Nunnery Hill

The earthworks at Nunnery Hill, just outside Driffield, are what archaeologists reckon was a medieval nunnery - though there's precious little left to see unless you know what you're looking at. What draws people here is the history rather than any dramatic ruins. You're basically walking across open ground where careful excavation has revealed the layout of buildings that stood here centuries ago, and the landscape itself tells the story if you're willing to read it.

It's the sort of place that appeals to serious history buffs and archaeology enthusiasts more than casual visitors. Kids will probably find it a bit underwhelming - there's no visitor centre, no interpretation boards, just the subtle undulations of the ground itself. You'll need to do your homework beforehand or bring someone who knows what they're talking about. A decent walk takes you through the site, and you can easily combine it with a trip into Driffield town centre for lunch if you're making an afternoon of it.

The real value here is proximity to the caravan parks dotted along the coast - Parkdean Resorts Barmston Beach and Skipsea Sands are both within striking distance. If you're staying put for a week and fancy mixing beach time with something a bit different, this works as a half-day activity. But don't go out of your way specially. It's one for the archaeology notebook rather than a standalone destination.