The King's Church Epsom

St Martin's Church dominates Epsom town centre with the sort of architectural confidence you'd expect from a building that's watched over the Surrey market town for nearly 500 years. The current structure dates to the 1820s - a proper Victorian rebuild of its medieval predecessor - and it's worth ducking inside to see the soaring nave and decent stained glass work. The church sits bang in the middle of things, so you're not going miles out of your way to see it.

This is really a spot for those interested in local history rather than a destination in itself. If you're the type who enjoys poking about historic parish churches and reading brass plaques, you'll find an hour here well spent. Families passing through town centre might pop in between other activities, though children will tire quickly unless they're genuinely keen on architecture.

The real draw for many visitors is the location. Epsom itself sits handily between Chessington World of Adventures Resort - just 2.5 miles down the road - and several decent countryside parks. Norbury Park, five miles away, offers proper walking if you want greenery after a day at Chessington. If you're based at Polyapes Scout Campsite nearby, the church makes a sensible rainy-day option in town.

Admission is free, and you can spend as little as twenty minutes here or linger longer if you're genuinely interested in Victorian ecclesiastical design. Go midweek if you want a quieter visit; weekends tend busier with shoppers.