Saint Nicholas

The tower of Saint Nicholas rises above Newark's skyline like something out of a Midlands postcard - all grey stone and medieval intent. This is proper church architecture, the kind that actually tells you something about centuries of worship rather than just sitting there looking decorative.

Inside, it's a working parish church, so you get the real deal: worn flagstones, old wooden pews, and that particular smell that English churches have - part stone dust, part candle wax, part something older you can't quite name. The chancel and nave are handsome enough, and if you're into medieval stuff, the details reward proper looking. Don't expect the bells and whistles of grander cathedrals though. This is honest, local, relatively unadorned.

It's the sort of place that works best if you're already in Newark exploring the castle and town centre rather than as a destination in itself. Twenty minutes, maybe thirty if you're taking notes. Very quiet - proper peaceful, which beats faffing about in heaving tourist spots.

For families with kids doing the rounds between Sundown Adventureland and Wild Acre Village, popping into town and spending a few minutes here breaks up the day without feeling like yet another activity they need herding into. Walkers heading through Newark will find it worth the diversion. History types will appreciate the bones of the building, though there's better ecclesiastical stuff elsewhere in Nottinghamshire.

It's free to enter and accessible during normal church hours, though do check ahead as these places run on volunteer schedules.