly.