Introduction

You're looking at a rare thing: a web site containing a subjective selection of self-catering properties, each of them visited and written about by us. We want this guide to be your shining light in a market that's crammed with misleading advertising and limited independent advice.

We've all, when pondering our holidays, ploughed through chunky agency brochures, undiscerning web sites and tourist board information in an effort to find the perfect holiday house, but are often hindered by lack of independent opinion. Each and every place, the brochures would have us believe, is idyllic. Getting it right has, until now, been more a matter of luck than judgement.

Well, uncross your fingers; you now have this new source of guidance. Many of the properties belong to owners who feature in our printed British guides, so we know them well and feel sure that they, and each of the other owners, will go to great lengths to make sure you enjoy your stay. Many owners live on site - sometimes in the house next door - some live elsewhere yet will have things in place to give you a warm welcome.

There should be something for everyone here - whether you're part of a couple that wants to be in glorious isolation or parents of young children who prefer to be in a sociable setting with other families. We have windmills with watery scenery, an old mine count-house perched above the Tamar, a tipi camp on the Cornish coast, a loft-style apartment in Halifax. There are also townhouses, slick city boltholes, rustic barns and impossibly pretty cottages, dotted around England, Scotland and Wales.

Some are included because they are in a peaceful, stunning setting with glorious walks that start from the door. Many have been chosen because they are stylishly comfortable and characterful and your every need has been anticipated.

Read on:

Finding the right place for you »

Practical matters »