Berwick-upon-Tweed

Three countries converge at this frontier town where the River Tweed meets the North Sea. England's northernmost town proper, Berwick-upon-Tweed has swapped hands between England and Scotland thirteen times over the centuries - and you can feel that restless history in every cobblestone.

The Elizabethan walls still circle the town centre, offering cracking views across the estuary to Scotland. Walk the ramparts at sunset and you'll understand why this place was fought over for so long. Below, the harbour bustles with fishing boats and pleasure craft, while Berwick Pier stretches into the grey North Sea like a stone finger.

Spittal, across the Old Bridge, feels like a different world entirely. The beach here is a proper stretch of sand, and Spittal Beach Promenade makes for a lovely stroll when the wind isn't howling off the water. Kids love the Spittal Splash Park on warmer days, though 'warmer' is relative this far north.

Bear Claw Brewery does excellent ales if you fancy sampling local flavours, while This Endless Sea gallery showcases work by regional artists. The town's sporting heart beats at Old Shielfield Park, home to Berwick Rangers - technically an English team that plays in the Scottish league system.

Getting here is straightforward enough. The A1 runs right past, making it accessible from Newcastle (60 miles south) or Edinburgh (55 miles north). The railway station sits on the East Coast Main Line.

Staying at one of the nearby parks like Haven Berwick Holiday Centre or Berwick Seaview makes perfect sense. You're close enough to walk into town for dinner, yet far enough out to appreciate the wild Northumberland coastline that stretches south towards Holy Island and the Farne Islands.