WITNESHAM HALL, SUFFOLK £2,500,000

There’s no better place for a spot of tennis on the courts, or a game of badminton on the manicured lawns of this statuesque Dutch-gabled manor, which dates back to the 16th century. Afterwards, players may wish to seek shade under the weeping-willow-tree, or refreshment in the conservatory, where the vines will soon be heavy with grapes. Contact Jackson-stops (www.jackson -stops.co.uk).