Step through centuries of history, crafted into one unforgettable Lodge... Over the years it has featured as the backdrop for many films and TV shows, Midsummer Murders for one and most recently, The Woman in Black. Originally a dwelling for the abbots of Notley in 1187, the east and west wings were added by the 15th century, before renowned architect Philip Tilden restored and extended the Manor to its current magnificence in the 1920s.

A true English country garden, nestled amongst the Chiltern Hills... Originally three Tudor Cottages now a red brick and timber-framed family home which offers both traditional bed and breakfast in the main house or the renovated barn, which also has its own kitchen and sitting room. This Lodge is beautifully furnished throughout, adorned with many watercolors and antiques most notable of which are an array of fascinating old maps.

Strikingly modern, luxurious and comfortable, with marvellous views to match... This Lodge sits on a hillside overlooking the World Heritage Site of Derwent Valley Mills, the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. The estate on which it sits used to belong to the Strutt family, Belper’s key benefactors, meaning that the grounds benefit from established trees, retained from the original property.

A wonderful lodge, whose hosts go above and beyond... Be it the fantastic welcome, the individually styled bedrooms, the exquisite home-baked treats, and food. You are sure to thoroughly enjoy your time being well looked after by your bed and breakfast hosts! This quintessentially English home, dating back to the Victorian era and Grade II listed, is a haven of restful ambiance and exceptional standards. It resides in the centre of Matlock making it an ideal base to explore the stunning scenery, history and outdoor pursuits that Derbyshire and the Peak District have to offer.

Award-winning 5-star hospitality on the doorstep of 1066 country... This delightful Grade II listed Georgian Lodge was the local apothecary, before being lovingly and sympathetically transformed into a luxurious bed and breakfast. Perched upon a ridge, it offers magnificent views over the very best of Sussex countryside in an area of outstanding natural beauty.

A lodge for all seasons, where guests are welcomed as friends... In the spring, the garden comes to life with rhododendrons, azaleas, daffodils and tulips creating a riot of colour. The lily scented terrace, with its rose covered pergola, is well used on sunny days and warm summer evenings, as is the drawing room with the blazing fire in winter.

A hidden gem, for those in need of a home from home hideaway… Strand House, a historic Tudor luxury B&B in Winchelsea, East Sussex was built in 1425. This listed building pre-dates Cardinal Wolsey himself, but as a Wolsey Lodge today it offers every modern comfort. Set in glorious gardens overlooking adjoining meadows, complete with beehives and grazing sheep, there are areas to relax in and paths to explore – one taking you into town via a medieval Strand Gate in the town walls.

Sensational views of Cornwall's mesmerising coastline... Situated above Housel Bay on Cornwall's Lizard Peninsula and only a short walk from the Lighthouse makes this the most southerly of all our Wolsey Lodges. Built in the 1920s, the light and bright rooms take advantage of the dramatic coastline views and sea beyond. The three luxury bed and breakfast rooms are a sophisticated mix of antique and contemporary furniture with original pieces of art adorning the walls.

Artistically vibrant and luxuriously comfortable… What better way to be greeted than by a home-made afternoon tea! Be it in the conservatory, garden terrace or when the weather is inclement, beside a cosy fire in the drawing room. Lucy has made this house into a most comfortable base for her bed and breakfast guests - light and sunny and furnished with fine art, furniture, and family photographs.

Cosy country retreat, full of character and quirky old world charm… Built in 1840 this fabulous early Victorian country house which has retained many of its original features. It’s set in eight acres of its own grounds (with an ancient oak tree) and approached via a tree-lined drive. Guests are assured a warm welcome alongside tea and scones in the Morning Room, a lovely space complete with Chesterfield sofas and a variety of books, board games and DVDs. 

Redolent of a long history, Johnby is a most unusual and singularly beguiling place… The Elizabethan manor house started around 1350 as a fortified pele tower and has belonged to the Howard family since 1783. It is now home to Henry and Anna Howard who welcome bed and breakfast guests looking for a comfortable base from which to enjoy the Lake District, Eden Valley and beyond.

Exceedingly homely, lovely and eco-friendly… A charming Victorian house in the heart of County Durham, once the local mine manager’s residence, it now offers the very warmest of welcomes. This ‘home from home’, near to the North Pennines an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, has attractive grounds with views over the Wear Valley and beyond. 

Undoubtedly one of the best… With views of the Tamar Valley and rolling Devon countryside, this imposing Victorian farmhouse bed and breakfast, in the parish of Milton Abbot, near Tavistock was built in 1856 by the Duke of Bedford and is situated on the border of Devon and Cornwall in a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The rooms, the facilities, the food… Simply Perfect! A large hall and sweeping staircase lead to the generously proportioned and classically decorated bed and breakfast guest bedrooms, with en-suite bath/shower rooms. There are hidden fridges and antique furniture cleverly mixed with the contemporary. Entertainment systems, luxurious bathrooms, toiletries, linens, fresh flowers and hospitality trays offer understated luxury and style.

Idyllic views, peaceful bedrooms and the warmest of welcomes… Nestling in the un-spoilt, lovely and relatively unknown Coly Valley in the heart of East Devon is this superb late Georgian luxury bed and breakfast. Home of the aptly named Guest family Wolsey Lodge guests can expect a friendly welcome by your hosts, alongside much lauded homemade biscuits and cakes.

Simply stunning views, coupled with attentive and unobtrusive service… Situated right on the South West Coast path, overlooking Lynmouth Bay and across to Wales, this large Victorian cliff top residence has been a guest house since 1880. Many generations have enjoyed the breathtaking views, either dining on the terrace, from their rooms or as they wander the garden.

Stunning modern architecture, bright open living spaces, and incredible views… Set high above the River Dart just outside the quintessentially English village of Stoke Gabriel, near Totnes in Devon, resides this wonderful Wolsey Lodge. The house was completed in 2010 and has been designed to take full advantage of its elevated location deep in the Devon countryside. On arrival, you will be warmly greeted by your hosts and offered a classic Devon cream tea and a chance to take in your rather special surroundings.      

Contemporary, friendly, exotic and exquisite… There aren’t many awards that this fabulous Wolsey Lodge hasn’t won nor a national newspaper that hasn’t featured it as one of the best bed and breakfasts around. With extensive grounds and panoramic sea views across Start Bay and the headland, this 16th Century luxury manor house is the perfect base from which B&B guests can explore the glorious Dartmouth area.

Peaceful, comfortable and welcoming… Proudly overlooking the Otter Valley, Honiton and Devon, in what Daniel Defoe once called "the finest landscape in the world", rises Woodhayes, an elegant listed Georgian farmhouse offering luxury bed and breakfast accommodation at its finest.

Modern, luxurious, fabulous views and great food… Arriving in Ashmore on a fine day one can appreciate just how high you've climbed to reach this utterly beautiful luxury bed and breakfast, with views across the Dorset coast.

Simply Superb! A traditionally designed country house with every comfort designed to make Wolsey Lodges guests stay memorable. Set well back and hidden from public view it is surrounded by eight acres of lovely grounds, mostly woodland and has fine views over the Herefordshire countryside.

Everything a Cornish Wolsey Lodge should be… Located close to Truro on the edge of the Roseland Peninsula, makes this the perfect place to enjoy everything this beautiful part of the country offer. Set in seven acres of gorgeous gardens, this spacious Georgian house was once home to the local rector before it became the family home and a luxury bed and breakfast retreat.

Award winning luxury, with a personal touch… This elegant Victorian former rectory is in the delightful hamlet of Davidstow nestled between two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty – Bodmin Moor and the coastal area from Pentire Point to Widemouth. It has won numerous awards and recognitions, most notably a gold in Green Tourism demonstrating that this truly is a special space to stay.

Typical regency style Cornish country house, with a fascinating garden… This elegant and comfortable Wolsey Lodge stands in the rolling countryside of the Roseland Peninsula. Built in 1839 this late Regency offers bed and breakfast guests, with its wealth of beautiful antiques, a wonderful retreat in picturesque surroundings. Approach through the outstanding gardens, there is ample parking and more importantly a warm welcome.

An authentic Country Manor House, in a fantastic location… An idyllic Grade II listed Queen Anne Manor house set in peaceful gardens and woodland in the heart of the countryside and just minutes away from beautiful, unspoiled Cornish Heritage coastline scenery and walks.

The perfect base to discover the best of Cornwall. It is believed that Sir Roger de Carmynou began the building of Trerose back in the 13th Century, this site itself has ancient connections stretching to the Bronze age. Now this marvelous Wolsey Lodge is a Grade II listed family home, full of character, charm and surrounded by a magnificent garden populated with a range of tender plants and shrubs, not normally found anywhere else in the UK.  

An effortless, traditional style of hospitality… Experience the real England away from the crowds in this classic Georgian house, located in a beautiful landscape made famous by Jane Austen. Set in an acre of walled garden in the centre of Headly village but only a stone's throw from National Trust land, this is a welcoming Wolsey Lodge where you can fully relax, with the rural peace disturbed only, perhaps, by the the clunk of croquet mallet on ball. 

500 years in the heart of the Cotswold’s… Aylworth Manor dates back through the centuries and has been lovingly restored over the last few years by John and Joanna Ireland who together have turned it into a most friendly, welcoming family home for their two children and the many B&B guests that are lucky to discover them.  

A welcoming and historic jewel…. A perfect example of Georgian refinement, this superb English stately home was built in 1730 by the Clifford family and is part of the Frampton Court Estate, set within parkland and gardens. It is open to the public for house and garden tours, it can host wedding receptions, has its own 18th Century Orangery and even hold its own fair every September.

A working farm with a difference… Don't be fooled by the name 'The Wold Cottage'. Originally a Georgian city gentleman’s country retreat, Wold Cottage sits in beautifully landscaped grounds, surrounded by woodland and with un-spoilt views over their 300 acres of farmland and beyond to the Yorkshire Wolds.

Personable hospitality at its best… Residing on a hill overlooking Telegraph Park Hill, is this very distinguished Wolsey Lodge, at night you get the most magnificent view of the twinkling London lights. A Victorian semi-detached, it has been beautifully refurbished and restored with all the modern luxuries a guest could need.

Georgian rural gem… Tucked away in eight acres of grassland on the edge of the lovely conservation village of Folkingham, sits The Barn, originally built in the 17th Century for thrashing grain. After many years of neglect, it has been transformed into one of the most welcoming of bed and breakfasts.

Superb hosts and hospitality… John and Maureen Burton have established an excellent reputation for their hospitality and comfortable home. Set in beautiful countryside just a few miles from historic Berwick-upon-Tweed, this lovely country B&B is an ideal base for exploring the Scottish Borders.

More than a touch of vintage, 5-star luxury… Described by guests as ‘an amazing little treasure in the beautiful Kent countryside’, Beacon Hall House is a lovely 1920’s style family bed and breakfast - oozing a vintage feel. It was rebuilt after a WWII flying bomb destroyed the original.

Classic Country house hospitality… Arriving along a tree-lined driveway, you will be warmly welcomed by your hosts Carole and Andrew and perhaps one of the friendly Labrador dogs and you can’t help but feel instantly ‘at home’. Enjoy tea and cakes (home baking is a true specialty here!) in the splendidly comfortable Music Room with its grand fireplace before unwinding and relaxing in the sumptuous luxury of your bed and breakfast room.

A warm welcome awaits you in rural Leicestershire… Having been renovated to an incredibly high standard, Horseshoe Cottage Farm is a truly wonderful luxury bed and breakfast; one that has won multiple awards and is thoroughly eco-friendly. Traditional antique furniture graces the interior, as well as the three, pretty, en-suite guest bedrooms, that are individually decorated with quality fabrics and furnishings.  These lovely farmhouse bedrooms are a haven of relaxation and the ground floor room is ideal for guests less able to climb stairs.

Top notch breakfasts… Fine fare awaits you at this charming 18th Century Farmhouse located in the heart of the Quorn Hunt country. Wholesome breakfasts and sumptuous evening meals feature local and fair trade produce, will set you up for the day ahead or round off a lovely evening. Formal bespoke dinners can be arranged on request. Alternatively, there are excellent local pubs and restaurants within easy reach.

A truly homely experience… Approaching nearly 500 years old and retaining many of its original features – beams, inglenook fireplace and winding staircases, makes this a must visit Wolsey Lodge. Most important of all, though, is the feeling of friendliness and warmth which many B&B guests remark on when they enter the house for the first time.

Classic, family run, country farm B&B… Surrounded by a 450-acre valley of scenic farmland, sits this beautifully secluded, two hundred and seventy-year-old, creeper-clad country house. Located in the heart of the North Cotswold’s, you won’t find a better bed and breakfast that is as quiet, peaceful and as charming as this one.

A luxurious boutique B&B in all senses… Period sophistication meets contemporary style at Roseberry Cottage, a Georgian stone farmhouse, surrounded by established gardens and open countryside. The lovely family home has been immaculately restored to retain original features, yet offering every luxury associated with a Wolsey Lodge bed and breakfast.

Immaculately kept, tranquil and comfortable… This is the kind of Wolsey Lodge, once you have visited, you don't want to share with anyone else because it is so special. This is an outstanding 1960's architect-designed house with huge picture windows to every room, allowing guests to take in spectacular views of the glorious Ampleforth and North Yorkshire countryside. 

Multiple award-winning country farmhouse… The eco-friendly luxury farmhouse is set in beautiful Arts & Crafts landscaped gardens with river access and planned walks for Wolsey Lodge guests to enjoy. Set amidst a working farm in a conservation area, this superb bed and breakfast dates back over 350 years, with later extensions by famous Norfolk architect Thomas Jeckel.

First rate hospitality and delicious food… A warm Anglo-American welcome, ably assisted by Bonnie the Dog, awaits you at this beautifully restored Grade II listed thatched Norfolk farmhouse. Followed shortly by tea and homemade cakes in the wonderful garden, conservatory or lounge, weather dependent.

An enchanting country escape… In search of peace and quiet? Then look no further!  Manor House Farm offers all that you could possibly wish for in luxury accommodation. Your hosts Libby and Robin Ellis have transformed their family home into an utterly beautiful bed and breakfast, with a garden that visitors flock to see whenever it is open under the National Gardens Scheme.

A picture perfect B&B, bordering Exmoor National Park… Set in 21 acres, close to the sea, surrounded by splendid walks and coastal paths resides this very special Wolsey Lodge. Nestled amidst the trees, Glen Lodge is a tranquil haven, with a tiered garden that extends all around, complete with a captivating stream cascading over waterfalls alongside secluded terraces, the croquet lawn, and seating areas.

A quintessentially English experience… What are the hallmarks of a perfect Wolsey Lodge B&B? Splendid food, convivial company and truly wonderful hospitality and this is exactly what awaits at Pitfour House. Tea and homemade delicacies are served to guests on their arrival, after which guests may enjoy the comforts of an elegantly furnished formal sitting room to unfurl after a long journey.

A luxurious escape, perfect for exploring the west country… Spacious and comfortable, the farmhouse has seen much restoration since it became home to your bed and breakfast hosts Kerstin and Robert Sharpe in the late 1980s. Downstairs is a sitting room complete with deep sofas and a cosy wood burning stove as well as a snooker room complete with full-size table and an atmospheric dining room where guests can enjoy breakfast and dinner too if requested.

Sophisticated hospitality in beautiful surroundings… Gold award winning, 5 Stars, personal and attentive hosts coupled with splendid views is just a selection of what makes this Wolsey Lodge a fantastic option for a ‘get away from it all’ break. This genteel three storey former gentleman's residence is surrounded by 400 acres of the Teme Valley, right on the borders between England and Wales. Dating back to the Georgian period this is a place to relax and explore a beautiful part of the country.

Classic, Cosy and above all hospitable with a capital ‘H’… Fragrances of lavender, honeysuckle, jasmine, and roses tumbling over golden stone walls, alongside a range of regular avian residents create an air of calm, that instantly relaxes and enchants all guests upon arrival. Uplands House is approached along a drive lined with ancient lime trees, at the end of which await a tasty welcome of tea and homemade cakes, served in the spacious drawing room or weather permitting in the magnificent garden.

Authentic and full of character, with a true garden lovers garden... Built upon a gentle rise and facing southeast over the Ems Valley await this fine 17th Century manor house, surrounded by a lovingly tended to garden which is especially radiant during the spring and summer seasons. Hedge and lawns reside to the rear, where the long border of shrubs, lilies, and anemones line its boundaries, interesting trees including a black mulberry and paperback maple add to the already proud and delightful vistas. Keen gardeners will appreciate this elegant Wolsey Lodge.

All the modern comforts combined with the elegance of a bygone era… Positioned on the edge of town within easy walking distance of historic Bewdley, Kateshill House is a magnificent Georgian manor house that has been thoughtfully refurbished with an emphasis on comfort and grandeur – it even has royal connections!

Peaceful, relaxing, friendly… Hidden away at the end of a country lane, surrounded by fields and situated on the fringe of the Cotswolds in a tiny Wiltshire hamlet is this delightful Wolsey Lodge, that dates back over 200 years. The garden is spectacular, full of meandering pathways and enticing seating areas, not to mention the collection of special and unusual plants. A true labour of love but also skill which has been recognised by magazines in the UK and abroad!

Casually elegant, with amazing views of the town… Originally a terrace of six 17th Century weaver’s cottages, it was converted in 1985 into a fabulous home from home with panoramic views over the town towards Salisbury Plain. This spacious bed and breakfast was purchased from the world record-breaking aviatrix and motor racer, The Hon Mrs Victor Bruce - the first lady to win the Monte Carlo Rally Coupe Des Dames in 1928 and the first Englishwoman to fly solo around the world. Fascinating memorabilia relating to her exploits are displayed in the house.

Exceptionally welcoming, friendly and helpful…. Your journey's end is met with tea and home baked treats served either on a sunny veranda if the weather is fine or in front of the drawing room's warming fire. The farmhouse dates from c.1840 with loving attention brought to bear on the more recent additions added by your hosts Maggie and Malcolm.

Abound in history, surrounded by lush woodland and wonderfully welcoming… Nestled within a stone’s throw of lush green woodland, this Wolsey Lodge is a real haven of luxury near the Scottish Borders. The B&B itself sits imposingly at the end of a lovely private drive, just off the A7, surrounded by stunning countryside giving it a postcard-worthy setting.

A stately home filled with old-fashioned good taste and timeless luxury… A handsome and thoroughly inviting old country house, whose almost austere facade hides a home of great warmth and charm. The visitor's book contains the names of aristocrats and gentry, dating back over a hundred years, a tradition this is enthusiastically carried on to this day.

Strikingly modern interiors and deluxe breakfasts… The impressive pillared entrance of this luxury B&B leads to the lovely airy hallway of this welcoming Edinburgh home, where grand furniture, beautiful antiques, and many original features stylishly blend with chic furnishings and décor. Set in a pretty walled garden, with immaculate lawns and outdoor seating. There is parking for one car, alternatively, there is on street parking.

Warm and welcoming, with an enchanting garden… Overlooking the Vale of Clwyd in Denbighshire, the gardens surrounding Firgrove are a blend of exotic, colourful and inspired planting that will delight gardening enthusiasts and non-gardeners alike. The house itself is a Grade II listed Georgian gem and home since the mid-1980s to your hosts Philip and Anna.

Hugging the bank of the Esk is this beautiful, comfortable and immaculate home… Crafted from sandstone and tucked away down a gravelled drive is this Victorian forester’s house set in 1.5 acres of well-stocked gardens. This luxury riverside bed and breakfast offers a great base, not only for keen fly fishers but also for anyone wanting to explore or relax in the lovely Scottish Borders.

A wonderful blend of friendly informality and elegant formality… For anyone with an interest in historic buildings, this should be on your 'must visit' list as it is simply magnificent! Built in 1598 as a Tower House with later additions, it occupies a commanding position on rising ground above the River Forth with spectacular views in all directions.

A lovely family-run Highland retreat, complete with a nautical theme and incredible views… Residing on the shores of Loch Ewe is this stunning Wolsey Lodge which is steeped in history and is filled with an eclectic selection of furnishing from around the world. The location provides stunning views of not only the Loch but also where the river meets the sea. It is the perfect place to venture for a bit of rest and relaxation and has attracted many celebrities over the years.

Escape from the hubbub and experience Victorian luxury living at its finest... The spectacular Welsh Marches and Powys countryside are the perfect backdrop for The Old Vicarage, a Gothic style house on the edge of the village of Norton. Designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott in the 1860s on the bailey of a Norman castle and now a perfect luxury bed and breakfast retreat.

Home to arguably, one of the UK’s finest fishing and shooting estates… Nestled beside the mature end of the river Frome, the most western of the famous English chalk streams resides the Wrackleford Estate, home to the Pope family for the past six generations. The estate has more recently built a fine reputation for quality game shooting, thanks to its most spectacular of settings. 

Stylish and palatial retreat, offering hospitality that goes above and beyond…  ‘Meadow of the Sun’, is the English title of this Irish Gaelic named Wolsey Lodge, and it is most fitting indeed. The sun rises in the morning at the eastern end of the walled garden, floats over the extensive lawn before setting beyond the herbaceous borders and woodland teeming with wildlife. All of which sits on 3.5 acres of land.

Multi award-winning medieval manor house… Set within a conservation area, this most historical of homes is quiet, discreet, luxurious and above all has a charming country house atmosphere. It even has its own coat of arms and flag! The interiors are a sumptuous mix of high quality Georgian furniture and exquisite silk lined walls. Antique weapons, fans and plates add to the unique style and character of this Wolsey Lodge.  

Step back through time at this very special Lodge… Prepare to be warmly welcomed by your hosts Eileen and Andy (and their family pets), followed by homemade afternoon tea, served just after your arrival in front of the magnificent inglenook fireplace – reputedly the largest in Suffolk. This Grade I listed Tudor house complete with Gatehouse and colonnade oozes Olde World charm whilst having every modern convenience.  

Layers of history, curated into a wonderful B&B experience…  Looking for something a bit unusual whilst at the same time still wanting luxury bed and breakfast (B&B) accommodation? Then look no further, Old Kippenross is a magical architectural gem, quite unique in Scotland, tucked away in a sheltered sunny position in a wooded valley beside the River Allan.  

Fascinatingly historical and immaculately presented… Many Wolsey Lodges have histories dating back many hundreds of years and The Old Rectory is no exception. Rebuilt in 1704 following a fire, the original house was a hunting lodge owned by Henry VIII and home to Catherine Parr. Original Tudor features are apparent and blended with the new to create a beautiful family home with a welcoming atmosphere set amidst lovingly restored gardens.

Gold winning B&B, at the foot of Hambledon Hill…  Fashioned out of old red brick and stone this award winning Wolsey Lodge is located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, making for a serene and tranquil environment in which to relax and unwind. Cari, your hostess is extremely welcoming and will have tea and cake waiting for you when you arrive.

The epitome of gracious hosts… Perfectly situated for exploring the beautiful South Downs, this spacious, detached, contemporary luxury B&B with secluded private garden is in Old Thakeham; a quintessentially English village, in gorgeous countryside.      

Exclusive use makes this cosy cottage b&b really feel a home  Antique furnishings, an inglenook fireplace and exposed beams showcase 400 years of history to great effect. The three guest bedrooms are luxurious, with super-comfortable beds, crisp bed linens and tasteful, relaxing décor.  Guests have Just So Cottage completely to themselves but your host Anna lives next door and is always on hand to help with restaurant reservations and travel advice.

Splendidly isolated, this former shooting lodge has been transformed by music into a Bronte home  Cradled in National Trust land, Walshaw Lodge is the ultimate setting for a Wuthering Heights-inspired West Yorkshire break. Built in the 19th Century as a hunting lodge for the surrounding grouse moors, Walshaw Lodge has been transformed by music. No fewer than three grand pianos can be found on the ground floor, while the guest rooms have now been extensively restored to provide luxurious accommodation in the heart of open countryside. There are extensive views of the Hardcastle Crags and the Pennine Way passes through the grounds.

A spiritual home converted to the highest standards, a cosy welcome in the heart of Cornwall  From the minute you walk into your room at the Old Chapel you’ve come home, a warm and beautifully furnished environment with all the little extra touches – including home-made biscuits and sweets – to make life easy. Once a place of worship: now a place of comfort. Greg and Kimberley have created a restful base from which to explore England’s southwest.  

Wonderful welcome in the heart of Devon  Cream teas on arrival are just one extra reason to choose this luxury family-run boutique hotel cradled in the rolling west-country hills.  Dating back to the 13th century and recorded in the Domesday Book, Paschoe House has been beautifully rebuilt and restored by its current owners, the Amador family. At its heart it is a refined retreat to enjoy all that Devon can offer. It’s right on the 100-mile Two Moors Way that links north and south coasts and will send on luggage for guests travelling by foot. But there are plenty of other outdoor pursuits on offer. There’s horse riding on Dartmoor, fly fishing, shooting packages (with a discount on brandy and port) and deer stalking as part of the moor’s forest management programme.

Nestled at the foot of a secluded drive, this 17th century mansion is an oasis of calm and comfort  Painstakingly restored and set in extensive grounds, this beautiful property is furnished with antiques that tastefully combine with the most modern comforts. Bedrooms are large and luxurious, while the downstairs rooms are perfect to enjoy the quintessential country-house experience - just these days it comes with wifi. Only 16 miles from Edinburgh, Letham House is just on the outskirts of Haddington, perfectly placed to explore all East Lothian has to offer.

An oasis of tranquillity on England's southern coast  This friendly b&b is beautifully set on the coastal sector of the New Forest National Park. Set in an acre of its own mature grounds it has uninterrupted views of the Western Solent and beyond. Ample secure off road parking gives you privacy, security and peace of mind. In this quiet location you would hardly believe we are just three or four minutes walk from the village centre with its shops, pubs and restaurants. There’s excellent wifi here but almost no light pollution: perfect for star gazing on a clear night. Every b&b offers a different experience to you, the guest. As your hosts, we live on site and endeavour to ensure a warm and personalised service from the moment you arrive to the moment you depart.

A warm welcome awaits in Jordans, the historic Quaker village   With just two guest bedrooms, Spindrift at Jordans is a cosy refuge in a beautiful part of the Chilterns. A sense of peace and tranquillity pervades the house. In the family living room is a grand piano once owned by Queen Alexandra, and sometimes Norma can be persuaded to play. A huge part of Spindrift's appeal is in its spectacular two-acre gardens, divided into different levels, each with an atmosphere all of its own. There's the Hosta Garden, lush with foliage, a terraced garden tumbling with Irishes and a separate Monet Garden that shares its shape and colour palette with the world-famous gardens at Giverny. For a quieter mood head down into the wooded dell, or stroll through the kitchen garden to see choose your selection of fresh food for a salad. These gardens have been nurtured by Norma and her family for over half a century: unsurprisingly the gardens are open to the public during Open Garden Week but visitors aren't allowed in the swimming pool - which is strictly for guests.  The village's history goes back to the distant past: many Stone Age flint axes have been found here, many of which can be seen at the British Museum. But it achieved an international significance in the 17th century when Quakerism started: their Meeting House still stands on the outskirts of the village. Jordans was at the heart of the movement when persecution drove many to start the new colony in America and the village has a barn built using timbers from the Mayflower, which carried some of the founding fathers to America. At that time nearby Chalfont St Giles was also home to the poet John Milton, whose cottage still stands and is open to the public as a museum to his memory. Spindrift itself was designed itself by the Quaker architects Fred and Douglas Rowntree, descendants of the famous confectionary family.

Spa treatments and therapies at this holistic south-coast retreat  Stylish and contemporary, this haven hides in clear view, in the coastal town of St Leonards. The Cloudesley is a B&B unlike any other. In part it's the ethos: the food is organic and locally grown, there are no microwaves and only Himalayan crystal salt is used in food preparation. It's a place to heal the body and mind: holistic therapies on offer here, carried out in the comfort of your room or in a dedicated therapy suite. The choice of treatments offered by specialist therapists includes Reiki, reflexology, shiatsu, Swedish, deep tissue, aromatherapy, Thai hot compress and hot stone massages.

One of Hampshire's oldest buildings now transformed into a luxurious B&B  Find a ready welcome into a family home that blends traditional grandeur with very modern comforts. Three guest bedrooms ooze period charm on a stately-home scale, beautifully developed into a luxury mansion very much of the current age. The opportunity to stay in this historic property is not to be missed. At its heart is a medieval five-bay core dating back to 1333 that may have been a monastery. Since 1480 it has been owned by only four families, most recently by the Bullens, descendants of Anne Boleyn. Recent generations have included the noted artist Anne Bullen, many of whose paintings are still found in the house, and five-times Olympic event rider Michael Bullen, whose horses’ descendants still graze the 90-acre estate.

Blessed by the air of the North Sea coast this home is rich with history and full of character  Jane Austen was clear in Emma that the air on the Cromer coast would repair any ills. Not five miles inland: it had to be coastal. This property fits that perfectly: you can walk to the sea in minutes. Relax in the gardens – designed by Gertrude Jekyll though quite some time ago – and breathe deeply on the curative air. Old Hall was built as a 17th century Jacobean shooting lodge, complete with sprung floors for Highland reels. It was later owned by Sir Thomas Fowell Buxton, a prolific author of books against the slave trade, friend of William Wilberforce and Member of Parliament in an era where a feeling of responsibility held force. His sense of philanthropy permeates the property and brings a sense of community to an outstanding period property.

Live like a laird in the heart of the Highlands at Scotland's ultimate country-house hotel  This fantastic property was built for Lord Strathcona and its aristocratic roots give it an irresistible period charm. There's nothing dated about the indoor comforts: each of the exceptional suites is furnished to the very highest standard, baths are invariably free-standing and linens crisp and fresh. Add in the very finest contemporary cuisine, views of Loch Leven and a dash of Highland charm and you've found the perfect recipe for a Scottish adventure.

A welcoming home on a sandy Scottish beach   Set in a beautifully restored three-story Victorian property on North Berwick's seafront, Seaholm offers high quality accommodation and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, all at highly competitive rates. It's situation on the seafront means the beach is steps away, and five minutes walk will bring you to North Berwick's High Street, with all its restaurants and shops.

A welcoming home in the heart of London  Step through the doors of this traditional family home and you'll feel instantly at ease. There are dogs, cats and chickens, beautiful fabrics and artworks throughout, and a glorious garden. Crystal Palace is a quiet and leafy village-within-a-city with a character all of its own. This is a great alternative to the city's anonymous hotels, with London's unparalleled transport system linking you to anywhere you need to be but also bringing you back to this tranquil, unrushed haven. 

A stately home on the River Eden  Salmon fishing's at your door in this wonderful manor house, where dogs are as welcome as their owners and everyone feels at home. This is a place that's a classic English country home, with ten bedrooms - all en suite - and classically elegant living areas comfortably furnished with modern comforts and period details. There is, of course, wifi throughout.

An elegant Georgian country house in the heart of Wales This glorious mansion with marble fireplaces, panelled doors, picture windows and glittering chandeliers has a sublimely peaceful setting in 20 acre grounds. But it's uniquely connected: the restaurants and pubs of St Florence are just 250m along a tree-lined drive and Tenby three miles further.

A skip away from the sea in one of England's most beautiful regions  Far to the West, the Lizard Peninsula is perhaps remote but warmly rewarding, a sunny micro-climate where choughs dance on the breeze and dolphins and seals swim offshore. Atlantic House is the perfect place to experience this area, with maps and binoculars always provided along with expert advice.