West Tanfield

The tower at West Tanfield stands alone in a field near Ripon, a sturdy reminder of medieval life in North Yorkshire. It's the remnants of a fortified manor house - specifically a tower that once guarded the approach to the village, built sometime in the 14th or 15th century. What you actually get is a chance to walk around the exterior of this squat, square structure and imagine what it would have felt like standing here 600 years ago, watching for trouble.

Walkers and history buffs will find it worthwhile, though it's less of a destination and more of a "while you're in the area" stop. The tower itself is closed to the public - you're viewing from outside - so don't expect interior exploration. Allow twenty minutes, perhaps thirty if you're the type to sit and sketch or take a hundred photos. There's something compelling about standing next to something this old, even if you're kept at arm's length.

The nearest proper base is Ripon, a market town with far more to offer if the weather turns. If you're staying at Camp Kátur Glamping nearby, West Tanfield makes a gentle walk or short drive to break up a park holiday. It won't occupy you all afternoon, but it's a solid half-hour detour that connects you to the bones of Yorkshire's medieval landscape. Free to view, naturally - it's just a field.