Come to this cosy barn down a winding lane for a back-to-nature escape: hike the Black Mountains, splash in the stream, gaze at the views

Sofas in front of the fire, English wines and local ales, ambrosial food and smart rooms, all a short stroll from Sissinghurst Castle

The central part of a much larger building in a 17th-century hamlet with bright, spacious rooms, shared pool and glorious private gardens

Stay just minutes from the sea in colourful Donaghadee for wild swims, island visits, bird watching and coastal walks

Comfortable, understated, spotless and authentic – a modest family hideaway on Brittany’s stunning Crozon Peninsula (think Land’s End...)

Tour the cellars or wander the history-rich château and grounds. A truly pretty place

Artistic souls will like it here, and those who enjoy shared meals & getting to know other people in dramatic countryside; Arezzo is 40 km

Rural bliss at the end of the lane: a cottage for 2 with wine and local biscuits in the hamper and farmers’ markets within a 5-mile drive

A relaxed country feel in this fine family villa. It has space and comfort for six with gardens, private pool, and tennis court

Everything you need is here: a wood-burner for winter, a pool and spacious terraces for summer, and peace and beauty all year round

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

Everything you’d want of a lovely country inn – pretty rooms, tasty food, local ales in a beamed bar and fabulous walking

Enter through an impressive stone arch to discover this 16th-century fortified manor house with a gorgeous communal dining and seating area

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

A peaceful, romantic village escape for couples, plus a babe-in-arms, attached to the welcoming owners' home in the Scottish Borders

A very tranquil spot with views of rolling countryside, the East Mendip Way on the doorstep and good pubs within walking distance