Houghton Lodge is so tucked away in the Hampshire countryside that I’ll forgive you for not stumbling across it yet. But stumble upon it you must. It’s the most delightful place to spend an afternoon; a stunning 18^th century private house surrounded by beautifully manicured lawns that sweep down to the banks of the River Test.

The entrance fee is collected via an honesty box, as is your payment for the tea rooms (every visit needs a piece of homemade cake). It really does feel like you’re exploring someone’s private garden, not visiting a tourist attraction.

The walled kitchen garden has to be my favourite discovery; ancient pear and apple trees, pungent herbs, blowsy roses and peonies, sweetpeas climbing their way up bamboo canes and row upon row of organically grown vegetables destined for the Houghton Lodge kitchens.

It’s a great place to visit with friends and family, but equally I can’t think of anywhere lovelier to indulge in a bit of quiet time alone. Throw a blanket down on the riverbank and enjoy the amazing views. And don’t forget to venture right to the bottom of the garden where you’ll find Tom, Dicky and Harry, the three resident alpacas.