Hexham

Whenever Romans needed reminding about frontier life, they built a wall. Hexham sits in prime Hadrian's Wall country, where ancient stones tell stories across rolling Northumberland hills. This market town feels properly lived-in rather than touristy - which makes it all the better for exploring the surrounding countryside.

The real draw lies beyond the town boundaries. Allen Banks & Staward Gorge offers some of the finest woodland walking in the county, while Staward Peel provides a crumbling castle fix without the crowds you'd find further south. Milecastle 32 at Carraw and Milecastle 33 at Shield on the Wall give you authentic Roman ruins to ponder over - much more atmospheric than the reconstructed bits elsewhere.

Hardcore hikers will fancy tackling Catton Beacon or Rebel Hill for proper views across the Tyne Valley. Less ambitious types can settle for a picnic at Plankey Mill or Ridley Hall. The Tarn makes a decent spot for a breather, though don't expect Mediterranean blue - this is Northumberland, after all.

Getting here couldn't be simpler. The A69 runs straight through, connecting Newcastle to Carlisle, while the railway station puts you an hour from both cities. Parking in town can get tight during market days.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense. You're close enough to nip into Hexham for supplies or a pub lunch, yet positioned brilliantly for day trips along the Wall. Haltwhistle's just down the road when you fancy a change of scene, and the A68 opens up the Scottish Borders if you're feeling adventurous.