Christine and Rupert Farmer offer guests a slice of the good life at their B&B on a small organic farm – and greet them with a piece of home-baked cake. Close to the Shropshire Way, the 18th-century farmhouse has cottage-style bedrooms full of spoiling touches: fresh flowers, magazines, and a regularly topped-up hospitality tray. In each, views of the pretty garden or towards the Wrekin.

A shrine to Seamus Heaney, behind the bright red door of Eugene and Gerardine Kielt’s elegant villa, B&B guests will find an intriguing collection of books and memorabilia. Eugene Kielt, a Blue Badge guide, gives award-winning tours of the area, and reveals the landscapes and community that inspired the late Nobel prize-winning poet and playwright. Gerardine’s breakfasts (fresh fruit salad, a full Ulster, gourmet scones) are served in the wood-panelled dining room, beneath Heaney poems on scrolls.

On the west coast of Harris, Lena and Richard MacLennan’s small guest house overlooks Borve’s golden sand beach, and has views over the sound of Taransay. Simply and unfussily done, without compromising comfort. Harris tweed blankets drape the bed in the neat, wood-floored bedrooms; fresh flowers and shelves of books bring interest to a sitting room warmed by a peat fire. A surprising touch: a sauna in which to ease tired muscles after a day exploring the island.

In 300 acres of parkland originally laid out by landscape designer Humphry Repton, this welcoming and romantic Grade I listed Regency mansion comes with impressive modern facilities. There are two golf courses, a private cinema and an award-winning rooftop spa with saunas, steam rooms, an infinity pool and herb-infused treatments. Sleek accommodation ranges from suites (some with a private terrace) in contemporary wings, to cottages and lodges. Inspired by the seasons – creative dishes are ‘exceptionally good’ in the glass-sided spa restaurant, Horto. Vegetables, fruit and flowers come from the delightful kitchen garden; the hotel’s natural springs supply the water. In the glamorous Clocktower Restaurant and Bar, a 400-year-old Catalonian olive tree takes centre stage in the light-filled conservatory.  

Guests are welcomed with a glass of wine or beer at this relaxed B&B which has direct access to the private, 4-acre August Gardens. Complimentary coffee, tea, soft drinks and home-made cake are available throughout the day. The grand, cream-painted 1850s merchant’s house is furnished in a clean-lined, contemporary style.