Scandinavian style lodges are a great alternative to holiday cottages, and they're no longer cold and lacking facilities! Take flowery Dell for example; as well as a great location near to Richmond and the A1, you can have LCD TVs, DVD players, spa baths and balconies! They even offer the opportunity to hire gas barbeques, order gourmet food or purchase health & beauty treatments. Sam and his team and looking to build three new luxury lodges this year, so keep an eye on their website.

Duncan and Jan have the joy of managing four self catering holiday cottages, as well as B&B rooms! They're great personalities and really bring the business to life. The cottages are comfortable and homely, as well as being well designed for people with disabilities. There's a lovely courtyard ideal for al fresco dining and enjoying a glass of wine while taking in the fresh air and views. Check out the virtual tours on their website.

Margaret and Hugh work this farm in the most stunning rural surroundings. They have 360 degree views across fields and woods, creating the perfect place to relax and escape everyday life. With the great outside space, I can picture myself with a good book and a glass of wine. The cottages are good too and there's five to choose from, but be quick as repeat visitors are numerous.

Whitley Bay is pretty and there's not a huge range of self-catering accommodation around there. So I guess I was just lucky to come across these three apartments overlooking the sea. What's more, they're a really good quality and not lacking in the space department either. Check out the website for views from each of the apartments, then give Shana a call to make your booking.

Simon has Grange End Cottage and the one next door. They've been renovated nicely, which you'll see if you go to the vitual tours on his website. Cark-in-Cartmel is just a nice drive to the central lakes without being in the middle of the summer scrum. I like the character detail here, though they're not small like many cottages [each can sleep 6] and they have the all important open fire and beamed ceiling. Makes me want to reach for the red wine and reading specs.

Susan has two cottages in the hamlet of Thornthwaite, near to Keswick and Bassenthwaite. They've been five star for a few years now and each year something new happens to keep them at the top of their game. The views are great and as you'd expect the walking opportunities are on the doorstep. Wood burners and four posters add that little bit of luxury and the ensuites cater comfortably for the increasing number of guests requesting them.

Step into the Carriage House, and you're in for a treat. This is luxury accommodation, with no stuffiness. The rooms are well presented, the furnishings smart and confirmtable and to top it all, there's even a hot tub at your disposal. So pack your trunks, and your walking boots too, as it's only a short drive to the dramatic Northumberland coastline with coastal paths galore. Dawn will ensure your visit goes smoothly, just as long your dates are available.

Pamper yourself, your loved ones or your family at Staffield Hall, sister business of Wolfen Mill in Lancashire. There are eight apartments within your very own imposing statley home. All are five star and for good reason as each apartment is very well appointed and the extras really make the difference. Personally I'm sold by the fluffy towels and whirlpool baths, but then I'm easily pleased. The grounds are lovely to walk around and you're just nicely out of the Lake District to make this feel like a true 'retreat'.

There are three comfortable cottages at Springhead Farm, all close to the farmhouse, sleeping 4, 6 or 8 people. The farm is a mile or so out of the beautiful hamlet of Bolton by Bowland, in a quiet location looking out over the rural Lancashire countryside. The cottages are traditional in style, with large gardens and of course oustanding walking opportunities. Its also a good touring base for the Forest of Bowland as well as the Yorkshire Dales.

Chollerton is a lovely little hamlet, which provides a great base for exploring the Hadrian's Wall and Northumberland areas. This converted church now houses two lovely self-catering units, both oozing character. In addition, there's a third cottage next door, with a lovely garden which you're encouraged to use by the owners. This is the perfect area for getting up in the morning, having a fine breakfast and then heading out for a stroll in local village.

Wolfen Mill is complex of luxury self-catering units on the edge of Chipping in the Forest of Bowland. This romantic setting houses ten units from cosy little studios to a large unit sleeping six. As well as romance, this is a great place for family gatherings, as everyone can have their own space, yet you're not far away from each other. The former mill has been extensively refurbished and is a real credit to Michael and Marie who have lavished their affections, not to mention a few bob on it.

Big Blindhurst is a large farmhouse style cottage ideal for couples travelling together or for families. As well as the 3 large bedrooms, modern kitchen and separate dining room, there is a great conservatory with outstanding views covering about 180 degress of prime Lancashire countryside. Ferrari's may struggle up the farm track, but the rest of us will be fine.

Hydes Farm is set on the edge of pretty Newton-by-Bowland, in quiet surroundings and only a short walk to the local restaurant / pub. The two cottages are comfortable and suitably equipped for walkers, cyclists and families. The cottages are both part of this barn conversion so trips with other family members can be accommodated without having to be in the same living space. Ideal. The owners have a loyal visitor base, so don't leave it too late to book.