Proper village pub with much-praised food and cosy rooms; country walks lead from the door and Oxford is half an hour away

A honey-hued stone farmhouse or a stylish cottage – both are deep in delicious countryside with lovely walks by the rambling river

Rustic, relaxing, comfortable and fun with pool and play area, river beaches, great hosts, peaceful countryside, an hour from Porto

A 17th-Century Irish castle on the water’s edge. Watch the yachts from your bedroom, join local wine nights, discover the rich history

A captivating place for couples and families with fabulous views, pool and foodie hosts. River water sports, markets and vineyards near

Three tranquil apartments in the Ria Formosa nature reserve with a stunning natural pool, near to a village and sandy beaches

Come for much comfort in both buildings which face each other across the garden, plus a pool, lake, yoga and fitness studios

Enjoy fields of lavender and vines as far as the eye can see from this neat cottage, sharing a pool and gorgeous gardens with other guests

A gracious 17th-century manor house and a pretty Grange hidden down a tree-lined drive and with stunning views over woodlands

A family retreat high above the river Dordogne and deep in woodland - with heated pool, games room and village restaurants a stroll away

A pair of historic houses with far-reaching views of the Cotswold Hills and walks from the gate

An extraordinary, inspiring place: eat 100% vegan food, drink organic wine, sleep in natural materials, swim in the salt-water pool

Close to Saint-Jean-d'Angély, an elegant and spacious manor house with unfussy, comfortable interiors, bucolic views, big garden and pool

A 200-year old townhouse on a charming cobbled street with stunning views from the terraces over rooftop Olhão and down to the sea

A light larch-clad space for lovers, or a retreat for walkers and writers in pretty Orford, once a medieval sea port but now on the river

Five beautiful suites in the south wing of this fairy tale castle, filled with architectural features, family history and much grandeur

A sweet, very private-feeling annexe in the glorious South Hams with your own west-facing garden

Close to the expansive north Norfolk coast, this is a contemporary hotel with a laid-back vibe and excellent food