A classic period property right on the river, perfectly placed to explore the delights of nearby Marlborough

A lovely 1910 village house, deep in sleepy countryside, with delightful owners, delicious home cooking and a pretty garden for lazy days

A rural haven in a lovely garden with comfortable bedrooms, brilliant breakfasts and bikes for hire – explore the Parque Natural

Stylish seaside inn with stunning salt marsh views from a decked terrace, delicious food, wine and ales and sea-breezy modern bedrooms

A lovely old house and rambling garden in a medieval village with a monumental château, 12th-century church and a good local restaurant

An old farm worker's cottage, niftily done up and nicely remote, with walking and fishing on the doorstep, four miles from Hadrian's Wall

In a commanding position surrounded by private land, this old manor house is excellently equipped and ideal for a big family holiday

Welcoming, dog-friendly pub with food to rave about, cracking countryside views and very comfortable bedrooms

Peace, space and sophisticated living at a serene villa-apartment in the hills above Cannes

Elegant country château with a family feel, for big groups with or without children, and those who seek inspiration

A family-run 1700s thatched Inn in a rural hamlet with super food, a grand team to look after you and picnic benches in a pretty garden

Creative owners have made a gorgeous, arty space for couples or a small group of friends; good beaches and Salcombe are close

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

Swim with frogs in the freshwater pool, breakfast in the sunshine, play boules by moonlight. Châteaux don't get much more rural

Peaceful escape for couples in the grounds of a stately Tudor manor house; watch the wildlife from your garden, explore the nearby coast

Take a suite with champagne, strawberries and a tower, swim in the saltwater pool, eat a Castilian cocido - unwind in rural peace!

Ski in winter, walk and cycle in summer - return to unbeatable hospitality, warm, large and comfortable bedrooms with views, robust food

A handsome old country manor house in the heart of the Loire castles surrounded by parkland, forests, lakes, small hamlets, vineyards and châteaux