Ralph Allen’s Sham Castle

A folly masquerading as history - that's Ralph Allen's Sham Castle, perched above Bath on Bathampton Down. Built in 1762 by the local quarry magnate as a whimsical ornament for his estate, it's essentially a theatrical prop in stone. What you get is a crenellated facade with no interior to speak of, but the view across the city and countryside makes the climb worthwhile.

The walk up from Bath is pleasant enough, though it's steeper than you'd expect from what sounds like a casual afternoon stroll. Walkers will appreciate it as a viewpoint rather than a destination in itself - thirty minutes to the ruin, maybe another thirty to catch your breath and soak in the Avon Valley. History enthusiasts might find the concept amusing rather than inspiring: it's a genuine reminder of Georgian eccentricity, but there's not much to linger over once you've seen the frontage.

Families with younger kids should know it's not a playground. The ruin is unstable in parts, there's nothing to do once you arrive, and a toddler will get bored fast. Older children who enjoy a decent walk and don't mind anti-climactic endings might find the novelty of a fake castle fun.

If you're staying at Widbrook Barns nearby, it's a reasonable half-day venture - combine it with exploring Bath proper rather than treating it as a standalone trip. Free to access, no facilities, and best visited on a clear day when the view actually justifies the effort.