Wine lovers will instantly recognise the name Sancerre. Perched on a high hill with long distance views across the vineyards, the town has reasonable restaurants and, of course, plenty of small shops selling the local tipple. The tourist office in a bunker like building in the main square has details of which vineyards accept visitors. There is no Maison du Vin but instead rock cellars Caves de la Mignonne where tastings are held. There is also red and rosé Sancerre wine. Across the river is Pouilly sur Loire home of Pouilly Fumé.

Bourges' St Etienne cathedral, begun in the 12th century, can be seen from afar over the rooftiles of the old city. The sculpture around the doors is very intricate. The Musée des Arts Décoratifs is in a 16th century renaissance hôtel - one of many in the medieval narrow streets. The Palais Jacques Coeur (finance minister to Charles VII) is one of the best examples of non-religious gothic architecture built in the mid 15th century.

North west is Mehun sur Yèvre where Charles VII lived after having been beaten at Agincourt. The 14th century château houses a museum of medieval archaeology. A little further is Quincy which produces a fine white wine which some say is superior to Sancerre, but unfortunately rarely available elsewhere in France and often hard to find in the UK.

Beyond here lies Vierzonb an important industrial town, with more than 30,000 inhabitants. Lying on the division between occupied and free France during WWII, the town was heavily bombed. Famous for iron and ceramics its glassmaking was also well-known.

St Etienne Cathedral, Bourges

Apremont sur Allier is a medieval village justly deserving its "most beautiful village" status with a floral park, château and carriage museum. It is a few kilometres east of Sancoins whose origins go back to Roman times.

In the north eastern corner of the département is Aubigny sur Nère whose 16th century Stuart château dates back to the Hundred Years’ War. As thanks for the Scottish help against the invading English the town was given to the Stuart family – a small museum celebrates the ‘Auld Alliance’.

South in the département is Châteauneuf sur Cher which sits quietly on the riverbank. Anyone fond of messing about in boats should visit the Musée de la Marine de Loire or if you’re there in May or June the gardens of the château should be in full bloom. Nearby is St Amand Montrond in the Germigny valley whose church shows Burgundy influences.