Great Bowden Parish Church: Saint Peter and Saint Paul

The church sits on a gentle rise in Great Bowden, just outside Market Harborough, and what strikes you first is the sheer verticality of it all. Saint Peter and Saint Paul is a proper medieval parish church, all soaring perpendicular Gothic and honest stone work that's been standing since the 14th century. The tower dominates the village landscape - you'll spot it from the road long before you arrive.

Inside, it's the kind of place that rewards a quiet wander. Medieval wall paintings, a decent chancel, and that particular smell of old stone and polish that only centuries-old churches manage. The craftsmanship in the woodwork is worth lingering over if you're into that sort of thing. It's not packed with tourists or gift shops, which is rather the point - this is a working parish church, not a heritage attraction dressed up for visitors.

The walk from Market Harborough takes about forty minutes across pleasant countryside, and it's worth doing on foot if you're based at one of the nearby parks like Get Lost In Nature or Rural Relaxing. Allow an hour to properly look around, though twenty minutes is enough if you're just passing through. Check ahead for opening times before you visit, as it's not always staffed.

Family groups will find it peaceful rather than thrilling - there's no cafe or play area. History enthusiasts and walkers, though, will appreciate the genuine article.