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

A peaceful, harmonious house with roots in the 14th century, a glorious enclosed pool area and a huge amount of space for happy gatherings

A luxurious 1920s manor house with superbly stylish rooms, secluded gardens and a heated pool; close to the Picardy coast

Good bolthole with two terraces offering spectacular views over the historic town, and restaurants and bars a short stroll

A Georgian manor house in the old quarter of Penzance, close to the water, with good food and a chilled vibe

A lovely Victorian cottage on a quiet village road, traditional and comfortable inside and with a fully enclosed garden at the back

A wall of glass frames the sea view - take drinks on the waterfront lawn in summer, or by the crackling fire in winter

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

Birders will love escaping up here, golfers too - visit Hatfield House, Knebworth, Cambridge - come back to a good local pub and a comfy bed

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

A 19th-century bothy in remote, rugged countryside on the edge of the Cairngorms, for walkers, birders and seekers of peace

A fabulous country boozer, revamped in style with a buzzy atmosphere, great food and welcoming bedrooms - good walking countryside too

A traditional country house experience with plenty of space for big family get-togethers, on a very old estate with fascinating gardens

An 18th-century fisherman's cottage with garden at the end of a cobbled row, for happy seaside holidays with superb beaches nearby