The Water Tower, Aldeburgh, Suffolk. A Grade II-listed ,1870s former water tower with a roo- top pavilion and far-reaching views of the River Alde. It has a double-height drawing room that retains its

Bucklesham Hall, Bucklesham, Ipswich, Suffolk. A renovated, 15th-century hall set in formal gardens with spring-fed lakes, including one with a Japanese-style bridge and an island. It has beamed ceili

The Bank of England, Threadneedle Street, London EC2

Swerve the big-name gardens and put these dynamic alternatives on your must-visit list this year. Chosen by our garden writer Camilla Phelps, they offer plenty of fresh inspiration to bring back to your own plot

IMAGE: SIMON BURT TREVOLT ARCHITECTS JACOB DOWN LOCATION ...

These five standout properties have halls made for towering trees, sparkling decorations and Champagne-bright celebrations– festive magic that will practically begin before new owners move in