Newark

Castle walls and cobbled streets tell the story of England's past, but Newark's real charm lies in its position as a proper market town with serious historical clout. The River Trent curves around this Nottinghamshire settlement - though the postcode suggests otherwise - creating a landscape that's both industrial heritage and rural tranquillity.

Newark Castle dominates the town centre, its 12th-century ruins a reminder of the Civil War sieges that put this place on the map. Three times besieged, three times it held out. The market square still buzzes twice weekly, just as it has for centuries.

Venture beyond the town boundaries and you'll find gentle countryside dotted with ancient churches. All Saints' Church at Barnby in the Willows sits quietly among the fields, while Saint Peter's Church Claypole offers another slice of medieval architecture. The landscape here rolls rather than soars - Stubton Hill and Stubber Hill provide modest elevation but cracking views across the vale.

For something completely different, J and J Alpacas brings a touch of South America to Lincolnshire. Kids love it, adults find it oddly therapeutic.

The surrounding area is peppered with plantations and nature reserves. Icehouse Plantation and West Wong Plantation offer proper woodland walks, while Claypole Community Park provides easier family strolling. The Ford nature reserve attracts birdwatchers year-round.

Getting here is straightforward - the A1 runs nearby and Newark North Gate station connects to London in under two hours. Staying at one of the nearby parks like Southwell Retreat or Wagtail Country Park puts you within easy reach of both Newark's history and the gentler pleasures of rural Nottinghamshire.