Up the drive flanked by grazing horses, to a warm welcome from the housekeeper and a great fire in the hall. Perfect for family gatherings

In the gardens of a laid-back country house, a barn with books, games, faded rugs and a grand piano – a treat for convivial families

Irresistible for art, design and heritage-lovers, bird-watchers and those who love to explore Norfolk's wide open spaces

Eco-friendly B&B overlooking Lake Como with marvellous mountain and lake views. Heaps of space, generous hosts, a menagerie of animals

A contemporary rooftop room in a warmly civilised B&B filled with books and lovely things – stunning view too

A warm and convivial place steeped in French history with an interesting, kind host who really looks after you. Under an hour from Paris too

This grand house on the river Derwent oozes old-fashioned comfort – find traditional bedrooms, delicious food and an open fire

A beautiful 18th-century manor house on a productive wine estate with an enticing garden, spa and pool by a nature reserve. Views soar

A Georgian manor house in the old quarter of Penzance, close to the water, with good food and a chilled vibe

Vibrant, artistic barn conversion in the heart of York, a five-minute walk from the Minster. Convivial place with helpful, friendly hosts

A small, trendy hotel, very much of its time, with oodles of style, stunning bedrooms and fantastic staff

Come to unwind in nature, surrounded by sun-drenched fields in this large, rustic but elegant villa with courtyard, garden and pool

Traditional Provencal farmhouse with a large garden and a swimming pool. Historic villages with markets and great restaurants close by

An 18th-century listed cottage in a pretty terrace with a private courtyard garden and pond, just a short walk from the high street

An old-world inn full of colour, with open fires, cosy rooms, local food and the magnificent Northumberland National Park all around

An attractive converted stable with covered veranda, private garden and views over rolling countryside, minutes from the coast

An old sporting lodge in Argyll renovated with sensitivity – fish in the river, gaze at the night skies, climb Ben Udlaidh

Delightful B&B on a working farm, generous hosts welcome you with tea and homemade cake. Bring a piece of furniture and give it a facelift!