Grab your bucket list, babe, because I have a new one for you. A walk with alpacas! Vic and Rich’s herd at Little Orchard Alpacas love going for walkies with humans as much as humans love going for walkies with them. And just look at the babies! (Or more correctly ‘cria’.) Aren’t they adorable?

According to Vic, these South American camelids (related to camels) have sweet, gentle natures, with a cheeky inquisitiveness. Vic fell in love with on a visit to a farm and eight years later, she and husband Rich – with son, Arthur in tow – now own a herd on their 9-acre farm near Axminster.

Vic has curated a variety of experiences to suit all ages, with Alpaca Walking suitable for ages 5+. Over a relaxing hour or two, you’re given the lowdown about the animals, then they’re harnessed up and off you go. She says that spending time with alpacas is good for bringing down the blood pressure, and they’re a hit with hen parties. You can even hire them bedecked in pompoms for your festival wedding. (BTW, I checked with Vic – alpacas don’t spit unless they’re very threatened and besides it leaves a horrible taste in their mouth. Urban myth busted.)

Having fed the alpacas, it’s your turn for a treat: tasty cakes and cream tea, all homemade by Vic. You can also shop Vic’s homemade alpaca gear, including hats, scarves and yarn from the on-site gift store. Alpaca wool is incredibly insulating, keeping you warm in winter and cool in the summer, and it’s hypoallergenic.

Starting at £15 for kids under 10, and £28.50pp for adults, I can’t think of a better way to change up my weekend walks and dinner anecdotes.