Holywell Church

The church sits quietly on the edge of Barrow upon Soar, and if you're camping nearby - Proctors Park is just a few minutes' drive away - it's worth a quick visit before heading out for the day. Holywell Church is one of those places that rewards a bit of curiosity rather than demanding a special trip on its own.

What you're looking at is a medieval church with some genuinely old bones, though the specifics of what survived the centuries and what's been rebuilt do depend on when you visit and what the current restoration work might be. The architecture tells a proper story if you're into that sort of thing - the kind of building that makes sense once you start noticing the details. If you've got kids in tow, they'll likely get restless after ten minutes, unless they're the type who enjoys church-spotting.

History enthusiasts will find plenty to poke around. Walkers doing loops from Bradgate Park or heading along the Midshires Way will find it makes a decent waypoint - a reason to stop and stretch, grab some shade. The grounds can be peaceful, which is half the appeal.

It's free to visit, as most parish churches are, though opening hours can be a bit hit-and-miss depending on who's holding the key. Your best bet is ringing ahead or checking locally once you arrive. In summer, it's cooler inside. Winter's quieter but you'll be shivering. Allow twenty minutes unless you're really keen on Victorian restorations or medieval masonry - then give yourself longer.