Don't know how far this is from Stanstead but I would have thought that Bressingham Gardens, Diss, Norfolk would have been very high on your list, Karen. It is half a lifetime, and more, since we were there but I still remember it.

Thanks BA, will be looking into all the suggestions I get!

How far are you prepared to travel from the airport Karen?

Well, I don't want to spend all my time driving Anchorman, but I may stay at different places anyway, and will probably be away for three nights. I usually get very homesick when I'm apart from OH so won't be able to manage a whole week...ah, I know..love is amazing isn't it? lol ;) So, basically, anywhere around Essex, Cambs, and possibly Norfolk areas.

There are some attractive stately homes in North Norfolk but they might be a bit too far for you to travel

Holkham Hall

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holkham_Hall

Houghton Hall

http://www.houghtonhall.com/htmlfiles/1024index.htm

Thanks Anchorman...will have a look!

Also and this well worth a visit there's the Queens Norfolk residence at Sandringham

http://www.sandringhamestate.co.uk/Hmg.asp?S=2&V=1&P=2

Cambridge botanic gardens?

You could also check on the online NGS site for the dates and see what's on during that time.

Yes, thanks 2nd hand. I will do that!

Yes, Bressingham Gardens near Diss are wonderful. It may be too far, but Google "East Ruston Old Vicarage" - it's a fantastic garden in Norfolk, open from Wednesday to Saturdays.

Thanks Sheila

You're welcome, Karen. And glad to see that Beth Chatto is top of your list . . . better start saving!

Straight up the M11 from Stanstead will take you to the above places, very easy Journey.

Thanks Drc...good tip!

I do it quite a bit KS - I like to pop into The Imperial War Museum near Cambridge, been on a Concord there.

So have I DRC. At least 20 years ago.