An interesting historic townhouse filled with art and antiques, in the old part of Amantea, near shops, restaurants and beach

Glorious views across Northumberland countryside from this peaceful and comfortable cottage with almost an acre of garden

A romantic little bolthole with a hot tub on the Penicuik Estate with well-thought-out interiors and dreamy views over pastures and woodland

Eight miles from York, near Moors and coast, this smart historic home is just the ticket for families and small groups of friends

Remote wartime research station turned stylish retreat with knockout views, wild walks and a front-row seat to the weather

This is Somerset at its most quintessential: a thatched roofed, honey-coloured Hamstone cottage with a pretty courtyard garden; sleeps four

Up, up and away to this stunning cottage perched 1400 feet high in the National Park with big skies, grand walks and much comfort indoors

A lovely gîte with cool lines and its own shady terrace plus pool, gardens, fountain and a relaxed family-friendly feel

An 18th-century townhouse restored with flair by former restauranteurs: come for colour, comfort and sublime dining

An oast house B&B surrounded by countryside and with a blooming garden; walk to the village pub, drive to nearby stately castles

Steps from the sea in get-away-from-it-all scenery – half an hour’s walk from St Ives’ arty heart. Sleeps 4 with pull-out beds for 2 more

A humdinger of a pub, hidden in a sleepy village in the Surrey Hills, oozing character and charm and with delicious food and comfy bedrooms

An elegant house with ancient roots and a shimmering pool – explore the Charente countryside, drive to lovely Angoulême

Experience the pleasures of traditional Tuscan living with fabulous food and fine wines from the family vineyard

Steam in the hot tub, gaze over crashing waves or later stars. Inside is swish, kids play in their games room, dinner is in view of the sea

5 minutes from the Vatican in a tall palazzo above the British school. Owners share local tips, serve bakery-fresh breakfasts on the terrace

A grand piano to play and a delicious bed to sink into, at this cool, arty bolthole near Frome. For those who love spaciousness and peace

A sustainably-designed small, family-run eco hotel within a nature park by the sea in stunning Basque country. Great food too