A 17th-Century Irish castle on the water’s edge. Watch the yachts from your bedroom, join local wine nights, discover the rich history

A stylish retreat in the heart of St Ives offering a glimpse of the sea – with an extra double sofabed room for friends or children

A timeless landscape of open moorland and far-reaching views from this substantial 19th-century stone house, of which you have the rear wing

A scented garden, delicious local delicacies and those coastal landscapes. This place is a sensory feast

A small, stylish hotel lost in the country with beautiful rooms, excellent food, fine walking and a river passing directly outside

A cosy, very comfortable stone cottage with fine views across the valley, just a couple of miles from the southern tip of Ullswater

An inviting B&B on a terraced Fulham street: greats hosts, a big, tranquil suite and continental breakfast in the courtyard on sunny days

Swim with frogs in the freshwater pool, breakfast in the sunshine, play boules by moonlight. Châteaux don't get much more rural

Colourful coastal apartments where you can be nicely independent and enjoy a communal café and health club with Art Deco pool

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

Play boules in the garden, swim in the natural pool and enjoy Monica’s wonderful cooking served with local wines at this village farmhouse

Settle in, relax, enjoy the local food - walk the dramatically beautiful coast path, explore rich West Wales

Restored mill house with a stream running through the garden, and warm hosts who give you suppers made from their homegrown produce

A rural farmhouse B&B with view-filled bedrooms, hearty breakfasts and walks from the door. The Dowies are generous hosts

Beautiful architecture, amazing wine cellars, great food, and hosts with an infectious enthusiasm for classical music. Lovely French B&B

2 lakes, streams, landscaped gardens, woodlands and waterfalls... a paradise for families, nature lovers, peace-seekers and birdwatchers

Restored stone barn on the edge of Radnor Forest, with walking trails, glorious countryside views and lots of wildlife

A magical Sicilian island with a cluster of 400-year-old lava rock houses. Charming staff, freshwater pool & generous breakfast buffets