A rustic gem with a rich history, a domed chapel and a fountain in the courtyard. Dine superbly, choose from an extensive wine list

A handsome old country manor house in the heart of the Loire castles surrounded by parkland, forests, lakes, small hamlets, vineyards and châteaux

Charming gardens for you and your dog in a barn conversion in rural Norfolk half an hour from coast

Beautiful, and with a delightfully rambling garden, this early 16th-century manor has bags of room for happy days with family or friends

In a leafy, peaceful part of Frome - a very civilised bolthole for two. A big garden is yours to share, friendly owners live next door

Picturesque cottage in the grounds of a grand manor, lovingly and creatively restored by its welcoming English owner

Glass-and-timber doors bathe you with light, gaze at big skies and the river Dart lapping. Sublime year round, it's one of our favourites

A delightful harled stone and wood house yards from the sea with glorious hills behind, for walkers, dreamers, nature lovers and adventurers

A gorgeous inn lost in lush country with hammocks in the garden, sofas in the drawing room and lovely local food in the popular restaurant

Peaceful, traditional country house just 2 miles from central Dorking. Relaxed hosts, good food, beautiful gardens, walks galore - a retreat

Four family-friendly self-catering casitas and an original cortijo in wildlife-rich acres near the sandy Costa de la Luz

Deep in undulating countryside, three pretty stone cottages with a shared, family-friendly saltwater pool and charming, generous owners

The largest of three secluded cottages that share a gravel courtyard and a beautiful garden with cathedral views

A row of old brick stables now craftily converted into a light-filled and very peaceful place to stay with a garden room and gorgeous views

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

Stay on a secluded private estate by the sea - once the home of the brilliant French writer, Colette

Friendly pub in rural village near Cambridge with strong community feel, great local food, garden, snug room and fresh, pretty bedrooms

Immaculate Cotswold beauty with great food, welcoming staff, handsome rooms and a sun-trap terrace, plus countryside walks from the door