Garrick's Temple to Shakespeare

David Garrick, the 18th-century actor who basically invented modern theatre, built this ridiculous little temple on an island in the Thames as a monument to Shakespeare. And ridiculous is the right word - it's a small, octagonal brick folly that sits on the riverbank near Walton-on-Thames, looking rather like something that wandered out of a period drama set. Inside there's a statue of the Bard himself, though honestly the real appeal is standing outside trying to work out what on earth possessed a successful actor to commission this in 1756.

It's genuinely worth a 20-minute detour if you're already in the area, particularly if you're the type who gets excited about theatrical history or Georgian eccentricity. The walk from Walton town centre is pleasant enough along the river, and the temple itself photographs well if you're into that sort of thing. Just don't expect a full afternoon's entertainment - you'll have seen everything worth seeing in under half an hour.

Access details are a bit vague, and opening times aren't widely advertised, so ring ahead before you trek out. The temple sits on private land, which explains why it's not exactly set up as a major tourist attraction. If you're staying at Walton on Thames Camping and Caravanning Club Site just down the road, it's a perfectly reasonable morning walk. Chessington World of Adventures Resort is close by too, so you could combine it with a day there if you're travelling with kids who need proper entertainment after a bit of literary pilgrimage.