For many bleary-eyes travellers, the journey between Heathrow and central London is an anonymous journey on the Piccadilly Line. However, for the more adventurous (or more wide-awake) traveller, the suburbs between the airport and the centre of town hold a few precious treasures.

One of my recent discoveries is the magnificent Osterley House and Park. If you’re an aspiring stately home owner like me, a couple of hours exploring the neo-classical rooms or wandering through the gardens will make you feel like the lord or lady of the manor.

Exploring Osterley House itself is like stepping into a Jane Austen novel. In its heyday, the house was mainly used for entertaining and impressing guests. The ornate furnishings, rich tapestries and detailed references to Classical architecture all add to the home’s personality.

Although there is an admission fee to see the home and garden, walking around the grounds is completely free. Plus the stables have been converted to a neat cafe – ideal for a lazy brunch and relaxing with a coffee. For gentle autumn mornings, I can think of few better ways than strolling around the lakes, listening to birdsong and enjoying the splendour of Osterley Park.