Haltwhistle

Roman centurions once patrolled this stretch of wild Northumberland, and their presence still dominates everything here. Haltwhistle sits bang in the middle of Hadrian's Wall country, where weathered stones and ancient earthworks tell stories that span two millennia.

The town itself is unpretentious - a proper working market town that hasn't been polished up for tourists. But step outside and you're in some of England's most dramatic countryside. Steel Rigg offers cracking views along the Wall, especially near that famous Robin Hood Tree (though locals will tell you Kevin Costner never actually filmed there). The Sill National Landscape Discovery Centre makes a good starting point if you're new to the area.

Vindolanda Fort is the real showstopper. This isn't just another pile of old stones - the archaeological site keeps revealing new treasures, from leather shoes to wooden tablets. Milecastle 38 sits nearby, one of the best-preserved sections where you can actually walk the ramparts.

Bardon Mill station puts you on the Newcastle to Carlisle line, one of Britain's most scenic railway journeys. The surrounding countryside rolls away in all directions - Hound Hill provides a decent climb if you fancy stretching your legs, while Melkridge Millennium Nature Park offers gentler walking.

Staying at one of the local campsites makes perfect sense. Hadrian's Wall Campsite puts you right at the heart of it all, while Herding Hill Farm offers both traditional camping and glamping options. The Wall Path stretches for miles in either direction, so having a base here means you can tackle different sections without the daily drive.