For lovers of tranquillity and simple pleasures with a private pool, tennis court, stunning views and forty acres to explore

Old beams and rich history: a dramatic setting for fireside chats, superb breakfasts (home-reared, baked, grown) - and Midsomer Murders

Steeped in history and romance, with a great big sleigh bed and open fires, is this 14th-century defence tower above the river Tweed

A smart village local with original timber frames, a lively bar, elegant rooms and delicious food from the fields around you

Food grown, foraged and prepared with care, a carefully curated wine list, roaring fires and very comfortable bedrooms to sink into

A lovely, long barn-style conversion with much space, stunning views across the spectacular bay and a secret beach to stroll to

Cosy 17th-century cottage in a village inland from Wells-next-the-Sea and with easy access to north Norfolk's main attractions

An airy Estate Manager's House set in pretty grounds with a pool, orchard, barbecue and private terrace for long lazy days in the sun

An elegant, super central bolthole for two (or three): stroll everywhere, hop on a vaporetto, sit in piazzas drinking cappuccino, live like a local

A cracking English inn with open fires, great food, gorgeous rooms, happy staff, lovely gardens and well-kept English ales

An old chapel, smartly and sustainably converted, with a hot tub to soothe tired limbs after country walks through fells and dales

History, tranquillity and genuine warmth in a beautifully restored medieval château, deep in the heart of the countryside

A charming renovated stone gîte only 15km from Bergerac with a large outdoor pool, pretty gardens and walks and cycle rides from the door

Take up residence in central London, surrounded by good places to eat. You have your own vast open-plan living space, light and lovely

Heart-warming B&B with hosts who are endlessly thoughtful. The food is exotic, organic, delicious and families are made very welcome

Relaxed, bohemian vibe out in the wilds yet close to civilization. An organic garden and woodland yurt add to the convivial, communal idyll

Climb Snowdon - or take the train. Swim, cycle, visit Nat Trust houses. A deliciously quirky retreat for 2 (and babe-in-arms) near Anglesey

A family retreat high above the river Dordogne and deep in woodland - with heated pool, games room and village restaurants a stroll away