St John the Baptist Church

The tower of St John the Baptist is impossible to miss rising above Stanley's terraced streets - a proper landmark that catches the eye whether you're approaching from the town centre or wandering the surrounding hills. Inside, it's a sturdy medieval church with decent stained glass and the kind of peaceful atmosphere you get in working parish churches that haven't been turned into flats or visitor centres. The building dates back centuries and shows its age in the best way - solid stone, high ceilings, and genuine quiet.

You're not looking at hours here. An hour max, and that's if you've got time to sit down and take it in. History enthusiasts and church architecture types will appreciate the details more than families with restless kids, though there's nothing here to actively upset anyone either. It's the sort of place you visit if you're already in Stanley rather than specifically drive for, though if you're based at Beamish Holiday Park six miles away, it makes a decent half-hour diversion on a grey afternoon.

The town itself is worth a wander while you're there - proper old colliery community with character - and it's close enough to Beamish Museum if you want something with more interactive appeal. Free to get in, naturally. No fancy opening hours nonsense. Just knock and see, or catch it during regular Sunday services.