Steps from the sea in get-away-from-it-all scenery – half an hour’s walk from St Ives’ arty heart. Sleeps 4 with pull-out beds for 2 more

An enormous picture window gives you views over fields of sheep and the Cheviots, beaches are nearby. Return to huge comfort and warmth

17th-century farmhouse full of colour and interest with friendly hosts and great breakfasts. Explore the Cotswolds – bring the dog too

Delightful little antique-filled cottage with large walled garden and an allotment near Versailles. Gardeners will be happy

Come for a pretty 1860s house in a very fine spot, lovely gardens with views, traditional bedrooms, good food and super-friendly staff

There’s a Tuscan feel to this lovely, family-friendly place – walk to the sound of cicadas, stargaze, visit vineyards, markets and castles

Unwind in elegant interiors and set out on long walks in beautiful countryside; Chichester and Winchester are near

Unwind in glorious Northumberland with beaches, proper dunes, ancient castles and two cosy cottages with open fires, sea views and gardens

The largest of three secluded cottages that share a gravel courtyard and a beautiful garden with cathedral views

You’re in the middle of all the action in these luminous cliff edge apartments in an old family palazzo – walk everywhere

Recharge and reconnect with your creative side in one of Ania's workshops; secret coves, wild swimming and coastal walks are all close

A Victorian house on a 5000 acre estate, snazzily renovated and tucked down a track with a private lake, in the quieter part of Cumbria

Lovely views over the river Anglin from the large windows of this old industrial-like building, once used for honey production on the estate

Birders will love escaping up here, golfers too - visit Hatfield House, Knebworth, Cambridge - come back to a good local pub and a comfy bed

A deeply Sicilian feel to this lovely house surrounded by olive trees and decorated with handmade tiles, wood panelling and chandeliers

A relaxed country feel in this fine family villa. It has space and comfort for six with gardens, private pool, and tennis court

A beautifully converted dairy with a magical garden in a quiet village surrounded by lovely countryside

A red-brick cottage and Shepherd’s hut in a magical garden with a cookery school and views over the South Downs