York

Roman walls still wrap around streets where Viking kings once ruled, but York's pull extends far beyond its famous Minster and medieval Shambles. This ancient city sits in a natural bowl where the Rivers Ouse and Foss meet, surrounded by the rolling Yorkshire Wolds that stretch east towards the coast. The landscape here shifts from flat river valleys to gentle hills dotted with woodlands like Great West Wood and Home Covert - proper countryside that feels worlds away from the tourist crowds.

Getting here couldn't be easier. York's on the main East Coast railway line, with direct trains from London taking just two hours. The A64 sweeps in from Leeds and continues towards Scarborough, making it a natural stopping point for exploring both the Dales and the coast.

Staying at one of the holiday parks scattered around the city's outskirts gives you the best of both worlds. Places like Wigwam Holidays Ball Hall Farm or the various glamping sites tucked into the Wolds offer a peaceful retreat after battling the summer crowds at York Minster. You can walk the city walls at dawn before the tour groups arrive, then retreat to your pod for a proper brew.

The countryside around York rewards exploration too. Melbourne Methodist Church marks one of several pretty villages within easy reach, while the network of footpaths threading through woods and farmland provides endless walking opportunities. This is gentle, rolling terrain - not dramatic like the Dales, but lovely in its own understated way. Perfect for families who want to combine a bit of history with proper fresh air.