Crocus at Dorney Court Café

As the name suggests, this was once the kitchen garden that supplied the manor house at Dorney with fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers. It's even rumoured to be the place where England’s first pineapple was grown. This walled garden near Eton's Garden Centre is a celebration of flora and nature, with displays that often feature hard-to-find plants (there's even a tree showroom). If seeking eco-friendly growing supplies, covetable home and garden décor and unusual gifts, you've come to the right place.

There’s plenty of seating in the modern, oak-beamed café; in summer make the most of the shaded garden with its large play area, Wendy house and fort for lively little warriors. The café is filled with restful greenery and serves wholesome seasonal produce, delicious homemade cakes and afternoon teas. You might even rub shoulders with acclaimed rowers on the hunt for foodie fuel after a stint on Dorney's Olympic rowing lake nearby. Book a ticket to explore the house, which is often used in film and TV productions.