Perched on a hilltop in a nature reserve, two lovely places to stay. Hike and beach-hop all day before relaxing in the pool

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

A nature-filled estate for smart lodge holidays in rural peace with woods and coast to explore, onsite activities and yummy homemade meals

Great design along with much comfort and warmth an hour from Inverness airport, but a world away from the city and with stunning views

Enfolded in gentle Dorset hills and surrounded by trees, a perfect wooden hut for 2 near beaches, River Cottage HQ and many beautiful walks

With Snowdonia on the doorstep and the Menai Strait at your feet, this handsome Welsh manor has history, heritage and heavenly views

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

Grand Scottish home with stunning views & a tea-and-shortbread welcome. Historic castles, local festivals, golf, East Lothian beaches abound

Come for sea air, independent shops, great places to eat and this quirky cottage with plenty of room and a sunny walled garden

Perched in gorgeous gardens and with stunning views, this 18th-century presbytery has lovely rooms and an excellent gourmet restaurant

An ancient manor from the middle ages, built against a stone cliff with extensive terraced grounds, pool and parkland filled with wildlife

Generous, fun house, perfect for family gatherings. Head down the hill for sandy beaches or let kids and dogs run wild on the Purbeck coast

A welcoming retreat with lofty rooms, a sunny garden and the perfect plunge pool. Come for slow days and wine country adventures

Follow in Picasso’s footsteps and spin up to vibrant Sheffield for a night at this stunning hotel, where flawless bedrooms wait

Two family and dog friendly retreats for lovers of the countryside, birdwatchers and those wishing to escape the crowds

A pretty upside-down cottage, formerly a dovecote, lovingly restored with sustainability the focus

A warm and convivial place steeped in French history with an interesting, kind host who really looks after you. Under an hour from Paris too

Enter through an impressive stone arch to discover this 16th-century fortified manor house with a gorgeous communal dining and seating area