This secluded New Forest inn is a magnet for families in summer: a good pint and the log fire make it a superb winter hideaway too

A striking, newly thatched and revamped pub with spoiling bedrooms, an inviting bar and menus overseen by Raymond Blanc - you'll eat well

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

Traditional house with a contemporary and imaginative interior; stroll to shops and restaurants, jump in the car to explore Provence

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

An upmarket, very comfortable old stone village house with tasty breakfasts and a sunny courtyard full of colourful flowers

A semi-detached 19th-century stone cottage, scrupulously renovated with indoor heated swimming pool, sauna and terrace in a quiet spot

An old-world inn full of colour, with open fires, cosy rooms, local food and the magnificent Northumberland National Park all around

A dramatic transformation of an old shepherd's cottage deep on a remote hillside in Perthshire farmland with masses of space and light

Homely furnishings and 17th-century charm at this estate on the Severn, whose owners are mad about horses and give you fine home produce

Something to astound at every turn where the traditional and downright quirky collide to stunning effect. Friendly, flexible hosts too

For families who love a Great British beach holiday, this beach-side cottage on Hayling Island near Portsmouth is just the ticket

A sprint from London: a Cotswolds pub modernised with sympathy and care. Happy staff, organic ales and food, gorgeous rooms

Beautifully designed timber cabins in the Black Mountains, right next to a lovely old inn serving good, honest food from their own farm

Visit the walled city of Evora, have dinner with the friendliest hosts, pet the dogs & donkeys. Head out for culture, vineyards and menhirs

A really well thought-out escape for a small family with children. A big garden, pool, petanque court and play barn for indoor fun

Come for peace and quiet down a long lane, pretty buildings and big, beautifully-kept gardens with a secluded outdoor pool

Wooded, lakeside retreat for 1 or 2 – big windows, huge terrace, wood-burner, wide screen. The Jurassic coast a cross-country walk away