Nottingham

Robin Hood's stamping ground feels surprisingly green once you escape the city centre. The River Trent loops lazily through water meadows and former gravel pits, creating an unexpected watery playground that includes Regatta Lake and the Lagoon - both cracking spots for a paddle or watching the rowers train. Holme Pierrepont Country Park draws families with its water sports centre, though midweek it's properly peaceful.

The countryside here rolls gently towards the Wolds, dotted with villages that still feel separate from the urban sprawl. Tollerton keeps its village feel despite being within the city's orbit, complete with a war memorial that anchors its small green. Down by Colwick, the fish pass might sound dull but it's actually fascinating to watch salmon negotiating their way upstream during the right season.

Getting here couldn't be easier. Netherfield station connects you to the city centre in minutes, while the A52 whisks you out to the Vale of Belvoir if you fancy exploring further afield. The area's got that proper East Midlands feel - not quite countryside, not quite suburb, but somewhere comfortable in between.

Staying at one of the nearby parks makes perfect sense. You're close enough to nip into Nottingham for the castle or lace market, yet far enough out to actually hear birdsong. The Bell Tent Village Parks and various glamping spots around here give you the best of both worlds - easy access to the city's pubs and museums, but with space to breathe and maybe spot the odd kingfisher along the Trent.