Newark

Railway lines slice through this modest market town, making it one of the East Midlands' most accessible spots. Newark sits right where the A1 meets the East Coast Main Line - proper transport hub territory that's been drawing travellers since medieval times.

The town itself won't win any beauty contests. Functional rather than flash, with a high street that sees its fair share of empty shops. But scratch beneath the surface and there's more here than meets the eye. All Saints church dominates the skyline with its towering spire, while the nearby Unicorn gallery showcases local artists in a converted Victorian building.

What really sets Newark apart is its surroundings. Head east and you'll hit the Lincolnshire countryside proper - rolling fields punctuated by quiet villages like Harby, complete with its traditional village sign. The area's dotted with peaceful waters too. West Lake and Thorpe Lake offer decent fishing, while Coot Lake attracts birdwatchers year-round.

Doddington Hall steals the show though. This Elizabethan mansion, just a short drive south, comes complete with award-winning gardens that are particularly lovely in spring. The formal parterre and wild garden provide a nice contrast - well worth the detour.

For walkers, Little Sale and Kelham's Holt forests provide proper woodland tramping, while Slacks Hill gives decent views across the Vale of Trent. Getting here couldn't be easier - regular trains from London King's Cross take just over an hour, and the A1 puts you within reach of most northern cities.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense. You're close enough to explore Newark's modest attractions but far enough out to enjoy the Lincolnshire countryside that surrounds it.