St Mark's Church

The church sits quietly on its patch of West Berkshire land, one of those solid stone buildings that makes you realize how many generations have walked through its doors. St Mark's is proper old - the kind of place where you can run your hand along pillars worn smooth by centuries and actually feel time.

Inside, there's the usual quiet that comes with churches. Stained glass does its job on a decent day, casting coloured patches across the pews. If you're into ecclesiastical architecture or just fancying a moment away from Reading's bustle, it's worth the detour. History enthusiasts will spot the details - the stonework, the fixtures - though it's not the sort of place that demands hours of your time. Twenty minutes, half an hour if you're thorough.

It's the kind of spot that works well if you're staying at Ravenswing Park, just down the road. Break up a day of park time with a walk into the village and a poke around. Families with young children might find it a bit dull unless they're genuinely interested in old buildings - there's not much to do here beyond looking. But if you're the sort who appreciates a quiet corner and some genuine age to a place, you'll get something from it.

Best bet is to check opening hours locally before you go. Church times can be tricky.