There's a lovely relaxed feel to this rather grand house, garden, ponds and orangery. Ashley and Amanda are easy-going hosts

A Georgian townhouse in the heart of historic Sherborne with friendly staff, delicious breakfasts, walled garden and spoiling mini spa

Follow in Picasso’s footsteps and spin up to vibrant Sheffield for a night at this stunning hotel, where flawless bedrooms wait

Come for windswept beauty, wonderful sea views and swims, hearty walks and good vegetarian food at this island hideaway and spa

A renovated, comfy Victorian cottage behind a small village pub, a hub for the local community and with good food, ales and wine

This famous old country house might not come cheap, but where else can you splash out in such decadent style for life’s big celebrations?

Relaxing B&B with views of woodland and fields, a cottage garden and friendly poodle. On a quiet lane, a stroll from the middle of Mells

Lose yourselves in this picturesque castle, magical with its luxurious rooms and timeless atmosphere. Count and Countess are brilliant hosts

The Gautiers have the finest sense of how to treat guests: dreamy bedrooms, fantastic food & the pool beneath the orange trees is a delight

Traditional and modern, verging on the opulent. Find a stone-flagged tap room for walkers, top modern food and Chatsworth-perfect bedrooms

A romantic little bolthole with a hot tub on the Penicuik Estate with well-thought-out interiors and dreamy views over pastures and woodland

Spacious rooms and a cosy apartment a stone’s throw from Avignon’s historic sights. Retire to the heated pool after a busy day sightseeing

Sublime views across the Tuscan countryside, seasonal food and the kindest host. Children are welcome, oenophiles will be in heaven

An inspirational setting and an enthusiastic welcome from your hosts and their young family - lose your heart to its baroque beauty

Where sea and woodland meet, an inspiring and beautiful haven with estuary views; a gourmet’s delight and Honfleur down the road

Friendly hosts, lovely log fires, delicious dinners, interesting antiques – and Frederick’s special tours of a WWI memorial site

A delightful hostess and gem of a village home, from grand piano to organic potager and pool. Market-fresh meals pair with Beaujolais wines

If you need a great place in which to relax and don’t want to pay too much for it, try these excellent suites, which spoil you all the way