A real gem set back from the hustle and bustle but perfectly placed to explore the city's many charms

A contemporary rooftop room in a warmly civilised B&B filled with books and lovely things – stunning view too

Come for much grace, space and inspiration in this huge-windowed, view-filled spot surrounded by gloriously untrammelled countryside

Perfect for lovers of the quintessentially English cottage - carefully renovated and classily stylish - a ramble to nearest pub

A cosy cottage on a farm down a long winding track, wonderfully rural with footpaths across fields or along the canal

Part of the original Wensleydale creamery overlooking the river, with bustling Hawes and great walking country right on your doorstep

A small top terrace can be booked for romantic evenings and you can lunch or dinner at the delightful floating restaurant

A stunning veranda wraps itself around the house: doze off in a wicker armchair or sip a drink at dusk as the sun melts into the valley

Fall in love with this riverside village, lost in a valley in lower Normandy, and this sunny house for couples or families

A stylish Sicilian farmhouse that feels like a home with hotel luxuries. Come for a generous welcome, lovely beaches and gorgeous local food

The wow factor is set to eleven at this magnificent château steeped in French history and surrounded by acres of land (and a moat)

Come to stay in a lovely old house surrounded by an important garden created by three generations of brilliant women gardeners

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

Stables turned into bright, comfortable holiday homes in countryside near Battle - for couples and families, whose dogs are very welcome too

A large, attractive 18th-century house with sweeping lawns, outdoor seating areas and two free-standing baths by an ivy-clad wall

Sustainably built Suffolk retreat with plenty of space for friends and family to properly unwind - a steam room seals the deal

A working farm with well renovated ancient buildings among 200 acres of pastures and forest. It's quiet here in the glorious Périgord

Swing off the main road through the village, up into the hills along a narrow track and through a gate, observed by curious sheep