Morpeth

Ancient market towns don't get much more proper than this. Morpeth's cobbled streets wind between Georgian townhouses and medieval remnants, while the River Wansbeck meanders past like it's got all the time in the world. Market day still brings proper bustle to the centre, just as it has for centuries.

Davidson's Obelisk stands sentinel over the town - climb up there for cracking views across the Northumberland countryside. The weekly market is still the heartbeat of the place, though Gallery 45 adds a contemporary arts twist that works surprisingly well in such traditional surroundings. Don't miss the Pele Tower either; these fortified towers are scattered all over Northumberland, remnants of the days when Scottish raiders were a real concern rather than just football rivals.

The surrounding countryside is quintessentially Northumbrian - rolling hills, stone walls, and the odd castle ruin dotting the horizon. Alnwick Castle Golf Club offers a decent round if you fancy it, while train connections from nearby Acklington make day trips to Newcastle or Edinburgh perfectly feasible. The whole area feels refreshingly unhurried compared to the busier parts of the county.

Basing yourself at one of the holiday parks scattered around the area makes perfect sense. You're within striking distance of both the coast and the Cheviot Hills, while having a proper market town on your doorstep for supplies and that essential morning coffee. Plus, Morpeth sits right on the A1, so you can easily explore Hadrian's Wall country or head up towards the Scottish Borders without any faff.