Phonebox book exchange

A red telephone box converted into a tiny library might sound like a gimmick, but this Somerset swap-spot actually delivers. You'll find it standing alone in the countryside near Shaftesbury, the sort of place you'd stumble across while rambling between villages. The concept is straightforward - pop a book in, take a book out. No faffing about with membership cards or fines.

It's the kind of thing that appeals to families exploring the area, particularly those with kids old enough to choose their own reads. Walkers using the nearby footpaths often use it as a landmark and book-swapping stop, turning a boring stretch of countryside into something with a bit of purpose. You won't spend hours here - five minutes covers it - but it's exactly the sort of quirky find that makes a holiday memorable.

If you're camped nearby at Sunnyhill Campsite, it's worth a detour on an afternoon walk. The exchange works on the honour system, so you'll want to actually enjoy reading, not just collecting. Timing doesn't matter since there are no opening hours to speak of - you access it whenever you're passing. There's no charge, which is rather the point of the thing. Don't expect a curated collection of literary masterpieces. You get what the community leaves, which ranges from proper gems to paperbacks that belong in recycling. That's part of its charm, really.