St Peter & St Paul's Church

The church sits on high ground overlooking Winchelsea, and walking up to it you immediately understand why the medieval builders chose this spot. St Peter & St Paul's is one of Sussex's finest parish churches, with a soaring tower that's visible for miles across the Romney Marsh. Inside, the scale is genuinely impressive - the nave feels grand, the windows are proper stained glass, and there's real craftsmanship in the stonework throughout.

It's worth going for the architecture alone if you're into medieval building. The tower climb rewards you with views that stretch to the coast, though that's only if the tower's open on the day you visit. The church itself is free to wander round, though opening hours vary and it's worth checking locally in Winchelsea before making the trip up the hill.

History buffs will notice the traces of Winchelsea's past as a major port - the church reflects that former importance, and you can spend a good hour inside if you're the type to read the plaques. For families, younger kids might find it a bit cold and quiet, but if they're old enough to appreciate old buildings, the views from outside and the sheer size of the place tend to impress.

If you're staying at Winchelsea Sands Holiday Park or Rye Harbour Holiday Park nearby, this is practically on the doorstep - a proper walk up from the town that takes fifteen minutes. Combine it with a wander round Winchelsea's medieval streets and you've got a solid afternoon sorted.