Lichfield Cathedral

Three spires rise above Lichfield's Georgian streets like something from a child's drawing of a cathedral - except this one's real, and it's been standing since the 12th century. The moment you step inside, the scale hits you. Light floods through stained glass, the fan-vaulted ceiling stretches impossibly high, and the air smells of stone and centuries.

This is one of England's finest Gothic cathedrals, and it's properly worth the detour from Burton-on-Trent. The Lady Chapel alone justifies the visit - it's been rebuilt more times than most buildings exist, yet feels intimate despite the grandeur. If you've got kids, the sheer theatrical space will hold their attention longer than you'd expect, though climbing the tower (if it's open) is what actually keeps them engaged.

Walking the cathedral's perimeter is lovely. You'll spot the three spires from every angle, each framing differently depending where you stand. The close - that's the space around it - has proper Georgian townhouses that wouldn't look out of place in Bath.

If you're staying at Kingfisher Holiday Park just down the road, this is an easy morning or afternoon outing. Cannock Chase Camping & Caravanning Club Site is slightly further but worth it if you want forest walks afterwards. The cathedral itself is free to enter, though a donation's expected and appreciated. Allow a solid hour inside, longer if you're reading every plaque.

Go on a weekday morning when it's quiet. Sundays draw crowds, and the light through the windows is frankly better before midday anyway.