Cirencester

Roman mosaics still surface in back gardens here. Cirencester wears its 2,000-year history lightly - this is the unofficial capital of the Cotswolds, where honey-coloured stone Georgian terraces line wide streets that once echoed with Roman legions' boots.

The town centre has proper character without feeling touristy. Antique shops and independent cafes occupy buildings that date back centuries, while the Monday and Friday markets bring real energy to the Market Place. Cirencester Park, right on the doorstep, offers miles of tree-lined avenues perfect for walks - it's one of the largest enclosed parks in England.

Venture beyond town and you're deep in classic Cotswold countryside. Ancient woodlands like Chedworth Wood and Long Furlong spread across rolling hills, while archaeological treasures dot the landscape. The mysterious Hoar Stone and Jack Barrow hint at settlements far older than Rome. From Shooters Hill and Chedworth Beacon, views stretch for miles across this timeless landscape.

Getting here is straightforward - the A419 connects directly to the M4, making it easily accessible from London or the West. Swindon, 17 miles south, has the nearest major railway station with direct services to London Paddington.

Staying at one of the holiday parks around Cirencester gives you the best of both worlds. You're close enough to stroll into town for dinner or browse the shops, yet perfectly positioned to explore the wider Cotswolds. The surrounding countryside offers endless walking opportunities, from gentle rambles through Eldon Wood to more challenging hikes up to the beacons. With Cerney House Gardens nearby and The Tallet Craft Centre showcasing local artisans, there's always something to discover without venturing far from base.