Cornwall

Don’t forget your camera: the tantalising views of deep-wooded valleys, sparkling blue sea and picturesque fishing villages make for the perfect picture-postcard snaps.

Head to Newquay, Cornwall’s surfing centre, for excellent accommodation and nightlife or try the artist’s enclave of St Ives for fine-sand beaches and an array of renowned galleries.

Cornwall has a milder climate than the rest of Britain, providing perfect conditions for exotic plants and animals: see the fantastical plant sculptures at the Lost Gardens of Heligan, explore the tropical biomes of the Eden Project or experience an award-winning wildlife sanctuary at Park Paradise.

If you’re into the arts you’ll want to peruse modern art gallery Tate St Ives or watch an outdoor play at the Minack Theatre, an open-air amphitheatre carved into the cliffside at Porthcurno.

Truro is the only city in Cornwall. It hosts a great line-up of events year-round - don’t miss the St Pirans Day parade on March 5, which celebrates Cornish culture

From London by train, you can get to Truro in about 4 hours and 20 minutes.