Great for comfort, beauty, character and home baking. Borrow vintage bikes to explore Cambridge: Christine knows it inside out

Traditional house in a rural part of the Algarve with a spectacular garden, a pool and a tennis court, and restaurants a short stroll

An incredible living museum, dedicated to the history of Sicily and the arts. Stay in the main house or in a cottage in the fecund garden

Eight miles from York, near Moors and coast, this smart historic home is just the ticket for families and small groups of friends

A charming base in historic Beaulieu - expect delicious food, traditional country-house interiors, and walks that start from the front door

A peaceful place of history, eccentricity and authenticity with church and garden views; medieval Dunster and Exmoor on the doorstep

Two homely gîtes sleeping 4 and 2 in rural farm country. Walk to the bakery; drive 15 minutes to Saint-Malo and riverside restaurants

This stylish B&B is foodie heaven. Its eclectic, multicultural menu - and décor to match - make for a special getaway to the Cornish coast

The sort of place where you arrive and never want to leave – atmosphere, nature, character and comfort in a magical timeless valley

Come for Goodwood and good fun - simple, relaxed old farmhouse style with quirky touches, a lovely garden and long views

A glorious spot for this old coaching inn with its toes nearly in the water and lovely views over St Michael's Mount – excellent food too

A large cottage by the walled garden on a peaceful estate with oodles of space for big gatherings and views over a lake and mature trees

Bring boots, maps, your dog and an appetite for high places and deep comfort in this cleverly restored farm building

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 great find if you want to be close to all the action but nicely tucked away. Friendly pub downstairs, cool bedrooms up, Soho 20 minutes

Come for serene countryside, walks through bird-filled woods and this lovely old house with gracious hosts and very beautiful bedrooms

You’ll find Norfolk ales, French wines and a hint of eccentricty at this old-school inn, where local food and comfy beds keep you smiling

Welcoming, dog-friendly pub with food to rave about, cracking countryside views and very comfortable bedrooms