The Nail

You'll find this rather unusual medieval cross standing in the middle of a Somerset field, a few miles outside Bath. The Nail itself is a squat, weathered stone monument topped with what looks like a chunky crown - it's genuinely difficult to know what you're looking at until you read up on it. Dating from around the 14th century, it marks an old marketplace boundary, and locals reckon it got its name from the way medieval traders would hammer nails into it to seal bargains. Whether that's true or just good Somerset folklore is anyone's guess.

It's not the sort of thing that'll consume your afternoon. You can spend fifteen minutes looking at it, taking photos, and trying to work out exactly what you're looking at. History enthusiasts and anyone interested in medieval market culture will get more from it than most, but it's quite niche stuff. The real appeal is that it's genuinely obscure - you won't find tour coaches here.

Freely accessible and completely free to visit, The Nail makes a decent stop if you're already exploring the Bath area. Don't plan a trip around it alone, but if you're based at Bath Mill Lodge Retreat or Campwell Farm and fancy a walk with a bit of historical intrigue, it's worth the detour. Bring decent footwear if there's been rain - the surrounding ground can get boggy. Early morning or late afternoon is best if you want decent light for photos without crowds.