Hornsea Burton

Few people stumble across this Iron Age settlement by accident, which is rather the point. The earthworks at Hornsea Burton represent one of East Yorkshire's better-preserved ancient sites - a series of raised banks and ditches that once enclosed a thriving community over 2,000 years ago.

Walking the perimeter, you can still make out the defensive boundaries that protected these early inhabitants from raiders sweeping in from the North Sea. The site sprawls across several fields, and while there's precious little signage to guide you, that's part of its appeal. This isn't heritage tourism - it's proper archaeology in its natural state.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to explore without crowds, though families might find the experience a bit abstract unless the kids have vivid imaginations. Allow an hour or so to walk the main features, longer if you fancy a proper ramble across the surrounding countryside.

From nearby holiday parks like Skirlington Leisure Park or Cliff Top Caravan Park, it makes for a decent morning's diversion before hitting Hornsea's beaches. The walk from the road is straightforward enough, though wellies are wise after rain - this is working farmland, not a manicured attraction. Come prepared for mud and you'll leave with a genuine sense of having touched Yorkshire's ancient past.