St Lawrence Church, Hatfield

The church sits right in the heart of Hatfield village, just a short drive south of Doncaster, and it's the sort of place that rewards a proper look around. St Lawrence is a working parish church with medieval bones - you'll spot the tell-tale signs in the stonework and the general layout, though it's been added to and modified over the centuries like most English churches have.

Inside, there's genuine character. The interior has that particular smell all old churches have - something between stone, polish, and time itself - and the light streaming through the windows picks out details you wouldn't expect to see. Brass plaques and monuments tell stories of local families, and if you're into medieval architecture or church history, there's enough here to keep you occupied for a good thirty minutes.

It's not a showstopper attraction, to be honest. You won't spend hours here, and it's not the sort of place that will fascinate young children for long. But if you're staying at Mooreacres, just down the road, or Between Rivers Camping a bit further out, it's worth a wander as part of a morning exploring the village. The churchyard itself is pleasant enough for a gentle stroll.

Best to check opening times before you visit - local churches can be unpredictable about when they're actually open to visitors. Admission is almost certainly free, as it is with most parish churches. Go early or late afternoon when the light's best.