Bishop Auckland

Mining heritage runs through every cobblestone here, though Bishop Auckland has reinvented itself as a gateway to some of County Durham's finest countryside. Auckland Castle dominates the market square - the former palace of the Prince Bishops - while the town's compact centre feels properly lived-in rather than polished for tourists.

The real draw lies in the surrounding landscape. Stanhope Smelting Mill tells the story of lead mining that shaped this corner of the North Pennines, while the old Sandyford Lead Mine offers glimpses into the region's industrial past. Bell's Hill and Dead Friars provide cracking walking territory, with views across the dale that remind you why the Romans chose to settle here.

Horseshoe Hill makes for a decent afternoon scramble if you fancy stretching your legs. The climb's well worth it on clear days - you can see right across Weardale and beyond to the Yorkshire Dales on the horizon.

Getting here's straightforward enough. The A688 runs right through town, connecting to the A1 about 20 minutes east. Bishop Auckland railway station sits on the Darlington line, making day trips from Newcastle or Durham perfectly manageable.

Staying at one of the holiday parks scattered around the area makes perfect sense. You're close enough to nip into town for supplies or a pub lunch, but far enough out to wake up to proper countryside views. The North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty starts practically on your doorstep, and you can be walking the high moors within half an hour of leaving your caravan.