Saint Peter

Stone walls weathered by centuries of Cotswold winters tell their story the moment you approach this Norman church. Saint Peter sits quietly in the countryside near Burford, its squat tower and arched doorway speaking of an age when parish churches were the heart of rural life. The building dates back to the 12th century, though like many English churches, it's been tinkered with over the years.

Inside, you'll find the usual mix of medieval stonework and Victorian restoration. The font is properly ancient, carved from local stone, and there are some decent wall paintings if you know where to look. It's not going to compete with the grand churches of Oxford or the Cotswold wool churches, but it has that peaceful, timeless quality that makes country churches worth seeking out.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the Norman architecture, while anyone after a quiet moment will find it does the job nicely. Families might struggle to keep younger children engaged for long - there's not much in the way of interactive bits.

The church works well as a brief stop if you're staying at one of the nearby sites like Burford Caravan Club or Newton Grove. It's a five-minute walk from the village proper, and you could easily combine it with a wander around Burford's antique shops and tea rooms for a proper afternoon out.