A mix of bold colours, modern art and vintage finds give this classic French mansion bags of personality

An elegant hotel that feels like a well-kept secret, with charming staff, understated rooms and great restaurants a short walk away

Plunge into real Spain from this ancient village house with very modern interiors, stunning views, a cooling pool and a hop from restaurants

A lovely big house with huge riverside gardens and an easy-going charm – a 15-minute walk from bookish Hay-on-Wye

A converted chapel - cosy and creative - right on the beach. Wander the Cornish coast, explore small towns and retreat from the everyday

Romantic cottage within 25 acres of fields, garden and orchard with fresh veg to pick, wellies for walking and animals roaming the farm

Remote and rural, this cosy cottage is a slice of Welsh heaven, with plenty to do and see just a short drive away

Tucked down an alley off the main road through Midhurst, this well-designed, generous-spirited little house exudes character and quirk

Once a shooting lodge, this stand-alone big building was part of a medieval estate and you can still see the grassy mount and dungeon tower

Beautifully refurbished inn with good food, calming rooms and the South Downs all around. Chichester, Petworth and Goodwood are close

Feel like a film star in this fun, 50s-inspired former chapel with its own record collection; walk to the coast path or the friendly local

Restored stone barn on a farm in the Lake District National Park, with views of fields and woods and an excellent pub nearby

An ancient farmhouse transformed into a peaceful place to stay with lovely gardens, a swimming pool and delicious organic food

A short stroll from the centre of historic Wimborne, a big Georgian house with beautiful interiors, original features and a lovely garden

An elegant 18th-century manor in the market town of Malesherbes, sitting behind its own walls and with mature gardens for a peaceful retreat

Stylish steading where clean architectural lines meet Scottish agricultural heritage with some mid-century magic in the mix

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

Come for the glorious walking and bring your dog. Return to afternoon tea then a gorgeous plant-based supper in the bustling restaurant