Nonsuch Palace Banqueting Hall

The ruins of a Tudor banqueting hall don't sound like much until you're standing among the red-brick remains in Chessington, imagining the feasts that once took place here. This is what's left of Nonsuch Palace's grand dining space - Henry VIII's attempt to rival the French court, built in the 1530s and largely demolished by the 1680s. What survives are the walls and foundations, enough to get a sense of the scale and ambition, though you'll need a decent imagination to picture the gilded ceilings and tapestries.

History buffs will find it worthwhile, particularly anyone interested in Tudor excess and why Henry thought Surrey needed a showpiece palace. The site sits within Nonsuch Park, which makes it rather convenient - you can combine it with a proper walk round the grounds and a visit to the park's museum. Don't expect crowds or any heavy hand-holding; this is archaeology in the raw, which some people will love and others might find a bit underwhelming.

If you're staying at Chessington World of Adventures Resort - just 3 miles away - the banqueting hall works well as a quieter afternoon venture away from the theme park hustle. The park is free to explore, though admission fees may apply for the museum itself. Allow an hour or so for a decent look round, longer if you're keen on sketching or photography. Best visited on a dry day; the ruins lose their romance when waterlogged.