St Mary Magdalene Church

The octagonal tower of St Mary Magdalene rises above the roofline near Bridgnorth like something from a children's picture book - eight sides instead of the usual four, which immediately marks it out as different. This is a church that demands a second glance. Built in the 12th century and substantially reworked during the Georgian period, it's a proper jumble of architectural periods, which makes it far more interesting than a pristine restoration would ever be. Inside, the space feels intimate rather than grand - high ceilings and decent windows flood it with light. The octagonal tower design is rare enough in England to warrant the short drive from Bridgnorth just to see it. History enthusiasts will spend a good hour poking around, reading monuments and working out the building's evolution. Kids tend to find churches either completely engrossing or utterly tedious depending on their age and temperament. If you're staying at Stanmore Hall Touring Park just down the road, it's easily worth combining with a walk around Bridgnorth's town centre - barely ten minutes' drive. The church is free to visit, though opening hours aren't guaranteed, so check locally before planning a trip. Best approached in daylight when the interior light shows off the architecture properly. Not a major detour if you're already exploring Shropshire's quieter villages, but deliberately hunting it out works only if medieval churches genuinely excite you.