Salisbury

Medieval streets stretch between ancient earthworks and modern life in this cathedral city where spires pierce the Wiltshire sky. Salisbury's towering centrepiece dominates the horizon - that famous 404-foot cathedral spire you've seen in countless paintings. The surrounding chalk downs roll away in every direction, peppered with archaeological treasures that make this corner of England feel properly ancient.

The city itself is surprisingly compact. You can walk from the market square to the cathedral close in minutes, though you'll want longer to explore properly. The Amphitheatre hosts everything from Shakespeare to modern drama, while the medieval street pattern around the close remains largely unchanged since the 13th century.

Venture beyond the city boundaries and you're into proper downland country. Clearbury Down and Breamore Down offer cracking walks with views stretching to the New Forest. History buffs will love hunting down the various archaeological sites - Clearbury Ring is a well-preserved Iron Age hillfort, while Grim's Ditch snakes across the landscape like some forgotten boundary.

From London, it's a quick train journey to Salisbury station, then everything's walkable or a short bus ride away. The A36 brings drivers straight into the heart of things, though parking can be a bit of a nightmare during peak season.

Basing yourself at one of the nearby parks makes perfect sense. You're close enough for easy cathedral visits and evening meals in the city, yet positioned for exploring the wider area. The New Forest lies just to the south, while Stonehenge (yes, that one) is barely 20 minutes north. Several decent camping options dot the surrounding countryside, from Stonehenge Campsite & Glamping to Hill Cottage Farm near Fordingbridge.