Statue of Flora

The Statue of Flora sits in Peterborough, a commanding bronze figure that stops you mid-stride on the street. She's been watching over the town for decades now, and honestly, the first time you round that corner and catch sight of her, it feels like meeting an old friend you'd read about but never quite expected to be real.

It's the sort of stop that takes five minutes, maybe ten if you're the type to stand and actually look at the craftsmanship. The statue itself isn't enormous - it's not trying to be intimidating - but there's something about the detail and presence that makes her worth pausing for. You'll find locals cutting past her every day without a glance, which is exactly the kind of thing that makes solo travellers and history types linger a bit longer.

If you're staying at Brightside Caravan Park, just under six miles away, this is an easy detour when you're poking around Peterborough anyway. Bring the kids and they'll probably be done in seconds flat, but it's the sort of cultural marker that makes a place feel like somewhere with actual roots rather than just a services stop off the A1.

There's no entry fee because it's simply standing in public space. Go whenever you like - morning light hits her differently than afternoon sun, if you're into that sort of thing.