Calne

The bacon capital of England sits quietly in the Wiltshire countryside, where Harris Bacon once perfected the art of curing pork back in the 19th century. These days, Calne feels refreshingly unhurried - a proper working town that hasn't been dolled up for tourists. The Market Cross still marks the centre, just as it has for centuries.

Worth poking around the Calne Heritage Centre to understand how this unassuming place became famous for its bacon production. The old London to Bath Coach Road ran straight through here, bringing prosperity and purpose. Jan Ingen Housz gets his due recognition too - the Dutch scientist who pioneered smallpox vaccination lived here for a spell.

The Kennet and Avon Canal cuts a peaceful line through the landscape, and the towpath makes for decent walking. Bowood Estate looms large on the horizon - you can see Bowood Chapel from town, though the main house and gardens are a short drive away. Mother Anthony's Well remains a curious local landmark, tucked away but still flowing after all these years.

From camping spots like Blackland Lakes or glamping at Mill Farm, you're perfectly placed for day trips. Devizes sits just down the road with its famous flight of canal locks, while Bath beckons an hour south. The Retreat Glamping and Honey Bee Glamping offer more luxurious stays if canvas isn't your thing.

Crab Tree Copse provides woodland walks when the high street feels too quiet, which it often does midweek. This isn't a place that puts on airs - it simply gets on with things, much as it always has.