Short break: Boston, USA

Today, head east from the Common, into the Public Gardens to float in a Swan Boat; these have cruised the lagoon for 130 years.

To the north is Beacon Hill, a handsome cluster of cobbles and brownstones. In the 19th century, this area was home to the city’s free black community; follow the Black Heritage Trail, which ends at the African Meeting House, built in 1806.

The streets south-west of the Public Gardens are lined with lovely houses. Newbury Street is best for shoppers; its stores and cafés get more indie the further down you go.

Turn south at Gloucester Street for The Pru Tower’s 50th-floor Skywalk Observatory. Also on Boylston are the Old South Church, Trinity Church and the finish line of the Boston Marathon.

Next, head to theIsabella Stewart Gardner Museum, a collection of interesting artefacts housed in a 20th-century palace.

Finish at nearby Fenway Park to watch the Red Sox– there are regular games in season.