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?

Beautifully connected, engagingly old-fashioned London pad, with a garden. Head out for Vauxhall Park, the Tate, Westminster...

An 18th-century beamed inn with tasty food, pretty bedrooms and a large garden just a ten-minute drive from Chichester

High in Ávila's unspoilt nature is this stylish, eco-brilliant family hotel: mountains, massages, pool, organic dinners... a special escape

Come to restore your soul, be immersed in nature, wander paths in the lovely grounds and make memories with family or friends

Lovely big room in its own wing of a Victorian farmhouse. A peaceful spot with views across fields and an elegant drawing room

Cosy, peaceful retreat not far from Hadrian's Wall. A real fire, tennis, BBQ, the Coast to Coast cycle route and hilly treks from the door

A destination B&B. Hunker down in thoroughly spoiling surroundings with delightful owners near St Jean de Luz, Biarritz and Bayonne

Come for peace, space and much comfort in this nifty house with gorgeous views over acres of vines from the terrace and pool

A magical Scottish Baronial-style house with stunning valley views; stroll to good restaurants, explore the spectacular Borders

A beautiful little collection of trulli near the Valle d’Itria – restored with flair and with gardens, woods and pool

Escape your cares here, move from terrace to terrace tracking the sun's progress and dive into the sea from your own swimming platform

Come for peace, comfort and beauty in a sunny corner of Provence at the foot of Mont Ventoux. Cafes, market, restaurants a 15-minute stroll!

Peace, space, nature in the Champagne-hugged Somme valley - and home-grown, organic meals with generous French hosts. Family-perfect

Scandi-Scottish cabin with views across the Kyle of Lochalsh, within walking distance of a cracking pub - a Sawday's Community Champion

A charming renovated stone gîte only 15km from Bergerac with a large outdoor pool, pretty gardens and walks and cycle rides from the door

An airy, art-filled house for groups of family or friends, with plenty of space, a secluded courtyard and pool near the beach

Plenty of uncluttered easy space both in and out by the private pool - children love the freedom - great wine, food, and cycling country