places

Neil Coates reveals seven stunning locations, away from the usual tourist hotspots

For an island escape like no other, look to the Isle of Wight. It offers, within its 150 square miles, a huge range of landscapes and habitats, so your break can be as action-packed or relaxing as you like. And nowhere encapsulates that variety like Yarmouth, the town on its north-western coast. 

A former open-cast coal mine has been transformed into a sculpted green space of sweeping curves, standing stones and mysterious landforms representing the galaxies. Sara Maitland marvels at a modern landscape artwork that rivals the masterpieces of ‘Capability’ Brown

Built from honey-coloured stone amid tranquil green valleys, the historic houses of these pretty rolling hills make enchanting places to visit. Our expert guide on the best country houses to visit in the Cotwolds and history of the area

How did a quiet Yorkshire parsonage produce three of Britain’s greatest writers? On the bicentenary of Charlotte Brontë’s birth, Juliet Barker explores the moorlands and villages that inspired the author and her equally gifted sisters Emily and Anne.

As Bass Rock deservedly takes first place as 2015/2016's 'Nature Reserve of the Year', Chris Packham describes the magic of this gannet-drenched stone kingdom.

Cast modern life aside at a sparkling little lake that glitters in hues of blue and green, in a magical woodland setting with an absorbing history, says Ali Wood.