Westhaý

Standing on this ancient artificial island in the middle of the Somerset Levels, you're looking at one of the most intriguing archaeological sites in the West Country. Westhay was built around 3800 BC, making it older than Stonehenge - a proper feat of Neolithic engineering that involved dragging thousands of tonnes of clay and timber to create a raised platform in what was then marshland.

Today it's a bit of a pilgrimage for archaeology enthusiasts and those who appreciate the more subtle end of ancient Britain. The remains aren't dramatic - you'll see grassy mounds and the odd bit of exposed stonework rather than towering monuments. But there's something rather moving about standing where people lived and worked nearly 6,000 years ago.

Families with curious kids aged 8+ will get something out of it, especially if you've primed them with a bit of prehistory beforehand. Younger ones might find it all a bit abstract. The site is always accessible and free, though there's no visitor centre or facilities.

From Wedmore it's an easy drive across the Levels, and you can easily combine it with a visit to nearby Glastonbury or Wells. If you're staying at one of the local parks like Bucklegrove Holiday Park or Wells Touring Park, it makes for a decent half-hour detour on your way to more obvious attractions.