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

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

Charming cottage surrounded by acres of wildflower meadows: drive to Newport in 15 minutes, walk the Pembrokeshire coastline

Step into the valley region from this beautifully restored 17th-century house surrounded by saltwater and freshwater canals and lakes

A charming white-washed house with a pool & lovely hillside views from the terrace: sleep out here under a star-studded sky on warm evenings

Chocolate-box cottages in deepest Normandy, owned by bright young things with a passion for organic cuisine and the good life

Converted stables on a fruitful and beautiful estate with gardens, sculpture walks, wildflower meadows and a farm-to-fork restaurant

Cosy, peaceful retreat not far from Hadrian's Wall. A real fire, tennis, BBQ, the Coast to Coast cycle route and hilly treks from the door

Good looking barn conversion for sociable gatherings on an organic farm – meet the animals, take a day trip, go walking

A relaxed hilltop escape with good food, a pretty garden and fine views of the Dales and the river Wharfe – bring your dog too

Five beautiful suites in the south wing of this fairy tale castle, filled with architectural features, family history and much grandeur

The inn is the hub of this thriving village in 'the blue remembered hills' with great food and super rooms - a Sawday's Community Champion

A family retreat high above the river Dordogne and deep in woodland - with heated pool, games room and village restaurants a stroll away

A gorgeous house with oodles of original features, a lovely garden and the owners' pub, farm shop, brewery and spa a short walk

A charming, warm and intimate hotel tucked away on a side street just minutes from the Ponte Vecchio, with a view-filled rooftop restaurant

Ski in winter, walk and cycle in summer - return to unbeatable hospitality, warm, large and comfortable bedrooms with views, robust food

Independent B&B with your own converted spaces sitting in a lovely garden with pool. Breakfast is served in the main house or on the terrace

Unwind in elegant interiors and set out on long walks in beautiful countryside; Chichester and Winchester are near