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

Head down the Strood causeway and step back in time for a slice of Mersea Island's old-world charm: beaches, fresh oysters & a charming inn

An historic, moated manor house dating from the 16th-century, fully restored and with all mod cons, including an indoor heated pool

Dine wonderfully on farm-fresh food and grandma's recipes; cookery classes too! And views, a pool, farm animals, sunsets, a warm family...

Warm family hospitality, magnificent surroundings, bedroom breakfasts, candlelit dinners and elegant windows overlooking the park

A traditional coaching inn dating from the 18th century with good food served in private and public dining rooms on the Wellington Estate

A niftily converted barn with high vaulted ceiling sitting on a hill with wonderful views over a newly-created lake and the Stour Valley

Escape to a rural idyll on a working olive and citrus farm in the toe of Italy. Attentive hosts, good for kids and great food!

Friendly Maki and Clive's higgledy-piggledy home is a charming, special place. Rooms are cosy, Clive's cookery courses are fun and delicious

A great place for relaxing in hidden corners or by the pool, and for parties. The dinner experiences in the vineyard are delightful and guests are truly cherished

Come with friends for a cookery course, or with the kids, and enjoy the creative feel of the place - and the food! Venice 40 mins by train

Spacious gîte in a former hunting lodge, set on one of the oldest estates in Pézenas, for a relaxing getaway with family and friends

A 16th-century timbered riverside inn with a relaxed, rustic feel, garden cabin rooms with views and fresh seasonal and homegrown food

Within the city walls and right next to the Minster, this super-smart hotel gives you gorgeous bedrooms and delicious food

High up and with splendid views of the estuary and harbour, this roomy apartment is a very comfortable base for seaside holidays

A dear little cottage with many comforts and a private garden, off the beaten track and surrounded by mountains, valleys and trees

A heavenly inn on Fife’s south coast – the terrace overlooks the beach, lovely food waits within, chic rooms are a steal

A 18th-century house with pool in a small town with friendly owners and a tropical garden of banana, fig and, of course, frangipani