In an outstanding area for lovers of food and wine, here are 3 beautiful boltholes in the Alto Douro, the oldest wine region in the world

An impressive manor house set in gentle rolling countryside ten miles from Oxford with a delightful garden, warm hosts and organic breakfast

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

Escape your cares here, move from terrace to terrace tracking the sun's progress and dive into the sea from your own swimming platform

An entire literary estate on the Brittany coast, with a trio of restored houses, fabulous gardens and a private path to the beach

A real gem set back from the hustle and bustle but perfectly placed to explore the city's many charms

A light, airy and comfortable barn conversion on a farm with stunning views over the Dorset/Devon border just five miles to the sea

Plunge into real Spain from this ancient village house with very modern interiors, stunning views, a cooling pool and a hop from restaurants

Deep in the Lake District, a well-loved family home with open fires and heavenly views, a private woodland and a short walk to a good pub

Three simple, traditional apartments in an ancient convent building with a beautiful botanical garden in the heart of the historic centre

In a mellowstone village with a jolly pub, a super raftered barn with generous touches. Friendly owners next door know the Cotswolds well...

A handsome little château perched on the edge of a verdant valley, with wonderful views, lots of space and a rambling garden

A magical medieval castello, gloriously gothic with tower, moat and ghost, fit for a Shakespearian play.

Art-filled and atmospheric, with stunning sea views and a sunny walled garden. Just moments from the beaches and charms of Lyme Regis

A 17th-century townhouse sitting on a quiet side street with lots of original features and a west-facing patio screened by vines and lemons

A stylish farm renovation with pools, gym, and flower-filled gardens - find rural tranquillity close to Brittany’s most famous landmarks