Leicester

Rolling countryside stretches endlessly in every direction, broken only by ancient woods and the occasional church spire. This slice of eastern Leicestershire feels properly rural - the kind of place where tractors still hold up traffic and village pubs serve locals who've been drinking there for decades. It's farming country through and through, with a network of footpaths threading between fields of wheat and barley.

Burrough Hill offers cracking views across the vale, while Whatborough Hill and Robin-a-Tiptoe Hill provide gentler climbs for weekend walkers. The landscape here is all about subtle beauty rather than dramatic peaks. Launde Big Wood and Launde Park Wood are lovely spots for a proper ramble, especially when bluebells carpet the forest floor in spring.

History buffs will appreciate Sauvey Castle, though don't expect towering battlements - this archaeological site requires a bit of imagination. The area's dotted with churches too, including St Andrew and the rather grand St. Peter's, both worth a peek if you're passing.

Getting here from Leicester city centre takes about 20 minutes by car, making it an easy escape from urban life. The nearby villages feel genuinely unspoilt - you're more likely to encounter sheep than tourists on most days.

Staying at one of the local holiday parks makes perfect sense if you want to explore the Leicestershire countryside at your own pace. You're well-placed for day trips to Melton Mowbray or even Rutland Water, while having proper peace and quiet to return to each evening.