St Margaret the Queen, Buxted

The church sits in the village itself, a medieval structure that pulls you in with its solid Sussex charm rather than any grand architectural statement. St Margaret the Queen is properly old - we're talking 13th century - and the interior has that particular smell of ancient stone and polish that makes you feel like you've stepped back several centuries.

What strikes you most is the simplicity of it. The nave is modest, the windows are decent rather than breathtaking, and there's a real sense this is a working village church rather than a museum piece. You can spend twenty minutes having a good look round, or fifty if you're into brass rubbings and reading every memorial tablet. Kids won't get restless if you keep it brisk.

It's free to wander in, which is always welcome. Heathfield is the nearest town if you need facilities or a pint afterwards, about four miles away. If you're based at either Dernwood Farm or The Secret Campsite - both five to six miles out - this makes an easy afternoon potter. Neither campsite is far enough away to feel like a proper journey, and you could easily combine it with exploring the village itself, which has the pleasant, unhurried feel of proper Sussex countryside.

Not a reason to plan your entire trip around, but if you're in the area camping and fancy a bit of local history without the tourist machinery, it's worth the brief detour.