Not heard of Shilstone? This Georgian gem is about to get much better known. It’s been hiding in plain sight as a private wedding venue for 12 years, and now, its gorgeous gates have been thrown open to all. It’s like a fabulous new National Trust property has suddenly landed on the Devon map, providing a delicious new opportunity for family walks and meet-ups.

We found Shilstone while searching for a high-end venue venue for this year’s Muddy Awards Do, and were blown away by our tour. The farmhouse café is a brilliant new brunch/lunch spot, with a gravelled sun trap courtyard and a rustic outdoor kitchen opening soon. Set in 500 acres of prime Devon countryside, the landscaped gardens meander gently through walled gardens with an old stone folly, into a greenhouse scented with geraniums or past topiary. It’s all just so peaceful and elegant.

We’re hungry for Shilstone’s gastro opportunities too. Afternoon tea aficionados – here’s a jammy new one to get on your radar. The Shilstone chefs also lay on a roast every Sunday, either in the Great Barn and, during the summer months, in a stately marquee overlooking the gardens. It’s perfect for families.

If you’re looking for a place to get hitched, Shilstone’s wedding packages cater from 50 to 200 people, and that fabulous Georgian Manor, the Great Barn and stunning Mughal Marquee, as well as a team of talented in-house chefs, are all at your disposal. I enquired about the the price of weddings, and I was pleasantly surprised at how reasonable it is for the quality.

With free parking close by, and above the café, an archive of Devon rural life – brimming with fascinating books and sepia-tinged photographs – we think Shilstone is a very exciting find. You just MUST go and see it for yourself.