Crawley

Flight paths crisscross the sky above this West Sussex new town, a constant reminder that Gatwick Airport sits virtually on your doorstep. Crawley isn't trying to win any beauty contests - it's a practical place that emerged from post-war planning, with wide streets and modern shopping precincts that feel refreshingly unvarnished compared to Surrey's posher neighbours.

The town centre does what it says on the tin. County Mall provides the usual high street suspects, while the nearby Archway Theatre stages everything from amateur dramatics to touring shows. It's proper no-nonsense stuff, which rather sums up Crawley's appeal - or lack thereof, depending on your perspective.

What saves this place from complete mundanity is its location. Within a short drive you'll find the Ifield Water Mill, a working 18th-century flour mill that's far more engaging than it sounds. Riverside Garden Park offers decent walks along the River Mole, while Earlswood Common provides proper countryside breathing space.

Getting here couldn't be simpler - the M23 delivers you straight from central London in about an hour, while both Ifield and nearby Horley stations connect you to the capital by rail. Gatwick's proximity means international flights are a doddle, though the aircraft noise might grate after a while.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Worth Forest Glamping or Long Acres makes sound sense if you're using Crawley as a base camp. You're perfectly placed for day trips into the Surrey Hills, the South Downs, or even central London, while avoiding the capital's eye-watering accommodation prices. Sometimes the best strategy is camping in the suburbs and commuting to the good stuff.