St. Hilda’s Church

The church sits on a windswept headland just south of Hartlepool, its stone walls testament to centuries of North Sea gales. St. Hilda's is properly old - we're talking medieval foundations, though what you see now is largely Victorian restoration work. Inside, the light's quite something, streaming through the windows onto simple stone floors and wooden pews worn smooth by generations of worshippers.

It's the kind of place that appeals to church history buffs and architecture enthusiasts rather than casual day-trippers. You'll spend twenty minutes looking round, maybe half an hour if you read all the plaques. The views across the coast toward Hartlepool are decent, though the churchyard's a bit overgrown in places - adds character, really, if you like that sort of thing.

There's something rather moving about standing here, imagining St. Hilda herself connected to these grounds centuries back. Access appears to be free, though opening times aren't always reliable for smaller parish churches, so ring ahead or just try your luck. If you're staying at Parkdean Resorts Crimdon Dene just down the road, it's a short drive worth making - breaks up the holiday routine without demanding much time or effort. Bring a windbreaker. The exposed location means it can bite a bit, even in summer.