Anyone who’s Googled pictures of Windsor will have come across a shot of the Long Walk and the towering Copper Horse statue that marks its start. Commissioned by King George IV to commemorate his father, George III, it signifies the start of the 4km straight road that leads walkers to the entrance of Windsor Castle. The tree-lined avenue is a popular trail to enjoy on foot or by bike, with the grass that runs along either side being ideal for a picnic pit stop with a view.

No, your eyes aren’t playing tricks on you: the black-and-white building next to the Guildhall really is wonky, and has been for centuries. Home to a range of businesses over the years, from tea rooms to jewellers, it’s now empty, but it’s such a talked-about part of Windsor’s architecture that it remains – and might always remain – patiently waiting for its next inhabitant. In the meantime, it’s ready and characteristically slouchy in preparation for its next photo op.

Heston Blumenthal’s three-starred The Fat Duck, his (somewhat) more affordable The Hind’s Head gastropub and the Roux brothers’ equally twinkly The Waterside Inn are all located in this sleepy, chocolate-box hamlet, a 12-minute drive from Windsor. We’d recommend lacing up your boots for a countryside walk between the timbered cottages of the riverside parish to work up an appetite, before venturing to your pick of the acclaimed establishments – reservations essential.