St Andrew’s Church, Prestwold

The church sits quietly in Prestwold village, a proper gem if you're staying nearby in Barrow upon Soar and fancy a gentle afternoon wander. St Andrew's is a working parish church with genuine medieval bones - the sort of place where you'll actually feel the age of the building rather than just read about it on a plaque.

Inside, there's a real sense of calm. The architecture tells the story of centuries of local worship, with periods of building and rebuilding layered into the fabric. It's not a massive showstopper like you'd find in Leicester city centre, but that's rather the point. This is the kind of church that rewards a proper look around - stained glass, memorials, the lot - without the crowds.

Walkers will appreciate the location. Prestwold's quiet enough that you can combine a visit with a decent ramble through the Leicestershire countryside, and it breaks up the journey nicely if you're exploring the broader area around Barrow upon Soar. History buffs get more from it than casual tourists, to be honest. If your kids are the fidgety sort, ten minutes will probably do it.

Access is straightforward from Hill Top Caravan Park or Ragdale Glamping if that's where you're based - both within easy striking distance. Check ahead on opening times before you head over, as it's not always staffed, but the churchyard alone is worth the visit on a decent day.