Cheltenham

Three racetracks within a stone's throw tell you everything about this spa town's priorities. Racing aside, Cheltenham proper has that particular brand of Georgian elegance that makes the Cotswolds tick - all honey-coloured limestone and wide, tree-lined streets that wouldn't look out of place in Bath.

The town sits in a natural bowl between the Cotswold Hills, which means you're never more than twenty minutes from proper countryside. Crickley Hill and Devil's Chimney offer cracking views over the Severn Vale, though Birdlip Peak is less of a trek if you fancy a shorter walk. Devil's Table provides another excellent viewpoint, and the walk up Shurdington Hill is well worth the effort on a clear day.

Archaeology buffs will appreciate Coberley Long Barrow and Barrow Wake, remnants of prehistoric settlements that predate the Romans by millennia. These ancient sites dot the surrounding hills, offering glimpses into Britain's deep past alongside the more obvious Georgian treasures in town.

Getting here couldn't be easier - the M40 drops you practically on the doorstep, and there's a direct rail line from London Paddington that takes just over two hours. Gloucester sits fifteen minutes down the road if you need a proper city fix, though honestly, Cheltenham has enough independent shops and restaurants to keep most people occupied.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense. You're close enough to nip into town for dinner or shopping, but far enough out to wake up to proper countryside views. The surrounding Cotswolds are crying out to be explored, and having a base camp rather than battling town centre parking every day is frankly a godsend. Plus, Cheltenham accommodation gets pricey during race weeks - a park lets you dodge those premium rates entirely.