Reading

This corner of Hampshire sits quietly between Reading and Basingstoke, wrapped in countryside that feels properly rural despite the nearby M4 hum. The postcode might suggest urban sprawl, but step outside and you're surrounded by rolling farmland dotted with ancient oak trees and hedgerows that burst with blackberries come autumn.

Stratfield Saye House dominates the local landscape - the Duke of Wellington's grand estate that's been drawing visitors for decades. Worth the entrance fee just for the gardens alone. The Prairie Garden here is surprisingly modern for such a traditional setting, while the Walled Garden feels like stepping back two centuries. Don't miss the Winter Garden if you're visiting off-season; it's one of the better examples of how to make bare branches look interesting.

Beyond the big house, this is proper walking country. Chill Hill offers decent views without being too much of a slog, and the woodland paths around here connect nicely if you fancy a longer ramble. The area feels quiet midweek - you'll often have the footpaths to yourself.

Getting here is straightforward enough. Reading station is about 20 minutes by car, with regular trains to London. The M4 junction at Reading puts you within striking distance of Bath, Windsor, and the Cotswolds for day trips. Staying at one of the nearby parks makes perfect sense - you're far enough out to feel like you've escaped the suburbs, but close enough to Reading for supplies or a proper meal if the campsite cooking gets tedious.