St Mary de Castro Church, Leicester

The oldest building in Leicester sits tucked away on Castle Street, and it's worth seeking out if you're spending time in the city centre. St Mary de Castro is genuinely ancient - we're talking 12th century, with bits of the Norman church still visible if you know where to look. The inside is surprisingly intimate given its age, all vaulted ceilings and stone pillars that make you feel properly small.

It's really a place for history buffs and anyone interested in medieval architecture. You won't spend hours here - twenty minutes is realistic unless you're the type to read every plaque and sit in the pews for a bit of quiet. The church sits near the castle grounds, so it works well as part of a longer walk through Leicester's older quarters rather than a standalone destination.

If you're staying at Bradgate Park or Green Acres just outside the city, this makes an easy afternoon excursion when the weather turns sketchy. Bradgate itself is far better value for a proper day out with the kids, but St Mary de Castro fills a gap on those odd hours when you want something brief and atmospheric. Free to enter, naturally, and there's decent parking nearby on Castle Street. The church is still functioning, so opening times can be erratic - worth ringing ahead or checking the Leicester cathedral website before you visit.