Lancaster

The salt marshes stretch endlessly towards Morecambe Bay, where curlews call across mudflats that have witnessed centuries of tide and time. This is Lancaster's coastal fringe - a landscape that feels more like the edge of the world than a Lancashire market town.

Lancaster itself sits proudly on its hill, dominated by the castle that's been watching over the Lune Valley since Norman times. The cobbled streets below tell stories of maritime trade when this was England's gateway to the Americas. Today, it's a proper working town with students from the university bringing life to the pubs and cafes.

The surrounding countryside rewards exploration. St Michael's Church in nearby Cockerham stands testament to centuries of rural worship, while Cappershead Wood offers gentle walks through ancient woodland. Cocker Wood and Lawson's Wood provide more serious hiking for those who fancy a proper ramble.

Morecambe Bay's tidal reaches are Lancaster's real treasure though. The RSPB reserve at nearby Leighton Moss draws birdwatchers from across the country, and the coastal path offers some of the finest walking in the North West. Just mind the tides - they come in faster than you'd think.

The M6 runs close by, making Lancaster easily accessible from Manchester or the Lakes. Preston's the nearest major railway hub, about 20 minutes south. Staying at one of the local parks puts you within easy reach of both the Pennine fells and the Cumbrian coast - perfect for a fortnight's exploration of this often-overlooked corner of Lancashire.