Sacred Heart Church Minehead

The red sandstone facade of Sacred Heart Church catches the light beautifully on the hill above Minehead town centre. It's a Victorian Catholic church, built in the 1890s when the town was expanding as a seaside resort, and it commands decent views over the bay if you can be bothered climbing up to it.

Inside, the architecture is solid rather than spectacular - high ceilings, decent stained glass, that heavy Victorian craftsmanship you either love or find a bit oppressive. The real appeal here is quiet contemplation rather than jaw-dropping beauty. If you're passing through Minehead with an hour to kill, it's worth a look. If you're specifically travelling to see a church, you'd be better served heading to Dunster, which has far more character.

It works well if you're staying at one of the local holiday parks - Minehead Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite is less than half a mile away, or Butlins Minehead if you're after something more family-oriented. The walk up from the seafront is brief and steep enough to feel like proper exercise without being knackering.

Free to enter, as far as we can tell, though opening hours aren't published anywhere obvious. Pop in during daylight if you spot the doors open. Don't plan your holiday around it, but if you're based in Minehead with kids who need a rainy-day activity, this ticks a box. It's 20 minutes maximum inside, so realistic expectations matter here.