Wallingford

Ancient Saxon burhs don't come much more proper than this Thames-side market town, where King Alfred once held court and medieval streets still wind down to the river. Wallingford wears its 1,000-year history lightly - you'll spot fragments of Norman castle walls between Georgian townhouses, while the twice-weekly market continues a tradition dating back to the 12th century.

The Thames here flows wide and lazy, perfect for riverside walks that stretch for miles in both directions. Cross the 17th-century bridge and you're into open countryside within minutes, with footpaths leading through ancient woodlands like Round Wood and Warren Wood. Castle Grove Camp offers a glimpse into even older history - this Iron Age earthwork predates the town by centuries.

Wallingford's compact high street has that midweek quiet that makes browsing the independent shops a pleasure rather than a scrum. The weekly farmers' market on Fridays brings real energy, with producers from across South Oxfordshire selling everything from rare-breed pork to artisan cheeses.

For something different, seek out galleries like Wooden Elephant, tucked away in the town's quieter corners. The surrounding Chiltern Hills offer cracking walks - Harcourt Hill gives views across the Thames Valley that stretch for miles on clear days.

Getting here couldn't be easier. The A4130 runs straight through town, connecting to the M40 at junction 6. Reading's just 12 miles southeast with its direct rail links to London Paddington. Staying at one of the nearby parks like Swiss Farm Touring and Camping puts you within easy striking distance of both Oxford and the Chilterns, while keeping you close enough to pop into town for a proper pub lunch or evening meal by the Thames.