Head out from London for a late-summer loop: a mid-morning train to Box Hill & Westhumble, climb the Zig Zag to picnic on the National Trust viewpoint, then descend through vines for a guided tasting on Denbies’ terrace. Book ahead and bring sturdy shoes.

Less than an hour from London Bridge, Hever Castle packs Tudor rooms, a double moat and award-winning gardens into an ideal day trip. Spend the morning in Anne Boleyn’s childhood rooms, wander the Italian terraces and finish with playful time in the yew and water mazes.