Holy Cross Church

The Church of the Holy Cross sits right in Exeter's city centre, a proper medieval survivor that most people walk past without stopping. Built in the 15th century, it's got that authentic Devon stone look - all dark and weighty, with the kind of architecture that makes you feel small the moment you step inside. The interior's surprisingly spacious given how hemmed in it is by modern shops and streets, and there's real character in the timber roof and the old glass work.

It's free to wander in during opening hours, which is how it should be. You'll spend twenty minutes here maximum, unless you're seriously into ecclesiastical detail - the carvings and monument work are decent but not mind-blowing. Families with restless kids will find it quiet and cool on a hot day, which counts for something. History buffs and church enthusiasts will get more out of it than others, especially if you care about how medieval Exeter looked before the Blitz knocked chunks of it down.

The real value is that it's central, so you can tick it off while you're grabbing lunch or doing the other Exeter bits. If you're staying at one of the nearby glamping spots - Devon Heaven Hideaways or Hidden Hill are both within spitting distance - it's worth the fifteen-minute walk into town to see it. Don't make a trip specially, mind. But if you're in the city already, go in.