Faversham

Cinque Ports history runs thick through these medieval streets, where half-timbered houses lean into narrow lanes that have barely changed since Tudor times. Faversham wears its heritage lightly though - this isn't some polished tourist trap but a proper working market town where locals still nip to the butcher's and baker's on Market Place.

The old gunpowder mills tell the darker side of the story. For centuries this quiet Kent town produced explosives that helped build the British Empire, though you'd never guess it wandering past the Georgian terraces on Abbey Street today. The creek still winds through town, bringing sailing boats right into the heart of things during high tide.

Woodland walks surround the place completely. Clay Pits Wood makes for a decent ramble, while the trio of Great Hurst Wood, Little Hurst Wood and Thread Wood offer proper countryside within minutes of the town centre. Holly Hill Tower provides the best views across the Swale - bit of a climb but well worth it on clear days.

Getting here's straightforward enough. The M2 drops you practically on the doorstep, while trains from London Victoria take just over an hour. Canterbury's only 9 miles east if you fancy a day trip to the cathedral.

Basing yourself at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense. You're close enough to walk into town for morning coffee and the weekly farmers' market, yet surrounded by enough countryside to keep the walking boots busy. The North Downs Way passes right through, connecting you to some of Kent's finest walking territory.