St John the Baptist with Our Lady and St Laurence, Thaxted Parish Church

The spire of St John the Baptist rises above Thaxted's high street like something from a medieval postcard - it's proper striking, and you'll spot it from miles away if you're driving through Essex. Walking inside, you're met with soaring gothic arches and light flooding through the stained glass. The church itself dates back centuries, dedicated to St John alongside Our Lady and St Laurence, and there's real craftsmanship in the stonework and the age-darkened timber roof.

This isn't a tourist trap with a gift shop and commentary boards. It's a working parish church where locals still worship, which gives it an authenticity many heritage sites lose. You'll spend twenty minutes inside if you take your time, longer if you're interested in the architectural details. The exterior is equally worth photographing - the flint work on the walls is beautiful, particularly on the south side.

History types and photographers will get the most from a visit. Children might find it a bit much unless they're already into old buildings. It's free to look around during daylight hours, which is the way it should be.

If you're staying at one of the glamping spots nearby - Hidden Gem, Dairymeade Farm, or Readers Field are all within three miles - visiting the church makes an easy morning or afternoon outing combined with exploring Saffron Walden's other attractions. It's worth the detour if you're in the area, though not worth driving an hour out of your way for on its own. Pair it with a village walk and you've got something proper worthwhile.