Newark-on-Trent

Newark-on-Trent is known first for its castle, the ruined riverside fortress that still anchors the town and gives Newark its shape - a market town built around the water, with the Trent running through its centre rather than skirting the edge of it. It's a place that has kept its market-town character: cobbled streets, a large market square, and a mix of independent shops and eateries rather than a high street given over to chains.

The castle grounds are the obvious starting point, with gardens running down to the Trent that make for an easy riverside walk. Beyond that, Newark's appeal is in wandering the town itself - the market square, the old streets around it, and the general business of a working market town going about its day. It suits a short stay rather than a packed itinerary, with the castle, the river and the town centre all close enough together to cover on foot.

As a base, Newark works well for anyone wanting a market town with a proper sense of history, a river to walk beside, and enough places to eat and stay that a visit doesn't need much advance planning.