Stafford

The market town centre feels reassuringly unchanged, with independent shops holding their own against the chain stores that dominate many similar places. Stafford sits at the heart of Staffordshire, close enough to Birmingham for a day trip but far enough away to feel properly rural.

Amerton Railway runs a delightful steam service through the countryside, with the old station building housing both the ticket office and a small museum. The journey takes you past Chartley Halt before reaching the end of the line, where Amerton Farm and Craft Centre makes a proper day out for families. Their Wildlife barn showcases local animals, and the picnic area by the railway is lovely on a summer afternoon.

Chartley Castle ruins stand dramatically on a hill overlooking the Trent valley - well worth the short walk for the views alone. The medieval remains tell a story of power and politics, though these days it's more about the cracking photo opportunities.

St Andrew's Church in nearby Weston is a gem, while Unit Twelve gallery in town showcases contemporary art that feels refreshingly modern against Stafford's historic backdrop. For a proper countryside walk, Gillerd's Rough offers woodland trails without the crowds.

Getting here is straightforward - Stafford station has regular trains from London Euston and Birmingham, taking about 90 minutes and 30 minutes respectively. The M6 runs right past if you're driving.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Spring Paddock or Silver Trees Holiday Park puts you within easy reach of both the town's attractions and the wider Staffordshire countryside. It's an ideal spot for exploring Cannock Chase, just 20 minutes south, or venturing into the Peak District an hour north.