Exeter Cathedral

The moment you step into Exeter Cathedral, you're confronted with pure scale. The vaulted ceiling soars above you in a way that photographs never quite capture - it's the kind of thing that makes you stop dead and crane your neck like a tourist. The longest uninterrupted Gothic ceiling in England, they say, and frankly it lives up to the hype.

You're looking at nearly a thousand years of building work here. The Normans started it in 1114, and the Victorians kept tweaking it right into the 1800s. Walk the nave and you'll spot the evolution in the stonework if you're paying attention - each era left its fingerprints. The stained glass is the real star turn though, especially when morning light floods through it. Some of it's original medieval work; some is Victorian restoration. Either way, it stops you in your tracks.

The cloisters are worth the walk around too. Proper peaceful spot in the middle of Exeter's busy centre. All told, allow a good hour inside, longer if you're the sort who reads every plaque.

It's free to wander about, though donations are encouraged. History buffs will want to spend the time here; families with young kids might find it heavy going beyond 30 minutes. From Devon Heaven Hideaways - just four and a half miles out - it's an easy morning trip before heading back to the glamping site. Fits well with exploring Exeter itself without eating into proper park time.