In pretty Vernon, a peaceful and comfortably large townhouse with roses rambling around the door

An 18th-century listed cottage in a pretty terrace with a private courtyard garden and pond, just a short walk from the high street

A roomy, stylish barn conversion in Devon's rolling hills with wonderful walks from the door and panoramic views of the Exe valley

An absolute peach of an apartment on the first floor of this iconic building with stunning views over the harbour and St Michael's Mount

A lovely old stone cottage in a group round a pretty courtyard, with your own private patio and seating area, on the Pink Granite Coast

An 18th-century converted barn with lofty beamed ceilings, exposed stonework, handmade oak windows and much art – pretty garden too

Two grand stone houses in tranquil parkland with a heated pool, potager and plenty of space for groups. Chickens and charm included

Homely furnishings and 17th-century charm at this estate on the Severn, whose owners are mad about horses and give you fine home produce

A light, spacious house sitting on a nature reserve for very comfortable stays and magnificent birdwatching, walking, cycling, riding

In a quaint village with a bakery, brasserie and shops, a handsome gîte with a wonderful pool and fashion museum

Between Penzance & Helston, close to Praa Sands, is a beautiful bolthole for 6. Good for garden lovers & peace-seekers – dog-friendly too

A very attractive stone building on a smallholding with all mod cons, a bedroom for stargazing, Guest Farm Shop and pretty communal gardens

An 18th-century coaching inn right in the heart of an old Welsh drovers' town, with award-winning food and the Brecon Beacons rising behind

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

A warm and convivial place steeped in French history with an interesting, kind host who really looks after you. Under an hour from Paris too

Between Paris and Rouen, a handsome country house in Monet scenery. Cows graze, bedrooms soothe, friendships bud over bountiful breakfasts

A seaside inn on Babbacombe Bay with views of sea and sky, rooms to feel happy in, a spa and homely, hearty dining

A smart riverside inn with airy interiors that brim with character – old beams, open fires, well-kept ales and comfy bedrooms