Walk, ride, bike or canoe, climb a mountain, head for Hay, then return to a comfortable bar, warm bedrooms and delicious food

Another bright, beamed and history-filled place to stay on the smart Upton Cressett estate with walks from the door and much comfort within

A cosy and pretty old cottage for rest or romance, with garden and pool in a small hamlet surrounded by walnut orchards and mixed woodland

A handsome little château perched on the edge of a verdant valley, with wonderful views, lots of space and a rambling garden

Luxurious living combines with bleating sheep and bells from the church next door - 4 fabulous retreats on the Cotentin Peninsula

Families and walkers will be happy at this unfussy seaside retreat with beaches down the road and coastal paths right by your door

A really friendly French family home, steeped in history and tradition with delicious home-grown food, a lovely garden and peaceful pool

A contemporary country-house hotel with a lovely spa and peaceful gardens - Sandringham and the north Norfolk coast are close

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

Inside, a grand cathedral ceiling, outside, wisteria-covered terrace and pretty pool. Atlantic sands, Cognac and La Rochelle are in reach

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

Come to be cosseted in this gloriously peaceful retreat among beautiful gardens with much old-fashioned charm and excellent food

Charming gardens for you and your dog in a barn conversion in rural Norfolk half an hour from coast

A family-run restaurant with rooms with a gorgeous sunny terrace overlooking the bustling harbour and delicious food in two dining spaces

For walkers and lovers of wildly beautiful coastal country: two cosy old cottages and a bright, modern renovation in a cluster with others

Good restaurants, beach walks, a grand welcome for dogs: that’s Whitstable. Bring friends and stay in this smart house close to it all

A really well thought-out escape for a small family with children. A big garden, pool, petanque court and play barn for indoor fun

Treat yourselves to a stay on one of the oldest wine estates in Provence and a family house from the 1740s, complete with antiques