The Temple

You'll find The Temple tucked away in the Leicestershire countryside near Swadlincote - it's a proper slice of local history that doesn't shout about itself. This is a historic site with real character, the kind of place that rewards a proper look around if you've got the time.

What you're actually looking at depends on which era of The Temple interests you. It's rooted deep in the area's past, and walking the grounds gives you a sense of how the landscape has shaped settlement here over centuries. The setting itself is worth the visit - you get that feeling of stepping back into how people actually lived and worked in this corner of the Midlands, not just reading about it in a guidebook.

If you're into history or local heritage, this scratches that itch without the crowds of the big-name attractions. Families with older kids who can appreciate a bit of context will get something from it, but younger children might find it a touch dull unless you're really good at storytelling on your feet.

Walkers connecting between the nearby caravan parks - Fire & Stars, Bosworth Lakeside Lodges, and the others dotted around - could easily build this into a longer route. It's the sort of stop that makes sense if you're staying locally rather than a dedicated destination, but that's partly what makes it worth finding.

Bring decent footwear and check ahead on opening hours before you head out. The Leicestershire countryside rewards poking about, and this is a decent place to do it.