St Peter & St Paul's Church - Watford

The church sits quietly on the high street in Watford, a village just outside Northampton - the sort of place you'd miss if you weren't looking for it. St Peter and St Paul's is a proper medieval structure, and what strikes you first is how much of it has survived intact. The stone work tells the story of centuries, from Norman foundations through to Victorian restoration.

Inside, it's surprisingly atmospheric. There's genuine medieval glass still in place, which is rare, and the chancel gives you a real sense of how these buildings functioned in their heyday. The font's worth a look if you're into that sort of thing - carved stone that's been here longer than England's had a standing army.

It's best suited to people who actually enjoy old churches - anyone hunting for photo opportunities or expecting dramatic architecture will find it a bit underwhelming. But if you're the sort who reads plaques and appreciates quiet spaces, you'll get a solid hour out of it. The village itself is small and unremarkable, though it's just a short drive from Northampton.

If you're staying at Bunkers Hill Farm nearby, it makes a decent hour-long detour on a morning walk before heading back for lunch. Admission is typically free for churches of this type, though it's worth checking the door before you visit - some keep irregular hours. Bring a torch if you go in winter; these places can be dim.