In a sleepy village near Oxford, a characterful 17th-century inn with contemporary flair, seasonal menus and a terrace for summer music

Two lovely old cottages, part of the 1700 stable block on the St Giles estate, with 5,000 acres to roam, for walkers and peace seekers

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 sleek, light-filled, beautifully designed, minimalist space for 4 with wrap-around views from the living room and pool

The views are breathtaking over forest and field from this lovely barn conversion on a working farm, for special gatherings

A sturdy, spacious house with stunning views over the garden and ocean, originally built in the 1800s as one of a row of Coastguard cottages

Take up residence in central London, surrounded by good places to eat. You have your own vast open-plan living space, light and lovely

A stunning setting in acres of citrus groves for this lovely old farm with 16th-century roots, a big pool, hammocks and a restaurant

'Tout confort' in the heart of Reims, 2 steps from the cathedral. Lofty ceilings, marble fireplaces, polished floorboards, spa & sauna

Come here in the summer (it’s closed Nov-April except by arrangement) for candlelit dining, chintzy bedrooms, long views over the park...

Gem-like in a deep park among meadows, a family-friendly château with 2 stylish cottages. Join the lovely owners for dinner, dip in the pool

An exquisitely restored 1850s townhouse, steeped in history, with a sweet garden and within walking distance of the historic centre of Porto

Tranquil manor house deep in Bordeaux wine region with six acres of grounds, a tennis court and swimming pool

A cosy nest on the ramparts of an ancient fishing port, with sparkling lagoon views from a top-floor living area

A lovely old house and rambling garden in a medieval village with a monumental château, 12th-century church and a good local restaurant

Come to stay in a fine old townhouse with elegant proportions, high ceilings and a rambling, English-style garden close to Mont Saint-Michel

Light-filled gites share a lovely pool, with pétanque, ping-pong and bikes to borrow – bring friends and take all three

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