St John the Baptist's Church

The medieval tower of St John the Baptist's Church rises above Bridport's high street like a steadying hand on the town's shoulder. It's one of those parish churches that's been quietly doing its job for centuries - and if you're staying at any of the nearby holiday parks, it's worth a quick detour to see what five hundred years of Dorset life looks like from the inside.

The church itself dates back to the 15th century, though there's been worship on this spot far longer. Walk in and you'll find yourself in that particular kind of peace that only old stone can provide - the kind where you stop checking your phone without meaning to. The interior tells the story of a working market town's faith: decent medieval features, the accumulated brass plaques of local families, windows that let the light do the talking.

It's the sort of place that takes twenty minutes to see properly, maybe half an hour if you're reading the memorials. Free to visit during daylight hours, as far as these things go. Families won't find it thrilling on its own - the kids will get restless - but if you're already in Bridport picking up fish and chips or poking around the antique shops, stepping inside costs nothing and adds something real to your afternoon.

If you're based at Highlands End or Golden Cap, both less than two miles away, this is an easy addition to a walk into town. Combine it with Bridport's high street and you've got a proper half-day sorted.