Our Lady St Mary's Church

The church sits quietly in Street, a market town in Somerset that most people drive through without stopping. Our Lady St Mary's is the kind of place that rewards a proper look - medieval stonework, a tower that's been keeping watch over the town for centuries, and the sort of interior that makes you pause mid-stride.

It's a working parish church, so you'll find locals here rather than tour groups. The architecture tells the usual Somerset story: skilled craftsmen, money from wool, generations of repairs and additions. The windows catch the light in that particular way old glass does, and if you're into church architecture, there's enough detail to spend a good half hour sketching or photographing.

Visiting is straightforward - it's generally open to visitors during daylight hours, and admission is free. Allow 20 to 30 minutes unless you're the type who reads every plaque and monument. Families with younger kids might find it quiet and slightly dull; history enthusiasts will get more from it. It works best as part of a wander through Street itself, which has actual character despite its modern reputation as a shopping destination.

If you're based at one of the nearby campsites - Bobsfield is barely over a mile away, or Old Oaks Touring at 1.5 miles - it's an easy stroll into town. The church anchors a visit to Street nicely, especially if you're exploring the wider Wells and Mendips area. Wells Cathedral is only 10 miles south and makes a natural pairing for church-minded travelers.