St Laurence Church, Frodsham

The church dominates Frodsham's high street - a proper medieval structure with a tower that's been guiding locals for centuries. St Laurence is what you'd expect from a market town church: solid stone, impressive nave, and the sort of quiet interior that makes you want to whisper even when you're alone.

What strikes you immediately is the sheer age of the place. Parts of it date back to the 13th century, though it's been rebuilt and fiddled with plenty of times since. The tower's the real draw - climb it if they'll let you, because the view over Frodsham and out towards the Dee estuary justifies the stairs. On a clear day you can see proper distance.

Historyophiles will spend a decent hour here. Everyone else - maybe twenty minutes, bit longer if you're patient with the details. It's free to wander in, which is always appreciated. The church sits right in the town centre, so you can combine a visit with a poke round the shops or a bite to eat without any hassle.

If you're staying at Lady Heyes Holiday Park or the nearby glamping site - both just over a mile away - this is practically on your doorstep. Equally, it's an easy addition to a bigger loop that takes in Delamere Forest Camping, a proper outdoorsy area with actual things to do if you've got restless kids. The church won't keep you for hours, but it's worth the twenty-minute detour.