Gloucester

Perched on a steep hillside above the Severn Vale, this corner of Gloucestershire feels properly removed from the rush of modern life. The Forest of Dean spreads out like a green carpet to the west, while the Severn estuary glints silver in the distance below. It's cycling country through and through - Shredhill Bike Park draws mountain bikers from across the region with its purpose-built trails cutting through dense woodland.

Box Grove and Morse's Grove offer quieter woodland walks for those who prefer their exercise at a gentler pace. The real treat though is the climb up to Blaize Bailey Viewpoint. Worth every step. On a clear day you can see across three counties from up there, with the Welsh hills forming a dramatic backdrop across the water.

Popes Hill provides another excellent vantage point, though it's a proper trek to reach the top. The surrounding forests - Bessy's Wood, Hulin's Wood, and Soudley Plantation - create a network of green corridors perfect for getting lost in (in the best possible way). Soudley Ponds add a bit of water to the landscape, popular with dog walkers and anyone needing five minutes of peace.

Getting here means either driving the winding lanes from Gloucester city centre or catching the bus service that runs fairly regularly during the day. The nearby holiday parks make excellent sense as a base - you're close enough to nip into Gloucester proper for shopping or dining, but far enough out to feel like you're properly in the countryside. The forest trails start practically on your doorstep.