Come for the gorgeous, wild North York Moors and this very pretty 1911 stone cottage in the grounds of an elegant manor house

On the doorstop, Dovedale, Buxton, Chatsworth House... Come home to snooker, books, logs, a patio with views and masses of lovely space

Leave the car, everything is walkable & buses are practically free. Visit restaurants, vineyards & markets from your lofty village bolthole

Near to the sea, surrounded by pristine vineyards and sheltered by the walls of an ancient farmhouse, you'll feel secluded from tourists

Glorious airy living space in this superbly restored barn, a terrace with long views and a pool across the garden - bikes to borrow too

A small yet elegant place for couples or small groups to enjoy the open countryside, rest, join a cooking course or book a massage

A reader writes, 'This place turned out to be one of life's wonderful experiences - a beautiful setting, gorgeous food, kindest of hosts...'

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

A scented garden, delicious local delicacies and those coastal landscapes. This place is a sensory feast

Modern, timber-clad building attached to a Georgian stable block, for smooth lines, high ceilings and lots of light in glorious countryside

Unwind comfortably here with views to the crystal-clear lake, surrounded by forest trails and meadows for wonderful walking and cycling

After a day touring châteaux, return to this pretty, very comfortable cottage with private terrace and a garden filled with birdsong

Colourful coastal apartments and studios where you can be nicely independent, and enjoy a communal café and health club with Art Deco pool

Explore the coastal paths on foot or by bike, or simply sunbathe next to the pool... Leafy gardens, comfortable rooms and excellent dinners

Come down to the Meon Valley and be (very gently) nudged towards a better way of living - a Sawday's Community Champion

Rooms in an old palazzo in the historic centre of town, with a swimming pool, restaurant and café, and lovely beaches a short drive away

Come to stay in a lovely old house surrounded by an important garden created by three generations of brilliant women gardeners

A friendly, generous, big old house with not an ounce of pretension. Big families will adore gathering here to have fun and unwind