St Mary's Church Benhall

The church sits quietly in Benhall village, just a couple of miles east of Saxmundham, and it's the sort of place that rewards a short detour if you're camping or caravanning in the area. St Mary's is a proper medieval structure with that solid, no-nonsense Suffolk flint character you find scattered across this corner of East England. The interior has some genuinely interesting features - medieval wall paintings, a decent font, and the kind of light that filters through old windows in a way modern churches simply don't manage.

This is one for church enthusiasts and anyone with a real interest in medieval architecture rather than casual holiday visitors. You won't spend hours here, but it's the sort of 20-minute stop that feels worthwhile when you're exploring the villages around Saxmundham. The peaceful churchyard is pleasant enough for a wander, especially if the weather's decent.

If you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks - Carlton Meres is barely two miles away, or Birds and Bees Campsite only a touch further - St Mary's works as part of a larger ramble through the local villages rather than a destination in itself. Don't expect visitor facilities or opening times to be prominently displayed. Your best bet is to check locally in Saxmundham or simply try your luck when you arrive. It's typically accessible during daylight hours, and admission is free as these things usually are.