ON OUR DOORSTEP...

Visit… ‘Staunton Harold reservoir for walks (and Tea Rooms for cake after). Calke Abbey (01332 863822, nationaltrust.org.uk) near Ticknall is stunning, both grounds and house.’ Shop at… ‘Newark International Antiques & Collectors Fair (iacf.co. uk/newark) for brilliant bargains. The Studio at Melbourne (01332 986363) and Lily & Lime (0844 800 8867, lilyandlime.co.uk) are great for interiors and painted furniture.’ Go for a meal at… ‘Amalfi White (01332 694890, amalfiwhite.com) and The Bay Tree (01332 863358, baytreerestaurant.com) in Melbourne. Amalfi has pizza, pasta and a lovely outside area, so is great for children; there’s also a Prosecco bar. Rex, the chef at The Bay Tree, is so clever. It’s a real institution.’

Bathroom A corner cupboard in warm wood that once belonged to Gemma’s grandmother is handy for display. Further country style comes from tongue-andgroove panelling and plantation shutters. Panelling, painted in Pointing; walls, Clunch, both by Farrow &...