Its pronunciation is the subject of perpetual debate but its appeal among hungry Brits remains dependably constant.

Whether enjoyed as a satisfying savoury snack, or as part of a lavish cream tea, the humble scone is a national institution.

But its versatility isn’t limited to plain old jam and cream - as the catering team at a beachfront Suffolk attraction Heath are today out to demonstrate.

The National Trust is celebrating the great British bite by holding a ‘Sconeathon’ at Dunwich Heath’s Coastguard Cottages tea rooms, where catering manager Robert Conwell will be whipping up 20 varieties of the tasty treat.

A special menu includes raspberry and white chocolate - Mr Conwell’s personal favourite - lemon and stem ginger, sticky toffee, and Stilton and ale.

“We are really passionate about making fresh homemade cakes and scones here at Dunwich Heath, and the Sconeathon enables us to really put on a show of some of our best scone recipes,” said Mr Conwell, who opts for the ‘scone as in bone’ pronunciation.

“It is a really fun day where are visitors can try something a bit different while also enjoying a fab day out on the Suffolk coast.”

The Sconeathon begins at 10am, with the last scone scoffed by 5pm. Three scones are being offered to customers for £3.

Mr Conwell said: “If you’re coming as a couple or as part of a larger group there’s quite a variety of scones that you can sample between you.

“We will also be giving out our scone loyalty card so every time you buy a scone you collect a stamp which sets you on your way to a free scone.”

Dunwich Heath is on the east Suffolk coast, near Saxmundham, between Sizewell and Southwold. The tea room is converted from the old coastguard lookout and enjoys panoramic views of the Suffolk coastline.