A spacious old house for family get-togethers in Ashton village, little changed since its Victorian inception as a model village and farm

An 18th-century stone cottage sitting in the glorious Yorkshire Dales. Nature-lovers and walkers will be well pleased and so will their dog

A stunning château with huge rooms, pretty balconies with views, peaceful garden. Super owners, excellent dinners - and child-friendly too

A traditional stone bergerie high on a hill and surrounded by woods with east-facing views over the valley for stunning sunrises

A taste of old Italy in this off-the-beaten-track rustic house on three levels, exquisitely restored and with elegant designer furnishings

A marvellous spot overlooking Rutland Water for this 1760 former hunting lodge with good seasonal British food and very comfortable bedrooms

A gorgeous house, beautifully refurbished in contemporary style, with chic interiors and a swimming pool in a sublime English garden

A fuss-free, informal place to stay with family - your own entrance straight from the garden and tasty breakfasts set up in a summer house

Foodies will love the irresistible cooking - along with local wine and a typically Tuscan setting. Bedrooms are pretty

Blissful tranquillity - yet an easy drive from St Paul de Vence (legendary haunt of Matisse and Picasso) and 10km from the Riviera

Comfortable home with wood fires, gracious bedrooms and convivial living rooms. The drive is full of blossom and daffodils in spring

On the side of a hill in the little-known Marche, a happy young farmhouse with an elegant saltwater pool, and wonderful meals from Kelda

Feel at ease in a lovely old townhouse filled with pictures and personality and including a separate loft apartment

This civilised bolthole offers a quiet retreat, castle views and the magic of Edinburgh on your doorstep

A warm, inviting boutique hotel in Shrewsbury’s historic centre; potter about the medieval streets, relax in a sun-catching courtyard

Classic coaching inn in a bustling village offers restful rooms, real ales and the Cotswolds on your doorstep

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

Beautifully restored medieval hall house – perfect for big family gatherings, with separate cottage, replica steam train and secluded garden