Delve into a land of velvet hillsides and heather-strewn moorland that flow into powder-soft shorelines; Cornwall is a picture-postcard destination for a summer holiday in the UK.

This most south-westerly county will have you spending your days paddling in sandy bays lapped by turquoise waters, exploring quaint fishing villages nestled in the cliffs, and uncovering myths and legends amongst smugglers’ coves, crumbling engine houses and historic inns.

Near Padstow, Cornwall | Sleeps 2 + 1 dog

Celebrating the very best of coast and country, this chic lodge is peacefully tucked away within leafy woodland, yet just a 2-mile stroll from the charming harbour town of Padstow.

A decked balcony overhanging the greenery invites sizzling suppers on the BBQ while inside, the open-plan interior is beautifully dressed in soft Joules bedding and blankets, offering a stylish space for couples to relax and reconnect.

Visit

One of the biggest attractions in Cornwall is the Eden Project, the largest indoor rainforest in the world. Within easy reach of the lodge, you can soon be traversing the treetops on an aerial walkway in the jungle or sipping a chilled glass of vino amidst the gnarled olive groves of the Mediterranean.

Experience

Just around the corner from Padstow are the popular surfing beaches of Trevone and Harlyn; the latter boasting a well-regarded surf school if you fancy hitting the wild Atlantic waves.

Dine

Famed for Rick Stein’s empire of eateries, Padstow offers some of the finest seafood in the country. For sophisticated dining, The Seafood Restaurant is divine, while the chef’s renowned fish and chip shop has all the usual paper-wrapped delights alongside the freshest oysters, scallops and prawns.

Book Padstow – Treetops here

Amidst a glorious sweep of emerald, the vast mountain peaks, wooded valleys and raging rivers of the Brecon Beacons National Park are a mecca for those with a passion for the great outdoors.

Peppered among the slopes are tumbling waterfalls, romantic castle ruins and an abundance of wildlife. In the summer, this spectacular pocket of South Wales draws adventure seekers wanting to embrace the variety of country pursuits on offer as well as those seeking peace and seclusion.

Longtown, Herefordshire | Sleeps 4

Lying in the shadow of the mighty Black Mountains, this traditional cottage enjoys uninterrupted views across the Hatterrall Ridge and surrounding farmland.

Start your mornings with a sunrise dip in the bubbling hot tub, followed by barbequed bacon rolls and an iced coffee. Then lace up your hiking boots and set off on one of the many waymarked walking trails into the national park from the doorstep.

Visit

If you’d prefer a more leisurely way to see the sights, treat yourself to a nostalgic journey onboard the Brecon Mountain Railway. This vintage steam train chugs its way alongside the Pontsticill and Taf Fechan reservoirs before climbing to Torpantau, high in the mountains.

Experience

Waterfall Country is one of the most captivating areas of the Brecon Beacons National Park. The Four Waterfalls Walk is a 5.5-mile circular trail that takes in some of the most dazzling falls, including Sgwd-yr-Eira, which cascades like a white veil that you can actually walk behind!

Dine

After working up an appetite, there’s little better than finding a friendly pub garden to soak up the last of the sunshine, with a frothy pint and a hearty meal. The Brecon Beacons is simply bursting with atmospheric watering holes, including The Bear in Crickhowell, The Bell at Skenfrith in Abergavenny and The Felin Fach Griffin in Brecon.

Book Penydre Farm Cottage here.

Windswept and magnificent, the northernmost county in England has an off-the-radar feel, with vast, untouched landscapes, remote walking paths, and wondrously dark skies.

During the summer months, sunshine beats down on Northumberland’s white, sandy beaches while inland, wildlife wanders undisturbed through towering forests, with castle ruins, historic houses, and Roman forts seemingly on every turn.

Near Bamburgh, Northumberland | Sleeps 6 + 1 dog

Enjoying a prime spot along the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this reverse-level home flaunts mesmerising sea views and luxurious interiors.

When the weather is warm, dining alfresco on the balcony is a must; pull open the bi-folding doors and feast beneath big blue skies. If you begin to feel a chill, light the logs in the open-plan living space, wrap yourselves in one of the cosy Joules blankets and drink in the cinematic vistas.

Visit

This captivating realm played a pivotal role in English history and its battle-sieged past is borne out by its catalogue of ghostly ruins and fortresses. Just 4 miles from the cottage is Bamburgh Castle where you can tour the staterooms, dungeons and grounds that once hosted kings and queens.

Experience

Home to an International Dark Sky Park, Northumberland is a haven for stargazing. These are the darkest skies in England – on a clear night, you can spot the Milky Way, the Andromeda Galaxy and sometimes even the northern lights with the naked eye. The Kielder Observatory runs special Summer Skies events for some of the best views.

Dine

Here on the coast, fresh fish and seafood make their way from boat to plate in a matter of minutes. The Potted Lobster is 4 miles from the cottage and presents a menu packed with delicious dishes, including Lindisfarne oysters, lager and lemon battered haddock, and enormous seafood platters.

Book The Seabreeze here.