An immaculately restored 1500s palazzo, filled with history, art, antiques and books in the buzzing heart of a charming town

Pops of colour and neon signs bring fun to this smart and warm family home near Brancaster beach

A beautiful old building with generous windows, arched doorways and opulent interiors in the glorious countryside by a fairy tale château

A 15th-century hotel and spa with beamed lounges and two restaurants, standing proudly on the high street

Chatty Madame is a superb cook, and her pretty house and garden in a quiet Yvelines village are equally delicious. Zip to Paris by train

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

A classic period property right on the river, perfectly placed to explore the delights of nearby Marlborough

Treat yourselves to a seamless stay in this 255-year-old manor house with dreamy gardens, sumptuous bedrooms, sparkling pool and spa

A lovely gîte, once a hunting lodge, with two private terraces overlooking the manicured gardens of an 1830s manor house

Deep in Calvados near vibrant Caen, a cider barn with stylish bedrooms, quirky objets, a bar in the salon. Charming hosts welcome families

Wooded, lakeside retreat for 1 or 2 – big windows, huge terrace, wood-burner, wide screen. The Jurassic coast a cross-country walk away

Green and serene, a striking array of eco cottages on a family farm where style and comfort reign, close to the coast but far from the crowd

This classy, refurbished village pub is the community hub, chock-full of locals and a popular destination for foodies. Lovely bedrooms too

Secluded villa with glorious views, infinity pool and lovely gardens, a three-minute walk from one of Italy’s most beautiful villages

A light, bright and peaceful 18th-century palazzo in a very quiet town, with a sea-view terrace, peaceful bedrooms and delicious breakfasts

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

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

Quirky art hotel in the heart of trendy Brighton – there's a great bar, stylish rooms and wonderful breakfasts