St Cuthbert's, Forcett

The little church sits alone in open countryside between Richmond and Scotch Corner, which tells you everything about its appeal - this is proper isolation. St Cuthbert's at Forcett isn't a grand statement piece. It's a modest medieval structure, largely Norman, that you stumble upon rather than seek out, and that's rather the point.

Inside, the space feels frozen. There's genuine age here - stone walls that have absorbed centuries, simple furnishings, the sort of quiet that makes you speak in whispers without meaning to. The churchyard is surrounded by moorland views that open right up. On a clear day you can see for miles across Durham's rolling edges.

Walkers get the most from this one. It's not a destination in itself - you won't linger for hours - but it's absolutely worth the detour if you're rambling through Swaledale or Wensleydale territory. The route from Richmond is straightforward enough. Allow thirty minutes to nose around inside and the churchyard, longer if you're making an afternoon of it with the surrounding walks.

Since Hewn Yorkshire is barely a mile away, this works well as a park base for exploring this corner of the Dales. The contrast is striking - modern comfort then ancient simplicity - and the walking between them is excellent. Bring proper boots though. The lanes can be muddy, and you'll want to explore beyond the churchyard walls.

It's free to visit, which is how it should be.