Tommy World War One Soldier Sculpture - Eleven 'O' One

There's a bronze soldier standing alone on the County Durham landscape near Peterlee, and he stops you in your tracks. Tommy - the name given to this World War One sculpture - depicts a young infantryman in full kit, cast in that distinctive green patina that comes with time and weather. The figure stands at the Eleven 'O' One memorial site, a reference to the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month when the armistice was signed in 1918.

You'll want to allow 20 minutes or so to walk up to it properly and stand with it for a bit. The surrounding area gives you room to move around, to consider what this young man would have faced. It's not a crowded spot - that's rather the point. History enthusiasts and walkers heading through the region will find it genuinely moving, while families with older children might appreciate the quietness of it, the chance to talk about something serious.

The Barn at Easington, just over two miles away, makes a solid base if you're spending a few days in the area. From there, you could make this a morning walk before settling into a holiday park routine elsewhere. It's free to visit and there's no specific opening hours - you can reach it pretty much any time. Don't expect crowds or facilities, but do expect a moment of real reflection.