Saint Martha's Church

Perched on a hilltop between Bexhill-on-Sea and Hastings, Saint Martha's Church is a small Norman structure that rewards the short climb with proper views across the Sussex countryside. The building itself is modest - nothing flashy, just solid medieval stonework and a modest bell tower that's been holding its own for nearly a thousand years. Inside, there's a lovely simplicity to it all: whitewashed walls, a few carved details, and the kind of quiet that actually feels earned when you've walked up to find it.

This is one for history buffs and walkers rather than a Sunday-best outing with the kids. The interior won't keep little ones entertained for long, but the walk itself is pleasant enough if you're staying nearby. Allow twenty minutes to climb up, another fifteen to poke around the church and absorb the views. Best visited on a clear day when you can actually see what you've come for.

If you're based at one of the local holiday parks - Park Holidays UK is closest at just over two miles away - it makes a decent half-hour detour from Bexhill. Beech Estate Campsite, slightly further out, is well-regarded if you're after a proper base for exploring the area. The church itself is free to visit, though opening hours seem to vary. Check locally before making the trip up the hill, or you might find the gates locked.