Peaceful, traditional country house just 2 miles from central Dorking. Relaxed hosts, good food, beautiful gardens, walks galore - a retreat

3 lovely cottages in the heart of Cognac vines for cosy nights by the fire and summer barbecues by the pool

A pleasing (not very little) place to stay in the heart of a wood within the unspoilt countryside of the South Downs National Park

A handsome house with breath-taking mountain views: perfect for summer holidays and walking in spring and autumn

Cosy bolthole for two in a charming market town on the edge of Dartmoor – stroll to restaurants and shops or explore the moors

A glorious château near Tours – authentic, huge fun, steeped in family history and surrounded by gorgeous gardens with a serene pool

Provençal charm floats through the ground floor of this 18th-century home in a vineyard near Lorgues. Walk, cycle, swim, enjoy the peace

A fairytale château with ancient roots, now beautifully renovated with lovely bedrooms, terrace, garden and ponds for gracious living

With stunning coastal views and family farm surroundings, these cottages are bright and roomy; plus wood-burning stoves and indoor pool

Get away from it all in the heart of Northumberland National Park, with walks leaving from your door and incredible dark skies at night

A stylish timber frame eco build, clad with recycled steel and with an upstairs living space to make the most of the glorious sunsets

Few inns can rival the scale or history of this one. Dogs doze by the inglenook, food is sourced from local suppliers, bedrooms are gorgeous

A captivating place for couples and families with fabulous views, pool and foodie hosts. River water sports, markets and vineyards near

A sleek, light-filled, beautifully designed, minimalist space for 4 with wrap-around views from the living room and pool

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?

A mid 1800s converted farmhouse and a cottage in a quiet hamlet with private gardens and lovely grounds, just 15 minutes from the coast

A big, comfortable house with heated outdoor pool in 17 acres of gardens. Mountains, river swimming, hiking nearby; coast within the hour

Anglo-Irish meets Italian and Indian; the owners have peppered this charming home with furniture and artefacts from their broad travels