Holy Cross Church, Daventry

The tower of Holy Cross dominates Daventry's high street, and stepping inside is like walking into the town's autobiography. This is a proper medieval church - all soaring stone and stained glass - that's been here since the 12th century, though what you see today is largely Victorian restoration. The interior is restful rather than showy, with decent monuments and enough architectural detail to keep anyone interested in church history occupied for twenty minutes or so.

It's free to wander in during opening hours, though I'd ring ahead to check when that actually is. The real appeal here is less about the building itself and more about understanding Daventry as it was - this church was central to the town's medieval life, and you can feel that weight of centuries. History enthusiasts will find it worthwhile; families with fidgety kids might struggle unless they're genuinely keen on old buildings.

If you're camping nearby - and there's plenty of choice around here, from the straightforward Whitefeather Campsite to the more indulgent glamping at Hideaway Wood Farm or EWE - it's worth combining Holy Cross with a wander round Daventry's town centre. The church sits right in the middle of things, so you can explore the market square and high street without adding miles to your trip. Half an hour inside, perhaps another hour pottering about town. It won't blow your mind, but it's honest work for a rainy afternoon.