BUCKINGHAMSHIRE’S Hambleden Valley is one of England’s true hidden gems. Bypassed by through traffic, it is a lovely spot to explore on foot or bicycle if you keep to the path beside the Hamble Brook.

■ Distance: 5¾ miles/9.4km ■ Time: 4 hours ■ ...

■ Distance: 6 miles/9.7km ■ Time: 3 hours ■ ...

■ Distance: 5½ miles/9km ■ Time: 3 hours ...

Drive into Lavenham High Street and you instantly feel you have stumbled onto the set of a period drama. Lining the main street, half-timbered facades in Mediterranean and pastel colours give this Suf

■ Distance: 10 miles/16km ■ Time: 4¼ hours ■ ...