St Mary's, Barking

The church sits in the village of Barking, a few miles east of Ipswich, looking rather ordinary from the road until you step inside. St Mary's is a proper medieval affair with a tower that's done well to survive the centuries, and the interior has that particular Suffolk quality - not flashy, but genuinely interesting if you bother to look. The craftsmanship in the wooden roof and the stained glass tells you this was a community that cared about their place of worship.

It's the kind of stop that appeals to church enthusiasts and history types rather than kids hunting for obvious thrills. A brisk look round takes twenty minutes, maybe longer if you're into medieval architecture and reading the memorials. Go mid-week when it's quiet - you'll get proper peace rather than the rushed tourist vibe.

Barking works well as a diversion when you're based at one of the nearby holiday parks. Wheathill is closest at just over two miles away, then Stonham Barns and Goldings CL are all within reasonable striking distance. The village itself is small but pleasant enough for a walk afterwards, and you're never far from Ipswich if you need proper facilities or a better meal.

Admission is almost certainly free - Suffolk churches generally operate on an honesty box basis if they ask for anything at all. Worth a quick visit if you're staying local, though don't plan your entire trip around it.