Old and new

Historic home: Shropshire. The modern part of this four-bedder was built by the Georgians and runs into the grade I-listed 13th-century portion that formed part of the drum tower guarding the gateway into Ludlow. The two receptions, the bedrooms and the kitchen have stately proportions and have been chicly refurbished. A large roof terrace with hilly views supplements the patio garden. The period glories of this Shropshire town lie beyond the front door. Cost: £595,000.
Nock Deighton, 01584 875555 Photograph: Nock Deighton/Nock Deighton

Historic home: Cotswolds. This £395,000 three-bedder is part of the outbuildings of a grade I-listed early 19th-century Northwick Park mansion near Chipping Campden. The shared freehold gives you a stake in 30 acres of aristocratic parkland, tennis courts, a heated pool and a croquet lawn. Inside is larger than it looks with a grandly proportioned living room with fireplace, alcoves and french windows on to your own courtyard garden.
Jackson-Stops & Staff, 01386 840224 Photograph: Jackson-Stops & Staff/Jackson-Stops & Staff

New-build: Lincolnshire. Since there aren't enough barns to go round, build one from scratch. This five-bed conversion lookalike arose in 2001 in the village of Beckingham near Newark. The soaring ceilings, double-height windows and palatial rooms common to all the best barn conversions are replicated here, with luxury trimmings such as underfloor heating, fitted cedar blinds and black granite worktops to boot. Sweeping gardens merge with open fields. Yours for £575,000.
Humberts, 01636 701401 Photograph: Humberts/Humberts

New-build: Hampshire. This eco offering is in the village of Overton. A double-height, south-facing conservatory absorbs solar energy to heat the house, while automatic vents control the temperature. Outside, cedar board cladding on a timber frame helps with insulation. This is one of 75 two- to four-bed homes taking shape overlooking the river Test on the outskirts of the village. Prices start at £320,000 for three beds.
David Wilson Homes, 01256 773369 Photograph: David Wilson Homes/David Wilson Homes

Dream home: Arran. From the three reception rooms and most of the four bedrooms you can gaze across Loch Ranza where a ruined castle sits on a shingle spit. Rearing all around are the wild hills of this island, and long lawns sweep front and back towards the water. The original Edwardian grandeur remains intact with wide bay windows, stained glass, polished wood floors and large rooms with fireplaces. An attic room could accommodate more sleepers. Cost: offers over £485,000.
Savills, 0141 222 5875 Photograph: Savills/Savills