Ilkley

Rolling moorland stretches endlessly above this Victorian spa town, where the River Wharfe carves through the valley below. Ilkley sits pretty at the southern edge of the Yorkshire Dales, a proper gateway to some of England's finest walking country.

Beacon Hill dominates the skyline north of town, offering cracking views across Wharfedale once you've made the climb. The summit's worth the effort - on clear days you can see right across to the Lake District fells. Down in town, the Thomas Chippendale Statue reminds visitors that the famous furniture maker was born here, though most folk are more interested in the excellent pubs and cafes along The Grove.

Westward, Grassgarth Hill and Wood Hill provide gentler walks for families, while the mysterious Devil's Frying Pan viewpoint draws the more adventurous. The surrounding countryside is littered with archaeological treasures too - Greenholme Mill and Weston Mill hint at the area's industrial past, while Newall Old Hall speaks to much older stories.

Getting here is straightforward enough. The train from Leeds takes about 25 minutes, though driving gives you proper flexibility for exploring the dales beyond. Bradford's the nearest big city, just 12 miles southeast.

Staying at one of the nearby parks makes perfect sense if you're planning serious fell walking. Places like Olicana Park and Crook Farm Park put you right on the doorstep of the moors, while still being close enough to nip into town for supplies or a decent meal. The combination of easy access to wilderness and Victorian elegance is hard to beat.