Wetherby

Two bridges cross the Wharfe here - the ancient stone arch that's carried traffic for centuries and the modern A1(M) viaduct thundering overhead. That contrast sums up Wetherby perfectly: a proper market town that's never quite shaken off its coaching inn heritage, yet finds itself handily placed between Leeds and Harrogate.

The race course brings crowds on meeting days, but otherwise this feels like a town that gets on with business without much fuss. Market day still draws farmers from the surrounding Vale of York, and the high street holds its own against the retail parks dotting the A1 corridor.

Walking up from the river, you'll spot the Himalayan Garden tucked away - an unexpected slice of the sub-continent that's well worth the detour. More traditional Yorkshire pleasures await on the surrounding hills. Healthwaite Hill and Bodrum Hill offer proper walks with views across the Wharfe valley, while the mid-Wharfedale panorama viewpoint serves up exactly what it promises.

Forest walks abound if you fancy a ramble. Ingham Whinn and Swindon Wood provide decent cover on blustery days, though the footpaths can get muddy after rain. The area's archaeological past surfaces at the local manor house site - nothing spectacular, but it speaks to settlements here going back centuries.

Getting here couldn't be simpler. The A1(M) junction puts you in the town centre within minutes, while the train station connects directly to Leeds and York. Several holiday parks dot the surrounding countryside, from traditional touring sites like Maustin Park to more upmarket options like Rudding Holiday Park near Harrogate. Staying locally makes sense - you're perfectly placed for day trips to Yorkshire's spa towns, the Dales, or even a quick dash into Leeds.