Places fit for kings and queens

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

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

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

A pleasure to stay in such a dreamy château surrounded by a beautiful terrace, elegant gardens and parkland, a lake, river and waterfall

A gracious 17th-century manor house and a pretty Grange hidden down a tree-lined drive and with stunning views over woodlands

Historic, indulgent, atmospheric – and the Contessa is so warm. Vineyards, restaurants, operas, walks...La dolce vita on Slovenia's border

A joyful, inviting house on a 15 acre smallholding in Devon. Super food, gracious hosts, delightful bedrooms - leave feeling nourished

Come for glorious walking countryside and warm fuss-free Sally, who gives you freshly baked scones when you arrive and beautiful bedrooms

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

A special place indeed, particularly for honeymooners and lovers. It's steeped in history & romance with delightful gardens to roam at will

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

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

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

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

Choose between airy bedrooms up an elegant stair, or magnificent rooms at garden-level with private terraces. Find sweetness and warmth

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

A happy guest told us, ‘A marvellous way to see a beautiful château and this is probably the best that we have stayed in’

Find beauty and tranquillity on this historic Dordogne estate for up to fourteen - plus a feast of designer colour and a fine pool to share