‘Men may come and men may go, but Pie goes on for ever’

This week’s magazine is full of some of the best things in Britain, from beautiful gardens to talented artists and writers, historic buildings and lovely pies.

** Alnwick Garden in Northumberland has defied all expectations to be a resounding success. George Plumptre pays a visit.

** This July marks 150 years since the birth of Beatrix Potter. Matthew Dennison celebrates the author and conservationist.

** We explore the pre-Reformation history of Newstead Abbey in Nottinghamshire

** Tom Parker Bowles finds out who is eating all the pies, and Tate’s political correctness doesn’t prevent Clive Aslet from enjoying its new exploration of how artists have reflected the Empire over 400 years

** Our kitchen garden cook makes her favourite recipes this year with cauliflower