Temple of Friendship

You'll find this curious stone folly tucked away near Buckingham, a proper oddity that stops you in your tracks. Built in the 18th century, the Temple of Friendship is exactly what it sounds like - a small, decorative temple constructed as a symbolic gesture between friends, the sort of whimsical project that wealthy landowners dreamed up when they had money and land in abundance.

The structure itself is modest but striking. It's a circular or semi-circular pavilion with classical proportions, the kind of thing that makes you pause mid-walk and think, 'why on earth did someone build this out here?' Which, frankly, is part of its charm. There's no fussing about - you can walk around it, photograph it, and sit nearby if the mood takes you. It won't keep you occupied for hours, but it's the sort of detour that rewards walkers tackling the broader countryside.

Historically minded visitors will appreciate the backstory. Historians and architecture enthusiasts tend to get more from it than families with small children, who might find it a bit underwhelming without context. There's no visitor centre or interpretation, so come with a bit of research done or you'll just see a nice old building.

If you're camping nearby - Hedgehog Retreat is barely a mile away, or try Windmill Farm Campsite further out - the Temple makes an easy morning walk. Check ahead locally in Buckingham for access details, as opening information isn't widely advertised. Best visited as part of a broader ramble, not as a standalone destination.