St Mary the Virgin and All Saints

The church sits on a quiet corner east of Barnet, its stone walls worn smooth by centuries of weather and worshippers. St Mary the Virgin and All Saints is the sort of parish church that sneaks up on you - no grand cathedral flourishes, just solid medieval architecture doing what it's always done.

Inside, the real appeal lies in the details. Stained glass catches the light in ways that photographs never quite capture, and there's that particular smell - part dust, part devotion - that never gets old. The chancel and nave are straightforward enough, but it's worth spending time reading the monuments and tablets. They tell the stories of the people who actually lived in this corner of Hertfordshire, which beats any guidebook.

This isn't a destination in itself, but it's worth a proper stop if you're exploring the Barnet area or staying at Marshmoor Crescent Park or Cherry Green Trees nearby. History types will find it genuinely interesting; families with young children might manage twenty minutes before restlessness sets in. Bring a pencil if you fancy brass rubbing.

Admission is free, as with most parish churches, though opening hours can be unpredictable - ring ahead or check the church noticeboard. Allow half an hour to look properly. The walk around the churchyard is pleasant too, particularly on a clear day when you can see across the fields.