Studley Royal Water Garden, Ripon, North Yorkshire

The stunning 18th-century creation of John Aislabie and his son William, Studley Royal Water Garden surrounds the romantic ruins of the 12th-century Fountains Abbey. In winter, the skeletal structure of ancient trees are reflected in the still, icy waters of the ornamental lakes and ponds, while red, fallow and sika deer can be glimpsed wandering among the statues and follies of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Open daily except Fridays, 10am-4pm. Tel: 01765 608888; nationaltrust.org.uk