History is on your doorstep when you check in to this handsome home, which sits opposite Hampton Court Palace. Once the residence of Henry VIII, the palace also has sixty acres of formal gardens and open parkland along the banks of the Thames. And while it may not be a palace, this period home is packed with character. There’s a large, light-filled living room, a modern kitchen, and five cosy bedrooms to snuggle up in. Groups of more than eight will need to use the sofa beds, but that’s a small compromise to stay in such a special location. Central London is only thirty-five minutes away by train too, so more historic landmarks (and modern-day amusements) are within easy reach.