Heaps to do on-site: organic farm shop & café, cookery & cheese-making courses, farm tours. A brilliant base for exploring the Cotswolds too

A private villa beautifully flanked by gardens bursting with fruit. Here you'll find real Spanish character, style and a sun-trap terrace

A cosy cottage on a farm down a long winding track, wonderfully rural with footpaths across fields or along the canal

A big, beamed contemporary barn filled with light and surrounded by unspoilt countryside for a romantic retreat.

A contemporary rooftop room in a warmly civilised B&B filled with books and lovely things – stunning view too

Converted barn with the most welcoming owners – the garden and pool are all yours; explore a less touristy part of the Dordogne

Vibrant, artistic barn conversion in the heart of York, a five-minute walk from the Minster. Convivial place with helpful, friendly hosts

Light-filled house full of modern art and antique finds with stunning gardens and a pool. The best of Provence is on your doorstep

This hidden valley is the dreamiest part of South Devon. Catch the ferry across the Dart; gaze on the hills; snuggle up by the wood-burner

A magical chateau set in the forested hills of Burgundy with lovely rooms, peaceful walks, home cooking and a merry welcome

A confident style for this mid-19th-century house, with a Mediterranean garden, elegant terrace and pool, a stroll from the historic centre

Tranquil retreat with pool, pétanque and spa – the perfect base for exploring historic Poitiers, châteaux and wonderful wine country

A slice of rural heaven close to the Pembrokeshire coast - good rooms, hearty food, wonderful walks and beautiful beaches wait

Deeply peaceful countryside retreat with exceptional food and wine laid on by Sam and Heather, your friendly hosts

Come for a sense of complete peace surrounded by country and coast with wonderful interiors to boot – a bolthole for two (plus two)

In a leafy, peaceful part of Frome - a very civilised bolthole for two. A big garden is yours to share, friendly owners live next door

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