Five ways to switch off and relax

In need of some escapism? Tune into a storytelling session. Naturally, the best tales come with a twist – such as The Wish, written by British Vogue’s former editor-in-chief, Alexandra Shulman during a sojourn at the Mandarin Oriental, Paris. Next, check out The Writer’s Voice, where the New Yorker’s starriest contributors read their own short fiction (think Salman Rushdie, Zadie Smith and co). Finally, you’ll find some familiar voices at NPR’s acclaimed Selected Shorts, with A-listers including David Schwimmer moonlighting as narrators.

Edible plants can thrive in the smallest of spaces. Basil is easily grown from seed on a sunny windowsill, while smaller crops (tomatoes or strawberries, say) will thrive on a sheltered balcony. No access to seeds? No problem. Coriander, cumin, mustard and fennel seeds, rescued from your spice rack, can be lightly covered in damp soil then left to sprout in the sun. For inspiration on a grander scale, explore the National Garden Scheme’s escapist Virtual Visits, where you’ll find more than 190 gardens to visit virtually, from the small and suburban to historic patches once frequented by the likes of Jane Austen and Anne Boleyn.