Beacon Church Bury St Edmunds

You spot it from half a mile away - that distinctive beacon tower rising above the Suffolk flatlands just outside Bury Saint Edmunds. It's a working parish church, St Mary's, but the tower is what stops you in your tracks. Built in the 15th century, it's got that proper East Anglian brick look, solid and a bit austere, but there's something magnetic about it.

Inside, it's quieter than you'd expect. The nave's modest, the light comes through in that particular way old churches do, and if you're interested in medieval Suffolk you'll find some decent monuments and decent craftsmanship in the stonework. It's not Westminster Abbey, but that's rather the point. This is the real thing - a building that's actually been used by the same community for 600 years.

Walkers especially should make the trip. The church sits just off the A1101, and there are reasonable paths around the surrounding farmland if you want to stretch your legs after looking round. History types will get more from it than casual visitors; it rewards a proper look rather than a quick snap for Instagram.

Allow about 45 minutes if you're genuinely interested, less if you're just passing through. It's free to visit, though donations are clearly appreciated. If you're based at any of the local parks - West Stow Pods is only 3.8 miles away - it makes an easy morning detour before heading into Bury itself. Go early or late afternoon when you've got the place to yourself.