Arundel

Cobblestones echo beneath your feet as you wander through streets where medieval architecture meets literary history. Arundel's castle towers majestically above the River Arun, while antique shops and tea rooms fill the gaps between centuries-old buildings. This West Sussex market town feels properly English - the sort of place where you'll find genuine Morris dancers on May Day.

The surrounding countryside rolls away in every direction across the South Downs. Bignor Hill offers cracking views over the Weald, while Eartham Wood provides lovely woodland walks when you fancy escaping the crowds. Paine's Wood is another good shout for a peaceful ramble, and the ancient Neolithic Camp reminds you just how long people have found this spot appealing.

Denmans Garden showcases what English horticulture can achieve when done right. The contrast between cultivated beauty and wild downland makes for a proper day out. Slindon Village Pond sits quietly in one of those villages that time forgot, perfect for a pub lunch detour.

Arundel sits just off the A27, making it easily accessible by car from Brighton or Portsmouth. The nearest train station is at Barnham, a short hop away. Literary buffs will appreciate the Hilaire Belloc connections scattered around the area - the writer knew a good landscape when he saw one.

Staying at South Downs Caravan Park puts you within easy reach of both Arundel's attractions and the broader downland walking territory. The positioning works brilliantly - close enough to nip into town for dinner, far enough out to wake up to proper countryside views.