Tenterden

Steam trains still whistle through this Wealden market town, just as they have since Victorian times. Tenterden's wide high street feels properly old-fashioned - independent shops outnumber chains, and the pace stays mercifully unhurried even on busy Saturday mornings.

The town sits bang in the middle of some of Kent's most beautiful countryside. Ancient woodlands like Great Heron Wood and Stemps Wood sprawl across the surrounding hills, while the Romney Marsh stretches away to the south. It's proper walking country - you can lose yourself for hours in places like College Wood or Moneypenny's Wood without seeing another soul.

Tenterden's real draw is the Kent & East Sussex Railway, which puffs its way to Bodiam Castle through some lovely countryside. St Dunstan church dominates the high street with its impressive tower, while wine enthusiasts should make time for Oxney Organic Estate - English wine that actually tastes decent.

Getting here is straightforward enough. The A28 cuts right through town, connecting Tenterden to Ashford in one direction and Hastings in the other. Canterbury's about 40 minutes by car.

Staying at one of the nearby parks makes perfect sense. Rye's just down the road - brilliant for a day trip. The coast at Camber Sands is within easy reach too, though you'll need to drive through some properly narrow lanes to get there. Wheatfields Luxury Glamping offers something a bit special if you fancy going upmarket, while Romney Meadows gives you no-nonsense camping closer to the marsh. Either way, you're well placed for exploring both the High Weald and the Kent coast without the hassle of constantly packing up.