Not just a 'hidden gem' of a moated castle set in luscious north Oxfordshire parkland, but the site of Civil War conspirations, sieges and battles, and the setting for the film Shakespeare in Love. Broughton Castle is still occupied by the Saye-Sele family and lowers its drawbridge on selected days from Easter onwards. June and July always promise a myriad of events, from corricle racing on the moat to Shakespeare productions in the parkland, and this is also the time when the walled garden is in full rose-scented bloom.

www.broughtoncastle.com
+44(0)1295 276070
Broughton Castle, Banbury, Oxon, OX15 5EB
Google map: bit.ly/igOSVP

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The vast Bodensee in south-east Germany is an undiscovered gem to us Brits. Base yourself in the popular island town of Lindau and stroll around the old quarter before heading out to explore the lakeside. You can cycle or walk southwards along the lake to Bregenz in Austria (having a dip in the 'See' along the way), or take one of the many boats or catamarans across to Konstanz or Rorschach in Switzerland. Venture inland from Lindau and hike up to the top of the Pfander for breath-taking views. Lindau is on the main Zurich-Munich train route, or fly to nearby Friedrichshafen with Ryanair. Try out the hip International Hostel situated on the lakeside in Lindau.

www.jugendherberge.de/jh/bayern/lindau/
www.pfaender.at/engl.htmhttp://www.fly-away.de/
Google map: bit.ly/g3RB75

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This gem of a resort has something for the young and not-so-young alike. Arriving by bus or train, saunter up to the West Pier and Whitby Sands for a dip in the sea, or take a boat trip round the harbour. A fish-and-chip lunch is a must - try the famous Magpie Cafe, a Whitby culinary landmark! Cross over the swing bridge to the old town and wander along the cobbled streets, taking in the Captain Cook Museum, until you eventually reach the 199 steps leading up to the clifftop St Mary's Church and awe-inspiring Whitby Abbey. 'Dracula' would never have been written otherwise!

Magpie Cafe, 14 Pier Road, 01907602058
www.magpiecafe.co.uk/
www.cookmuseumwhitby.co.uk
www.visitwhitby.com

Google map: tinyurl.com/2wu33fl

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The third weekend in September is the Journees du Patrimoine when France flings its cultural doors open wide and squashes many entrance fees! If you're in Vaison la Romaine head for the Roman ruins or the mediavel citadel for guided tours.

www.journeesdupatrimoine.culture.fr

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Well-situated independent hostel a stone's throw away from the Pembrokeshire coastal path - ideal for 'solos' or groups and families.

Situated in the centre of the village of Trefin.
www.theoldschoolhostel.co.uk/
No train station but the website gives great details on public transport links.

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Charming independent hostel a stone's throw away from the magnificent Pembrokeshire Coastal Path. Chris and Sue offer a warm welcome to families and non-families alike! The Old School is 'green' in many respects (recycling, use of public transport etc) but not in a preachy way.

www.theoldschoolhostel.co.uk/
great section on getting there by car AND public transport

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No trip to North Wales can be complete without ascending a peak. As walking up Snowdon in summer feels more like driving on the M25, try one of the Carneddau. On clear days you'll be rewarded with stunning views across the Menai Straits.

YHA, toilets and limited parking at the head of Llyn Ogwen, or take the green option with a Sherpa bus from Bangor.
www.totaltravel.co.uk/travel/wales/snowdonia-bangor

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