ON OUR DOORSTEP...

Visit… ‘Thorndon and Weald Country Parks for lovely bracing outdoor walks with the dogs.’ Shop at… ‘Calcott Hall (01277 264164, calcotthall.com) near Brentwood has a lovely farm shop and café that I go to frequently − it grows its own produce and supports local producers.’ Go for a meal at… ‘The Blue Crown (01277 375485, thebluecrownbrentwood.co.uk) and The Black Horse (01277 374946, vintageinn.co.uk/ restaurants/east/ theblackhorsebrentwood) are traditional country pubs with roaring fires and you can go inside in your wellies.’

Guest bedroom For a sophisticated yet cosy scheme, layer plain white bedding with cushions and throws. Bed, Alter London. Bedlinen, The White Company. Throw, Romo. Pendant light, Dar Lighting. Cushions, Alexander James Interior Design. Bedside lamps, RV Astley.