Saint Margaret of Antioch, Tanfield

The Church of Saint Margaret of Antioch sits quietly in Tanfield, a few miles south of Stanley in County Durham, and it's one of those places that rewards the detour if you're already exploring the wider area. The building itself is a proper medieval church, all solid stone and history, with enough architectural character to keep anyone interested in old England occupied for a good half hour.

Inside, there's the sort of calm you only get in old parish churches - no crowds, no fuss, just the genuine article. The stonework tells you this place has stood here for centuries, weathering whatever the North East throws at it. If you're walking the local footpaths or staying at nearby Derecroft Glamping, it's absolutely worth the detour on foot or a short drive.

Admission details aren't entirely clear online, so ring ahead or check the Church Near You website before you make the journey - though most parish churches like this are free to wander through during daylight hours. Allow 20 to 30 minutes if you're really taking your time, less if you just want the photographs.

It's not a showstopper attraction that'll dominate your day, but it's exactly the kind of stop that makes a holiday to rural Durham feel properly authentic. History types and anyone who enjoys exploring small villages will get genuine value from it. Skip it only if you're on a tight schedule and the weather's foul.