Parish Church of St James

The Parish Church of St James sits quietly in Warwick, one of those medieval places that locals walk past every day without really looking. Step inside and you're confronted with proper history - the kind that makes you stand still for a moment. The church dates back centuries, with the sort of stone work and stained glass that reminds you why people bothered building these things so solidly.

It's not a massive tourist draw like some of Warwickshire's grander attractions, which frankly works in its favour. You get the architecture and the atmosphere without fighting through crowds. The interior has that particular smell - old wood, stone, candlewax - that churches this age seem to generate. Worth an hour if you're passing through Warwick town, longer if you're into medieval church design.

Historians and architecture types will find plenty to examine. Families with restless kids might get through it quicker, though there's something about the quietness that can settle even fidgety ones. Free entry, as with most parish churches, though donations are always welcome.

If you're staying at Kirby Farm Caravan Site or Shire Camping - both excellent spots about five miles out - the church works as a convenient reason to head into Warwick proper. Combine it with the castle and you've got a decent day out. The walk through Warwick's town centre will take you past plenty of good pubs and cafes, so don't make the church your only stop.