Rosemary & Rain

A Georgian townhouse in southwest London with a walled, ivy-draped garden at its heart – this is the kind of home that makes you rethink what a city stay can be. French doors open from the dining room onto a wisteria-clad terrace, and the kitchen connects directly to the garden too, so the outside rarely feels far away. Original cornicing and curated artwork give the interiors a refined, lived-in feel, while Wandsworth Common – with its lake and open lawns – is right on the doorstep. Hyde Park is around a twenty-five-minute drive when the mood strikes.

Home truths:
* Parking in London can be tricky, but you'll have off-street spaces on the private driveway for up to two cars – worth bearing in mind if you're travelling as a larger group with multiple vehicles.
* You'll find expensive artwork and ornaments in this home, so it might not be the best choice if you're travelling with young children.
* This is a lived-in home. You should expect some of the host's personal belongings to be present during your stay.
* While there's no air conditioning here, your host can provide fans for the warmer months.