Places fit for kings and queens

Come for much comfort in both buildings which face each other across the garden, plus a pool, lake, yoga and fitness studios

Cakes from the host & eggs from the hens. Bring a party, bring the dogs, and soak up the history from a very fine house in the Cotswolds

Something to astound at every turn where the traditional and downright quirky collide to stunning effect. Friendly, flexible hosts too

Your very own château in the Dordogne for big family get-togethers and special celebrations

Strolling distance from the village of Seggiano, peace and beauty fill every corner of this ancient, view-filled retreat

A relaxed château and vineyard by the river Cher in the exquisite Loire Valley surrounded by lush countryside for wonderful walks and cycles

Up the drive flanked by grazing horses, to a warm welcome from the housekeeper and a great fire in the hall. Perfect for family gatherings

Smart apartments set in a château with landscaped gardens, a lake and a small spa; the town centre and a wild beach are an easy stroll away

Bring the whole tribe to your very own fairytale castle circled by expansive parkland, fields and woods, close to Bastide towns

Historic but unstuffy inn in the heart of the Cotswolds with swimming pool, spa, gardens and lots of activities for children

A substantial old house, originally built in 1836 and recently renovated, for grand special occasions with stunning views and a hot tub

Ensconce yourselves in the Black Périgord and stay in a very pretty flat in the East Wing of a 16th-century castle

Grand Scottish home with stunning views & a tea-and-shortbread welcome. Historic castles, local festivals, golf, East Lothian beaches abound

A fortified castle in parkland, built mostly in the 1300s on the Montbazens plateau, near to the stunning Averyon gorges

Open to the public, and stuffed full of Sir Walter Scott’s collections, Abbotsford House & Gardens abut this Borders getaway

A traditional Gascon stone chateau with a square tower at each end, a roomy salon, summer kitchen, gorgeous terrace and gardens

A 15th-century Venetian palazzo, lovingly restored with stylish rooms overlooking the Grand Canal and a designer's insight into the city

A very special old priory from the late Middle Ages and a separate tower with lush, rambling gardens, sitting in a charming, sleepy village