Saint Helen

The church sits quietly on the edge of Peterborough, one of those medieval structures that tourists often drive past without realizing what they're looking at. Saint Helen is a proper working parish church with enough architectural character to reward a 20-minute visit, especially if you're already exploring the cathedral nearby.

Inside you'll find a nave that's been added to and adjusted over several centuries - the sort of thing that appeals to architecture enthusiasts and history types. The windows are pleasant without being spectacular, and there's enough carved stonework to suggest this place mattered to people centuries ago. It's the kind of visit that works best when you're not rushing.

Families with young children might find 20 minutes about right before they get restless. Adults who care about medieval churches will happily spend longer poking about. Admission is free, naturally - it's a working church, not a museum.

If you're based at Ferry Meadows or Castle Farm (both cracking five-star campsites just a few miles away), it's an easy diversion on a wet afternoon or when you want a break from the campsite. Pair it with a walk around Peterborough's city centre - the cathedral is the real draw in this area, but Saint Helen gives you a quieter take on what local medieval faith looked like. Don't expect to spend more than an hour in the immediate area unless you're seriously into ecclesiastical architecture.