Market Harborough

Saturday morning at the market square brings a proper buzz to this handsome Georgian town. Market Harborough sits pretty in south Leicestershire, where grand townhouses line streets that have barely changed since the 18th century.

The town centre has real character - none of that soulless retail park nonsense here. Browse the independent shops around the old grammar school, then nip over to the Zombie Hut if you fancy some alternative theatre. The Ice House makes for an intriguing historical pit stop, while art lovers should check out both Door and Dragon galleries for local work.

What really sets this place apart is the countryside on its doorstep. Wardley Wood and Allexton Wood offer lovely walks just minutes from the high street. Fancy something more challenging? Slawston Hill provides cracking views across the Welland Valley. Eyebrook Reservoir draws anglers and bird watchers in equal measure.

Getting here couldn't be easier - Market Harborough sits bang on the A6, about 20 minutes south of Leicester. The train station connects directly to London St Pancras in just over an hour, making it a popular spot for commuters who fancy proper countryside living.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense. You're close enough to pop into town for dinner or shopping, but you'll wake up to fields and fresh air. The surrounding area is peppered with ancient woodlands like Stoke Dry Wood and Great Merrible Wood, plus historical sites such as Castle Hill. Even Uppingham, with its famous public school, sits within easy reach for a day trip.