Come for history, wildlife and a stunning garden estate with acres to roam. Bring children and dogs too. Fabulous

Ease yourself into a rather more gracious lifestyle from this sweet retreat on a historic estate with gorgeous walled gardens

A classic period property right on the river, perfectly placed to explore the delights of nearby Marlborough

An ancient coaching inn opposite the church in the prettiest village – just the ticket for weary travellers who deserve nurturing

Fall in love with this riverside village, lost in a valley in lower Normandy, and this sunny house for couples or families

Elegant Italian style in a sensitively-restored villa with sweeping views over rolling hills and forests

Strolling distance from the village of Seggiano, peace and beauty fill every corner of this ancient, view-filled retreat

Well-positioned winery for the whole of the Bordeaux region. Or stay put and learn about the Duhamels’ super organic Cotes de Bourg wines

Tradition and comfort on the border with Wales, a welcoming country-house hotel with warm rooms, pretty gardens and delicious food

Plunge into real Spain from this ancient village house with very modern interiors, stunning views, a cooling pool and a hop from restaurants

An ancient farmstead in the Lombard style with up-to-date B&B rooms plus a garden, lake and museum all surrounded by quiet countryside

Rooms are good value, breakfast is taken overlooking the garden and there's superb veggie food next door - a Sawday's Community Champion

A homespun inn with irresistible prices in a tiny village deep in the country - the river Tweed is close, fishing can be arranged

A hop from the Côte d'Azur is this elegant home: bring friends, explore the garden, curl up on the sofa, dip in the heated pool

A large handsome 1800s manor, now a peaceful haven for free-range families and creative types on the edge of vibrant Richelieu in the Loire

This famous old country house might not come cheap, but where else can you splash out in such decadent style for life’s big celebrations?

Cosy apartment for two in a cluster of farm buildings near Hawkshead, surrounded by countryside and with a good pub a stroll away

A truly special barn conversion, flooded with light and with its own decked outdoor space surrounded by bucolic countryside