St Michael and All Angels Church

The church sits on a rise above Peterlee, unremarkable from the road until you step inside and realise you're standing in something rather special. St Michael and All Angels is a Victorian rebuild on medieval foundations - the sort of place that rewards a proper look around rather than a quick snap for Instagram.

The interior is genuinely impressive. High arched ceilings, decent stained glass, and enough detail in the stonework to keep you occupied for twenty minutes or so. It's the kind of church that makes you understand why people built them this way - there's real craftsmanship here, not just piety. If you're into church architecture or Victorian ecclesiastical design, this is well worth the detour from the nearby caravan parks.

For families with younger kids, it's a bit of a mixed bag. The space is large enough that bored children won't feel trapped, but there's nothing interactive to hold their attention beyond ten minutes. Walkers passing through the area will find it a logical stopping point - the church car park is accessible and you can stretch your legs around the churchyard.

Stay at The Barn at Easington just up the road and you're perfectly placed to explore this corner of County Durham at a leisurely pace. Admission is free, which is refreshing. There's no specific opening hours listed, so ring ahead or try your luck on a weekday morning. Allow thirty minutes if you're genuinely interested in what's here; fifteen if you're just dropping by.