Amersham

Two sides to this Chilterns market town tell completely different stories. Old Amersham feels frozen in time - timber-framed houses line the wide high street, while the Victorian red-brick station serves the newer part of town up the hill. It's this split personality that makes the place so interesting.

The historic core draws film crews regularly. Those Tudor and Georgian buildings you'll recognise from countless period dramas create an almost theatrical backdrop along the main drag. But venture beyond the obvious photo opportunities and you'll find proper countryside within minutes - the Chiltern Hills roll away in every direction, crisscrossed with ancient beech woods and chalk downs.

Amersham sits perfectly for exploring the broader area. The Metropolitan line whisks you into London in 40 minutes, yet you're surrounded by some of England's most accessible countryside. Chesham lies just down the road, with its own quirky attractions like Meads Water Garden tucked away for those who fancy a peaceful wander.

Staying at one of the nearby parks makes complete sense. You get the best of both worlds - rural tranquillity after dark, but easy access to the town's amenities and transport links during the day. The surrounding network of footpaths means you can walk directly into proper countryside from most local sites, while still being close enough for a quick dash to the shops or station.