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

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

Tucked at the bottom of a long track and surrounded by a gorgeous natural landscape, is this generous end-slice of a 17th-century stone farm

Relaxed, bohemian vibe out in the wilds yet close to civilization. An organic garden and woodland yurt add to the convivial, communal idyll

Stone farmhouse on a country estate, family-run for centuries. Views of the towered gatehouse, pool and tennis court, a walk to the river...

An elegant manor house with pretty bedrooms, pool and large grounds. Nathalie looks after you with ease and sets you up with big breakfasts

A honey-hued family home clad with vines and roses with a swimming pool and heaps of space – perfect for families

Friendly inn in the middle of Sedbergh. Lots of bedrooms to choose from, suntrap picnic area, walks in the Yorkshire Dales on the doorstep

On top of sand dunes, this bright and airy cottage has glorious views, walks are lovely and you can bring your dog

Award-winning Aga-cooked breakfasts, scented candles, gorgeous beds... Come for a break from clock-watching and a spot of Shropshire air

A cottage in a conservation village with logs in the burner, sloe gin on the table, and a good dining pub you can walk to

Warm interiors, pretty bedrooms and excellent breakfasts – good value in a very handy central spot

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

Come to recharge in the lovely Loire valley at this fine château surrounded by mature gardens and green countryside

A unique 1900 house and garden on the edge of Lyon, steeped in history and authenticity – a beautiful home with museum-quality objects

An elegant 1890 home for 8 in vibrant Bembridge for birdwatching, beaches and wildlife, with hot tub and extra beds for overflow guests

Great taste – in decor and food – and a delicious heated pool. Views swoop over field and valley; trails, villages, wineries tempt

Stylish hotel with big rooms, lovely food and a pretty garden overlooking the old castle moat - don’t miss the Mappa Mundi in the cathedral