Tucked down an alley off the main road through Midhurst, this well-designed, generous-spirited little house exudes character and quirk

A stunner of a setting for this restored croft house with long views to a sparkling loch and a lively village nearby. Good beaches too

An enviable hideaway on a cobbled street high on a hill, with stunning views next to Galileo's house, the Villa Bardini and gardens

A wonderfully simple and modern studio with stunning sea views in an almost Jurassic landscape, dotted with the owner's sculptures

Off-the-beaten track cottage promises peace and quiet, wild swimming and hikes in the hills. A world away from the urban jungle

For retreats, groups of friends, and big families: come to recharge the senses at this special and ancient house enveloped by wild gardens

Traditional house in a rural part of the Algarve with a spectacular garden, a pool and a tennis court, and restaurants a short stroll

Hike the Wild Boar Fells, get cosy at home with books, games and DVDs, and meet the farm’s hens, cows and sheep

Classic crofter’s cottage with a minimalist chic makeover - soft colours, designer lighting - surrounded by peace; a romantic hideaway

In the heart of arts and craft town Chipping Campden, a beautifully decorated 17th-century house with a celebrated restaurant downstairs

A semi-detached 19th-century stone cottage, scrupulously renovated with indoor heated swimming pool, sauna and terrace in a quiet spot

A smartly renovated village pub with rooms welcoming locals, visitors, families and dogs on a Staffordshire country estate

A lovely old stone cottage in a group round a pretty courtyard, with your own private patio and seating area, on the Pink Granite Coast

Come for a bright, roomy, uber-green and accessible larch-clad space with garden and pond in pretty countryside

A handsome little château perched on the edge of a verdant valley, with wonderful views, lots of space and a rambling garden

Come on down to this working farm for delicious organic food, an on-site sourdough bakery and crisp bedrooms in a pretty farmhouse

Sleek, contemporary style with a stunning view. Soak up the sunrise, scuba dive off the Medes islands or simply stroll to the local bar.

A comfortable and light-filled converted stone barn in the pretty Vendée, a quiet and rural spot but just half a mile from town