Dig out those stretchy pants people, you’re going to need them! Famed for its artisan breads and perfect pastries, Hambleton Bakery in Exton, not far from Oakham in glorious Rutland, has amassed a dedicated following of fans – and no wonder.

Dishing up fabulous, award-winning artisan breads and knock-out cakes and pastries, this place is your go-to for drool-worthy dough. Everything is handmade, free of additives and preservatives, and baked daily using traditional techniques. On the menu, you’ll find sumptuous sourdough, spelt and rye, as well as dee-licious savouries, cakes and desserts.

Owned by Tim Hart (who also runs Michelin-starred Hambleton Hall on Rutland Water and Nottingham’s Hart’s Hotel & Kitchen), the Exton shop and café, with its chic, cosy tables and delightful outdoor terrace with picturesque views, serves breakfasts, lunches, breads and treats crafted using traditional methods that taste a world away from common or garden supermarket varieties.

Be sure to check out their bakeries in Stamford, Market Harborough, Oundle, and Rothley too and, if you’re further afield, there’s a shop and café in St Ives, Cambridgeshire and another shop in West Bridgford in Notts. Next stop: world domination.