The Royal Route (Extended Route), Stowe

This easy 2.6 km walk winds through the celebrated landscape gardens at Stowe in Buckinghamshire, linking some of the estate's most photographed follies and monuments. Beginning at the imposing Corinthian Arch, the route leads you past the Pebble Alcove and down to the Cascade and Artificial Ruins, where water and stonework combine to picturesque effect.

From there the path continues to the Doric Arch and the Gothic Cross before reaching the Grotto, a shaded and atmospheric spot tucked into the gardens. Climbing gently onward, you pass the Queen's Temple and the grand Temple of Concord and Victory, finishing at the muscular statue group of Hercules and Antaeus.

With only 46 metres of ascent spread over 45 minutes of walking, this is an unhurried outing suited to almost anyone. If you have time to extend your visit, nearby features include Lord Cobham's Pillar, the Temple of Friendship, the Palladian Bridge, the Rotunda and the Statue of King George II, all within the wider Stowe landscape.