A bit like staying with friends in a smart country house, but not having to help - an elegant refuge near Bradford-on-Avon

Fabulous Drôme gîtes: contemporary in old stone buildings, uncluttered, fresh. Take all 5 for a party, laze by pool, doze in lavender

Blissful views to vineyards and mountains from this faithful reproduction of a 16th-century manor. Eat well, hike, bike, sauna and swim

Classic coaching inn in a bustling village offers restful rooms, real ales and the Cotswolds on your doorstep

Lavender shortbread and baked peaches for breakfast at this most artistic of homes. The courtyard with magnolia and orange trees is lovely

The Test valley is a place of pilgrimage for fly fishermen, but this lovely country inn welcomes all with great food and lovely bedrooms

One of the loveliest houses in a very lovely village. Pretty rooms have parquet floors and white walls, the food is a delight

Everything is on the doorstep and you'll find much comfort at these smart self-catering apartments in the heart of the city

Traditional B&B in a beautiful château bursting with history and surrounded by formal gardens, then farmland and two fine rivers

Between Penzance and Helston and close to surf beaches, a perfect place for two. For peace-seekers and lovers of mid-century design

A special little house, renovated with huge style, filled with beautiful objects and with a delightfully quiet and secluded private garden

Enjoy convivial gatherings from this Georgian country house with acres of land, gardens and woodlands just a short hop from Durham

Expect magical views from this peaceful, eco-friendly barn in a mid-Wales valley - wonderful escape for two, or come with a group of friends

A contemporary country-house hotel with a lovely spa and peaceful gardens - Sandringham and the north Norfolk coast are close

Swing off the main road through the village, up into the hills along a narrow track and through a gate, observed by curious sheep

This is a superb base to explore the island's glittering bays, vibrant coastal cities, mountains, valleys and forests

Friendly host, Georgian elegance, welcoming sitting room and bedrooms, tasty breakfasts: the perfect city break in Scotland’s capital