St Mary the Virgin, Cratfield

The wooden rood screen here is what draws people in - a 15th-century marvel that somehow survived the Reformation intact. St Mary the Virgin sits in Cratfield, a few miles east of Halesworth, and it's one of those Suffolk churches that rewards the detour even if you're not particularly religious.

Inside, the screen is genuinely stunning: intricate carved panels with saints and biblical scenes, painted in faded greens and reds. There's also a thatched roof on the bell turret, which you won't see on many churches. The whole place has that quiet, undisturbed feel - partly because Cratfield itself is barely a village, more a scatter of farms and cottages.

It's mainly for history buffs and church crawlers, though the craftsmanship appeals to anyone who appreciates medieval wood carving. You'll spend twenty minutes here maximum unless you're the type to read every memorial plaque. Free to wander in, no faffing about with opening times or admission fees.

If you're based at The Croft Campsite nearby - which has a solid 5-star rating - this makes an easy morning's outing before heading to larger attractions. Green Haven Camping, a bit further out near Halesworth, is also close enough for a quick visit. Don't expect a long stop, but it's exactly the kind of overlooked local church that makes a Suffolk holiday interesting rather than generic.