Warwick

Those 21 locks at Hatton make quite the sight. Known locally as the 'Stairway to Heaven', they lift the Grand Union Canal 146 feet over two miles - proper feat of engineering that draws narrowboat enthusiasts from across the country. The constant chug of diesel engines and cheerful waves from boaters gives this stretch of Warwickshire a surprisingly lively feel for such green countryside.

Warwick Castle dominates everything, naturally. But step away from the crowds and you'll find Warwick's got more substance than its famous fortress suggests. The town centre feels lived-in rather than touristy, with independent shops that actually serve locals rather than day-trippers.

Hatton Adventure World keeps families busy for hours - the farm park's got that proper muddy-boots appeal that theme parks can't replicate. Meanwhile, the network of ancient woodlands surrounding the town offers brilliant walking. Whitehill Wood and The Wilderness provide proper escape routes when the castle queues get silly.

Coventry's just 20 minutes north if you need a bigger shopping fix, but honestly, Warwick holds its own. The railway station connects directly to London in under two hours, making it surprisingly accessible despite feeling distinctly rural.

Staying at one of the nearby parks makes perfect sense. You're close enough to walk into town for dinner, yet far enough out to wake up to birdsong rather than traffic. Plus, with Stratford-upon-Avon only 20 minutes south, you've got Shakespeare country on your doorstep. Knight's Village at Warwick Castle puts you right in the thick of things, while spots like The Apple Farm offer more space to breathe after days exploring medieval battlements and canal locks.