Wallingford

Medieval market towns don't come much more agreeable than this Thames-side spot, where ancient walls still trace the old Saxon boundaries and the weekly market has been running for over a thousand years. The compact town centre feels properly English - independent shops line the narrow streets, while the impressive spire of St Peter's church dominates the skyline.

Wallingford Castle grounds make for a lovely afternoon stroll, even though only earthworks remain of what was once one of England's mightiest fortresses. The ruins tell quite a story - this was where William the Conqueror crossed the Thames in 1066. These days, the castle meadows are perfect for a picnic overlooking the river.

The Thames Path runs right through town, offering excellent walking in both directions. Head south towards Goring and you'll pass through some of Oxfordshire's finest countryside, with the Chiltern Hills rising gently to the east. Hadden Hill Golf Course sits up on these slopes if you fancy a round with cracking views over the valley.

Getting here couldn't be easier - Didcot Parkway is just four miles away with direct trains to London Paddington in under an hour. The A4130 provides straightforward road access from the M40.

Staying at one of the nearby parks puts you right in the heart of this particularly lovely stretch of the Thames Valley. You're perfectly placed for exploring both the Chilterns to the east and the rolling Berkshire Downs to the south, while Oxford is barely 12 miles north for proper city culture when rural charm wears thin.