Godwick deserted village

Walking out to Godwick feels like stepping backwards in time, except there's almost nothing to see. That's rather the point. This is a deserted medieval village, one of England's most evocative archaeological sites, where the earthworks tell a story of abandonment that happened centuries ago.

What you're looking at are the humps and hollows in the field - the ghosts of where houses once stood, arranged in neat rows along what was once a village street. There's a ruined church, St Mary's, which does still have walls and a roof, but it's the landscape archaeology that grabs you. In the 15th century, the village was depopulated, likely cleared for sheep farming, and it's remained empty ever since.

History enthusiasts will find this genuinely moving. Walkers, too, though be prepared for muddy fields and no obvious paths. It's free to access and takes about 45 minutes to wander around properly. Kids might get restless unless they're really into archaeology - there's no signage, no facilities, just fields.

Godwick sits east of Fakenham, which is about 15 miles away. It pairs well with a Norfolk park holiday - Wild Meadow Glamping and Norfolk Coast Caravans are both within easy reach, and you can combine it with walks along the Norfolk Coast path or visits to nearby villages. Go when the ground is dry. Rain makes it miserable and muddy underfoot.