A peaceful and unpretentious spot for a digital detox with long walks up on the moors and fabulous views from the top

In four acres of garden and woodland (a child’s dream) a house and interlinking barn for 10 guests. Secluded but close to everything

A really well thought-out escape for a small family with children. A big garden, pool, petanque court and play barn for indoor fun

Proper village pub with much-praised food and cosy rooms; country walks lead from the door and Oxford is half an hour away

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

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

Great for gatherings of family and friends: fine views, a good big kitchen, games room and pool; nearby caves and castles to explore

Gardeners will be very happy staying in this generous, comfortable B&B surrounded by stunning gardens with year-round interest

A cool converted barn on an organic farm near Brittany’s loveliest beaches, with a kitchen garden and play area, perfect for foodie families

A serene riverside retreat on the Lot, with manicured gardens and a shared pool, tennis court and children's playground for socialising

A 17th-century Grade II listed inn, bustling with a mix of visitors and locals, friendly staff, very comfortable rooms and scrumptious food

A clutch of airy properties, most with their own jasmine-scented terraces arranged around a funky pool

A fine old 1890 homestead in the colonial style on a large estate, with a lovely pool, two lakes and delicious Portuguese food

A beautiful villa with a medieval tower surrounded by formal gardens, gentle slopes of perfectly maintained vineyards and wooded hilltops

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

The views are breathtaking over forest and field from this lovely barn conversion on a working farm, for special gatherings

Tranquil manor house deep in Bordeaux wine region with six acres of grounds, a tennis court and swimming pool

A smartly refurbished village pub with its own micro-brewery and a huge emphasis on cooking great food from a network of local suppliers