The Whole Hogg Caravan Park

For a look at life on the frontline, visit the Eden Camp Modern History Theme Museum (five minutes’ drive). Another stop nearby is the Flamingo Land Resort (10 minutes). A theme park and a zoo in one, admire the feathery flamingos and then brave the rollercoasters. Known for its thatched cottage and brook, Thornton Dale (10 minutes) in the North York Moors National Park is a splendid spot for a leisurely stroll. Or on the park’s southern slopes, however, daredevils can mountain bike in Dalby Forest (half an hour for off-road trails for beginners and experienced riders). Chuck the east coast’s beach towns (and their seaside stretches) into the throw and visit Whitby (40 minutes), Filey (40 minutes), Bridlington (50 minutes) or Scarborough (40 minutes). For historic sites, first take off to York (35 minutes) for its minsters and medieval streets. Then, call in at Castle Howard (20 minutes) to see a stately home and complete your trip back in time at the Ryedale Folk Museum (25 minutes), an open-air collection of historic rural buildings. Feeling green-fingered? Visit the Scamston Walled Garden (15 minutes) or the lavender and wildflower farm at Wolds Way Lavender (15 minutes).