Nottingham

The Trent Valley unfolds here in gentle ripples of farmland and ancient woodland, where Roman roads once crossed the river at Ad Pontem. This stretch of Nottinghamshire feels properly rural - a world away from the city's hustle despite being just a short drive from the centre.

Fiskerton makes a cracking base for exploring. The village sits snugly beside the Trent, with the railway station offering direct links into Nottingham when you fancy a proper day out. But honestly, there's plenty to keep you occupied locally.

Coneygrey Woods deserves a morning's wander - it's ancient oak and ash country, the sort of place where you might spot a red kite circling overhead. The footpaths are well-marked, though they can get a bit muddy after rain. From Park View, the countryside stretches out in all directions, proper English farmland dotted with church spires.

Elston Old Chapel tells its own quiet story - Norman stones weathered by centuries of Midlands weather. St. Peter's Church at Farndon is worth the short drive too, particularly if you're into medieval architecture. The RAF mid-air collision memorial near Thurgarton offers a more sobering reminder of wartime history.

Train enthusiasts will appreciate the East Midlands Railway line threading through the valley, with stations at Bleasby and Thurgarton as well as Fiskerton. It's a lovely way to explore without the car, though services can be a bit patchy at weekends.

Staying at one of the local caravan parks or glamping sites puts you right in the heart of this gentle landscape. Southwell's just down the road with its magnificent Minster, while Newark's antique shops and castle are an easy drive east. Perfect countryside without feeling completely cut off.