Gloucester

Two thousand years of history sits alongside modern regeneration in this ancient city where the River Severn winds through Gloucestershire. Roman walls still stand in places, while the Victorian docks have been transformed into a waterside quarter that actually works rather than feeling like a forced tourist trap.

Gloucester Cathedral dominates the skyline - you'll recognise it from Harry Potter films, though it's been here since Norman times. The docks area deserves a proper wander, especially around the National Waterways Museum and the antiques centre in the old warehouses. For something completely different, Saint James City Farm brings a bit of countryside into the city centre, popular with families who fancy meeting alpacas and goats.

Robinswood Hill offers cracking views across the Severn Vale on a clear day. It's a bit of a climb but well worth it, especially if you fancy seeing the cathedral spire from above. The KMM Energy Stadium hosts Gloucester RFC - rugby crowds here are proper passionate.

Getting here is straightforward enough. The M5 runs right past, and there's a decent train service from London Paddington via Swindon. Birmingham's about an hour up the motorway.

Staying at one of the nearby parks makes perfect sense for exploring both the city and the wider Cotswolds. Tewkesbury's just up the road with its famous abbey, while Cheltenham's close enough for the races if you time it right. The Forest of Dean's within easy reach too, offering proper countryside after you've had your fill of Roman remains and rugby.