Warwick

The medieval towers of Warwick Castle rise from the River Avon like something from a storybook, but this historic county town offers far more than just its famous fortress. Beyond the tourist crowds clustering around the castle gates, you'll find a proper market town that's managed to keep its character intact.

Walk down Castle Street and you're stepping through centuries. The timber-framed buildings lean into each other conspiratorially, housing independent shops that somehow survive the retail park onslaught. Lord Leycester Hospital, with its Tudor courtyard, feels like a film set that's forgotten the cameras have stopped rolling.

Warwick sits beautifully in the heart of England, surrounded by countryside that rewards exploration. Hell's Kitchen Wood and the network of ancient coppices - Rowington, Claypits, Gilbert's - offer proper walking territory within easy reach. These aren't manicured country parks but working woodlands where you might actually get your boots muddy.

For a change of pace, Hatton Shopping Village draws the crowds with its mix of outlet stores and craft shops, while the nearby train stations at Hatton and Lapworth connect you to Birmingham and London. The M40 runs close by too, making Warwick surprisingly accessible.

Staying at one of the holiday parks around Warwick puts you right in the middle of things without the town centre parking hassles. Knight's Village at Warwick Castle offers themed accommodation if you fancy sleeping near the battlements, while options like Coplow Woodland Retreat give you countryside peace with easy castle access. From any of these bases, you can explore the Cotswolds to the south, Stratford-upon-Avon to the west, or head into Birmingham for urban adventures. It's a cracking position for a Midlands break.