St Bartholomew Areley Kings

The church sits quietly on the edge of Areley Kings, a village that most people miss entirely on their way to somewhere else. St Bartholomew is one of those proper medieval buildings that rewards the detour - red sandstone, sturdy and honest, with enough architectural character to keep history buffs occupied for a good half hour.

Inside you'll find the sort of details that make church visits worthwhile: medieval windows, decent woodwork, and the kind of peaceful atmosphere you can't manufacture. It's the real thing, not a tourist trap. The churchyard itself is pleasant enough for a wander, and the location near Stourport-on-Severn means you're close to the Severn's banks if you fancy extending the visit.

This works best for people who actually like churches rather than those ticking them off a list. Families with young children might find it a bit static unless they're already keen on old buildings. Allow thirty minutes to an hour, longer if you're into architectural detail.

Being barely a mile from Walshes Farm Caravan Park and Lickhill Manor, it's an easy addition to a caravan holiday in the area. Stourport itself has river walks and a decent high street if the weather turns. There's nothing spectacular about St Bartholomew - it's not the sort of place you'd plan a weekend around - but if you're staying at any of the parks nearby, it's absolutely worth the short drive. Admission appears to be free, which helps.