Cosy boltholes

A pretty stone single-storey house, now renovated beautifully into a comfortable hideaway with wonderful views to woodland and river

Former blacksmith’s workshop in a chocolate-box corner of the New Forest, where clematis climbs the trellis and all you hear are the birds

A beautifully-restored old cow shed, light and airy, floating over a wildflower meadow in spring and summer. 20 mins from the Jurassic Coast

It's peaceful here and the surroundings elegant, with your own private balcony and lake views from the sitting room, kitchen and bedroom

A rural idyll with a hot tub under starlit skies and surrounded by gorgeous countryside in the South Lakes within a hop of vibrant Cartmel

Birders will love escaping up here, golfers too - visit Hatfield House, Knebworth, Cambridge - come back to a good local pub and a comfy bed

Steeped in history and romance, with a great big sleigh bed and open fires, is this 14th-century defence tower above the river Tweed

A smooth, contemporary space with far-reaching views, plenty of light and high ceilings for nature lovers, walkers, artists and dreamers

In charming Polruan: a smart dinky bolthole on the water's edge with steps down to the sea and a terrace with panoramic views

Enjoy a local ale or cider near the highest point on Exmoor for grand walking and cycling, with seasonal food and comfortable bedrooms

Lovers will be happy here in their own sweet space with a bird-filled garden. All you will hear is the river flowing gently past you

A peaceful, romantic village escape for couples, plus a babe-in-arms, attached to the welcoming owners' home in the Scottish Borders

Two cottages with open fires, kilim rugs and colourful throws - all lovingly cared for. Stride the fields, cycle down to the river Stour

Your very own love nest: frolic in the outdoor rolltop, hunker by the wood-burner, bask in the gardens... near Lakes and Dales

Picture-perfect Andalusian houses with private, colourful gardens, stunning mountain views and sparkling pool; utterly relaxing

A very tranquil spot with views of rolling countryside, the East Mendip Way on the doorstep and good pubs within walking distance

At the gates of a country estate, two quirky hexagonal lodge houses with private outdoor seating and acres of grounds for walks and picnics

After trekking Offa's Dyke, return to a cosy wood-burner stocked with logs and a sumptuous bed - you'll love this country retreat for two