The Afnan Library

You'll find this rather unexpected literary treasure tucked away near Sandy, a town most people only pass through on the A1. The Afnan Library is housed in what was once a private collection - a real labour of love from someone who clearly knew their books inside out. Walking in feels intimate rather than grand, which makes it all the more appealing if you're after something beyond the usual museum circuit.

The collection itself spans everything from rare manuscripts to contemporary works, with a particular strength in Middle Eastern literature and history. It's the kind of place where you can spend a solid couple of hours if you're a proper book person, though thirty minutes will give you the flavour if you're just curious. Staff are genuinely knowledgeable, which counts for far more than slick presentation.

This works brilliantly as a half-day excursion if you're staying at nearby Cambridgeshire Lakes - gives you something cerebral to offset the water sports and outdoor stuff. Sandy itself is unremarkable, but the library's quietly impressive without being pretentious. Not for everyone, mind you. If you've got restless teenagers or prefer attractions with clear entrance fees and set hours, best look elsewhere. But if you're the sort who gets a kick from discovering places that don't sell you on themselves, this is well worth the detour.