Reason to visit: From the team behind much-lauded Babylonstoren in South Africa's Cape Winelands, The Newt channels a similar sense of paired-back, bucolic luxury. Retreat to the estate's 30 acres of gardens, nabbing a book from the library and bottle of wine from the deli en route. Dabble in a game of croquet and stop for a spot of tea on your way back - just in time for supper, largely sourced from the surrounding land.

Reason to visit: As chocolate-box villages go, Burford and Bourton-on-the-water are two to note. Littered with cosy pubs that serve up hearty Sunday roasts, grab a stool at the Swan Inn at Swinbrook or the Falkland Arms in Great Tew, before a ramble from Upper to Lower Slaughter. Then it's back to Foxhill Manor for some chill time.

Reason to visit: Angela Hartnett and Luke Holder man the stoves at HH & CO, the stylish restaurant at Lime Wood Hotel. After sampling the Italian-inspired menu in the comforts of a pretty conservatory setting, opt for pony hacking and delve deep into the forest.

Reason to visit: With unrivalled views across the Atlantic, local Cornish cuisine and secluded surrounds (you'll be perched atop your very own island), The Island is, in our book at least, the ultimate beach house.

Reason to visit: Get back to nature at these charmingly rustic treehouse hideaways. Adjacent to the Grade II-listed Swinton Park Hotel, pop in to tester it's state-of-the-art country spa when your quaint, but electricity free abode begins to overwhelm.