National Trust - Farnborough Hall

The house itself is a handsome Georgian affair, all honey-coloured stone and sash windows, sitting comfortably in the Northamptonshire landscape a few miles south of Banbury. What makes Farnborough Hall different from the usual National Trust property tour is the emphasis on the grounds - there's a proper terrace walk that extends for half a mile across the estate, offering views across the valley that justify the leg work. The interiors are decent enough if you're into 18th-century furnishings and family portraits, but frankly it's the obelisk and the vistas that people come for.

Hours-wise, you're looking at an afternoon job rather than a full day. Two to three hours covers the house and the main terrace comfortably. The walk itself is straightforward - no scrambling involved - which makes it accessible for families with younger kids, though they'll need to be reasonably mobile. Walkers will appreciate it more than those after a stately home interiors experience.

If you're basing yourselves at one of the local caravan parks like Anita's or Fir Tree - both within a couple of miles - it's an easy morning or afternoon slot in the itinerary. The nearest proper town is Oxford, south of here, though Banbury's closer if you need lunch before or after. National Trust admission applies, so check their current rates before you visit. Spring is the obvious time when the grounds are showing properly, but it's open through the warmer months. Worth the drive if you're already in the area; don't make a special journey for it alone.