Saint Nicholas, Pakefield

The church sits right on Pakefield's seafront, just east of Lowestoft, which makes it one of the more unusual locations for a 14th-century place of worship. St Nicholas has that proper weathered quality you'd expect from a building that's spent six centuries facing the North Sea - the stonework looks as if it's been through arguments with countless Atlantic storms and won most of them.

Inside, it's a straightforward parish church with a good deal of medieval character. The tower is the main draw - solid, dependable, the sort of structure that's guided fishermen home for generations. If you're staying at Pakefield Holiday Park just down the road, it's an easy stroll for a quiet half-hour away from caravan life.

Historically minded visitors will appreciate the connection to Suffolk's maritime past. Families with teenagers might find it more interesting than younger kids would, since there's no interactive element - it's essentially a place to wander and sit quietly. Don't expect lengthy opening hours or a gift shop; this is working parish church territory, not a heritage attraction with staff.

What makes it worth a visit is the setting. The combination of old stone church and sea views has a contemplative quality that the bigger resorts nearby - Kessingland Beach and Azure Seas - simply can't offer. If you're touring the Suffolk coast stopping at Henstead Fields or any of the caravan parks in the area, St Nicholas works as a atmospheric 20-minute detour. Check locally for opening times before heading over.