St Barnabas Church

The church sits quietly on the outskirts of Hemel Hempstead, a Victorian structure that won't make you gasp but rewards a proper look around. St Barnabas has that solid, no-nonsense feel common to churches built during the industrial expansion - red brick, decent proportions, the sort of place that's been holding the community together since the 1800s without fussing about it.

Inside, it's peaceful in that particular way of old churches. You'll find the usual fixtures - stained glass, wooden pews, a decent chancel - but nothing that'll keep you rooted for hours. The real value here is the calm. After trudging around Hemel Hempstead's town centre, it's a proper refuge.

Historically inclined types might appreciate the architecture and what it reveals about Victorian priorities in a growing town. Others will find it a pleasant ten-minute stop if you're in the area, particularly if you're exploring on foot. It's free to wander in, which costs nothing but time.

For caravan stays at Fuzzy's Farm or Highridge Farm, both within a couple of miles, St Barnabas works as a gentle morning walk or a breather between other activities. Don't make it your reason for choosing the park, but if you're staying nearby, you could do worse than spending half an hour here. Bring a camera if you're into Victorian architecture - the exterior photographs well on overcast days.