Everything is on the doorstep and you'll find much comfort at these smart self-catering apartments in the heart of the city

A babbling brook, the sound of birdsong and centuries of history steeped into the walls of this medieval barn, plus a heated indoor pool

Enjoy the wine festival, cycling and hiking in spring and early summer, the truffles in November, and warm hospitality all year round

An old farm worker's cottage, niftily done up and nicely remote, with walking and fishing on the doorstep, four miles from Hadrian's Wall

A beautifully converted building, part of an old mill, now a gorgeous place to stay with the stream running through and shared parkland

A 300-year-old cottage and a secluded, magical setting next to the longest sea loch in the UK, for walkers, dreamers and nature lovers

1800s coastal watchtower meets organic farm at a small hotel with a proud restaurateur and sea views from high mezzanine rooms

Traditional family-run hotel with sitting rooms galore, award-winning food and Snowdon views. High teas and games room for children too

An old chapel, smartly and sustainably converted, with a hot tub to soothe tired limbs after country walks through fells and dales

Charming manor house B&B, packed with character, interest and history, sitting in extensive gardens and with elegant bedrooms

Genuine hosts, fabulous food, a swimming pool and a private speedboat for exploring the coast; a sandy beach is a ten-minute walk away

An impressive limestone house on three levels created within the ruins of an ancient village with uninterrupted views of the Vézère valley

Cosy, peaceful retreat not far from Hadrian's Wall. A real fire, tennis, BBQ, the Coast to Coast cycle route and hilly treks from the door

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

This old stone building, a former olive warehouse, is beautifully restored and sits on its own – a simple bolthole for rest and recuperation

Lovely views over the river Anglin from the large windows of this old industrial-like building, once used for honey production on the estate

Everything you need is here: a wood-burner for winter, a pool and spacious terraces for summer, and peace and beauty all year round