Hereford

Cathedral spires pierce the skyline above this border city where England meets Wales, and the River Wye curves lazily through water meadows that have barely changed since medieval times. Hereford feels properly lived-in rather than polished for tourists - market towns don't come much more authentic than this.

The magnificent cathedral dominates the city centre, home to the famous Mappa Mundi and chained library that draws history buffs from across Europe. But honestly, just wandering the narrow streets around the cathedral close gives you a better feel for the place than any guidebook. The high street has that pleasant mix of independent shops and familiar chains, though it can feel a bit sleepy midweek.

Countryside surrounds you here. Ballingham Hill offers cracking views over the Wye Valley if you fancy a proper walk, while Brockhampton Fishery provides a more gentle afternoon for anglers. The Welsh hills rise tantalizingly close - you're barely twenty minutes from the Brecon Beacons.

Getting here couldn't be easier. The A49 runs straight through from north to south, connecting Hereford to Shrewsbury and the M4. Regular trains link the city to Birmingham and Cardiff, making it surprisingly well-connected for somewhere that feels this rural.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense. You get the best of both worlds - easy access to Hereford's shops, restaurants and cultural attractions, plus you're right on the doorstep of some of Britain's most unspoiled countryside. The Wye Valley, Welsh borders and Malvern Hills are all within striking distance.