Waltham Abbey Church

The ruins of Waltham Abbey Church loom up from the Hertfordshire countryside near Waltham Cross, and they're genuinely striking - what remains of the nave and the crossing are substantial enough to give you a real sense of scale. This is serious medieval architecture, founded in 1060 and rebuilt in the 12th century, though what stands today is fragmentary. The gatehouse survives almost intact, which is useful for orientation.

Historically minded visitors will find it properly rewarding. The abbey was prosperous and important before the Dissolution, and you can read that importance in the stonework that's left. There's also a working parish church on the site, which occupies part of what was the monastic complex, so you get a layered sense of continuity.

For families with younger children, it's a 30-minute visit at most - the ruins aren't extensive enough to hold attention longer than that, and there's not much play value. Walkers and history buffs will get more from it, particularly if you combine it with a walk along the Abbey Gardens nearby, which are pleasant enough.

If you're staying at Fowley Mead Park or Theobalds Park - both close by - it's easily worth a morning detour. The site is free to access and there's no fixed opening hours, which means you can see it whenever suits. Don't expect grand drama or towering Gothic arches. Expect something more modest and weathered, but genuinely interesting if medieval abbeys are your thing.