Hotel Endsleigh

Milton Abbot, Devon

Alan Titchmarsh described the gardens here as an “Arcadian landscape”.

That’s no overstatement. Designed by Humphry Repton in 1814, these Elysian 100-plus acres feature formal planting, woodlands, follies, grottos, streams and bridges, a dell with picnic spots and an arboretum. Built for the 6th Duke of Bedford and his Duchess, Georgiana, the property also has eight miles of riverbank for salmon and trout fishing.

Return from exploring the grounds to afternoon tea in the library or dinner in the original wood-panelled dining room before you retire to an elegant bedroom. ■■Doubles from £260, B&B, hotelendsleigh.com