William Penn Stone

Just outside Pulborough in West Sussex sits a rather unassuming stone marker that marks one of English history's quieter turning points. The William Penn Stone commemorates the spot where the Quaker founder of Pennsylvania supposedly stood before setting sail for the New World in 1682. It's the kind of place that catches you by surprise - nothing fancy, just a stone and a story.

Historically minded types will find it worth a quick stop, especially if you're already exploring the area around Pulborough. The stone itself isn't elaborate, but there's something rather moving about standing at the point where someone made such a momentous decision. You won't need more than fifteen minutes here, realistically, but it works well as part of a broader ramble through the South Downs.

The location puts you well within reach of several holiday parks - Washington Caravan & Camping Park is just over two miles away, and Knepp Wildland Safaris at 3.7 miles offers something more adventurous if you fancy combining your stay with wildlife spotting on the Knepp estate. The countryside around here is genuinely pleasant for walking, rolling chalk hills and proper working farmland rather than theme-park Sussex.

Access appears to be free and unrestricted - you're looking at a countryside walk rather than a formal visitor attraction. Best visited on a clear day when you can actually see something of the views across to the Downs. Families with older children interested in colonial history might appreciate it; younger ones will probably find it a bit thin on excitement.