0:00:02 > 0:00:04'Making the move from city to countryside
0:00:04 > 0:00:06'is often a momentous step.'
0:00:06 > 0:00:07Never in a million years
0:00:07 > 0:00:10I would imagine I'd be seeing a house like this. Never, ever.
0:00:10 > 0:00:13'But for many years Escape To The Country has been supporting
0:00:13 > 0:00:19'countless people on the hunt for a new home in a more rural location.'
0:00:19 > 0:00:22- What do we think of this? - Oh, my. Chocolate box!
0:00:22 > 0:00:26'We've travelled to the most picturesque pockets of Britain...'
0:00:26 > 0:00:27Take a look at that killer view.
0:00:27 > 0:00:29That's amazing.
0:00:29 > 0:00:32'..to showcase thousands of exquisite country properties...'
0:00:32 > 0:00:34How pretty is that?
0:00:34 > 0:00:38'..that our buyers just couldn't resist.'
0:00:39 > 0:00:42Seriously, get your chequebook out now!
0:00:42 > 0:00:45'Join us as we catch up with those who bought their dream home...'
0:00:45 > 0:00:48I'm bowled over. I'm knocked for six.
0:00:48 > 0:00:49I can't speak.
0:00:49 > 0:00:52'..to find out how the move changed their lives
0:00:52 > 0:00:54'when they escaped to the country.'
0:01:12 > 0:01:15Today, I'm in the East Midlands, and this is the River Trent -
0:01:15 > 0:01:19an important transport artery in this part of the world
0:01:19 > 0:01:21since Roman times.
0:01:21 > 0:01:25Now used mainly for leisure craft rather than working boats,
0:01:25 > 0:01:27the waterway cuts its way through the region...
0:01:27 > 0:01:32and we're finding it's becoming an increasingly popular search area
0:01:32 > 0:01:36for house buyers looking to make that country escape.
0:01:36 > 0:01:40Which brings me to the reason for my visit and it's an exciting one,
0:01:40 > 0:01:42as I'm meeting some of our former
0:01:42 > 0:01:45Escape To The Country property buyers
0:01:45 > 0:01:49who made the big leap and changed their lives forever.
0:01:50 > 0:01:53I'm returning to the East Midlands counties
0:01:53 > 0:01:56of Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.
0:01:56 > 0:01:59Later on in the show, I'll be meeting retiree Susan
0:01:59 > 0:02:03to find out how her new-found community in the country
0:02:03 > 0:02:06has given her the social opportunities
0:02:06 > 0:02:10that were lacking from her former life in the capital.
0:02:10 > 0:02:14But first, I'll be catching up with my house-hunting couple
0:02:14 > 0:02:17Niall and Barry, who are lucky enough to wake up
0:02:17 > 0:02:21to the most mesmerising Peak District views every single day
0:02:21 > 0:02:25after I helped them to find their perfect escape home
0:02:25 > 0:02:26some years ago.
0:02:29 > 0:02:32Back in 2009, Niall -
0:02:32 > 0:02:35a business development manager and textile designer -
0:02:35 > 0:02:38was struggling as he was living in a Manchester suburb
0:02:38 > 0:02:41more than 20 miles away from his partner Barry,
0:02:41 > 0:02:43a research scientist.
0:02:43 > 0:02:46So together they hatched a plan to sell their respective properties,
0:02:46 > 0:02:50pool their resources and establish a more peaceful way of life
0:02:50 > 0:02:52in the Derbyshire countryside.
0:02:52 > 0:02:53It's just very chaotic,
0:02:53 > 0:02:57all the travelling around we have to do to try and sort our weekend out.
0:02:57 > 0:03:02With being in separate houses as well and both having busy jobs,
0:03:02 > 0:03:04quite often we'll only see each other at the weekend.
0:03:04 > 0:03:06Maybe one evening in the week.
0:03:06 > 0:03:09And...you know,
0:03:09 > 0:03:11we need to move on from that.
0:03:13 > 0:03:16For Barry, he was hopeful that the beautiful Peak District countryside
0:03:16 > 0:03:18would give him inspiration
0:03:18 > 0:03:21for his hobbies of hiking and landscape photography -
0:03:21 > 0:03:23but for Niall, it was the potential house style
0:03:23 > 0:03:26that would need to capture his imagination.
0:03:26 > 0:03:30Personally, I'd be looking for something with character to it.
0:03:30 > 0:03:35So maybe Victorian or even Georgian-type of features.
0:03:35 > 0:03:37Basically, because I like that type of architecture
0:03:37 > 0:03:39and I like that type of interior.
0:03:39 > 0:03:41So with plans in place to tie the knot
0:03:41 > 0:03:45and make their first joint property purchase,
0:03:45 > 0:03:49they had a lot to organise - and that's where I came in.
0:03:49 > 0:03:51They pictured their ideal home
0:03:51 > 0:03:54being a detached period property with a large kitchen,
0:03:54 > 0:03:56separate dining room for entertaining
0:03:56 > 0:03:58and a good-sized garden.
0:03:58 > 0:04:02And to find this they had set themselves a healthy budget
0:04:02 > 0:04:03of £700,000.
0:04:05 > 0:04:08Our property hunting journey together started in the small town
0:04:08 > 0:04:12of Whaley Bridge on the edge of the Peak District.
0:04:12 > 0:04:15Our first house had a handsome exterior.
0:04:15 > 0:04:18And here it is. This is your first property.
0:04:18 > 0:04:19As you can see, it's Edwardian.
0:04:19 > 0:04:21Built in 1904.
0:04:21 > 0:04:24What do you think as you're standing here?
0:04:24 > 0:04:25It's got little turrets.
0:04:25 > 0:04:28That's giving it a bit more character, as well, there.
0:04:28 > 0:04:31It's obviously in a really nice setting with all the greenery here,
0:04:31 > 0:04:32so the gardens must be great.
0:04:32 > 0:04:35- Yes, it looks fab. - Let's go and have a look inside.
0:04:35 > 0:04:38- Let's explore. - That's the exciting bit, yes.
0:04:38 > 0:04:42'A large welcoming entrance hallway led to three reception rooms.
0:04:42 > 0:04:44'One, a comfortable living room.
0:04:44 > 0:04:46'Another, a cosy snug.
0:04:46 > 0:04:49'And the last of which was dedicated to formal dining.'
0:04:49 > 0:04:51So you guys love entertaining.
0:04:51 > 0:04:55- Yes.- And ideally, you wanted a separate dining room.
0:04:55 > 0:04:59That's right, yes. I think it's nice to have more of an area contained
0:04:59 > 0:05:02so that you don't feel as though you are sprawl through a kitchen area.
0:05:02 > 0:05:04It's got another lovely fireplace.
0:05:04 > 0:05:07Yeah, and we've got a brilliant view there as it is.
0:05:07 > 0:05:10I can see you are both taking it all in.
0:05:10 > 0:05:13'At the end of a long hallway lay the kitchen,
0:05:13 > 0:05:16'which, it's fair to say, did need updating.
0:05:16 > 0:05:20'Upstairs, there was no shortage of room for visiting guests
0:05:20 > 0:05:23'with three double bedrooms, one of which was used as a study.
0:05:23 > 0:05:25'A smaller single room.
0:05:25 > 0:05:27'Plus a spacious master.'
0:05:27 > 0:05:28It's a good size.
0:05:28 > 0:05:30Look at the view. Fantastic.
0:05:30 > 0:05:33- It's fantastic. - There is your reservoir.
0:05:33 > 0:05:36Yes! It's just a perfect room to be able to do something with,
0:05:36 > 0:05:40put your own stamp on it and make it the way you'd like it to be.
0:05:40 > 0:05:42'Despite some work needed in places,
0:05:42 > 0:05:45'the house received encouraging reactions,
0:05:45 > 0:05:48'and I felt confident the grounds wouldn't disappoint
0:05:48 > 0:05:51'with three separate areas to discover.'
0:05:51 > 0:05:53You didn't say there was a secret garden.
0:05:53 > 0:05:55This is the third part of your garden.
0:05:55 > 0:05:57Is this all for the house here?
0:05:57 > 0:06:00- All for the house.- Right.- Wow.
0:06:00 > 0:06:04So we're going to have to cut straight to money.
0:06:04 > 0:06:08How much do you think this house is currently on the market for?
0:06:08 > 0:06:10615?
0:06:10 > 0:06:14I imagine it's probably about 645.
0:06:14 > 0:06:18The current asking price is £675,000.
0:06:18 > 0:06:21- Gosh, that's a lot more than I was expecting.- Yes.
0:06:21 > 0:06:23So not at the very top of your budget,
0:06:23 > 0:06:27but bearing in mind you would want to do work on the property,
0:06:27 > 0:06:29something to think about.
0:06:29 > 0:06:32So do you fancy having another little look around the house?
0:06:32 > 0:06:34- Yes.- That would be great. - Go on, have a wander
0:06:34 > 0:06:38- and I'll catch up with you in a little while.- All right. Thanks.
0:06:38 > 0:06:46At £675,000, this large Edwardian home was under budget by £25,000.
0:06:46 > 0:06:47It had clearly got them thinking
0:06:47 > 0:06:50about what their money would buy them in the Peak District.
0:06:50 > 0:06:54- Have you seen enough? - Yes, I think so.- I think so.
0:06:54 > 0:06:56- A good start?- Yes. - Good.- Really nice.
0:06:56 > 0:06:59- We've got plenty more to see so let's hit the road.- OK.
0:07:01 > 0:07:06The next day, our search continued and took us to the village of Combs.
0:07:06 > 0:07:11Knowing that Niall and Barry love Georgian and Victorian architecture,
0:07:11 > 0:07:13I had high hopes for this next home
0:07:13 > 0:07:16which was part of a Grade-II listed former manor house.
0:07:16 > 0:07:19I love these great big chimneys on the top.
0:07:19 > 0:07:21It's a very grand looking house.
0:07:21 > 0:07:26'Although it wasn't detached, inside gave them space in abundance.'
0:07:26 > 0:07:29So here's your entrance.
0:07:29 > 0:07:31This is really lovely. Yes, really nice.
0:07:31 > 0:07:34It's got all the period features that hopefully you're after.
0:07:34 > 0:07:35It is beautiful, actually.
0:07:38 > 0:07:42Now, Niall, I know this is a very important room for you.
0:07:42 > 0:07:45It's beautiful, yes. I wasn't expecting it to look like this,
0:07:45 > 0:07:47the kitchen, but it's fantastic.
0:07:47 > 0:07:49It's so big, as well.
0:07:49 > 0:07:51You both love entertaining
0:07:51 > 0:07:55but it's important that we get the reception rooms right, isn't it?
0:07:55 > 0:07:58- So let's see what you think of the next room.- OK.
0:08:04 > 0:08:05Gosh, this is fantastic.
0:08:05 > 0:08:08It's so big. I wasn't expecting this at all.
0:08:08 > 0:08:10It's huge.
0:08:10 > 0:08:13You'd feel like Lord of the Manor living here, wouldn't you?
0:08:13 > 0:08:15You've found something fantastic here.
0:08:15 > 0:08:17I really love this. It's brilliant.
0:08:17 > 0:08:20I'm glad you love this room,
0:08:20 > 0:08:22but I've got another one now to show you.
0:08:27 > 0:08:30- Fantastic.- I feel a bit actually lost for words, to be honest,
0:08:30 > 0:08:33because it is absolutely fantastic.
0:08:34 > 0:08:38'Praise and stunned reactions for this character home so far.
0:08:38 > 0:08:42'Upstairs, the four bedrooms were laid out over two further floors.
0:08:42 > 0:08:46'Right up in the attic was a part-converted double room.
0:08:46 > 0:08:50'On the first floor was a large family bathroom and three bedrooms,
0:08:50 > 0:08:54'one used for storage, another a pretty double guest bedroom.
0:08:54 > 0:08:56'And lastly, the master.'
0:08:56 > 0:08:59That's lovely.
0:08:59 > 0:09:02I don't think we've got a bed big enough for there!
0:09:02 > 0:09:04I've got a super king-size.
0:09:04 > 0:09:06I still don't think it will be big enough!
0:09:06 > 0:09:10I mean, I can't believe the size of the rooms are so massive.
0:09:10 > 0:09:13Another fantastic view, like a picture through the window there.
0:09:13 > 0:09:15Yes.
0:09:15 > 0:09:18The glorious countryside vistas were drawing them back outside,
0:09:18 > 0:09:21which is where we headed next.
0:09:21 > 0:09:25So this is the way to see the Peak District, with the sun shining.
0:09:25 > 0:09:26Gosh.
0:09:26 > 0:09:29I mean, the view is just spectacular, isn't it?
0:09:29 > 0:09:31'As well as a shared tiered lawn,
0:09:31 > 0:09:33'the house also came with its own plot,
0:09:33 > 0:09:35'including a private terrace
0:09:35 > 0:09:39'and a parcel of land ideal for vegetable growing.'
0:09:39 > 0:09:42So we've seen the house, we've seen the gardens.
0:09:42 > 0:09:44You can't fail to be impressed by that spectacular view.
0:09:44 > 0:09:48But you're looking worried, Niall. It's time, isn't it?
0:09:48 > 0:09:49It's that money question.
0:09:49 > 0:09:52How much do you think this house is currently on the market for?
0:09:52 > 0:09:55That's the bit I was worried about
0:09:55 > 0:09:58because I think it's probably quite a lot over our budget,
0:09:58 > 0:10:02so I'm going to have to say probably 750.
0:10:02 > 0:10:05- OK, and the budget, at the top, was 700.- Yeah.
0:10:05 > 0:10:10- Barry?- Yes, I think it's probably 700 to 750,000.
0:10:10 > 0:10:17OK. The price for this property is £5 short of
0:10:17 > 0:10:19£500,000.
0:10:19 > 0:10:21My God!
0:10:21 > 0:10:23- That's fantastic! - THEY LAUGH
0:10:23 > 0:10:27Yeah. 499,995.
0:10:27 > 0:10:29- Easy for some to say! - I can't believe that.
0:10:29 > 0:10:32- That's amazing. - I'm just dumbstruck, really.
0:10:32 > 0:10:35Good. Why don't you go and have another wander around.
0:10:35 > 0:10:38Take as long as you like and I'll catch up with you in a little while.
0:10:38 > 0:10:40- All right. Thank you.- OK.
0:10:43 > 0:10:46Well, two very smiling faces.
0:10:46 > 0:10:49They're so pleasantly surprised, but how can you not be?
0:10:49 > 0:10:53I think this is the most confident I've ever felt with a property.
0:10:53 > 0:10:55I'm going to keep my fingers crossed.
0:10:55 > 0:11:00A shock to them both at some £200,000 below budget,
0:11:00 > 0:11:02this property offered Barry and Niall
0:11:02 > 0:11:04plenty of change in their pocket
0:11:04 > 0:11:07for what appeared to be their dream Derbyshire home.
0:11:10 > 0:11:13But we still had the mystery proposition to see
0:11:13 > 0:11:16in the heart of the Peak District National Park
0:11:16 > 0:11:17in the village of Calver.
0:11:17 > 0:11:19On the banks of the River Derwent,
0:11:19 > 0:11:22it was part of a former textile mill.
0:11:22 > 0:11:26So this is it. This is the total area for downstairs.
0:11:26 > 0:11:27What you see is what you get.
0:11:27 > 0:11:31- Open-plan then. - Completely open-plan.
0:11:31 > 0:11:34Priced at £649,000,
0:11:34 > 0:11:37they quickly decided it was a project to far for them.
0:11:37 > 0:11:40I don't think I could see myself living here
0:11:40 > 0:11:42because I just feel as though it might be
0:11:42 > 0:11:43a little bit too restrictive.
0:11:43 > 0:11:47It's just somewhere that I don't really feel I would be at home.
0:11:47 > 0:11:50So with two serious contenders to weigh up the merits of,
0:11:50 > 0:11:53which would they finally press ahead with?
0:11:54 > 0:11:57The old Manor house was the clear favourite
0:11:57 > 0:12:01and they loved it so much they only went and bought it.
0:12:01 > 0:12:03They moved in about seven years ago -
0:12:03 > 0:12:06so, plenty of time to make a few alterations.
0:12:06 > 0:12:10So I'm really keen to see exactly what they've done.
0:12:11 > 0:12:12It was six months after our viewing
0:12:12 > 0:12:15that Barry and Niall became the formal owners
0:12:15 > 0:12:17of this beautiful property...
0:12:17 > 0:12:20and in the years since our house-hunting expedition,
0:12:20 > 0:12:23they not only made their first joint house purchase,
0:12:23 > 0:12:26they also tied the knot with a civil partnership.
0:12:27 > 0:12:31'They've certainly been busy - and I look forward to catching up.'
0:12:33 > 0:12:35Niall, Barry, hello.
0:12:36 > 0:12:38- It's been a long time. - Lovely to see you again.
0:12:38 > 0:12:40I can't wait to see your home.
0:12:40 > 0:12:43- Come in.- Thank you.
0:12:43 > 0:12:46Although it was a very well presented home when I was last here,
0:12:46 > 0:12:50Niall and Barry have completely transformed the place
0:12:50 > 0:12:52and put their own stamp and style to it,
0:12:52 > 0:12:54helped in no small part by Niall,
0:12:54 > 0:12:57who stopped working in the textiles industry last year
0:12:57 > 0:13:01and has recently set up business as an interior designer.
0:13:01 > 0:13:05Oh, my goodness. This is beautiful.
0:13:05 > 0:13:08I'd forgotten the size of the rooms.
0:13:08 > 0:13:11- Yes, great proportions.- Amazing.
0:13:11 > 0:13:13We've done lots to this room.
0:13:13 > 0:13:15It's completely changed.
0:13:15 > 0:13:17There was a fairly boring stone fireplace
0:13:17 > 0:13:18so we've put in this fireplace,
0:13:18 > 0:13:22which, I believe, is Portoro marble, it's Italian.
0:13:22 > 0:13:25- From Italy. - You've done a wonderful job.
0:13:25 > 0:13:29And, of course, you have that magnificent view.
0:13:29 > 0:13:33It is like a country retreat but it feels homely at the same time.
0:13:33 > 0:13:37Yes, we wanted to make the place feel a bit more like a country house
0:13:37 > 0:13:40so that's the reason for the decoration.
0:13:40 > 0:13:43We've tried to give it a little bit more of a grand feel
0:13:43 > 0:13:44when you walk in.
0:13:44 > 0:13:47As keen hosts with an eye for interiors,
0:13:47 > 0:13:49they're obviously proud
0:13:49 > 0:13:51of the stylish home they've created.
0:13:51 > 0:13:54But before they reveal more of what they've done,
0:13:54 > 0:13:57that view is calling me outside -
0:13:57 > 0:13:59so Niall is making us all a brew,
0:13:59 > 0:14:03and then we're going to have a proper catch up over a cuppa
0:14:03 > 0:14:07out on the terrace against that incredible backdrop.
0:14:07 > 0:14:09- Tea for you.- Thank you.
0:14:09 > 0:14:13So tell me, how's it been in your not-so-new home now?
0:14:13 > 0:14:16I think we've sort of managed to get it the way we want it.
0:14:16 > 0:14:18We've got lots of challenges here.
0:14:18 > 0:14:22- The biggest issue we have is the wind, unfortunately.- Really?- Yes.
0:14:22 > 0:14:24We're about a thousand feet up here
0:14:24 > 0:14:29and many days it's blowing a gale and it's too windy to sit out.
0:14:29 > 0:14:33But when you get the nice days, it really is wonderful.
0:14:33 > 0:14:36I think you must have the best view in Derbyshire.
0:14:36 > 0:14:39In fact, you'd be pushed to beat that view anywhere in the UK.
0:14:39 > 0:14:43I mean, you couldn't paint that and do it justice really, could you?
0:14:43 > 0:14:44No, not at all.
0:14:44 > 0:14:47So do you have literally a diary ticking off who's coming to stay?
0:14:47 > 0:14:49Yes, we do tend to have a diary.
0:14:49 > 0:14:51It's on the board in the kitchen.
0:14:51 > 0:14:53Everybody wants to come and escape.
0:14:53 > 0:14:56The number of visitors does drop off in the winter, though.
0:14:56 > 0:14:58And how welcoming have your neighbours been
0:14:58 > 0:15:01and the local community when you first bought the property?
0:15:01 > 0:15:04I must say, everyone around here is amazing.
0:15:04 > 0:15:06We've got some great neighbours just across from us
0:15:06 > 0:15:08who, when we moved in initially,
0:15:08 > 0:15:10we obviously didn't know a soul on the road
0:15:10 > 0:15:14and they organised a party and invited everybody along the road
0:15:14 > 0:15:17and further afield. So that was a great introduction to people.
0:15:17 > 0:15:19How welcoming.
0:15:19 > 0:15:22And, Barry, what difference has it made to you living here?
0:15:22 > 0:15:24Hopefully more time for your hobbies,
0:15:24 > 0:15:27because you were very keen on landscape photography
0:15:27 > 0:15:29and also hiking, I seem to remember.
0:15:29 > 0:15:32It's very nice just to be able to just go straight out the front door
0:15:32 > 0:15:36rather than have to drive somewhere and plan it.
0:15:36 > 0:15:40You notice things like the wild orchids in the limestone valleys,
0:15:40 > 0:15:41which are beautiful.
0:15:41 > 0:15:45Every year in May, they come round again
0:15:45 > 0:15:48and you see all the seasonal variations.
0:15:48 > 0:15:50It is a wonderful place to be.
0:15:50 > 0:15:52You get some mornings now in the autumn
0:15:52 > 0:15:54where it's just mist in the bottom of the valley
0:15:54 > 0:15:58and that will lift gradually. Today, we've got beautiful sunshine.
0:15:58 > 0:16:00We can open the curtains in the winter
0:16:00 > 0:16:02and we've had this much snow overnight.
0:16:02 > 0:16:05So you just never really know what you're going to see
0:16:05 > 0:16:07and that's really one of the beautiful things about it.
0:16:07 > 0:16:09So you haven't been snowed in
0:16:09 > 0:16:11in the past seven years since you've been here?
0:16:11 > 0:16:12We have a few times, yes.
0:16:12 > 0:16:15- Have you?- Yes.- Well, you've both certainly whetted my appetite.
0:16:15 > 0:16:16I can't wait to have a look round.
0:16:16 > 0:16:19Actually, you can give me the tour this time!
0:16:19 > 0:16:21- We'd be delighted.- Shall we? - Yes, come on.
0:16:23 > 0:16:25'With the roles reversed today,
0:16:25 > 0:16:27'it's Niall and Barry who are leading the way.
0:16:27 > 0:16:30'We're entering back through the large formal dining room
0:16:30 > 0:16:32'where there's plenty of space
0:16:32 > 0:16:35'to display their possessions and objets d'art.
0:16:35 > 0:16:37'Heading right to the top of the house,
0:16:37 > 0:16:39'our next stop is the attic room,
0:16:39 > 0:16:42'which was used as storage when I was last here,
0:16:42 > 0:16:46'but now has been transformed for Niall's interior design business.'
0:16:46 > 0:16:48The studio.
0:16:48 > 0:16:49Yep, this is where it all happens.
0:16:49 > 0:16:52I think when you were here before this room was a bit of a junk room.
0:16:52 > 0:16:54It didn't look like this.
0:16:54 > 0:16:57And is this a project you are working on at the moment?
0:16:57 > 0:16:59These are just two boards I've put together
0:16:59 > 0:17:02which are showing some new trends at the minute
0:17:02 > 0:17:04that are coming onto the high street.
0:17:04 > 0:17:07So it's nothing too adventurous for most people,
0:17:07 > 0:17:09because I'm sure they'll be used to seeing them.
0:17:09 > 0:17:13How wonderful to have a hobby and a business all in one.
0:17:13 > 0:17:16I might ask to be a bit more nosy and see a few more of the rooms.
0:17:16 > 0:17:17Of course. Yeah.
0:17:19 > 0:17:21As we make our way back through the house
0:17:21 > 0:17:24there's one more room they're eager for me to see,
0:17:24 > 0:17:28which has definitely evolved since the last time I saw it.
0:17:29 > 0:17:33Oh, now, I think bathrooms are worth getting excited about,
0:17:33 > 0:17:35and this one certainly does it for me.
0:17:35 > 0:17:37It's gorgeous. Did you do all the work yourself?
0:17:37 > 0:17:40Well, we didn't do it ourselves, we got somebody to do it.
0:17:40 > 0:17:43- Did you design it? - Yes. We picked all the pieces.
0:17:43 > 0:17:46We wanted to obviously change it completely because before,
0:17:46 > 0:17:48it was like a boxed-in radiator.
0:17:48 > 0:17:50The bath was very small.
0:17:50 > 0:17:52I think it had probably been put in in the '80s,
0:17:52 > 0:17:54so it was ready for a change.
0:17:54 > 0:17:56We both love going in the garden.
0:17:56 > 0:17:59And when you've been out in the garden all day,
0:17:59 > 0:18:03there's nothing nicer than a good soak in the bath.
0:18:03 > 0:18:05And then we have - would you call that a mural?
0:18:05 > 0:18:07Are we allowed to call that a mural?
0:18:07 > 0:18:12Yes, it's a mural. It's, sort of, a hint on a bathing-type of scene.
0:18:12 > 0:18:16But the best scene is if you sit in the bath and look out the window.
0:18:16 > 0:18:17And no-one looks back in, do they?
0:18:17 > 0:18:19No. Not unless they've got stilts!
0:18:19 > 0:18:22That is gorgeous.
0:18:22 > 0:18:25It may be Niall who has the career in interior design,
0:18:25 > 0:18:28but Barry isn't without creative vision too.
0:18:28 > 0:18:31His passion for landscape photography is evident
0:18:31 > 0:18:34throughout the home, where there is plenty of wall space
0:18:34 > 0:18:37for his prints to take pride of place.
0:18:41 > 0:18:43'And before I leave,
0:18:43 > 0:18:46'Barry wants to take me to one of his favourite vantage points,
0:18:46 > 0:18:48'high up on Chinley Churn,
0:18:48 > 0:18:52'which is in the Dark Peak area of the National Park.
0:18:52 > 0:18:55'This wilder and windier part of the northern peaks
0:18:55 > 0:18:56'has been the inspiration
0:18:56 > 0:19:00'for many of his photographs throughout the seasons.'
0:19:00 > 0:19:02It's certainly breathtaking up here, isn't it?
0:19:02 > 0:19:03In more ways than one.
0:19:03 > 0:19:06I mean, how often do you manage to come up here hiking?
0:19:06 > 0:19:08As often as I can really.
0:19:10 > 0:19:13- Here we go. We can sit over here.- Yes.
0:19:13 > 0:19:15I'm ready for a rest!
0:19:17 > 0:19:21It is the most splendid view up here, isn't it?
0:19:21 > 0:19:22It's worth the climb.
0:19:22 > 0:19:25Definitely. Although it is a little bit on the windy side.
0:19:25 > 0:19:27It is a bit windy, a bit gusty.
0:19:27 > 0:19:29So what can we see from this vantage point?
0:19:29 > 0:19:31Well, we're looking west here
0:19:31 > 0:19:35and you can see the city of Manchester over there.
0:19:35 > 0:19:37It's got a huge cloud over it.
0:19:37 > 0:19:40- Do you reckon they're going to get a downpour?- It's raining as usual.
0:19:40 > 0:19:44And then further round, that's Lyme Park over there,
0:19:44 > 0:19:47- which is where they filmed Pride and Prejudice.- Aha!
0:19:47 > 0:19:50So, for the two of you, no regrets,
0:19:50 > 0:19:53no change of heart about moving to Derbyshire?
0:19:53 > 0:19:54- No, not at all.- No.
0:19:56 > 0:20:00- It feels like home?- Definitely, yes. I travel quite a lot with my work,
0:20:00 > 0:20:02but I always love coming home here the best.
0:20:02 > 0:20:05Thank you both for bringing me up to one of your favourite spots.
0:20:05 > 0:20:09It is glorious. We've been lucky with the weather.
0:20:09 > 0:20:12It's been kind, although I think that rain is heading our way.
0:20:12 > 0:20:15- I think so, yes.- We should probably head back down.
0:20:15 > 0:20:17It's going to be a lot easier going downhill, isn't it?
0:20:17 > 0:20:20'What a wonderful walk, high in the Peaks,
0:20:20 > 0:20:23'and a great trip down memory lane.
0:20:23 > 0:20:26'Sampling a slice of Niall and Barry's country life first-hand
0:20:26 > 0:20:29'has been a truly rewarding experience
0:20:29 > 0:20:31'and makes my job worthwhile.'
0:20:36 > 0:20:40Right across the British countryside we've seen house-buyers,
0:20:40 > 0:20:43all with very different lifestyle ambitions,
0:20:43 > 0:20:46fall in love with the properties we've shown them.
0:20:46 > 0:20:50It's always fantastic to hear when they make that all-important offer
0:20:50 > 0:20:53which goes on to be accepted.
0:20:53 > 0:20:56Coming up, a couple of those memorable highlights.
0:21:00 > 0:21:05'It was in the summer of 2016 when Sonali Shah was in Derbyshire
0:21:05 > 0:21:07'property shopping with Pat,
0:21:07 > 0:21:10'who had her best friend Tula in tow for support.
0:21:10 > 0:21:15'Pat had a £300,000 budget to leave Windsor in Berkshire
0:21:15 > 0:21:18'and find a characterful home in a welcoming village.
0:21:18 > 0:21:22'This end-of-terrace, built in 1912, seemed perfect.'
0:21:22 > 0:21:26Oh, this is stunning.
0:21:27 > 0:21:28Sorry.
0:21:30 > 0:21:32That is just... Everything's stunning.
0:21:32 > 0:21:34It looks amazing.
0:21:34 > 0:21:35So tasteful.
0:21:36 > 0:21:38- I'm moving in! - SHE LAUGHS
0:21:40 > 0:21:43'There was also a beautifully finished front reception room.'
0:21:43 > 0:21:48I love the open stone fireplace. Love it.
0:21:48 > 0:21:50'Then, upstairs, there were three bedrooms
0:21:50 > 0:21:52'with views across the valley.'
0:21:52 > 0:21:53I really, really like it.
0:21:53 > 0:21:54Really like it.
0:21:54 > 0:21:58'The attached price tag was music to Pat's ears.'
0:21:58 > 0:22:02I think you might have gone slightly over. I will go 310.
0:22:02 > 0:22:08It's actually currently on the market for just under 270,000.
0:22:08 > 0:22:10- Wow.- It's within your budget.
0:22:10 > 0:22:12Gosh.
0:22:12 > 0:22:17'Clearly smitten, Pat made an offer that was accepted the very next day
0:22:17 > 0:22:21'and is now happily living the rural dream.
0:22:21 > 0:22:24'One year earlier, in the spring of 2015,
0:22:24 > 0:22:28'I found myself just outside the Peak District park borders
0:22:28 > 0:22:33'at this Victorian home that started life as a humble pigsty.'
0:22:33 > 0:22:37So our very first property, right in the heart of the village.
0:22:37 > 0:22:40- Wow.- It looks good. It looks very pretty.
0:22:40 > 0:22:44'I was house-hunting with Darcie and Ian from Cambridgeshire.
0:22:44 > 0:22:46'They had a budget of £400,000
0:22:46 > 0:22:51'to find a period house with a home office and a kitchen-diner.'
0:22:51 > 0:22:54I'm really liking it. It's a well-proportioned room.
0:22:54 > 0:22:58It's got the beams in the ceiling, but they're not oppressive.
0:22:58 > 0:23:01I could move in and live here for some time
0:23:01 > 0:23:04- before feeling I needed to change things.- I agree.
0:23:04 > 0:23:08'There was a generous sitting room and three comfortable bedrooms,
0:23:08 > 0:23:12'but a separate annexe delivered more space than they imagined.'
0:23:12 > 0:23:16So the final part of this house tour is this annexe.
0:23:16 > 0:23:20- Wow. It's really cute.- Yes, I like this.- And for working at home,
0:23:20 > 0:23:23it gives you that feeling of leaving and going to the office.
0:23:23 > 0:23:26- Yes.- You can lock it away at night and not have it in the lounge.
0:23:26 > 0:23:28But would you be tempted to come up here
0:23:28 > 0:23:32- and check your e-mails at midnight?- No.
0:23:32 > 0:23:35'And the house had a favourable price tag too.'
0:23:35 > 0:23:40Well, the asking price is £310,000.
0:23:40 > 0:23:42- You're... - THEY LAUGH
0:23:42 > 0:23:45- You nearly said it, didn't you? But, yes.- You're kidding. 310?!
0:23:45 > 0:23:47Interesting, yes.
0:23:47 > 0:23:51'At £90,000 under their budget, it was a steal,
0:23:51 > 0:23:55'and so became their much longed for country home.
0:23:55 > 0:23:58'Another success story in our rural hall of fame.'
0:24:01 > 0:24:04I often find that when people plan a move to the countryside
0:24:04 > 0:24:08it's not just for the peace and quiet it affords.
0:24:08 > 0:24:10It usually results in space, too -
0:24:10 > 0:24:13lots more space for your money.
0:24:13 > 0:24:16There's also the prospect of a sense of community
0:24:16 > 0:24:18that can be lacking in cities.
0:24:18 > 0:24:23That's exactly what Susan from London was looking for
0:24:23 > 0:24:25with her move to Nottinghamshire,
0:24:25 > 0:24:29guided by Mr Countryside himself, Jules Hudson.
0:24:31 > 0:24:36'It was in 2013 that retired teacher Susan drafted us in
0:24:36 > 0:24:40'to help her escape her small two-bedroom semidetached house
0:24:40 > 0:24:44'right next to the Thames in London's Docklands.'
0:24:44 > 0:24:47'I moved down to London nearly 40 years ago to start teaching,
0:24:47 > 0:24:50'and because I've always worked in London,'
0:24:50 > 0:24:52I've not been able to afford the sort of property
0:24:52 > 0:24:54that I would really like to live in.
0:24:54 > 0:24:57Now I'm looking forward to upsizing
0:24:57 > 0:25:01and having the sort of space that I've always wanted.
0:25:01 > 0:25:04So she wanted to increase her square footage
0:25:04 > 0:25:07and cut back on the city chaos.
0:25:07 > 0:25:11I'm getting a little bit tired of the hustle and bustle of London.
0:25:11 > 0:25:14Waiting for buses, being squashed on Tubes.
0:25:14 > 0:25:17I want to escape the crowds and live in a rural community,
0:25:17 > 0:25:22village community, where the pace of life is much slower
0:25:22 > 0:25:25and I could join in with lots of local events.
0:25:25 > 0:25:29'And to help support her on the hunt for the perfect country property,
0:25:29 > 0:25:33'Susan called on her close friend, Leslie.
0:25:33 > 0:25:35'She is the person that I turn to for advice.
0:25:35 > 0:25:37'She can see possibilities where I can't.
0:25:37 > 0:25:41'I see my role as helping to keep Susan's feet on the ground.'
0:25:43 > 0:25:45With the location fixed on Nottinghamshire,
0:25:45 > 0:25:49Susan was after a character property with three bedrooms
0:25:49 > 0:25:50and a large country kitchen,
0:25:50 > 0:25:54all in a location with a welcoming community -
0:25:54 > 0:25:56and to find this,
0:25:56 > 0:25:59she had set a budget of £330,000.
0:26:06 > 0:26:09'The first destination Jules took Susan and Leslie to
0:26:09 > 0:26:11'was the small village of Epperstone
0:26:11 > 0:26:13'where, in an exclusive development
0:26:13 > 0:26:16'within the grounds of a historic manor,
0:26:16 > 0:26:18'they came to the first house.'
0:26:18 > 0:26:22- So property number one. There we are.- It's beautiful.
0:26:22 > 0:26:25The thing we liked about it was that given where you're coming from,
0:26:25 > 0:26:28where obviously you've got neighbours and it's quite secure
0:26:28 > 0:26:29and it feels very at home,
0:26:29 > 0:26:33this offers you the same sort of feel but in a lovely village,
0:26:33 > 0:26:35Epperstone, which has got loads going on.
0:26:35 > 0:26:38WI, lots of groups, the church is over there.
0:26:38 > 0:26:41You know, there's a lot of community here for you to get involved with.
0:26:41 > 0:26:43And something with a bit of character about it.
0:26:43 > 0:26:46- It certainly has.- Let's have a look inside and see what you think.
0:26:49 > 0:26:52Right. In you come.
0:26:52 > 0:26:55Let's start with the living room.
0:26:57 > 0:27:00The whole thing is open-plan, as you can see.
0:27:00 > 0:27:03- It's lovely.- How does it compare with where you are at the moment
0:27:03 > 0:27:05in Surrey Quays?
0:27:05 > 0:27:06This is much bigger.
0:27:06 > 0:27:09- This is upsizing? - This is upsizing.
0:27:09 > 0:27:11- Good.- This is upsizing plus.
0:27:11 > 0:27:15And very cosy. I think you will feel very at home and safe here.
0:27:15 > 0:27:16- Yes.- It's really cosy.
0:27:16 > 0:27:20- I'm putting myself in here already. - THEY LAUGH
0:27:20 > 0:27:22Well, we haven't seen the rest of it yet.
0:27:22 > 0:27:24- No.- The kitchen is through here.
0:27:25 > 0:27:26There.
0:27:27 > 0:27:30- Oh, it's lovely.- It's open-plan.
0:27:30 > 0:27:33- The whole thing. - It's the whole space in one.
0:27:33 > 0:27:36I love it. I really do.
0:27:36 > 0:27:38- Yes?- So do I. - Is she telling the truth, Leslie?
0:27:38 > 0:27:40- She is.- I am.
0:27:40 > 0:27:42You'll know because I might start crying in a minute.
0:27:42 > 0:27:45- Oh, right!- You'll REALLY know!
0:27:45 > 0:27:51'Just off the kitchen, the staircase led them up to the first floor.'
0:27:51 > 0:27:53So what have we got up here then?
0:27:53 > 0:27:56Family bathroom. Very nice again.
0:27:56 > 0:27:59A good double in there, which I'm thinking, Leslie, would be you.
0:27:59 > 0:28:01Yes, that's my room.
0:28:01 > 0:28:04There's another single there.
0:28:04 > 0:28:07And so this is your bit, Sue,
0:28:07 > 0:28:10- we're thinking.- Oh, wow.
0:28:10 > 0:28:13Come on in, Leslie. You're hiding.
0:28:13 > 0:28:15- There you go.- I love that.
0:28:15 > 0:28:17The vaulted ceiling, that's so nice.
0:28:17 > 0:28:19You've got loads of built-in storage over there.
0:28:19 > 0:28:21And the en-suite behind us.
0:28:21 > 0:28:25- Yes.- We walked past that. - With its own sort of frosted glass.
0:28:25 > 0:28:26I was going to say, what's that?
0:28:26 > 0:28:28Well, it just lets in a bit more light.
0:28:28 > 0:28:30- Of course.- I think it's lovely.
0:28:30 > 0:28:33All in all, this is a really interesting package for you.
0:28:33 > 0:28:34It certainly is, yes.
0:28:34 > 0:28:38'That wrapped up what appeared to be a very positive tour
0:28:38 > 0:28:39'of house number one.
0:28:39 > 0:28:42'All that remained was to check out the garden
0:28:42 > 0:28:45'and to work out the asking price.'
0:28:45 > 0:28:47What you see is pretty much what you get,
0:28:47 > 0:28:50but if your green fingers get any greener,
0:28:50 > 0:28:53the good news is that they're about to open some allotments
0:28:53 > 0:28:57- within the development.- Perfect. - And the nice thing there, of course,
0:28:57 > 0:28:59is you haven't got to go and buy it so you can have a go,
0:28:59 > 0:29:03and if you get bored or it becomes too much, you can just give it back.
0:29:03 > 0:29:04You also get a garage with it.
0:29:04 > 0:29:09So let's have a think about the price, shall we?
0:29:09 > 0:29:11You've got £330,000 to spend.
0:29:11 > 0:29:14- Susan, make me an offer.- Yep.
0:29:16 > 0:29:19I hope I can afford it. It better not be more.
0:29:19 > 0:29:21329,950.
0:29:21 > 0:29:24OK, yes. Leslie?
0:29:24 > 0:29:27I think it must be at the top end of the budget, as well.
0:29:27 > 0:29:30But I'm going to go for 325.
0:29:30 > 0:29:34- 325.- (5,000 change.)- 5,000 change.
0:29:34 > 0:29:36- Wouldn't that be nice? - That would be nice.
0:29:36 > 0:29:39The good news is that that's exactly what it is.
0:29:39 > 0:29:42- No! - THEY LAUGH
0:29:42 > 0:29:46- She won! - This could be yours for 325, yes.
0:29:46 > 0:29:47- 325.- How about that?
0:29:47 > 0:29:50I think it's been a really, really good start.
0:29:50 > 0:29:54- It has.- It's been a great start. - Right then, off you go.
0:29:54 > 0:29:56Go and have another look around and I'll catch up with you later.
0:29:56 > 0:29:58- OK.- Brilliant.
0:29:58 > 0:30:01Well, I have to confess that when it comes to property number ones
0:30:01 > 0:30:05in this game, they don't often get much better than this one.
0:30:05 > 0:30:09'The first property was a delightful character cottage
0:30:09 > 0:30:13'that was £5,000 under budget and nailed Susan's wish list.'
0:30:13 > 0:30:15The house is absolutely gorgeous.
0:30:15 > 0:30:19It's just such a beautiful, light, airy space.
0:30:19 > 0:30:23I love it. I would love to entertain people in this space.
0:30:23 > 0:30:25I'm very excited thinking about it.
0:30:25 > 0:30:28'Susan was quite taken with the cottage
0:30:28 > 0:30:30'but Jules still had more property to deliver.
0:30:30 > 0:30:33'The next home was in the village of Coddington.
0:30:33 > 0:30:36'Again, it was a charming detached cottage
0:30:36 > 0:30:39'believed to date back to 1840.'
0:30:39 > 0:30:41- Look at this.- Oh, wow.
0:30:41 > 0:30:45- Property number two.- A wing for me!
0:30:45 > 0:30:46You're quite right.
0:30:46 > 0:30:48THEY LAUGH
0:30:48 > 0:30:51That's why I wanted to start with this aspect of it
0:30:51 > 0:30:53because it displays this L-shape
0:30:53 > 0:30:56and it is a wing for you. That is a guest wing.
0:30:56 > 0:30:59That is amazing.
0:30:59 > 0:31:00I'm bowled over.
0:31:00 > 0:31:03I'm knocked for six. I can't speak.
0:31:04 > 0:31:07'A bigger proposition than the first house,
0:31:07 > 0:31:09'the guest wing featured two main rooms,
0:31:09 > 0:31:14'one of which had an en-suite, so could be used as a guest bedroom.
0:31:14 > 0:31:18'This accommodation was attached to the main house.'
0:31:18 > 0:31:20OK, Susan, come on in.
0:31:20 > 0:31:22It's huge.
0:31:23 > 0:31:25- Yes.- It's fabulous.- Isn't it just?
0:31:25 > 0:31:29You've given me a kitchen that's big enough to put a sofa in.
0:31:29 > 0:31:32Yes, we brought that in especially!
0:31:32 > 0:31:33You've given me everything I asked for.
0:31:33 > 0:31:36- Look, Leslie, a proper sink. - You've got a Belfast sink.
0:31:36 > 0:31:39And a beautiful wood surface.
0:31:39 > 0:31:41- Wood burner.- And a wood burner.
0:31:41 > 0:31:44Now it goes on. There's a study next door.
0:31:44 > 0:31:45Come through here.
0:31:45 > 0:31:47And your living room.
0:31:47 > 0:31:50The study is there, which is really nice, actually.
0:31:50 > 0:31:54- That is lovely.- And then in here we've got your living room.
0:31:54 > 0:31:57- Come on in.- This is lovely, too.
0:31:57 > 0:31:58- Yes.- It's lovely.
0:31:58 > 0:32:01That's what you said, isn't it? You didn't want a huge sitting-room,
0:32:01 > 0:32:04- you wanted the space in the kitchen. - That's right.- It's cosy.
0:32:04 > 0:32:05It's another really good choice.
0:32:05 > 0:32:07It is really cosy, but it's a fine room as well.
0:32:07 > 0:32:11- It's very elegant, isn't it?- Yes. - The way it's dressed and presented.
0:32:11 > 0:32:15So, if the upstairs is as good as the downstairs, we're laughing,
0:32:15 > 0:32:16- aren't we?- We are.- We are indeed.
0:32:16 > 0:32:18Let's keep laughing. Come on.
0:32:20 > 0:32:21'Along with the potential annexe rooms,
0:32:21 > 0:32:24'there were three bedrooms up on the first floor
0:32:24 > 0:32:27'so plenty of space for visiting friends.
0:32:27 > 0:32:30'Lastly, there was the bedroom for Susan.'
0:32:30 > 0:32:34And here we are in what would be, I think, your master bedroom.
0:32:34 > 0:32:36No, I'm having the double aspect one at the back.
0:32:36 > 0:32:38You're having the other one? You're going to have the guest room?
0:32:38 > 0:32:41Yes. No, this is lovely, as well.
0:32:41 > 0:32:43You've just found such a wonderful house.
0:32:43 > 0:32:45- I am going to cry.- It's OK.
0:32:45 > 0:32:47It's OK. You don't have to.
0:32:50 > 0:32:53- I pull some funny faces when I cry! - THEY LAUGH
0:32:55 > 0:32:57I think it's a hit.
0:32:57 > 0:32:59I think it is a hit, Leslie, yes.
0:32:59 > 0:33:01'Emotions finally got the better of Susan
0:33:01 > 0:33:04'as Jules had presented her with another contender
0:33:04 > 0:33:06'for her new country home.
0:33:06 > 0:33:10'It all hung on that all-important price.'
0:33:10 > 0:33:14Let's ask Leslie to go first on your price guess.
0:33:14 > 0:33:19I think it might be a little over budget at 335.
0:33:19 > 0:33:22335. Yes, that would be nice.
0:33:22 > 0:33:24Susan? I'm going even higher.
0:33:24 > 0:33:27- 340.- 340.
0:33:28 > 0:33:30- Yes.- It's not, it's 350, isn't it?
0:33:30 > 0:33:32No, it's 330.
0:33:32 > 0:33:34- THEY GASP - You are joking!
0:33:35 > 0:33:37You are joking!
0:33:37 > 0:33:40- Bang on.- You're not lying to me? - I'm not, no.
0:33:40 > 0:33:42I'm really not. Come on, take it all in.
0:33:42 > 0:33:45This could be yours for your budget of £330,000.
0:33:48 > 0:33:50- I'm doing it again. - THEY LAUGH
0:33:50 > 0:33:52Go on, in you go.
0:33:52 > 0:33:54- It's fabulous.- Have a good old sob.
0:33:54 > 0:33:56Enjoy it and I'll catch up with you later.
0:33:56 > 0:33:58And I like the other one, too!
0:33:58 > 0:34:00You can only buy one!
0:34:02 > 0:34:04'Right on budget, the second property
0:34:04 > 0:34:07'was another beautiful cottage that seemed a perfect match
0:34:07 > 0:34:10'with what Susan was looking for
0:34:10 > 0:34:12'and so presented a real dilemma.
0:34:19 > 0:34:22'However, Jules still had the final property to show her
0:34:22 > 0:34:24'in the village of North Leverton.'
0:34:24 > 0:34:26So this is it.
0:34:26 > 0:34:27Not the whole house, surely?
0:34:27 > 0:34:30The whole house. The whole Mystery House, yes.
0:34:30 > 0:34:34'The Mystery House was a huge Grade-II listed Georgian home
0:34:34 > 0:34:37'with beautifully proportioned reception rooms.'
0:34:37 > 0:34:39- It's lovely.- Isn't it?- It is.
0:34:39 > 0:34:41- And it's not too big either, is it?- No.
0:34:41 > 0:34:45'It had a substantial kitchen that was full of country charm,
0:34:45 > 0:34:47'complete with a range cooker.'
0:34:47 > 0:34:49Can I go over and warm my hands?
0:34:49 > 0:34:51By all means.
0:34:51 > 0:34:53'Upstairs, there were three bedrooms
0:34:53 > 0:34:56'that included a double-aspect master.
0:34:56 > 0:34:58'And if the property wasn't big enough as it stood,
0:34:58 > 0:35:02'there were another three bedrooms in the adjoining annexe too.'
0:35:02 > 0:35:05It's gorgeous. It really is gorgeous.
0:35:05 > 0:35:06But it's a project
0:35:06 > 0:35:10and it's a project for somebody that's 20 years younger than me.
0:35:10 > 0:35:13'Susan ruled out the big and beautiful Mystery House,
0:35:13 > 0:35:16'leaving two character cottages in the mix.
0:35:16 > 0:35:19'One whitewashed with an open-plan interior,
0:35:19 > 0:35:24'and the other built with red bricks that had an annexe attached.
0:35:24 > 0:35:26'But, of course, only one would become
0:35:26 > 0:35:29'her dream Nottinghamshire escape.'
0:35:31 > 0:35:35I think Jules did a fine job with those first two offerings
0:35:35 > 0:35:38but it became clear that the Mystery House
0:35:38 > 0:35:41was just that little bit too much for Susan to take on.
0:35:41 > 0:35:46So house number one or house number two?
0:35:46 > 0:35:48Which one did she decide to go for?
0:35:48 > 0:35:53I'm delighted to reveal she went for house number one.
0:35:53 > 0:35:56So I think it's time that I met up with Susan to find out
0:35:56 > 0:36:00how she's got on since she escaped to the country.
0:36:00 > 0:36:02I hope she's got that kettle on.
0:36:10 > 0:36:12- Susan.- Hi.
0:36:12 > 0:36:15- Lovely to meet you. - Lovely to meet you too.
0:36:15 > 0:36:17Come in.
0:36:17 > 0:36:22'Jules had been property shopping with Susan in the spring of 2013
0:36:22 > 0:36:24'and she had her offer accepted
0:36:24 > 0:36:27'just a couple of days after their viewing.
0:36:27 > 0:36:29'Four months later, it became her new address
0:36:29 > 0:36:34'and she's been its proud homeowner for the last three years.'
0:36:34 > 0:36:38Susan, it is so lovely to meet you, and Jules sends his regards.
0:36:38 > 0:36:43He's very keen to get an update on this beautiful property.
0:36:43 > 0:36:46That's nice to know. I very much enjoyed filming with Jules
0:36:46 > 0:36:50and, of course, I have this lovely house from your programme -
0:36:50 > 0:36:52and I really can't thank you enough for that
0:36:52 > 0:36:55because, well, I'm just so happy here.
0:36:55 > 0:36:57Have you had to change anything here?
0:36:57 > 0:36:59No, I haven't changed anything at all.
0:36:59 > 0:37:02A local carpenter built me the thing that the television is on
0:37:02 > 0:37:05and some wardrobes upstairs.
0:37:05 > 0:37:08- So, really, furnishings. - Yes, just furnishings.
0:37:08 > 0:37:11I said to Jules that I could just pop my furniture in a van,
0:37:11 > 0:37:14come up here and move in, and that's exactly what I did.
0:37:14 > 0:37:17Because you were coming from London, weren't you?
0:37:17 > 0:37:20- Oh, yes.- Have there been any regrets at all?
0:37:20 > 0:37:22Do you miss your old London life?
0:37:22 > 0:37:24No, apart from the art exhibitions
0:37:24 > 0:37:27that you have to make an effort to go to now.
0:37:27 > 0:37:30You can't just choose one morning to go and see them.
0:37:30 > 0:37:32No regrets at all.
0:37:32 > 0:37:35You brought with you on this search your best friend in the world.
0:37:35 > 0:37:38I think you've been friends for about 40 years or so.
0:37:38 > 0:37:42Leslie. Has she been to see this house since you bought it?
0:37:42 > 0:37:46She's stayed here several times, but Leslie now lives in Italy.
0:37:46 > 0:37:50She is pursuing her dream of living life in another language.
0:37:50 > 0:37:53Her Italian is coming on in leaps and bounds.
0:37:53 > 0:37:56But she loves coming over here to visit you?
0:37:56 > 0:38:00- Yes.- And we're sitting here in your beautiful cottage.
0:38:00 > 0:38:03Peace, quiet, surrounded by the countryside.
0:38:03 > 0:38:06What a change in lifestyle and it works for you.
0:38:06 > 0:38:10It certainly does. I don't think I've ever been so content.
0:38:10 > 0:38:12Now it is a rather gorgeous village, Epperstone,
0:38:12 > 0:38:16and I know that was important for you when you were making the move
0:38:16 > 0:38:19that you did have neighbours, you had a community around you.
0:38:19 > 0:38:20How has that worked out?
0:38:20 > 0:38:23Fabulous. The day after I moved in,
0:38:23 > 0:38:26I went down to the pub for the coffee morning
0:38:26 > 0:38:30and met loads of people, and I don't think I've looked back since.
0:38:30 > 0:38:34- Really?- No. Everybody I've met is just wonderful.
0:38:34 > 0:38:38'Susan really has thrown herself into village life
0:38:38 > 0:38:42'and is involved in everything from the WI to quiz nights,
0:38:42 > 0:38:46'the church and a local ladies darts team.
0:38:46 > 0:38:49'She's taking me into the village where some of her team-mates
0:38:49 > 0:38:51'have gathered for a little practice session.'
0:38:51 > 0:38:53Hi, ladies.
0:38:53 > 0:38:55- How are you?- This is Nicki.
0:38:55 > 0:38:57Here are some of my friends from the darts team.
0:38:57 > 0:38:58Hello.
0:38:58 > 0:39:00Good to meet you.
0:39:00 > 0:39:01'Time to partner up.
0:39:01 > 0:39:03'Susan is with Rosemary,
0:39:03 > 0:39:07'and poor Lisa will have to make do with an inexperienced me.
0:39:07 > 0:39:09'And it's Lisa who's first up.'
0:39:09 > 0:39:11Good start.
0:39:12 > 0:39:15There's no messing, I'm feeling very confident with my team.
0:39:15 > 0:39:18'Next, it's Rosemary for Team Susan.'
0:39:22 > 0:39:24Arrows!
0:39:24 > 0:39:26'Now for my turn.'
0:39:26 > 0:39:27Here we go. RECORD SCRATCH
0:39:27 > 0:39:29Do you really want to stand there with me playing?
0:39:29 > 0:39:31I think you should take a good step back.
0:39:31 > 0:39:33Just in case.
0:39:33 > 0:39:34No laughing if I miss.
0:39:38 > 0:39:42- At least I got it on the board, didn't I?- 25.
0:39:42 > 0:39:45'And lastly, Susan is going to show us her skills.'
0:39:45 > 0:39:47How long have you been playing?
0:39:47 > 0:39:50I've been playing for a couple of years, but I'm the reserve.
0:39:50 > 0:39:54They only play me if there's nobody else.
0:39:54 > 0:39:56That's not fair.
0:39:56 > 0:39:58You're brilliant!
0:39:58 > 0:40:00'I think Susan's just being modest,
0:40:00 > 0:40:05'as from what I've seen she must be a valued member of the team.
0:40:05 > 0:40:08'And it's really great to experience a little of the highlights
0:40:08 > 0:40:10'in Susan's action-packed country calendar.
0:40:14 > 0:40:18'As well as a close-knit community and a country cottage,
0:40:18 > 0:40:21'another of Susan's aspirations was to own a narrow boat.
0:40:21 > 0:40:23'And just a couple of months ago,
0:40:23 > 0:40:26'the opportunity arose to purchase one.
0:40:26 > 0:40:31'It's moored just 20 minutes away, and Susan is keen for me to see it.'
0:40:31 > 0:40:33So, Susan, this is your boat.
0:40:33 > 0:40:35- This is my boat.- What's her name?
0:40:35 > 0:40:36The Gentleman's Relish.
0:40:36 > 0:40:38That's rather fruity, isn't it?
0:40:38 > 0:40:41- I didn't give it its name! - So you've escaped to the country
0:40:41 > 0:40:44- and now you want to escape on the waterways?- Yes.
0:40:44 > 0:40:46What made you buy her?
0:40:46 > 0:40:48I think it's something that I've always wanted to do.
0:40:48 > 0:40:51Have a boat. I've always loved boating holidays.
0:40:51 > 0:40:53I like bobbing about on the water
0:40:53 > 0:40:57and if I didn't do it now I might regret it.
0:40:57 > 0:40:58So I thought...
0:40:58 > 0:41:02- The opportunity came up, so I took it.- Why not?
0:41:02 > 0:41:06I would love to go out on her. However, it's quite gusty today.
0:41:06 > 0:41:09And as I'm still a novice I don't think I'd get her off the moorings,
0:41:09 > 0:41:12- I'm afraid.- I don't know how good I'd be as a first mate, either.
0:41:12 > 0:41:15But can we go on board and perhaps have a nice cup of tea?
0:41:15 > 0:41:17We'll have a nice tea and a tour.
0:41:17 > 0:41:20Right. I've got to ask you one more thing.
0:41:20 > 0:41:24- Yes?- Captain, permission to board? - Permission granted.- Thank you.
0:41:24 > 0:41:26And mind your head.
0:41:28 > 0:41:31It is certainly narrow.
0:41:31 > 0:41:32It is.
0:41:33 > 0:41:36Here we are. You come straight into the kitchen.
0:41:36 > 0:41:38- Gorgeous.- A little sink, a little heater.
0:41:38 > 0:41:40It's delightful.
0:41:40 > 0:41:41And then on we go.
0:41:41 > 0:41:44On we go to the dining area which,
0:41:44 > 0:41:48when we have to sleep on the boat, it converts into a double bed.
0:41:48 > 0:41:51And this is the lounge area.
0:41:51 > 0:41:55Bijou, compact but beautiful.
0:41:55 > 0:41:57You did offer me, I think, a cup of tea?
0:41:57 > 0:41:58- I did.- Shall I put the kettle on?
0:41:58 > 0:42:00Back to the galley.
0:42:10 > 0:42:12- Tea.- Thank you.
0:42:13 > 0:42:16People think long and hard about making the move.
0:42:16 > 0:42:18They always talk about it being a huge leap of faith,
0:42:18 > 0:42:21because you're leaving behind what you know.
0:42:21 > 0:42:24What advice would you give them?
0:42:24 > 0:42:28Just do it. Don't talk about it, don't think about it, just do it.
0:42:28 > 0:42:31- You wouldn't change a thing? - Wouldn't change...not one thing.
0:42:31 > 0:42:34- Cheers to that.- Cheers.
0:42:34 > 0:42:35- And thank you.- You're welcome.
0:42:38 > 0:42:41When we're house-hunting with our buyers,
0:42:41 > 0:42:45we spend so much time with them they truly feel like family.
0:42:45 > 0:42:49So it's great to have this opportunity to see for ourselves
0:42:49 > 0:42:52the difference making the move has made to their lives,
0:42:52 > 0:42:55because it's not just the physical side
0:42:55 > 0:42:57of perhaps changing a few counties -
0:42:57 > 0:43:01it's the peace and tranquillity that country life gives them.
0:43:02 > 0:43:06If you dream of escaping to the country in Wales, Scotland,
0:43:06 > 0:43:10England or Northern Ireland, and would also like our help,
0:43:10 > 0:43:11why not apply online at...