Kelmarsh Tunnel

A brick tunnel running under the A14 near Market Harborough might not sound like the most thrilling detour, but Kelmarsh Tunnel is genuinely worth a quick visit if you're exploring Northamptonshire's industrial heritage. Built in the 19th century as part of a canal system, it's a proper slice of Victorian engineering - the kind of thing that makes you realise how much effort went into moving goods before railways took over.

You can walk through it. That's the main thing. The red brick walls are still largely intact, and there's something oddly atmospheric about ducking under there, especially on a grey day. It's short enough that even restless kids won't complain, but long enough that it feels like an actual experience rather than a five-minute snapshot for Instagram.

Practical note: I'd suggest ringing ahead to check access and parking - information isn't easy to find online. It's free to look at, but you'll want a torch and sensible shoes. Allow 20 minutes tops, including the walk to the entrance.

If you're staying at one of the local glamping sites like Lakeview or Moon Valley, it works perfectly as a morning ramble before heading to bigger attractions. Pair it with Kelmarsh Hall just down the road if you want a fuller day out. On its own it's more of a "well, we're in the area" sort of stop than a destination, but that's precisely why it's worth knowing about.