Sundial

You'll find this curious relic tucked away in Buckinghamshire, a proper piece of history that most people driving past Milton Keynes completely miss. It's a historic sundial - one of those markers that reminds you people once relied on the sun rather than their wrists to tell the time.

What you're actually looking at is craftsmanship from another era. The dial itself tells you something about the landscape and the folk who built it, though the exact details depend on which sundial we're talking about (Buckinghamshire has a few scattered about). These aren't flashy attractions - they require a bit of effort to appreciate. You won't be entertained by screens or gift shops, which is either a blessing or a bore depending on your mood.

It's the sort of stop that appeals to history buffs and landscape walkers rather than families with restless kids. Allow 20 minutes tops, unless you're the type who enjoys sketching old stonework or photographing shadows at different times of day. Bring a book about local history if you can - it'll enrich the visit considerably.

If you're camping nearby at Gullivers Campsite or The Old Dairy Farm, this makes a decent leg-stretch between sites. It won't consume your morning, but it's worth the detour if you're already exploring the area around Milton Keynes. Go on a clear day when the shadows are sharp - misty afternoons strip the whole thing of its point.