Swansea

Wales's second city sits where the River Tawe meets Swansea Bay, and there's something properly refreshing about its unpretentious character. This is a working city that doesn't try too hard to impress, though the waterfront regeneration has given it a smart new edge without losing its gritty Welsh soul.

The Maritime Quarter feels like a different world from the city centre proper. Modern apartments and the National Waterfront Museum line the marina, while the LC leisure complex draws families for swimming and shopping. Dylan Thomas was born here, and his legacy runs through the city like the Tawe itself - you'll find references everywhere from the Dylan Thomas Centre to the Uplands where he grew up.

Gower Peninsula starts practically on Swansea's doorstep. Britain's first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty begins just beyond Mumbles, and you can be walking clifftop paths or lounging on Rhossili Bay within half an hour. The contrast is striking - one minute you're in an urban Welsh city, the next you're on some of the finest coastline in Britain.

Swansea's well connected by rail from London Paddington (about three hours) and the M4 makes driving straightforward enough. The city centre can feel a bit tired midweek, but weekends bring proper energy, especially around Wind Street's pubs and restaurants.

Staying at one of the holiday parks scattered around Gower makes perfect sense. You get the best of both worlds - easy access to Swansea's facilities and nightlife, plus you're perfectly positioned for exploring the peninsula's beaches and walking trails without the city hotel prices.