Welwyn Garden City

Planned communities aren't supposed to have soul, but Welwyn Garden City breaks that rule completely. Built in the 1920s as Britain's second garden city, this Hertfordshire new town still carries the vision of its founder Ebenezer Howard - wide tree-lined streets, generous green spaces, and that rare thing in modern Britain: proper planning.

The town centre feels refreshingly spacious compared to cramped high streets elsewhere. Campus West anchors the shopping area, housing both the Cinema at Campus West Welwyn Garden City and the Hawthorne Theatre & Cinema for your evening entertainment. It's a proper community hub rather than just another retail park.

Getting here couldn't be easier - Welwyn Garden City station puts you 25 minutes from King's Cross, while Welwyn North serves the northern edges. That transport link makes this an excellent base for exploring Hertfordshire's rolling countryside and historic market towns.

The surrounding area rewards exploration. Knebworth sits just southeast, famous for its stately home and rock concerts, while the gentle Hertfordshire landscape stretches in all directions. Datchworth Museum offers a glimpse into local history if the weather turns.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense here. You're close enough to nip into London for the day yet surrounded by proper countryside. Commons Wood Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite provides a convenient base, while Lee Valley Caravan Park Dobbs Weir sits alongside the peaceful Lee Navigation if you fancy riverside walks. The area strikes that sweet spot between accessibility and rural charm that's increasingly rare in the Home Counties.