Newark

Stand at the crossroads where three rivers meet, and you'll understand why Newark has been important for centuries. The Great North Road cuts straight through this market town, bringing a steady stream of lorries and travellers, while the River Trent curves lazily past ancient walls and Georgian terraces.

Newark Castle dominates the town centre - what's left of it anyway. The ruins tell stories of Civil War sieges, when Royalist defenders held out against Parliamentary forces for months. King John died here too, though that's going back a bit. The castle grounds make for a proper walk, especially when the sun catches the old stones.

Wander beyond the market square and you'll find yourself in countryside surprisingly quickly. New Park Wood offers decent walking if you fancy stretching your legs, while Broadwaters Wood provides more secluded paths for those avoiding the weekend dog walkers. Neither will win awards for dramatic scenery, but they're pleasant enough on a sunny afternoon.

The town itself has character. Thursday market day brings life to the cobbled square, though midweek it's rather quiet. A few decent pubs survive, and the antique shops along Lombard Street are worth a browse if that's your thing.

Getting here couldn't be easier - Newark sits bang on the East Coast Main Line, with regular trains from London taking just over an hour. The A1 thunders past if you're driving, making it dead simple from most directions.

Using one of the nearby parks as your base makes perfect sense. You're well positioned for day trips into Nottingham or Lincoln, both under an hour away, while having easy access to the Trent Valley's gentle countryside. It's hardly the most exciting spot in England, but sometimes that's exactly what you need.