St Michael and All Angels Church

Walk up the modest rise into Whitley Bay and you'll spot this Victorian church standing rather self-assured among the rows of terraced houses. St Michael and All Angels is properly understated - no drama, no crowds - just solid 19th-century stonework doing what it's meant to do.

Inside, it's all high ceilings and that particular quiet you only get in old churches. The stained glass catches the light nicely if you time it right, and there's enough detail in the woodwork to keep you occupied for twenty minutes or so. It's the sort of place where you can actually hear yourself think, which is rather the point of coming at all.

Honestly, this isn't a trip-planning necessity. History buffs and church enthusiasts will find it worthwhile - the Victorian craftsmanship is decent - but you're not missing out if you skip it. That said, if you're already staying at Parkdean Resorts Whitley Bay Holiday Park just down the road, the walk here makes a pleasant half-hour outing on a decent morning. You'll get a real feel for how ordinary folk actually lived in this seaside town a century-plus ago, rather than just wandering the seafront.

No admission charge as far as we can tell, and opening times depend on whether someone's volunteered to unlock the doors that day. Ring ahead if you're making it a specific stop. The real value here is the walk itself and a moment's peace.