Wimpole Estate is a magical place, a stately Georgian home surrounded by magnificent gardens with ample opportunity to explore. Before moving into the ownership of the National Trust, Wimpole Hall was the home of George Bambridge a British diplomat, and his wife Elsie, daughter of the author Rudyard Kipling. We start with a quick tour through the elegant rooms, stopping to delight in the striking yellow drawing room designed by Sir John Soane.

Seeking fresh air, we walk through the orchard to the walled garden. This is my favourite spot, sheltered from the wind. Soaking up warmth from the afternoon sun, we amble along the paths bordered by fruits and vegetables, grown to provide the estate with seasonal produce. It’s lambing season at the farm, and the farm hands have helpfully laid out hay bales so we can sit and marvel at the new arrivals in their first few days.

Those wanting to stretch their legs further can explore the expansive landscape gardens and pleasure grounds, where there is a good chance of meeting rare breed cattle. This time though we’re feeling lazy, so take a leisurely stroll back to the restaurant for a cup of tea and slice of cake instead.