A pleasing (not very little) place to stay in the heart of a wood within the unspoilt countryside of the South Downs National Park

A lovely little bolthole to return to after days out exploring pretty Cotswold villages and walking in an AONB straight from the door

Come to slow down and be well fed at this beautiful 14th-century manor with 60 acres of grounds and views across the Cotswolds

Step into a place full of life, colour, texture and clever design surrounded by beautiful gardens and lakes

For retreats, groups of friends, and big families: come to recharge the senses at this special and ancient house enveloped by wild gardens

Immaculate bedrooms, a rustic bar... but there’s more to this place than cool design. The service is superb and the food is lovely

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

A vine-clad stone house hideaway for lovers, walkers, artists and hermits with a sweet veranda overlooking woodland down to the river

A converted Victorian schoolhouse with a glorious oak bar, an impressive selection of gins, hearty food and attractive bedrooms

A lake to fish, a terrace for evening sun and a choice of two spaces with a shared pool and games room, a short hop from pretty Auvillar

Come to the wild Cévennes to hike, ride, kayak down the Hérault river – or just revel in your pretty, generous house, pool and garden space

A large and light house sitting by itself in lovely countryside with a big pool, maturing gardens and superb views up to Saignon on the hill

Gorgeous off-grid suites invite you to slow down surrounded by nature with long views and good food

A sweet bolthole for two and a babe-in-arms or pooch in friendly, foodie Ramsbottom with walks straight into woods and moors

A gentle, calm, immaculate place for an all-season family stay, near wine tastings, castles, caves and canoeing. Everyone loves the Dordogne

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

A bright and prettily beamed barn with very comfortable interiors, private outdoor seating and a shared courtyard for barbecues and games