Clacton-on-Sea

Amusement arcades and fish and chips might be what springs to mind, but there's more to this Essex seaside town than its reputation suggests. The seafront stretches for miles, with a proper sandy beach that gets packed on summer weekends but stays surprisingly quiet midweek. You'll either love or hate the traditional British seaside vibe - there's no middle ground.

Clacton's pier remains the star attraction, complete with rides and that slightly sticky carpet feeling in the arcades. But venture inland and you'll find Bishops Park, a lovely nature reserve that offers a complete contrast to the seafront bustle. It's a proper slice of countryside right on the town's doorstep. West Clacton Library sits in the quieter part of town, serving the residential areas that tourists rarely see.

The surrounding Essex countryside is flatter than a pancake but surprisingly green. Colchester, with its Roman history, lies just 20 miles inland - easily reached by car or the slightly sluggish local train service. The A120 connects Clacton to the M25, though summer Saturday traffic can be a nightmare.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense if you want the best of both worlds. You can enjoy the seaside attractions during the day, then retreat to somewhere quieter in the evening. Several parks dot the area around Clacton, from traditional caravan sites to more upmarket options at places like Highfield Grange and Weeley Bridge. The coastal location means you're never far from that sea breeze, even when you're tucked away inland.