Saint Cuthbert's Chapel

You'll find this tiny stone chapel tucked away on the Northumberland coast near Seahouses, and it's one of those places that rewards the slightly awkward journey to reach it. The building itself is genuinely ancient - a proper medieval structure that's been standing since around the 12th century, though the exact dates are contested by historians who rather enjoy arguing about such things.

What you're looking at is a working chapel, small enough that you could almost fit it in your living room. The interior is spare and weathered, with stone walls that have seen off centuries of North Sea winds. There's a real sense of pilgrimage to getting there, which seems fitting given it's named after Saint Cuthbert, the region's most famous religious figure. You'll need to find someone local to unlock it - there's no predictable opening times - but that's part of the charm rather than a nuisance.

Historically minded visitors will get far more from this than casual passers-by. It's not a grand cathedral with gilded tombs and soaring arches. What it offers instead is authenticity and genuine age. The walk itself, through farmland and along coastal paths, is worthwhile whether or not you manage to get inside.

If you're staying at one of the nearby caravan parks - Seafield, Beadnell Bay, or any of the others scattered around the Seahouses area - this makes a decent half-morning excursion. Ring ahead to check access before you trek out, and allow a good couple of hours including the walk. Well worth it for those who appreciate medieval churches and don't mind a bit of effort.