Sparsholt Villa Rustica

A Roman villa sits quietly in the Hampshire countryside near Winchester, and what you're looking at are the remains of a proper substantial dwelling from around the 4th century. The site shows the foundation walls and hypocaust system - that's the underfloor heating the Romans were rather fond of - which gives you a real sense of how the wealthy lived when Britain was part of the Empire.

It's not dramatic. No standing walls, no mosaics catching the light. What you get instead is the chance to wander a field and read the ground plan, which appeals mostly to archaeology enthusiasts and Roman history types rather than casual visitors. Kids will probably lose interest within half an hour unless they're genuinely into digging up the past.

The nearest settlement is Winchester, which means you could combine this with the cathedral and high street if you're in the area. It's free to access and open year-round as far as visitors are concerned - no gates, no entrance fees. Allow an hour if you want to properly study the layout and read the interpretation panels. Go on a dry day; mud makes it less rewarding.

If you're staying at Stockbridge View, the holiday park just down the road, this is an easy detour on a morning walk rather than a destination in itself. Fine for what it is, but be honest with yourself about whether Roman foundations alone will hold your attention.