Elegant stable cottage in the heart of Northumberland, with lush gardens and cosy interiors. Explore castles, coast and countryside

A 17th-century townhouse sitting on a quiet side street with lots of original features and a west-facing patio screened by vines and lemons

A 17th-century Westmorland barn, fully renovated with a roomy living space and west-facing garden with views of High Street and Blencathra

A hilltop setting for this ancient fortress with an illustrious past. You stay in apartments or farmhouses inside or outside the walls

Light-and-colour filled cottage with gardens and sea views on the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast, a short stroll from Chesil Beach

In a quaint village with a bakery, brasserie and shops, a handsome gîte with a wonderful pool and fashion museum

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

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

A homespun inn with irresistible prices in a tiny village deep in the country - the river Tweed is close, fishing can be arranged

You have complete independence in your own wing beside the owner's house, with much space, a sparkling pool and balconies with views

For escapists, wannabe writers and lovers of rural bliss: two boho hideaways for two (four at a squeeze) in this lush corner of Galicia

Groups will love this 18th-century winemaster’s house and tower. There’s a hillside infinity pool, valley views and a private boulodrome

Two family and dog friendly retreats for lovers of the countryside, birdwatchers and those wishing to escape the crowds

Tour the cellars or wander the history-rich château and grounds. A truly pretty place

A seaside inn on Babbacombe Bay with views of sea and sky, rooms to feel happy in, a spa and homely, hearty dining

An 1800s former watermill, now elegantly converted to give B&B rooms plus a self-catering cottage in the Côte d'Opale, superb for walking

Come for breezy bedrooms, pretty gardens, a serene pool and delicious breakfasts at this gorgeous finca in rural Extremadura near Trujillo

A much-loved family home filled with warmth and characterful interiors overlooking Loch Alsh where dolphins and seals frolic