The golden rules of OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING

Add a Downton-style sparkle to your al fresco party this summer, with a little help from Lady Carnarvon

- CHRISTABEL SMITH

There are few things nicer than an al fresco party in the middle of the English summer. Every hostess with the mostest needs inspiration, and who better than Lady Fiona Carnarvon, whose home Highclere Castle is known and loved by millions as TV's Downton Abbey, to guide you through? Here, she shares her golden rules for outdoor entertaining, and proves you don't need staff or a stately home to throw a brilliant bash.

Don't try to be perfect

We've all appreciated being outside more since the lockdown years, and it's more important than ever to live, cook and eat well. When drawing up a guest list, focus on people you really want to see and don't be afraid to mix old and young. Take time to enjoy yourself and don't aim for perfection - it's a party, not a competition.

Kick off with a cocktail

There's something about a cocktail that says 'Party time!'. Negronis (one part gin, one part red vermouth and one part Campari) are popular, and the English Garden (50ml gin, 25ml elderflower liqueur, 15ml lime juice, 75ml apple juice) looks pretty in a long glass. For a soft alternative, mix elderflower cordial with sparkling water and decorate with apple peel and mint. I make my own cordial in advance and freeze it in ice trays.

Simply delicious