Doncaster

Aircraft thunder overhead while the ghost of Yorkshire's mining past lingers in the industrial landscape around this South Yorkshire town. Doncaster's surrounding countryside tells two stories - one of heavy industry and railways, another of surprising pockets of ancient woodland and wildlife encounters that'll have the kids gawping.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park steals the show here, proper massive site where polar bears lumber about and lions prowl within striking distance of the M18. It's a bit of a trek from the town centre but well worth it. Meanwhile, aviation buffs make pilgrimages to see Vulcan XH558, the famous delta-wing bomber, and The Vulcan Experience nearby.

Woodland walks thread through this corner of South Yorkshire like green arteries. Barrow Hills offers cracking views across the flatlands, while Mattersey Wood and The Holt provide proper forest rambles when you need to escape the urban sprawl. Great Wood and Hatchell Wood are quieter spots where you can actually hear yourself think.

Getting here's straightforward - the A1(M) cuts right through this patch of Yorkshire, with Doncaster town centre about 20 minutes south. The area sits bang between Sheffield and the Lincolnshire border, making it a handy base for exploring both counties.

Staying at one of the touring parks scattered around here makes perfect sense. Clumber Park Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite puts you close to Sherwood Forest territory, while spots like Hallcroft Fishery And Holiday Park offer a quieter alternative to Doncaster's busy streets. You're within easy striking distance of the wildlife park and those woodland walks, plus the town's shops and restaurants when you fancy a proper meal out.