A small and stylish townhouse retreat in leafy Folkestone with excellent bedrooms and a terrace for breakfast in summer

A wonderful old 1397 village inn, filled with history and character. Find gracious bedrooms, roaring fires, good food and a pretty garden

A truly peaceful and charming hideout in a joyful, bird-filled setting - look after yourselves and retreat, or be thoroughly spoiled

An idyllic cottage for animal lovers, children, peace seekers and walkers. Immaculate interiors and breathtaking views soothe the soul

Come for a delightful sojourn in this old baronial villa with historic winery, gorgeous guest rooms, a wellness area and infinity pool

In a small village on the borders, a Jacobean farmhouse luxuriously restored with lovely touches; the Brecon Beacons are close by

An important spot for this grand 19th-century château on the banks of the Loire, steeped in history and with kind, erudite owners

A comfortable and characterful 1775 gatekeeper's lodge on the Mount Congreve Estate with access to the magnificent gardens

Charming manor house B&B, packed with character, interest and history, sitting in extensive gardens and with elegant bedrooms

Flop in a hammock and be lulled by Mediterranean scents and breezes, relax in an ancient Trullo – come here for raw beauty not for frills

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

A beautifully designed B&B for foodies, cyclists and walkers in a village surrounded by trees just 15 minutes from the coast

Tranquil stone house with a rustic feel, a large garden with a swimming pool and views of the French Riviera and out to sea

Tucked away from the busy glamour of the Riviera, come and unwind, from two to twelve people, in a peaceful garden and stone farmhouse

The Gautiers have the finest sense of how to treat guests: dreamy bedrooms, fantastic food & the pool beneath the orange trees is a delight

An interesting historic townhouse filled with art and antiques, in the old part of Amantea, near shops, restaurants and beach

A peaceful grown-up place circled by meadows and woodland with helpful owners next door – a superb spot to explore the south-west

Big house with bags of character and easy access to beaches, cafés and cobbled streets, coastal paths and hidden coves