The Temple

Standing proud on its hillside perch just outside Stoke-on-Trent, this 18th-century folly catches your eye from miles around. The Temple - a proper Georgian eye-catcher built around 1760 - was designed to look impressive from a distance, and it absolutely delivers on that promise.

Climbing up to reach it involves a decent walk through woodland paths, but the effort pays off handsomely. The structure itself is a classical temple facade with columns and pediment, though there's not much behind it - this was always meant to be viewed rather than lived in. History buffs will appreciate its role as a landscape feature for the long-gone Trentham Hall estate.

Families with older children who don't mind a bit of uphill walking will find it a rewarding expedition. Little ones might lose interest quickly once they've had their photo taken, but the surrounding woodland offers plenty of scope for exploration and games.

The views across the Trent Valley from up here are genuinely lovely on a clear day, taking in the sprawl of Stoke and beyond. It's free to visit and makes a pleasant half-day trip if you're staying at one of the nearby caravan parks like Quarry Walk Park or Springfields Countryside. Allow a couple of hours including the walk there and back.