History hangs about Roderick and Helena Perceval’s Georgian mansion, approached via a drive through sheep-grazed parkland. History, yes – there have been Percevals on this land since 1665 – but, on a given day, there may be the scent of freshly baked honey almond biscuits as well. On a sweeping estate including ancient woods and a lakeside Knights Templar castle, the ancestral home has antiques, gilt-framed portraits, ‘plenty of country and nature scenes’, ‘a lived-in feel’. B&B accommodation is in large, high-ceilinged bedrooms decorated in period style (some were refurbished this year). Gather with fellow guests in the ‘cosy’ drawing room, its French windows overlooking the croquet lawn and terraced gardens; on chilly days, a log fire blazes here. In the evening, a set menu of ‘quality country house cuisine’, served communally, might include lamb from the estate and ‘generous portions’ of home-grown vegetables. Sleep well – ‘heavy curtains on the bedroom windows mean it’s completely dark if that’s how you like it’ – then wake to home-made muesli, local sausages, ‘delicious fruit compotes’ made with fruit from the walled garden.