St Mary Magdalene

The church stands on a quiet corner of Ashford, its stone walls weathered to that particular grey that only centuries manage. St Mary Magdalene is a proper medieval affair - the sort of place where you can actually feel the weight of time rather than just read about it on a plaque.

Inside, the space opens up in that way old churches do, with high ceilings and light filtering through windows that have survived wars and rebuilds. The architecture tells its own story if you're into that sort of thing - decorated and perpendicular elements that speak to different periods of construction and repair. If you're walking around Ashford with a camera or a genuine interest in church history, you'll find yourself spending a good hour here just looking properly.

Families won't find it gripping unless the kids are already keen on medieval stonework, but if you're staying at Romney Meadows Caravan and Camping Park just down the road, it's a straightforward afternoon trip into town. The walk from the park takes you through Ashford's quieter bits, which is half the point - you get a sense of the place rather than just tick a box.

It's free to wander round, and there's no time limit. Go on a weekday morning if you want solitude, or Sunday if you want to catch the full atmosphere. Real worth your while if old buildings matter to you; less so if you're after something with a gift shop and a café.