A lovely old house and rambling garden in a medieval village with a monumental château, 12th-century church and a good local restaurant

A characterful coaching inn in a lively market town surrounded by manicured countryside - Chester's mighty Roman walls are close

An 18th-century converted barn with lofty beamed ceilings, exposed stonework, handmade oak windows and much art – pretty garden too

A tempting trio of retreats with unlimited access to exceptional gardens, and a welcome homemade cream tea. Come as a pair, or a small group

A lovely 300-year-old cottage with a tiny walled courtyard garden in a village with a good pub. You can see Dartmoor from the windows

Come for a delightfully unfussy stay at this graceful townhouse filled with beautiful objects and good vibes thanks to the lovely owners

A really friendly French family home, steeped in history and tradition with delicious home-grown food, a lovely garden and peaceful pool

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

Glamour, warmth and style in a renovated wine warehouse in a cool quarter of Bordeaux - France’s most popular city after Paris

Three family friendly cottages on this gorgeous eco farm with private gardens and organised outdoor activities if you like joining in

Gite retreats in château grounds - welcoming and wonderful for young families. Build castles in the sandpit, make friends around the pool

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

Enjoy warmth, comfort and some jolly good food at this family-run village inn with inviting bedrooms – a haven for weary walkers

Escape to your own barn. Brimming with beams and natural colours - surrounded by peaceful lavender-filled gardens and corn fields

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?

An artistic escape with a stunning kitchen in sleepy, gastronomic Lot – stroll to the village market and feast on local produce

A 200-year-old village house surrounded by vineyards. Light-filled interiors, lots of art, a garden and your own sparkling pool