Chichester

Centuries of Roman footsteps still echo through these Sussex streets, where ancient meets modern in thoroughly satisfying ways. The magnificent Fishbourne Roman Palace stands as one of Britain's finest archaeological treasures - its intricate mosaics and hypocaust heating systems tell the story of luxury living circa 75 AD. Pretty impressive for a place that predates central heating by nearly 2,000 years.

Chichester's Georgian architecture gives the city centre a proper elegance, while the cathedral's soaring spire has been guiding travellers across the South Downs for nine centuries. The market cross marks the heart of things, surrounded by independent shops that somehow resist the usual high street chains.

Venture just outside the city walls and you'll find Bosham, where King Canute supposedly tried to turn back the tide. St Nicholas Church here claims to be depicted in the Bayeux Tapestry - a bold statement, but the Saxon stonework certainly looks the part. The village sits on Chichester Harbour, where sailing boats bob between mudflats at low tide.

Countryside fans should head for Nutbourne Marsh Nature Reserve, where reed beds and salt marshes attract serious birdlife. West Ashling's duckpond might sound quaint, but it's a lovely spot for a breather after walking the downs.

The A27 whisks you here from Brighton in under an hour, while the train from London Victoria takes 90 minutes. Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense - you're close enough to nip into the city for cathedral concerts or theatre shows, yet surrounded by some of southern England's loveliest walking country. The South Downs Way passes right through, offering epic views across to the Isle of Wight on clear days.