Set off on blissful walks, trek home to crumpets and tea. There’s no better place to escape the 21st century than rural Devon

Small country hotel in a riverside setting near Giverny, with a superb restaurant and a charming village a few minutes’ walk away

A destination for epicurians who also want exquisite surroundings and comfortable bedrooms. A charming garden too with a very French feel

One of England's oldest coaching inns, full of history and wonky floors, on a Surrey market town's high street

The views are sensational, the bedrooms full of charm and higgledy-piggledy beams. Sip Perigord Noir on the terrace and amble to the market

A gorgeous house with oodles of original features, a lovely garden and the owners' pub, farm shop, brewery and spa a short walk

Come for the utter silence and the rare beauty of this far north-westerly landscape, teeming with wildlife. An antidote to city life

Round up family and friends and head for the glorious South Hams and this eco-friendly barn conversion for ten with extra cottage

A pretty cottage by the sea, with uplifting views, restful bedrooms, the beach a short hop, gorgeous walks and lively Kinsale nearby

Old wooden sleigh beds, check-clothed tables, log fires, a courtyard of centuries-old trees, a claw foot bath. Stacks of character

Everything is on the doorstep and you'll find much comfort at these smart self-catering apartments in the heart of the city

Stylish B&B rooms in a peaceful little château, amongst rolling hills, woods and farmland - bikes and boules to borrow, lovely pool to share

An award-winning dog-friendly pub with rooms. Find happy staff, delicious well-sourced food and comfy rooms – great for walkers

A pleasing (not very little) place to stay in the heart of a wood within the unspoilt countryside of the South Downs National Park

Independence at one end of the house with your own sitting room opening onto a courtyard garden. Good pub for food a few minutes' walk away

A smart B&B in the heart of Beaune sitting quietly in half a hectare of gorgeous gardens; you're well looked after by your charming hosts

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

Deep in Burgundy's wine country, an elegant maison de maître sits in acres of gloriously private parkland