St Martin

St Martin's church sits quietly on the edge of Folkestone, the sort of place most people drive past without noticing. That would be a mistake. The building itself is genuinely medieval - parts of it date back to the 12th century - and it's got the kind of authentic atmosphere you don't often find in well-maintained tourist attractions. The interior is spare and honest, with original stonework and some proper old glass. It's the real thing, not a reconstruction.

You'll spend twenty minutes here maximum, which makes it ideal if you're based at one of the nearby caravan parks like Varne Ridge or Black Horse Farm. It works particularly well as a break during a longer walk around the area. History enthusiasts will appreciate the architectural details - there's genuine Norman work if you know what you're looking for - but don't come expecting elaborate monuments or crowds.

It's free to visit, and there's rarely anyone around, which is either peaceful or slightly unsettling depending on your mood. Opening hours aren't guaranteed, so you might find it locked on a quiet afternoon. That's part of its charm, really. If you're camping in the Folkestone area and want to tick off a proper piece of Kent history without any fuss, St Martin's delivers. It won't be the highlight of your holiday, but it's genuinely worth the short detour, especially if you're already exploring the coast around Dymchurch or Lympne.