Nottingham

Red-brick terraces stretch endlessly from the city centre, while the Chilwell Memorial Garden stands as a sobering reminder of the 1918 munitions explosion that shook this corner of Nottinghamshire. This isn't quite the romanticised Robin Hood territory you might expect - it's proper working Nottingham, where the tram rattles past Victorian streets and modern retail parks jostle for space.

Highfields Park offers the best escape from urban life, its boating lake drawing families for weekend strolls and dog walkers year-round. The park's surprisingly large, with decent paths for cycling and enough green space to forget you're minutes from the ring road. St Peter's Church anchors the old village of Beeston, which still feels separate despite being swallowed by the city's sprawl.

History buffs will appreciate the various heritage sites dotted around - from Beeston Manor House to memorials celebrating local figures like DH Lawrence. The area's industrial past runs deep, with connections to Jesse Boot's pharmaceutical empire still visible if you know where to look.

Getting here couldn't be easier. The tram connects directly to Nottingham city centre in twenty minutes, while the M1 runs close by for those driving from further afield. It's well-positioned for exploring both the Peak District's southern edge and Newark's medieval streets.

Camping nearby makes perfect sense if you want proximity to Nottingham without the city centre prices. Sites like Holme Pierrepont Campsite put you close to the National Water Sports Centre, while Golden Valley Caravan and Camping Park offers a quieter base. The choice ranges from basic pitches to glamping options at places like Meadow View.