Durham City Methodist Church

Durham's Methodist Chapel sits right in the heart of the city centre, and it's one of those buildings you'd walk past a dozen times without really clocking it. But step inside and you'll find proper Victorian craftsmanship - ornate plasterwork, timber panelling, the sort of detail that took someone weeks to get right. It's a working church, which means you can't just wander in whenever you fancy, but if you time it right for a service or catch it during open days, you'll see the interior properly.

This one appeals mostly to architecture enthusiasts and anyone interested in Methodist heritage rather than casual tourists. The building itself, dating from the Victorian era, tells you something about Durham's religious life beyond the cathedral that dominates the skyline. You won't spend hours here - a good look round takes twenty minutes, maybe thirty if you're keen on reading the plaques.

If you're camping at one of the nearby sites - Durham Grange is closest at just over two miles away - it's worth combining with a proper wander through Durham city centre. The cathedral's the real heavyweight attraction, but the Methodist Chapel adds texture to a trip. Free to visit, though donations are always welcome. Ring ahead to check visiting times; it's not always open to casual visitors, but the locals are usually friendly about letting you have a peek if you ask nicely at the main door.