St Mary's Church, Hemyock

The church sits quietly in Hemyock village, just a few miles south of Honiton, and the moment you step inside St Mary's you feel the weight of genuine medieval craftsmanship. This is a proper 15th-century building - all soaring stonework and intricate roof timbers that have somehow survived half a millennium without fussing about it. The rood screen alone is worth the visit; it's ornate without being showy, the kind of detail that makes you understand why people cared enough to build things to last.

The interior has that particular smell of old wood and stone that no modern building manages, and there's a quiet that actually feels earned rather than imposed. You'll want a good hour if you're the type to read plaques and study the craftsmanship, though fifteen minutes gets you the essentials. It's free to visit, which is refreshing.

Historically-minded visitors will get the most from it - this is the real thing, not a heritage centre interpretation of the real thing. Families with young kids might find it a touch dull unless they're keen on architecture already. The walk around the churchyard is pleasant enough if you've time to kill.

If you're based at nearby Hartridge Springs Spa Glamping, it's an easy detour on a day exploring the villages and lanes around Honiton. Pair it with a walk through the village itself rather than making a special trip just for the church. It's good, but it's not stopping-traffic spectacular.