Family-friendly lakes retreat steeped in local history. Acres of wild country to get lost in and a splendid bar to help find yourself again

A very pretty old coach house in a south London garden – perfect for a couple or a family. Friendly owners live across the courtyard

Perfect château B&B with pointy turrets and pale blue shutters, surrounded by gorgeous countryside, a cycle route and ancient villages

Elegant, calm, charming B&B in a 12th-century house surrounded by fields, quiet country roads and vibrant little villages

A peaceful grown-up place circled by meadows and woodland with helpful owners next door – a superb spot to explore the south-west

A cottage to help you feel restored and refreshed; uninterrupted views of the coast, a hamper of local produce and wildlife spotting.

Feel right at home in a thatched farmhouse on South Pool Creek, with cottage garden views, great breakfasts and a good local pub

In off-the-beaten-track Tuscany, 2 peaceful apartments in a former haybarn, both carefully renovated with antique furniture

Immersed in vines and valleys, a glorious Girondine villa in which to gather close to Saint-Émilion – come together, walk, read, reconnect

A neat, recently restored townhouse on three floors in sleepy Panicale with plenty of space and everything within walking distance

Walks start from the door of this fun B&B with delightful owners and unique style in the lush landscape of ‘All Creatures Great and Small’

A big warm, generous, house for a large group with a fenced garden and stunning views into the far distance. Child and dog friendly

A delightful coastal house with lush courtyard gardens, masses of space, home office and terraces galore

A fascinating restoration, a harmonious retreat from the heat, and owners whose enthusiasm is infectious – what are you waiting for?

A deeply thoughtful conversion of an old Presbyterian church with wonderful watery views, much wildlife and plenty of space for joyful times

Get to know Lisbon with ease from this generous and comfortable townhouse hotel bang in the middle of the city centre

Cosy apartment for two in a cluster of farm buildings near Hawkshead, surrounded by countryside and with a good pub a stroll away

A wonderful green getaway with wrap-around views of Norfolk nature; walk Weavers’ Way, birdwatch at Blakeney, enjoy the coast at Cromer