Saint James

The Church of Saint James sits quietly on the edge of Alford, a solid medieval structure that doesn't shout for attention but rewards a proper look around. Built largely in the 14th and 15th centuries, it's the kind of church that tells you something real about the Lincolnshire landscape - no fancy frills, just honest stone work and a tower that dominates the flatlands for miles.

Inside, the real interest lies in the roof timbers and some decent medieval glass if you're into that sort of thing. There's a decent nave and the proportions feel genuinely old rather than over-restored. The churchyard itself is worth a wander, especially if you've got ten minutes spare between other things.

It's free to visit, and you can normally just push the door open during daylight hours - typical village church access. Allow twenty minutes if you're really going to look around, ten if you just want a quick peek. Not the kind of place you'd drive out of your way for specifically, but if you're staying at Sutton-on-Sea Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite - just over six miles away - and fancy a bit of local history between beach time, Alford's worth a stop. The town itself is fairly sleepy but has a working mill and some old character if you fancy a poke around.

Historically-minded visitors and church enthusiasts will get more from it than others. Kids might find it a bit quiet unless they're already interested in old buildings.