Waddesdon Manor

Ever wondered how you’d splurge once you’ve made your fortune? In the 19th century, Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild blew his Benjamins on this French-Renaissance chateau, stuffed it with art and antiques, then had champagne on his cornflakes every morning. Ok, we made that last bit up.

Since then, it’s been used as a filming location for some of our favourite period dramas including Bridgerton, Downton Abbey, and The Crown making it a must-visit for superfans.

Highlights include a clever mechanical elephant (apparently the Shah of Persia was a big fan), intricately carved fireplaces and massive gold mirrors. There’s also a desk made for Marie Antoinette, paintings by Gainsborough, and lots of lethal-looking guns, swords, and axes.

The grounds are really relaxing to walk in, and you might see the Flint House on your stroll – a cool contemporary building that’s a sanctuary for academics and artists. If you fancy seeing a mini Versailles in some lovely Buckinghamshire surroundings, Waddesdon Manor is a top pick.