Staunton Harold Estate

The church at Staunton Harold stops you dead. It's 1653, Oliver Cromwell's in charge, and this man - Sir Robert Shirley - decided to build a proper Anglican church anyway. Absolutely mad, and wonderful for it. The result is this jewel of red brick and stone that feels almost defiant in its beauty, sitting in parkland near Derby like it's daring anyone to knock it down.

What you're actually looking at is one of England's last churches built before the Civil War, and it's genuinely rare. The interior is immaculate - plasterwork, original furnishings, stained glass that catches the light just right. You can stand there and feel the weight of that single act of religious courage. It's not a sprawling cathedral; it's intimate, which makes it more powerful somehow.

This works best for history types and anyone who appreciates churches done properly. Families won't find it gripping for hours, but kids old enough to understand the story will get something from it. The surrounding estate grounds are worth a wander too.

You're well positioned staying at Field of Dreams or Broadleaves - both within easy reach - and you can tie this in with other Leicestershire attractions without much faffing about. Check ahead on opening as details weren't readily available, but it's absolutely worth tracking down. The story alone makes the detour worthwhile, and the building itself delivers on every count.