Wigton

Market day still brings farmers down from the fells every Tuesday, just as it has for centuries. Wigton proper sits snug in the Eden Valley, a working town that hasn't bothered to dress itself up for tourists - and is all the better for it. The high street keeps its head down through the week, but come market day the place springs to life with livestock trailers and proper Cumberland voices.

Beyond the town centre, the landscape opens into something rather special. Faulds Brow and Sandale Hill rise to the east, offering cracking views across to the Lake District peaks on clear days. It's a proper climb up Brae Fell, but well worth the effort for the panoramic sweep across north Cumberland. The Knox Wood Wildlife Centre makes for a gentler afternoon, particularly with children in tow.

Thurstonfield Lough sits quietly a few miles south - not exactly Windermere, but lovely for a peaceful walk when the crowds have taken over the main lakes. The John Peel Theatre keeps local culture alive with regular productions, while Holy Trinity Church in nearby Rosley dates back to the 12th century for those keen on a bit of history.

Carlisle lies just 11 miles south along the A595, making Wigton surprisingly well-connected despite its rural feel. The train station offers direct services to Newcastle and the west coast, though having a car opens up the surrounding countryside properly. Staying at one of the holiday parks scattered around the area puts you within easy reach of both the northern Lake District and the Solway coast - without the premium prices you'll pay closer to Keswick or Windermere.