A hilltop setting for this ancient fortress with an illustrious past. You stay in apartments or farmhouses inside or outside the walls

An ancient building filled with beauty and sitting in the quietest SSSI valley, criss-crossed by medieval drove ways buzzing with wildlife

Atmospheric English pub with rooms by the green with its duck ponds in a pretty village, with walking and cycling routes to join

A very tastefully restored old stone stable on a gloriously rural estate with woodland gardens, lake and a deer park

A small, trendy hotel, very much of its time, with oodles of style, stunning bedrooms and fantastic staff

Two peaceful spaces in a beautiful garden with a morning concert from the birds and a terrace for magical outdoor meals

Grand, elegant, sumptuous – a bucolic bolthole for happy holidays in much comfort, with stunning green views to lake and deer park

A splendid supper à la carte (three courses) is included here, together with airy rooms and sweeping gardens. The Solway Firth is close

An Edwardian villa with stunning views, polished floors, cosy fires and child-friendly garden a short walk from lovely Portmeirion

Step back in time at this wonderfully authentic château, loved deeply by its owners - 25km from Beaune and the Route des Grands Crus

A wonderful old 1397 village inn, filled with history and character. Find gracious bedrooms, roaring fires, good food and a pretty garden

In glorious rural Umbria, a spacious old farmhouse with magnificent views of mountains and Lago Trasimeno, rustic décor and a lovely pool

Rustic, relaxing, comfortable and fun with pool and play area, river beaches, great hosts, peaceful countryside, an hour from Porto

Unwind in elegant interiors and set out on long walks in beautiful countryside; Chichester and Winchester are near

A sumptuous spot with luxurious touches at every turn in beautiful Moneglia - far removed from its monastic roots. Opulent and romantic

Come to be thoroughly cosseted and nurtured in this ancient Presbytery surrounded by rolling countryside with views of the Dordogne river

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