Stocks Green

The stocks at Stocks Green are what remains of a proper village punishment device, the sort of thing that would have held miscreants and troublemakers for public ridicule centuries back. It's a small but genuinely interesting medieval relic just east of Cambridge, sitting in what feels like proper countryside despite being minutes from the city. The stocks themselves are straightforward - wooden frames with holes for ankles and wrists - but standing there you can't help imagining the scene: villagers gathered around, throwing rotten vegetables, the shame of it all.

Historians and anyone keen on English medieval life will find it worthwhile. It's the sort of thing that brings a period to life better than a museum display ever could, because you're standing where actual people once stood. Children might manage five minutes of interest before wanting to move on, unless they're genuinely fascinated by history.

There's no admission fee and it takes barely ten minutes to look properly. The real draw is combining it with a walk around the surrounding fenland - the landscape itself is the attraction here. If you're staying at one of the glamping spots nearby - Lodeside or Fen Meadows are both within four miles - it makes for a decent morning outing before heading back to camp for lunch. Chittering Park sits a bit further out at six miles, but still close enough for a day trip. Winter visits are actually better; the site's exposed and can be bleak in summer heat. Go on a grey English afternoon and it's oddly atmospheric.