A very swish 1610 house, thoroughly refurbished, in the heart of old Chichester with oodles of space and a surprisingly large garden

An open-plan kitchen, sunny terrace and fruitful gardens shine at this private hillside villa. From here, it's easy to ski, swim or sunbathe

This stately-looking former manor house set back from the road in acres of gardens serves very good food and has rustic-chic bedrooms

Grand stone house set in tranquil parkland with a pool, potager and plenty of space for groups. Chickens and charm included

Head down the Strood causeway and step back in time for a slice of Mersea Island's old-world charm: beaches, fresh oysters & a charming inn

A bright and airy 50s townhouse in a residential suburb with large, light bedrooms and a sparkling pool – cycle into gorgeous countryside

Airy interiors, good local food and a blissful rural setting for this refurbished inn, popular with locals and with a happy, bustling vibe

On the outskirts of Marazion, this timber clad house perched above the sea is a super pad for romantic couples

Deep French countryside, fine hospitality from true nature lovers, fantastic bedrooms and delicious dinners in an outbuilding

A compact eco-serene bolthole in bustling Modica's historic heart with glorious views over the baroque rooftops. Beaches are 20 minutes away

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

An elegant manor house with pretty bedrooms, pool and large grounds. Nathalie looks after you with ease and sets you up with big breakfasts

A small top terrace can be booked for romantic evenings and you can lunch or dinner at the delightful floating restaurant

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

Warm interiors, pretty bedrooms and excellent breakfasts – good value in a very handy central spot

Wow. The sort of place you long for on dreary days - inspired architecture, heavenly views, delicious home-cooked food, a lake for swimming

Cosy 17th-century cottage in a village inland from Wells-next-the-Sea and with easy access to north Norfolk's main attractions