Come for history, wildlife and a stunning garden estate with acres to roam. Bring children and dogs too. Fabulous

Restored farmhouse with a swimming pool on a 700-acre wine estate in the Valdera surrounded by hills, farmland and authentic villages

A serene restaurant-hotel on Chesil beach, with a perfect view of the big blue sea. How restorative can a hotel be?

Elegant country château with a family feel, for big groups with or without children, and those who seek inspiration

Cross an ancient stone bridge to a 1790s estate cottage, completely on its own down a little-used green lane and with the river rushing by

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

Gem-like in a deep park among meadows, a family-friendly château with 2 stylish cottages. Join the lovely owners for dinner, dip in the pool

A glorious old house circled on three sides by a duck-filled medieval moat – perfect for adventurous families

A smartly-refurbished coaching inn sitting near the river Frome run with an emphasis on fair trade, sustainability and excellent local food

Historic buildings by a turreted manor house, beautifully renovated to welcome large parties with grounds to roam and dreamy river views

A small, charming house with ravishing sea views within walking distance of a bohemian coastal village at the foot of the Teix mountain

Welcoming B&B or a whole house to yourselves; an ancient building with modern interiors, a lap pool and peaceful countryside views

A clutch of airy properties, most with their own jasmine-scented terraces arranged around a funky pool

Expansive bedrooms and delicious breakfasts at an historic, plant-filled hotel teetering on the edge of a mountain in rural Castellón

A grand, pale stone townhouse in the centre of lively Épernay with plenty of good restaurants nearby

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

A destination B&B. Hunker down in thoroughly spoiling surroundings with delightful owners near St Jean de Luz, Biarritz and Bayonne

Vast rooms, thick stone walls and ancient flagged floors skilfully modernised to create comfort, surrounded by romantic château gardens