The wealth and privilege of past generations is sometimes astonishing. Take Witley Court in Worcestershire which, even in ruins, is a breathtaking spectacle.

With grand pillars, formal gardens, an orangery and gold-domed church overlooking a lake, not to mention one of the most beautiful fountains I’ve ever set eyes on, it’s a vision of ghostly grandeur.

The English Heritage owned site, which started life as a medieval manor house, once belonged to the Foley family and was renowned for its lavish parties, hosting royalty.

What’s left after it was destroyed in a fire in 1937, is so beautiful you can scarcely imagine the splendour of its past.

For a day out, it provides the most wonderful sense of escapism. We arrived shortly after lockdown rules were relaxed and at our allocated time slot, followed arrowed walkways, which sadly don’t include the pretty lakeside walk.

But the woodland area leading to the court is lovely to admire along the way. Some of the ancient trees are astonishing in their size and splendour.

And then, from around the edge of the lake, there it stands in the distance, an imposing pile of golden Bath stone pillars, arched window frames, balconies, sweeping staircases and beautiful balustrades.

A vision of Downton Abbey-esque remains, that really stirs the emotions as your imagination fills the gaps of what life there would have been like.

The perfect proportions of the former orangery’s lavender-lined arches is my favourite spot and it’s a great place to watch the central Perseus and Andromeda fountain gush to life each hour, as jets arc high (100 metres) into the sky.

‘Only’ 29 of the jets fire up. It actually has 120 and is described as sounding like a steam train if they’re all in action. The chance to see one of Europe’s grandest fountains brought sparklingly to life is utterly spectacular.

At only a 50 minute drive from the Cotswolds, this spot is well worth a day trip.

Tickets cost £9 for adults and £6 for children. For more information visit www.english-heritage.org.uk.