Ludlow

Food lovers make pilgrimages here for good reason. This medieval market town has more Michelin-starred restaurants per head than anywhere outside London, with proper gastropubs serving local Herefordshire beef alongside cutting-edge fine dining. But Ludlow's appeal runs deeper than its famous food scene.

Cobbled streets wind between black-and-white timber buildings, leading up to the imposing ruins of Ludlow Castle. The Saturday market still fills Castle Square with local producers - cheese from Monmouth, cider from nearby orchards, and game from the surrounding hills. It's been happening here for over 900 years.

Walk the walls of the castle for cracking views across the Shropshire Hills. Below, the River Teme curves lazily through water meadows where you can spot kingfishers if you're patient. Caynham Camp Hillfort, just outside town, offers even better vistas - a proper climb through Ashbed Wood rewards you with panoramas stretching to Wales.

The surrounding countryside rolls away in all directions. Ancient woodlands like Deadnal Coppice and Nurton Wood hide forgotten footpaths perfect for afternoon rambles. St James the Great at Kimbolton is worth the short drive - a lovely Norman church tucked away in farming country.

Coming from Birmingham or Worcester, the A49 brings you straight here in about an hour. The train from London takes three hours via Newport, but the journey through the Welsh borders is half the pleasure.

Staying at one of the holiday parks around Ludlow puts you perfectly placed for exploring both the town and the wider Marches. You're close enough to walk in for dinner at one of those famous restaurants, yet surrounded by countryside that feels genuinely remote. Westbrook Park and Ludlow Touring & Holiday Home Park offer convenient bases, while Churchbridge Glamping provides something more special if you fancy it.