Perth

Stone buildings line streets that have witnessed seven centuries of Scottish history. Perth sits where the River Tay bends through fertile Perthshire farmland, earning its nickname as the 'Fair City' from Sir Walter Scott himself. The compact centre feels properly lived-in rather than touristy - locals still outnumber visitors on most weekdays.

Scone Palace dominates the northern approach, where Scottish kings once received their crowns on the famous Stone of Destiny. The surrounding hills - Lendrick Hill and Nether Town Hill among them - offer cracking walks with views across the Tay Valley. It's a landscape that shifts from gentle river meadows to proper Highland drama within a few miles.

Perthshire's position makes it brilliantly useful as a base. Edinburgh lies 45 minutes south by train, while the Highlands begin just north of the city. The A9 cuts straight through, connecting everything from Stirling to Inverness. You can be walking on Coalcraogy Hill in the morning and browsing Edinburgh's Royal Mile by teatime.

Staying at one of the nearby parks puts you within easy reach of both the city's cultural offerings and the surrounding countryside. Perth Caravan Park sits close to the centre, while Scone's camping site places you near the palace grounds. The Tay provides excellent salmon fishing, and the hills - from Brunt Hill to Innerdouny Hill - cater to walkers of every ability. It's Scotland at its most accessible, without losing any of its character.