Nore Folly

You'll spot this brick tower rising unexpectedly from the South Downs landscape near Arundel, and it stops you dead. Nore Folly is exactly what its name suggests - a Victorian folly, built with no practical purpose whatsoever, just because someone with money decided the view needed a tower. That's rather the point of the thing.

The structure itself is modest - a red-brick affair that looks like it's been transplanted from a Downton Abbey set. The walk to reach it winds through proper Sussex countryside, which is honestly the main event. You're not clambering inside or taking a guided tour; this is about the journey and standing at the base understanding why the original owner thought this spot warranted an architectural statement.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the pure Victorian eccentricity of it all. Walkers absolutely get the most from a visit - it's a decent trek from Arundel, and the surrounding paths are genuinely lovely. Families with young children might find it underwhelming on its own; the folly itself takes ten minutes to appreciate, so factor in a longer circular walk to make the trip worthwhile.

The nearest town, Arundel, is about five miles south and offers proper cafes and shops if you need sustenance before or after. Several caravan parks sit within striking distance - Brookside, Woodfire at Westerlands, and Graffham Camping are all reasonably close, making it an easy morning excursion from a park base.

Free to visit, naturally. Go midweek if you can; weekends draw the Downland hikers en masse.