Shrewsbury

Medieval streets loop round the River Severn like a horseshoe, creating one of England's most intact Tudor townscapes. Shrewsbury feels properly lived-in rather than museum-perfect - half-timbered buildings house independent shops and cafes, while the castle keeps watch from its rocky perch.

Charles Darwin was born here, and you'll spot his statue near the library that now bears his name. The town wears its famous sons lightly though. Clive of India gets a memorial too, but it's the everyday architecture that really impresses - black and white buildings lean companionably together along Butcher Row and Fish Street.

Saint Chad's Church dominates the skyline with its unusual round design, while The Dingle provides a lovely green escape just minutes from the centre. For something different, the Soldiers of Shropshire Museum tells the county regiment's story with proper attention to detail.

Beyond the medieval core, the countryside opens up into classic Shropshire hills and valleys. The River Severn curves through water meadows where Pengwern Boat Club members launch their sculls on summer evenings. Doctor's Field Countryside Site offers easy walks without venturing far from town.

Getting here couldn't be easier - direct trains from Birmingham take 45 minutes, while the A5 brings drivers straight into the heart of Shropshire. The surrounding area bristles with holiday parks, from luxury setups like Stoney Acres to simpler sites like Cartref Caravan & Camping. Most sit within a 20-minute drive of the town centre, giving you the best of both worlds - peaceful countryside mornings and medieval pubs by evening.