Marmion Tower

The tower itself is rather squat and sturdy, rising from the landscape near Ripon like a stone sentinel that's seen better centuries. Built in the 16th century by Lord Marmion, it's one of those proper historical bits that rewards a detour if you're already in the area, though it won't keep you occupied for hours. What you're looking at is defensive architecture from an era when keeping your home fortified mattered - thick walls, narrow windows, the works.

It works best as part of a walking route around Ripon rather than a destination in itself. The surrounding countryside is pleasant enough, and from where the tower sits you get decent views across the North Yorkshire flatlands. History enthusiasts will appreciate the period detail, though there's no interpretation board or guided information that I could find - you're essentially looking at a 500-year-old brick structure and imagining its former glory.

If you're camping at any of the nearby parks - Sleningford Watermill is barely a mile away, or Camp Kátur if you're after something posher - it's a reasonable walk to include in your morning itinerary. Bring the kids and they'll be mildly interested for ten minutes before asking what's for lunch. Serious heritage walkers should combine it with Ripon's cathedral and other local spots. Free to view from outside, obviously, though access details weren't immediately obvious when I checked.