Set high on a hill above the lush, tranquil Limpley Stoke Valley, Claverton Manor’s American Museum must be one of the most idyllically sited museums in the world. You can sit on the terrace soaking up the classical proportions of the Bath stone building, enjoy a refreshing cup of tea and an American cookie, authentic gingerbread (as baked by Geo, Washington’s ma), or buttery shortnin’ bread (my favourite), while the kids tumble on the grass and race downhill to explore the teepee beyond.

As spring gathers pace an avenue of cherries shed their confetti petals, and your eye is caught by the gate beyond, leading down to a unique replica of Washington’s flower garden at Mount Vernon, meandering box-hedging and all.

There are times when I don’t get anywhere near the inside of the museum, despite the real treasures to be seen – the Shaker room-set (exquisite cotton reels and textiles), the collection of quilts (don’t miss the Amish ones), and the 18th century room brought over from the US, floorboards, walls and all, by the quirky museum founders.

Now in its 50th year, the American Museum has been drawing me back as a visitor for over 35 years. You can see Marilyn’s knock ’em dead outfits this year, plus highlights from the museum’s broad collection. But please don’t take my word for it: the proof of the cookie’s in the eating.

Photo courtesy of AMIB