Stogursey Castle

The castle rises from the Somerset levels just outside Bridgwater - a Norman keep with genuinely impressive views across flat farmland that stretches to the horizon. What you're looking at is mainly 12th-century stonework, the kind of fortress that would've commanded serious respect when it went up. The grounds are open access, which means you can wander round the exterior and scramble up the grassy mound without paying a penny, though getting inside the keep itself depends on availability and local arrangements - worth ringing ahead to check.

It's a proper stop if you're into medieval architecture or local history, though I'll be honest: you're looking at maybe 45 minutes here unless you're the type to sit sketching for hours. The scale is modest compared to more famous castles, but that's partly why it works. Families with younger kids might find it a bit of a non-event if they're after towers to climb and chambers to explore, but older children interested in Norman defences will get something out of studying the structure.

The real advantage is location. Stogursey works brilliantly as a half-hour detour when you're based at Moorhouse Campsite - which deservedly has a 5-star rating - or the nearby Mill Farm. Both sites are within striking distance, making this the kind of thing you'd fit in between proper days out. Pack binoculars for the views across the levels; on a clear day they're worth the trip alone.