Hereford

The River Wye cuts a lazy curve around this cathedral city, creating proper countryside right on the doorstep of what feels like England's most understated county town. Hereford never shouts about itself - perhaps because it doesn't need to.

The red sandstone cathedral dominates the skyline, but it's the working cattle market and the fact that locals still pop into Wye Valley Brewery for a pint that gives this place its authentic feel. No pretensions here. Just a proper English market town that happens to sit in some of the loveliest countryside you'll find anywhere.

Walking the surrounding hills reveals why this spot has been settled for centuries. Hegdon Hill offers cracking views across the Wye Valley, while the ancient woodlands like Moreton Wood and Red Hill Coppice provide miles of proper rambling territory. The countryside feels genuinely wild in places - you might not see another soul for hours in Broxash Wood.

Hereford sits bang in the middle of the Welsh borders, making it brilliant for exploring both the Wye Valley and the Black Mountains. The A49 brings you straight in from the Midlands, while the railway connects directly to Birmingham and Cardiff. Getting around without a car can be tricky though - this is farming country.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense. You're close enough to nip into town for supplies or a decent meal, but you wake up to proper countryside views. The surrounding area is dotted with ancient churches - St Peter & St Paul and St John's Church among them - perfect for those who love a bit of medieval architecture with their morning walk. Lower Hope Estate offers proper nature watching if you're lucky enough to spot the wildlife that thrives along the riverbanks.