Bishop Auckland

Mining history runs deep through every cobbled street here. Bishop Auckland sits in the heart of County Durham's former coalfield country, where the Archbishop's Palace once ruled over a vast ecclesiastical empire. These days it's a proper working town that doesn't put on airs - market day brings genuine bustle, and the high street still has independent shops alongside the usual chains.

Auckland Castle dominates the skyline, former home to the Prince Bishops of Durham and now housing an impressive collection of Spanish art. The castle's deer park stretches for acres, perfect for afternoon walks when the town centre gets a bit much. All Saints church nearby is worth a peek for its Norman architecture.

The surrounding countryside opens up into the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Serious walkers tackle the peaks - Turf Hill and Raven Seat offer cracking views across Weardale, while Bolt's Law provides a gentler climb. More adventurous types head for Fairy Holes cave system, though it's not one for claustrophobes.

Getting here couldn't be easier. The A68 runs straight through town, connecting to the A1 for northern and southern routes. Regular buses link to Newcastle and Durham city, while the nearest train station is at Darlington, about twenty minutes by car.

Staying at one of the holiday parks scattered around Weardale puts you perfectly positioned for exploring both the town and the dale's wilder reaches. You're close enough to nip into Bishop Auckland for supplies or a pub lunch, yet surrounded by some of England's most underrated walking country.