A countryside retreat just a two-hour drive from London? Sign us up. To best explore the chocolate-box villages of the Cotswolds, make the Egg Store cottage at Daylesford Farm your manor for the weekend. Sleeping two guests, this cosy one-bed bolthole is ideal for a romantic retreat with your main squeeze. With a king-sized bed framed by rattan pendant light fixtures, a spacious garden terrace and a hamper stuffed with tasty treats from the farm shop, you're all set for a proper rural recharge. Guests are also invited to choose between complimentary yoga, sound healing or a meditation session at the stunning Bamford Wellness Spa. Also, check out the garden tour, or look to book into one of the cookery school classes.

What it costs: £350 per night

That holiday you've been trying to nail with your gang? We've got you covered. Set in bucolic Somerset countryside, this five-bedroom Georgian townhouse is flanked by overgrown meadows and rolling hills. It's rare to find a cottage that ticks the boxes for both style and size, but Damask Rose has plenty of both. Bedrooms are dressed in earth-tone linens and furnished with antique mirrors, while the dining area is centred around a 12-seater table fit for a royal banquet. Fill days with outdoor games in the large garden, or take a picnic to nearby Portishead Beach.

What it costs: £1,814 per night

Let's be honest, the first getaway with your partner is one that can either make or break the relationship. Sidestep the traditional rose petal-strewn suite and head to the Welsh countryside for a more authentic experience instead. Situated on the outskirts of Llanfrynach village, this former coach house has been converted into a snug one-bedroom hideout. Downstairs, burnt orange-painted walls complement oak-wood flooring, while, upstairs, a bright and airy bedroom sports wood-knotted beams and natural stone walls. You'll also have two outdoor patios, ideal for post-hike lounging.

What it costs: £219 per night

Nothing quite says staycation like a trip to the seaside. Located in the Kentish town of Sandgate, this three-bed property is just a stone's throw from the shores of Rivage Beach, allowing virtually every inch of the place to offer sweeping views across the Channel - and, on a good day, of France. Set across three floors, the bedrooms and bathrooms are decked out with coastal-themed decor: think blue-striped cushions, fish murals and seagull-print wallpaper. Our favourite part is the top-floor balcony, from where you can enjoy blustery sunrises and sunsets.

What it costs: £1,463 per night

It's borderline impossible to describe how special Cornwall is: if you haven't already visited the county, we suggest booking a stay at Lemail House and experiencing it first-hand ASAP. Slotted between St Kew and Rock, this 18th-century farmhouse is the epitome of Cornish chic. Four individually designed bedrooms feature the likes of Aztec-inspired headboards, upholstered armchairs and hand-crafted ceramics. Keen surfers will feel right at home here. If you're chasing waves, make this your base and head out after breakfast to picture-perfect Polzeath. Insider tip: this is a dog-friendly set-up, so you can bring your pup along for the ride.

What it costs: £320 per night

The brainchild of Lord and Lady Shaftesbury, this 19th-century gem has recently undergone a major refurb, where it has graduated from traditional country house to contemporary oasis. Nods to its original colour palette can be found in the duck egg blue walls and moss green furnishings, while the additions of bronze-plated roll-top baths and Egyptian cotton bedding have made for a sublime finish. Friends can pick between two design-driven bedrooms, sleeping up to four. Our favourite design detail is the open-plan bed-and-bathroom, made cosy by brick walls clad with historical artworks.

What it costs: £435 per night

This Scandi-chic bolthole had us hooked the second we clocked its rainforest shower, four-poster beds and views across the sapphire-blue waters of Loch Rannoch. Drawing inspiration from the works of Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier, Elemental's light-filled rooms could easily have been extracted from an episode of Grand Designs. Plus, there are two private beaches separated by an overgrown headland. There are two kayaks on hand, perfect for when you decide to unleash your thrill-seeking side on the sparkling Scottish waters. This place usually books up months in advance, but you're in luck for the early May bank holiday. Be quick!

What it costs: £1,695 per short break