In the sleepy county of Wiltshire, Salisbury, the seventh smallest city in England, has all the historic prowess of a larger city, and everything you need for a weekend staycation.  A trip to the iconic cathedral is essential. Even though it is known for having the tallest spire in the UK at 123 metres high, even more compelling is that it boasts one of the four surviving copies of the Magna Carta inside the Chapter House. Weather permitting, you can climb the famous spire which will grant you incredible views of the surrounding countryside, and when you’re back at ground level, take a second to stare in awe at the stained glass windows. 

A short drive from the mini-city – just 17 minutes by car to be exact – you can get to one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments.

The mysterious standing stones surrounded by folklore date back around 5,000 years, and whether you believe the theories or not, it would be a shame to miss Stonehenge while you’re here.  

In the Salisbury Museum, you can even take a look at archaeological finds from the surrounding areas like Stonehenge and Old Sarum.

After you’ve taken in as much history as you can, a peaceful walk or bike ride along the River Avon calls. The lush countryside will be exactly what you need to shut off.

You can also explore the nearby New Forest national park on foot, bike or even horseback where ponies and donkeys roam freely. 

In the unlikely event you get bored of small-city life, you can take a trip to beachy Lymington where you can people watch as sailors navigate their huge yachts through the marina – best done with a side of piping hot fish and chips.