Picnic in style

See one of West London's grandest mansions for free. The classical grounds offer good lakeside picnic opportunities, and you can also tour the Palladian house to see 14 newly displayed Old Masters and hear baroque music played by the Alpheus String Quartet.

English Heritage: Chiswick House Burlington Lane, W4 (020-8995 0508). Sun 6 Jun, 10am-5pm, free. Guided tours of house at 2pm & 3.15pm. www.english-heritage.org.uk.