How to make friends and entertain people

These glorious gardens are the perfect places to enjoy the last of the summer sun

- James Fisher

Hampshire, £549,950

A beautiful period home on the outskirts of the hamlet of West Stratton, Spinney Cottage is all the evidence you'll ever need that good things come in small packages. This two-bedroom home, listed Grade II, is exceptionally well presented and includes a superb kitchen/dining room, spacious living room, and two en-suite bedrooms on the first floor.

Approached via a path through the cottage garden to the front of the house, the real magic lies to the rear, where a rose-filled oasis awaits. The large terrace provides great space for entertaining and, at the far end of the garden, a raised deck offers expansive views. Savills (01962 841842)

Gloucestershire, £1.25 million