The Priory

The ruins of Gloucester's medieval priory sit quietly on the edge of the city, a proper slice of monastic life from centuries past. What remains are substantial stone walls and archways that give you a genuine sense of the scale these establishments once commanded - you can trace the layout of the cloisters, spot where the refectory stood, and imagine the daily rhythm of the monks who lived here. It's the kind of place that rewards a slow wander rather than a quick snap for Instagram.

Historybuffs will spend a good hour picking through the stonework and trying to piece together how the building functioned. Families with younger children might find it a bit sparse - there's not much interpretation on site, so you'll need to do homework beforehand or bring a decent guidebook. The views across Gloucester from the elevated position are worth the walk though, especially on a clear day.

Check ahead for admission fees and opening times before you head out - details are thin on the ground. You're well-placed if you're stopping at any of the caravan parks within a few miles: Pepper Pot, The Riverside, or Tudor all put you within easy reach. The priory works best as a half-morning stop between exploring Gloucester Cathedral and heading out into the Cotswolds rather than a destination in itself. Allow an hour, maybe ninety minutes if you're genuinely into medieval religious architecture.