Ulverscroft Priory

The ruins of Ulverscroft Priory stand in a quiet corner of Leicestershire countryside, about three miles from Charnwood Acres Caravan Park. What remains is genuinely atmospheric - crumbling stone walls, a few arches still standing, and enough architectural detail to piece together what this 12th-century Augustinian monastery once looked like. You can wander the site freely, picking out the prior's lodging, the refectory, bits of the church. It's the kind of place that rewards a slow walk rather than a quick snap for Instagram.

Histor buffs will find plenty to occupy them here, especially if you've got decent knowledge of medieval monastic life. The setting matters too - surrounded by woodland and farmland, it feels genuinely removed from the modern world. Family groups with older kids will get something out of it, though younger ones might lose interest once they've clambered on a few walls. Walkers exploring the Leicestershire countryside will find it a sensible stopping point on a longer ramble.

Access appears to be free and open, though it's worth checking locally before you visit as sites like this can have seasonal restrictions. Allow 45 minutes to an hour to do it justice - longer if you're interested in the history. It works well as a half-day activity alongside a stay at one of the nearby parks, particularly Charnwood Acres or Meadow Farm Marina if you want decent facilities. The priory itself won't keep you going for hours, but paired with walks in the surrounding countryside, it makes for a proper morning or afternoon out.