Quirky townhouse on the edge of the Peak District, with country walks from the door, plus shops, cinema, heritage centre, bistros and pubs

Bright and spacious barn for two and a baby on the South Downs Way, close to Brighton and the coast

At the foot of the Cambrian Mountains, an ancient whitewashed cottage with cosy, light-flooded interiors – a perfect rural bolthole for two

Art-inspired B&B in a former silkworm factory. Swim in the eco-pool, feast on delicious food, explore Avignon, Arles and Roman ruins

Come for a quiet, spoiling B&B, delicious breakfasts, delightful wines and a stunning garden with pool in the heart of southern Burgundy

A roomy, open-plan space for romantics, with complete privacy but with pub, bakery and views of the market garden from your own terrace

Sleek modern interiors now grace this ancient building with architectural joys, a courtyard garden and rooftop terrace with views

A traditional cottage in Polruan on the Fowey estuary with harbour and cove views and a tea shop and two pubs in the village

A handsome house with breath-taking mountain views: perfect for summer holidays and walking in spring and autumn

A clutch of airy properties, most with their own jasmine-scented terraces arranged around a funky pool

Chic barn conversion with a swimming pool and country walks from the door; nearby Ventnor has a beach and great places to eat and drink

An 18th-century townhouse restored with flair by former restauranteurs: come for colour, comfort and sublime dining

A beguiling retreat for a couple or a family of four – feel cosy and secluded in a thatched cottage close to the coast

Swim with frogs in the freshwater pool, breakfast in the sunshine, play boules by moonlight. Châteaux don't get much more rural

A lovely house set in 20 hectares with a park, two ponds, paths winding through and a pretty river. Delicious locally-sourced meals too

Glorious Elizabethan manor house lovingly furnished with exceptional art and antiques by its welcoming owners

Light, bright and smartly decorated, this grown-up B&B is a calm retreat from the hectic whirl near charming Colwell Bay, Isle of Wight

Come for Goodwood and good fun - simple, relaxed old farmhouse style with quirky touches, a lovely garden and long views