Ditch the dirty rascals to become king of the castle, for a week or two at least, by escaping to one of 150 Rapunzel-worthy French chateaux, available on exclusive hire basis from the newly relaunched Simply Chateau. While some have space for hundreds, others are suitable for families or for groups of friends and start from £900 per week, sleeping eight. Pools, vineyards, tennis courts and butlers are just some of the adornments you can expect to find at your royal court. And for the non blue-blooded tiara-wearing types among us, there's also a selection of manor houses, from £400 per week sleeping six.

The decadent dwellings of centuries past have been brought bang up to date, you can now browse through chateaux to rent over the internet. Simply Chateau is the website that brings the finest French housing to your home. With over 150 castles, chateaux and manor houses on its books, the internet service makes a short stay in the lap of luxury an affordable reality. Throw a wild party to impress your friends, host a wedding to remember or just have a quiet stay - but make sure you spend your time in your dream home wisely.