0:00:02 > 0:00:03Alas, poor Yorick! I knew him, Horatio.
0:00:03 > 0:00:06Great words from a Great British writer.
0:00:06 > 0:00:08You've joined me on a special Escape to the Country,
0:00:08 > 0:00:13as we explore some of the finest historical properties that we've had on this series.
0:00:13 > 0:00:14And, of course,
0:00:14 > 0:00:17I'll be revealing which Great British Bard boarded here.
0:00:17 > 0:00:19Any ideas?
0:00:31 > 0:00:35In today's show, we'll be delving into the past and uncovering some
0:00:35 > 0:00:39of our best historic properties from days of yore.
0:00:39 > 0:00:44And there are all manner of reactions, as an ancient farmhouse has them speechless.
0:00:44 > 0:00:46The age of the building has struck you dumb.
0:00:46 > 0:00:50- Yeah...- I don't think we thought we'd see anything as old as this.
0:00:50 > 0:00:52A Kentish barn gets a laugh.
0:00:52 > 0:00:54- What d'you think? - It's pretty good.
0:00:56 > 0:00:58This is precisely what I had in mind.
0:00:58 > 0:01:02- That's stunning. - A manor house gets them screaming.
0:01:02 > 0:01:05- I don't want you to look at that, I want you to look at that.- Yes!
0:01:07 > 0:01:10Really?
0:01:10 > 0:01:12- You are joking, aren't you? - I think she likes it.
0:01:12 > 0:01:16I'll meet the Indiana Jones of listed properties.
0:01:16 > 0:01:20I'll crawl through any hole, if it involves getting to see something 14th Century.
0:01:20 > 0:01:23And I'll strike a blow in the name of historical preservation.
0:01:25 > 0:01:28Today, we're delving into the rich architectural past of Britain.
0:01:28 > 0:01:32We're talking houses with history, and where better to start than with this one?
0:01:32 > 0:01:36I'm told it's the birthplace of William Shakespeare himself.
0:01:36 > 0:01:38You're from the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust,
0:01:38 > 0:01:41tell us a bit more about the work that you do.
0:01:41 > 0:01:45The Trust owns five houses, all connected with members of Shakespeare's family.
0:01:45 > 0:01:50The birthplace here behind us is the first house they bought in 1847,
0:01:50 > 0:01:52but they also own his mother's childhood home,
0:01:52 > 0:01:56his wife's childhood home and the houses of his daughter and granddaughter
0:01:56 > 0:02:00and visitors can come and hopefully see all five of them.
0:02:00 > 0:02:01- It's a family affair. - Absolutely.
0:02:01 > 0:02:03Now, what d'you think it's worth?
0:02:03 > 0:02:08Well, in 1847, when the Trust bought it, they paid £3,000.
0:02:08 > 0:02:12But it's priceless, because of the connection with Shakespeare.
0:02:12 > 0:02:14It has to be, doesn't it? £3,000, priceless today.
0:02:14 > 0:02:18If all that has whetted your appetite for all things historical,
0:02:18 > 0:02:21then stick with us for the best of the best.
0:02:24 > 0:02:28For thousands of years, Britons have built upon this emerald isle,
0:02:28 > 0:02:33either for protection from the elements, their enemies, or for worship.
0:02:33 > 0:02:38From the pre-historic gathering of stones, Saxon wood and mud huts,
0:02:38 > 0:02:40right through to Victorian brick houses,
0:02:40 > 0:02:43we have shaped our environment and created homes for comfort.
0:02:43 > 0:02:46Take a look and you'll find that the oldest buildings standing
0:02:46 > 0:02:49are churches, castles and grand estate houses.
0:02:49 > 0:02:54Buildings where time and money have guaranteed solid structures and solid foundations.
0:02:54 > 0:02:57But every now and then, dotted between these grand buildings,
0:02:57 > 0:03:00an ancient dwelling can still be discovered.
0:03:00 > 0:03:03From medieval halls to Elizabethan and Tudor timber-framed houses.
0:03:03 > 0:03:07And for those lucky enough to possess a piece of history,
0:03:07 > 0:03:11there is often no comparison when living in a historic home,
0:03:11 > 0:03:13compared to its more contemporary cousin.
0:03:13 > 0:03:18Now, as a former archaeologist, it'll probably come as no surprise to you to learn that some of my
0:03:18 > 0:03:23favourite properties are those with the richest architectural and historical past.
0:03:23 > 0:03:26Picking my favourite has been a bit of a challenge,
0:03:26 > 0:03:29but we'll kick off with a house in the Yorkshire Dales,
0:03:29 > 0:03:31in the company of Alistair Appleton.
0:03:31 > 0:03:35A wonderful 17th-century cottage, complete with its very own priest hole.
0:03:35 > 0:03:38Our prospective buyers were Wendy and Loris, who, armed with
0:03:38 > 0:03:42£435,000, were making their bid to escape from Cardiff.
0:03:42 > 0:03:46They wanted a spacious home, but also something of a village atmosphere.
0:03:46 > 0:03:50So Alistair took them to the hamlet of Kildwick Grange and showed them
0:03:50 > 0:03:53a property that I really don't think they were expecting.
0:03:53 > 0:03:58Set on the south-facing slope of the Aire Valley,
0:03:58 > 0:04:03Kildwick Grange is a remote village with a handful of shops and a pub.
0:04:03 > 0:04:07So the location hit the spot, but what would they make of the house?
0:04:07 > 0:04:10We're just outside Kildwick, this is called the Grange,
0:04:10 > 0:04:13it's a little kind of hamlet of old farm property.
0:04:13 > 0:04:17This one's from about 1610. So we're talking serious, serious period.
0:04:17 > 0:04:20You can see how old it is by the windows, can't you?
0:04:20 > 0:04:23Beautiful mullion windows at the top, all the way through.
0:04:23 > 0:04:25What do you think of the exterior?
0:04:25 > 0:04:27- It's fabulous. - The windows are nice.
0:04:27 > 0:04:29Are you worried about it being too old?
0:04:29 > 0:04:33Well, it's been here that long, so I can't see it coming down.
0:04:33 > 0:04:35It's not gonna fall down.
0:04:35 > 0:04:38But whether there'll be a lot more work to do on it, I don't know.
0:04:38 > 0:04:40But from the outside, it looks lovely.
0:04:40 > 0:04:44Well, this is a listed building, so that's already...you've got to factor that in.
0:04:44 > 0:04:46A Grade-2 listed building. Let's go in.
0:04:46 > 0:04:49I can't wait.
0:04:49 > 0:04:54This amazing property is a three-bedroomed cottage bursting with the history that they love.
0:04:54 > 0:04:59There's a large living room, three bedrooms and extensive gardens at the front and back.
0:05:05 > 0:05:09So the history of this place is that this used to be one big farmhouse, Grange House.
0:05:09 > 0:05:11So this front part of the house
0:05:11 > 0:05:16was originally the main hall, two rooms of the whole house.
0:05:16 > 0:05:19You can see that this beam here was where the separating wall was
0:05:19 > 0:05:22and this may have been a through hall.
0:05:22 > 0:05:24So all of this panelling is protected.
0:05:24 > 0:05:27- That's interesting. Grade II listed, is that?- Grade II.
0:05:27 > 0:05:29Right.
0:05:29 > 0:05:32You wouldn't get rid of that, it's the character of the place.
0:05:32 > 0:05:35- It adds to the character. - There's a secret door there.
0:05:35 > 0:05:40Indeed, the secret door leads to what used to be the old kitchen,
0:05:40 > 0:05:43which has the old range in place, but is now used as a playroom.
0:05:43 > 0:05:48Continuing through the Victorian extension is the dining room.
0:05:50 > 0:05:53So, it gets a bit labyrinth down here.
0:05:53 > 0:05:56- Yeah.- This is part of the Victorian extension still,
0:05:56 > 0:06:00you can see the original walls of the back hallway there.
0:06:00 > 0:06:04It's almost like a pub, an old pub.
0:06:04 > 0:06:08- It's quaint.- It's got that feel, with the flagstones.
0:06:08 > 0:06:10- The age of the building has struck you dumb.- Yeah...
0:06:10 > 0:06:13- I don't think we thought we'd see anything as old as this.- No.
0:06:13 > 0:06:20I think it's a shock, but it's a nice shock because it's quaint and I like it.
0:06:20 > 0:06:21The front of the building's
0:06:21 > 0:06:25the oldest bit and then you've got this Victorian extension.
0:06:25 > 0:06:26But then it goes on...
0:06:26 > 0:06:31and this 20th-century extension gives you a much lighter kitchen.
0:06:31 > 0:06:33This is different, isn't it?
0:06:33 > 0:06:36An unusual kitchen design, because what you've got
0:06:36 > 0:06:39is a long galley with all your workspace facing the wall.
0:06:39 > 0:06:43And then all your white goods and the storage is down there
0:06:43 > 0:06:46in that sort of room at the end of the kitchen.
0:06:46 > 0:06:50The kitchen has proved a bit of a damp squib, but upstairs has some real stunners.
0:06:54 > 0:06:57So this is being used as the master bedroom.
0:06:57 > 0:07:01- This is amazing!- Look at it, that's amazing. Look at that.
0:07:01 > 0:07:02Look up there.
0:07:02 > 0:07:05- That was the priest hole. - Oh, the priest hole.
0:07:05 > 0:07:08- They hid the Catholic priests in there.- Oh, right.
0:07:08 > 0:07:11That's amazing, isn't it?
0:07:11 > 0:07:14Look, you've got a proper old window seat, there.
0:07:14 > 0:07:16- With the big Victorian sash. - Fabulous.
0:07:16 > 0:07:19- Can you imagine waking up here? - I can.- I could.
0:07:19 > 0:07:22Very good. Well, there's lots more to see.
0:07:22 > 0:07:24As you can see, you've got a choice of doors.
0:07:24 > 0:07:26Let's turn to the one on the right.
0:07:26 > 0:07:28All right. OK.
0:07:28 > 0:07:32Despite being an old house, there's a large modern bathroom,
0:07:32 > 0:07:34with separate shower and bath.
0:07:34 > 0:07:39Over the landing is a double bedroom with wood-panelled walls and more original features.
0:07:39 > 0:07:42But I've saved the best till last.
0:07:42 > 0:07:45So, this is the little third bedroom.
0:07:45 > 0:07:47Oh!
0:07:47 > 0:07:50God, look at the ceiling in here!
0:07:50 > 0:07:55- I'm teasing, of course, this is the entire reason why I brought you to this property.- Oh!
0:07:55 > 0:07:57That's fabulous, isn't it?
0:07:57 > 0:07:58This is an absolute gem.
0:07:58 > 0:08:03When I saw this room, my heart pounded a little faster.
0:08:03 > 0:08:06And the fireplace is fantastic.
0:08:06 > 0:08:10Look at this barrel vaulting plasterwork, it's extraordinary.
0:08:10 > 0:08:14- I haven't seen anything like this. - It's like going back in time.
0:08:14 > 0:08:18And the back, look at the frieze on there, that's beautiful.
0:08:18 > 0:08:22I would make this the master bedroom, because this is by far the grandest room.
0:08:22 > 0:08:25- But I'd also like to show you the outside space.- Right.
0:08:25 > 0:08:28Follow me.
0:08:33 > 0:08:36Mind the step.
0:08:36 > 0:08:39So it's got quite a rake on it because we're in the Dales.
0:08:39 > 0:08:44But you have the most space of all the houses in this little complex of buildings.
0:08:44 > 0:08:45It's the biggest garden here.
0:08:45 > 0:08:48They've terraced it off for the children,
0:08:48 > 0:08:51but you could easily put your vegetables here.
0:08:51 > 0:08:54You've also got a very nice summerhouse at the back there,
0:08:54 > 0:08:57with electricity, so you can turn that into a workshop.
0:08:57 > 0:09:00- So what do you think? - I think it's a gem.
0:09:00 > 0:09:01I think it's really nice.
0:09:01 > 0:09:06- Impressed.- Did you think you'd get a garden and a 400-year-old property?
0:09:06 > 0:09:08- No, definitely not. - No, certainly not.
0:09:08 > 0:09:13- Do you think you can afford it? - I think probably just about.
0:09:13 > 0:09:16- Just about, yeah. - What do you think it's on at?
0:09:18 > 0:09:21445?
0:09:21 > 0:09:22I was gonna say 440.
0:09:23 > 0:09:27Well, this property is on the market for a very pleasing 415.
0:09:27 > 0:09:30- Oh!- Obviously, it's Grade II listed,
0:09:30 > 0:09:34so that puts some people off and it's still attached.
0:09:34 > 0:09:38I'll send you back to the house and have you look around.
0:09:38 > 0:09:41- I'll meet you out the front. - Brilliant, thank you.
0:09:41 > 0:09:43Mind yourself.
0:09:46 > 0:09:48- What do you think of the room? - I love it.
0:09:48 > 0:09:51I can see of furniture in here.
0:09:51 > 0:09:56It's a bit daunting because we've never lived in a period property as old as this before.
0:09:56 > 0:09:59I think when I first saw the house I was just blown away
0:09:59 > 0:10:02cos I didn't expect to see anything this age.
0:10:02 > 0:10:05The rooms were fantastic.
0:10:05 > 0:10:08The only downside is the kitchen area.
0:10:08 > 0:10:13I might want to change the layout there, slightly.
0:10:13 > 0:10:17The best part was when we came out in the back garden. It was exactly what we want.
0:10:17 > 0:10:21This has to be the most unusual house I've ever been in.
0:10:21 > 0:10:25It's just gob-smacking.
0:10:25 > 0:10:28To own a property like this would be almost a privilege.
0:10:28 > 0:10:31I'm just dumbstruck.
0:10:37 > 0:10:40Loris and Wendy were wowed by that one and who can blame them?
0:10:40 > 0:10:44That fantastic vaulted ceiling and those gorgeous windows.
0:10:44 > 0:10:47But they were put off by the size of the kitchen
0:10:47 > 0:10:51and one other very important factor - it was a listed building.
0:10:51 > 0:10:53But is listing something to fear, or favour?
0:10:53 > 0:10:57It's an emotive subject for many house owners and many prospective buyers.
0:10:57 > 0:11:01Some see it as something of a black art, trying to understand,
0:11:01 > 0:11:05for example, the rule of LBW in cricket, or the offside rule in football.
0:11:05 > 0:11:08But fear not, we're about to lift the lid on the whole business.
0:11:08 > 0:11:11It's the Escape To The Country rough guide to listing.
0:11:11 > 0:11:15Listed properties have been protected by law since 1948
0:11:15 > 0:11:19and fall under the jurisdiction of local authorities.
0:11:19 > 0:11:23There are over 370,000 listed buildings in England alone,
0:11:23 > 0:11:26split into three main categories.
0:11:26 > 0:11:29Grade II is the most common, they're properties built before the 1940s
0:11:29 > 0:11:34and and 92 per cent of all listed buildings fall into this category.
0:11:34 > 0:11:37If the property has any special historical interest
0:11:37 > 0:11:40then it might just make the Grade II*,
0:11:40 > 0:11:44which means it important, but not enough to make the top slot, Grade 1.
0:11:44 > 0:11:47Grade 1 properties are seldom in private ownership.
0:11:47 > 0:11:51It's a category limited to architecture of a huge national importance.
0:11:51 > 0:11:53Whatever listing you have,
0:11:53 > 0:11:57you always need to get permission to make any changes to the building.
0:11:57 > 0:12:01So to find out a bit more, I met up with Nick Molyneux,
0:12:01 > 0:12:04a listing officer whose job it is to keep an eye on them
0:12:04 > 0:12:06and sometimes make some pretty tough decisions.
0:12:06 > 0:12:13Nick, many people will think you, as a listings officer, are the bogey man. Are you?
0:12:13 > 0:12:18I hope not. What we are about is protecting the heritage everybody values,
0:12:18 > 0:12:21so it can be handed down to the next generation.
0:12:21 > 0:12:23For many, a listed building is attractive as
0:12:23 > 0:12:25it's historic and it's got character.
0:12:25 > 0:12:28But they'll be thinking "It's listed, I can't breathe in it,
0:12:28 > 0:12:30"I can't live in it, without permission."
0:12:30 > 0:12:33You will need permission to do a lot of the things
0:12:33 > 0:12:36you might want to do it inside the building as well as outside.
0:12:36 > 0:12:39But we are in the business of managing change, not pickling things.
0:12:39 > 0:12:42- So you're a good guy? - On a good day, yes.
0:12:42 > 0:12:46'Well, certainly today is a good day
0:12:46 > 0:12:49'to look at old buildings and Nick has brought me to a typical
0:12:49 > 0:12:51'Grade II house to see what it's about.'
0:12:51 > 0:12:54This is absolutely charming, isn't it?
0:12:54 > 0:12:57It's a wonderful cottage, the kind of building you'd immediately think
0:12:57 > 0:13:01was going to be a listable house, but it's a stone house
0:13:01 > 0:13:04which is built in the 17th century, pre-1700, substantially complete,
0:13:04 > 0:13:08almost automatically becomes a Grade II listed building.
0:13:08 > 0:13:11Lots of things end up as Grade II listed buildings.
0:13:11 > 0:13:14Everything from bits of Anglo-Saxon church
0:13:14 > 0:13:16right the way through to 1960s concrete.
0:13:16 > 0:13:18It looks fantastic from the outside,
0:13:18 > 0:13:20I can only imagine what's on the inside.
0:13:20 > 0:13:24I haven't been inside, so we're going to find some exciting things.
0:13:24 > 0:13:27Brilliant, let's have an explore.
0:13:36 > 0:13:37This is quite nice, isn't it?
0:13:37 > 0:13:41Yes, we are in the kitchen which says historic building to me.
0:13:41 > 0:13:43Absolutely. Look at the floor.
0:13:43 > 0:13:47- It is a great floor, classic for this part of the world.- Lovely.
0:13:47 > 0:13:52If somebody says we like the stones, but we want underfloor heating.
0:13:52 > 0:13:55If you take these up they're likely to break
0:13:55 > 0:13:58so you have to be sure you know what you're doing to do that.
0:13:58 > 0:14:02I would suggest finding somewhere else for the underfloor heating?
0:14:02 > 0:14:05If somebody wanted to change the units for something more modern,
0:14:05 > 0:14:07or whatever, would that be a problem?
0:14:07 > 0:14:09They would be no concern at all.
0:14:09 > 0:14:12A thing that might be more problematic is the range oven,
0:14:12 > 0:14:15if you had to change the flue in any major way.
0:14:15 > 0:14:18That's going into the fabric of the building.
0:14:18 > 0:14:21But it probably wouldn't be an issue, just a question of how you do it.
0:14:22 > 0:14:24As we pass from the kitchen to the sitting room,
0:14:24 > 0:14:27we enter into one of the earliest parts of the building
0:14:27 > 0:14:30and find a classic inglenook fireplace.
0:14:30 > 0:14:33That is rather wonderful, isn't it?
0:14:33 > 0:14:35Absolutely fantastic.
0:14:35 > 0:14:38This fireplace on its own would list the property.
0:14:38 > 0:14:40It would. Look at the mantle beam.
0:14:40 > 0:14:42It's got that fantastic moulding on it.
0:14:42 > 0:14:45It's also got a 17th century mantle shelf nailed on to it.
0:14:45 > 0:14:49That's certainly fired up our interest so we head up
0:14:49 > 0:14:53into the rafters to get a good look at the bones of the building.
0:14:53 > 0:14:56I hope this is going to be exciting as it looked.
0:14:56 > 0:14:59From what we have seen already I was expecting something like this,
0:14:59 > 0:15:01but not quite as good as this.
0:15:01 > 0:15:03Tell us what we're looking at.
0:15:03 > 0:15:07The centre of an open hall of medieval hall house.
0:15:07 > 0:15:09It's typical of the 14th century.
0:15:09 > 0:15:13So that would be a no-no, touching that in any way, shape or form.
0:15:13 > 0:15:15As you can see, it's now used as a bedroom,
0:15:15 > 0:15:19there's a bed underneath it, but the last thing I would say to anybody is
0:15:19 > 0:15:23"You can cut a hole in that to make a nice new doorway."
0:15:23 > 0:15:25But we've got something else here, too.
0:15:25 > 0:15:29I'm looking at the window, a lovely stone window, could we double-glaze that?
0:15:29 > 0:15:32Well, putting a double glazing in is a no-no.
0:15:32 > 0:15:34But there are several answers.
0:15:34 > 0:15:37The first thing I would recommend is secondary glazing on the inside.
0:15:37 > 0:15:40Something on this side of the stonework?
0:15:40 > 0:15:43Yes, it may have a slight visual impact, but it would keep the heat in.
0:15:43 > 0:15:45And the other one we always say,
0:15:45 > 0:15:48which sounds rather silly when you say it, is thick curtains.
0:15:48 > 0:15:51It sounds ridiculous. but it is very good insulator.
0:15:51 > 0:15:54There are a number of solutions available.
0:15:54 > 0:15:56It is never black and white, "no".
0:15:56 > 0:16:00There is always an alternative way to cut the problem.
0:16:00 > 0:16:04So Nick can point out some good alternatives to altering the inside,
0:16:04 > 0:16:06but what if you want to build outside?
0:16:06 > 0:16:11I can see why this is listed,
0:16:11 > 0:16:14but it is not just about the property itself, is it?
0:16:14 > 0:16:17It's also about its context, its environs, if you like.
0:16:17 > 0:16:20Curtilage - the setting of the listed building
0:16:20 > 0:16:25and the things in that setting also encompass by the listing of the main building.
0:16:25 > 0:16:30so things like the garage behind me are part of the listed structures.
0:16:30 > 0:16:32They'd need permission to change them.
0:16:32 > 0:16:35Seeing this place is packed with so many features,
0:16:35 > 0:16:39any one of which would demand to be listed to Grade II level,
0:16:39 > 0:16:41why it's not higher up the listing scale?
0:16:41 > 0:16:45I'm slightly surprised it's not a II* listed building myself.
0:16:45 > 0:16:49II* is an intermediate between Grade 1 and Grade II,
0:16:49 > 0:16:53they're just not quite Grade 1, they're not big or important enough.
0:16:55 > 0:17:01One place that's certainly has enough importance to merit its Grade I status is Charlecote Park.
0:17:01 > 0:17:05The 16th century house was once visited by Queen Elizabeth
0:17:05 > 0:17:09and it's also said a young William Shakespeare was caught poaching in the grounds.
0:17:09 > 0:17:10So it's got form.
0:17:10 > 0:17:13I can see why you chose this one, Nick.
0:17:13 > 0:17:15It's not bad, is it? THEY CHUCKLE
0:17:15 > 0:17:18Charlecote Park is owned by the National Trust
0:17:18 > 0:17:22and is no longer lived in, only a handful of Grade 1 properties are.
0:17:27 > 0:17:29I love the fact the house is closed,
0:17:29 > 0:17:32technically put to bed, I think is the right term.
0:17:32 > 0:17:33Yes, for the winter.
0:17:33 > 0:17:37One of the things I love about my job, seeing houses when other people can't get in.
0:17:37 > 0:17:40I can't imagine anyone wanting to plaster over
0:17:40 > 0:17:42this ceiling, or install double-glazing.
0:17:42 > 0:17:46So, what issues does a Grade I house like this have?
0:17:46 > 0:17:49One of the first concerns is to make sure it doesn't burn down.
0:17:49 > 0:17:52In a building like this,
0:17:52 > 0:17:54putting, hiding the fire alarms
0:17:54 > 0:17:57in appropriate places is quite easy in modern technology.
0:17:57 > 0:17:59A building like this is historically dressed.
0:17:59 > 0:18:02Do contents come under the guise of listing?
0:18:02 > 0:18:05Not unless they are physically attached to the building.
0:18:05 > 0:18:07Does it add value to a property?
0:18:07 > 0:18:10I don't think I'm the right person to answer that.
0:18:10 > 0:18:12I'm bound to say "yes", aren't I?
0:18:12 > 0:18:15Particularly, the upper end of the scale.
0:18:15 > 0:18:18You're just demonstrating how important the building is.
0:18:18 > 0:18:22This estate certainly is important.
0:18:22 > 0:18:26With the limitations of owning a listed property, are there any benefits?
0:18:26 > 0:18:31I've got a listed property, can I get some money to help me look after it?
0:18:31 > 0:18:32One of the sad realities is
0:18:32 > 0:18:35we do have some grants from the English heritage, but it's not huge.
0:18:35 > 0:18:38Other sources include the Heritage Lottery Fund,
0:18:38 > 0:18:40but they aren't for private owners.
0:18:40 > 0:18:42There isn't much money to spread around
0:18:42 > 0:18:45all the historic buildings in the country.
0:18:45 > 0:18:48- But listings shouldn't put people off, should it?- No, it shouldn't.
0:18:48 > 0:18:53People want to own old buildings and they will cost a bit more to maintain,
0:18:53 > 0:18:56it would be false to pretend they wouldn't.
0:18:56 > 0:18:59But they are great things to live in.
0:18:59 > 0:19:01We have seen two great examples today.
0:19:01 > 0:19:04It's been a fantastic insight. Thanks for your time.
0:19:04 > 0:19:06Thanks, I've really enjoyed it as well.
0:19:08 > 0:19:11Over the years, I've had the privilege
0:19:11 > 0:19:14of showing some wonderful listed properties on this show,
0:19:14 > 0:19:17not least this one coming up down in Lamberhurst in Kent.
0:19:17 > 0:19:19We were with Roche and Nicola,
0:19:19 > 0:19:22Roche was a man who loved all things contemporary,
0:19:22 > 0:19:24but Nicola loved old and characterful buildings
0:19:24 > 0:19:27so finding something that would fit them both
0:19:27 > 0:19:30was always going to be a bit of a challenge.
0:19:30 > 0:19:32They'd already sold their current house,
0:19:32 > 0:19:36they had to move out within a month, so the pressure really was on.
0:19:36 > 0:19:40For the mystery house, I took them to a 15th century barn conversion
0:19:40 > 0:19:42with an added Georgian extension.
0:19:42 > 0:19:46It was one of the most extraordinary properties we've ever had on the show,
0:19:46 > 0:19:47and it blew their socks off.
0:19:52 > 0:19:57The village of Lamberhurst is 15 minutes south of Tunbridge Wells.
0:19:57 > 0:20:01Historically, the area was an important stopping place for those travelling from Hastings to London.
0:20:01 > 0:20:05Today, there are several all important drinking holes,
0:20:05 > 0:20:09a church, post office, school, and even a vineyard.
0:20:09 > 0:20:13But on a busy road, what would Nicola and Roche think of the location?
0:20:13 > 0:20:16Guys, this is it. It's mystery house time.
0:20:16 > 0:20:18- Excited?- Very.
0:20:18 > 0:20:22To be fair, it's an innocuous start looking round here,
0:20:22 > 0:20:24a bit of a car park, busy A21, behind us.
0:20:24 > 0:20:29But through this hedge really is another world.
0:20:32 > 0:20:36- What do you reckon to this lot? - Really lovely.- Brilliant.- Beautiful.
0:20:36 > 0:20:39There's a lot of garden. We'll explore it in detail later.
0:20:39 > 0:20:42What you can see here is this lovely formal garden
0:20:42 > 0:20:46that really introduces the property which is over here.
0:20:46 > 0:20:49Come and tell me what you think of this lot.
0:20:50 > 0:20:52Look at that.
0:20:52 > 0:20:54That is beautiful. Really lovely.
0:20:54 > 0:20:56Wow. That's very nice.
0:20:57 > 0:21:01- Fantastic.- It's pretty unique. It is obviously listed.
0:21:01 > 0:21:05It was built originally roundabout 1400, to 1450,
0:21:05 > 0:21:08as a big barn structure with four bays in it,
0:21:08 > 0:21:11it's been occupied by people and animals once upon a time.
0:21:11 > 0:21:14Over the years, it's become a fantastic family home.
0:21:14 > 0:21:17- So, yeah, good impressions from the outside?- Definitely.
0:21:17 > 0:21:20Inside, I think, it's gonna blow you away.
0:21:20 > 0:21:23Come and have a look at this.
0:21:23 > 0:21:27Come in here, through this huge original door.
0:21:27 > 0:21:32- What do you reckon? - That is just something else.
0:21:32 > 0:21:34That is beautiful.
0:21:34 > 0:21:36- Wow.- What do you think, Roche?
0:21:36 > 0:21:39- That's pretty good, yeah. - THEY ALL LAUGH
0:21:39 > 0:21:42- This is precisely what I had in mind. - That's stunning.
0:21:42 > 0:21:45If you buy a property like this,
0:21:45 > 0:21:50as well as being its owner, you're also its sort of guardian, if you like,
0:21:50 > 0:21:54because you're looking after something that's really unique.
0:21:54 > 0:21:57- Would you want to take that on? - Definitely.
0:21:57 > 0:21:59That's an easy sell!
0:21:59 > 0:22:01Come and look at the kitchen.
0:22:03 > 0:22:06- Step over the threshold.- Fantastic.
0:22:08 > 0:22:11- Look, stainless-steel.- Hooray.
0:22:11 > 0:22:15That's good, that's really nice.
0:22:15 > 0:22:18That has so much character, as well. That's great.
0:22:18 > 0:22:24The attention to detail, no surprise that the guy that did this up is into antiques.
0:22:24 > 0:22:28You get a sense, here's a man who knows his history,
0:22:28 > 0:22:31and has made a fantastic contribution to this building.
0:22:31 > 0:22:32- Want to see more?- Yep.
0:22:32 > 0:22:34Come with me.
0:22:34 > 0:22:39Well, that's a really good start, but there's plenty more to see.
0:22:39 > 0:22:42You tell me what you make of this.
0:22:42 > 0:22:47- Wow.- That's great.
0:22:47 > 0:22:49- Yeah?- Definitely.
0:22:49 > 0:22:53That's the first, "wow". I'm delighted.
0:22:53 > 0:22:58- It is an extraordinary thing. - You don't get more character than that.
0:22:58 > 0:23:03This is very much the medieval part of this property.
0:23:03 > 0:23:07- OK.- But it has another part, too, which is a bit later.
0:23:07 > 0:23:12It's a modern extension built during the earlier 18th century,
0:23:12 > 0:23:14which makes it Georgian. So you can pick and choose.
0:23:14 > 0:23:18If you get a bit bored of the 15th century,
0:23:18 > 0:23:22jump forward 200 years through here.
0:23:22 > 0:23:26'The house is very much a building of two eras
0:23:26 > 0:23:30'and I think Nicola and Roche will love how it contrasts from room-to-room.'
0:23:32 > 0:23:36Through here, a little downstairs loo.
0:23:36 > 0:23:40And this is the Georgian bit, the Georgian front
0:23:40 > 0:23:42of that 15th century property.
0:23:42 > 0:23:44That's very nice, just a nice size living area.
0:23:44 > 0:23:46- It's a good space.- Great fireplace.
0:23:46 > 0:23:48Right, well, let's...
0:23:48 > 0:23:51Let's see in here.
0:23:53 > 0:23:54Come up here.
0:23:54 > 0:23:58This is the master bedroom.
0:24:01 > 0:24:04That's brilliant. Really light.
0:24:04 > 0:24:08- A completely different feel. - This is the Georgian front.
0:24:08 > 0:24:11So this is above your living room.
0:24:11 > 0:24:14- This issue of the road...- Yeah.
0:24:14 > 0:24:19These windows are not double or secondary glazed, but even so, it doesn't offend me that much.
0:24:19 > 0:24:22It doesn't seem that bad, actually.
0:24:22 > 0:24:26I find it a bit annoying. If this is a main bedroom.
0:24:26 > 0:24:28- Bags of space. - Nice and light, as well.
0:24:28 > 0:24:31And to top of the master bedroom there's an en suite.
0:24:31 > 0:24:35There are two more bedrooms on this floor,
0:24:35 > 0:24:40but on the second floor is the fourth bedroom which would make a great kids room.
0:24:40 > 0:24:43But I'm taking them straight out to see the garden.
0:24:46 > 0:24:51Set within three acres of land, outside the kitchen is a patio which leads to a pond.
0:24:52 > 0:24:58Areas of mature country gardens, and ornamental walkways.
0:24:58 > 0:25:03And the main body of the garden which has fantastic views of open farmland and woodland.
0:25:03 > 0:25:05- Mature oak trees.- Beautiful.
0:25:05 > 0:25:08Lots of young sapling oak trees growing all over here.
0:25:08 > 0:25:11All in all, you've got three acres.
0:25:11 > 0:25:13- Wow!- Fantastic.
0:25:13 > 0:25:15So, is this doing it for you?
0:25:15 > 0:25:16Definitely.
0:25:16 > 0:25:21- Let's talk about how much it's going to cost you.- Right.
0:25:21 > 0:25:24Possibly, something around 795.
0:25:24 > 0:25:28795, yeah, I mean, that's... 795.
0:25:28 > 0:25:30- 799.- 799.
0:25:30 > 0:25:32What's four grand between friends?!
0:25:32 > 0:25:34All right, OK...
0:25:36 > 0:25:37It's good news.
0:25:37 > 0:25:41It's not 799, nor is it 795.
0:25:41 > 0:25:47- It's on the market for £770,000.- OK.
0:25:47 > 0:25:49- Right.- Which I think,
0:25:49 > 0:25:53when you compare it to what we have seen on our journey, isn't bad.
0:25:53 > 0:25:59- I'm very surprised at that. - Three acres... For what you get.
0:25:59 > 0:26:01It's probably that price because of the road.
0:26:01 > 0:26:04But if you can overcome that in your own minds,
0:26:04 > 0:26:05you do get a bit of a bargain.
0:26:05 > 0:26:09So, go and have a good look around. Off you go.
0:26:14 > 0:26:17Obviously, it's got that massive wow factor.
0:26:17 > 0:26:20More than any other house around here is going to have, so I think
0:26:20 > 0:26:23that's its unique selling point, if you like.
0:26:23 > 0:26:25It's so memorable.
0:26:25 > 0:26:27I don't think... You wouldn't
0:26:27 > 0:26:31get bored of coming through here and looking at this,
0:26:31 > 0:26:35I think it's something people would really remember when they walked in.
0:26:35 > 0:26:38I always dreamt of a place like this,
0:26:38 > 0:26:44with tons of character, real quirkiness to it,
0:26:44 > 0:26:45and what more could you ask for?
0:26:45 > 0:26:48It's got a multi-faceted personality,
0:26:48 > 0:26:50I'm totally in love with it.
0:26:56 > 0:27:00If history proves anything it is that sometimes buyers' reactions
0:27:00 > 0:27:02are not always predictable.
0:27:02 > 0:27:04Whilst showing Roche around I was concerned
0:27:04 > 0:27:09that it was a step too far for a man who wanted everything contemporary and sleek.
0:27:09 > 0:27:13But as it turned out, both he and Nicola absolutely loved it.
0:27:13 > 0:27:15However, the road next door was a deal breaker,
0:27:15 > 0:27:19despite the fact the house itself was absolutely fantastic.
0:27:19 > 0:27:23I suppose that just goes to prove that location really is all-important.
0:27:23 > 0:27:28Whether it's medieval mullions you're after, or Jacobean jewels, take a look at this selection
0:27:28 > 0:27:32of properties currently on the market from all over the country
0:27:32 > 0:27:33and for all kinds of budgets.
0:27:33 > 0:27:35This Grade II listed thatched lodge
0:27:35 > 0:27:38is priced just under half-a-million pounds.
0:27:38 > 0:27:41Situated in the village of Ouston in Suffolk,
0:27:41 > 0:27:44this mid-19th century brick and flint house
0:27:44 > 0:27:46retains much of its period charm,
0:27:46 > 0:27:50including open fireplaces and stone mullioned casement windows.
0:27:50 > 0:27:54The house has three bedrooms and four reception rooms.
0:27:55 > 0:28:00Or for £1,225,000, this former medieval
0:28:00 > 0:28:04hunting lodge with mature gardens and three ponds
0:28:04 > 0:28:07is in Norton Little Green in Suffolk.
0:28:07 > 0:28:09Not surprisingly it's Grade II* listed
0:28:09 > 0:28:11and dates from the 16th century.
0:28:11 > 0:28:14It has six bedrooms and three reception rooms.
0:28:15 > 0:28:19But if you want a property with over 700-years of history
0:28:19 > 0:28:21take a look at this.
0:28:21 > 0:28:24At £2 million this Grade II listed manor house
0:28:24 > 0:28:26is outside the village of Capel in Surrey.
0:28:26 > 0:28:29With records dating back to 1282
0:28:29 > 0:28:32this magnificent property has extensive formal gardens.
0:28:32 > 0:28:35Inside there is a wealth of original features
0:28:35 > 0:28:37including oak doors and floorboards.
0:28:41 > 0:28:44Well, it is a sad fact of life that things get lost,
0:28:44 > 0:28:46and, of course, they get damaged.
0:28:46 > 0:28:50But what do you do if it's a 14th century it doorknob,
0:28:50 > 0:28:52or an 18th century window stay?
0:28:52 > 0:28:56Well, I'm here at Calke Abbey to meet a man who's made a business
0:28:56 > 0:28:58out of replacing the irreplaceable.
0:29:00 > 0:29:03I'm meeting David Benford from Blackstage,
0:29:03 > 0:29:07a company that specialises in repairing and replacing antique ironmongery.
0:29:07 > 0:29:09- I'm David. - What a wonderful location.
0:29:09 > 0:29:12Our blacksmiths are busy here at the moment.
0:29:12 > 0:29:14I'd like to show you round.
0:29:14 > 0:29:16Please do, what a great location.
0:29:16 > 0:29:21'David's company recently replaced the locks and latches in the hut
0:29:21 > 0:29:25'used by a Shackleton in his attempt to reach the South Pole.
0:29:25 > 0:29:29'Today, however, we're in a warmer and slightly grander location.
0:29:29 > 0:29:31'In a state of decline and disrepair,
0:29:31 > 0:29:35'Calke Abbey was donated to the National Trust in 1985
0:29:35 > 0:29:38'and a major maintenance project has been carried out.
0:29:38 > 0:29:40'No less important - outbuildings.
0:29:40 > 0:29:45'So, David is taking me to the stable block at the back of the house.'
0:29:45 > 0:29:47Tell me more about the work that you do.
0:29:47 > 0:29:50This house was constructed in the mid-18th century
0:29:50 > 0:29:54- and, over that of time, everything's had a lot of wear and tear.- I can imagine.
0:29:54 > 0:29:58There are some window fittings that are broken and missing
0:29:58 > 0:30:02and we aim to replace them using traditional sensitive methods
0:30:02 > 0:30:04to the architecture of the building.
0:30:04 > 0:30:06- Easier said than done. - It certainly is.
0:30:06 > 0:30:10- There's a lot of work involved. - Let's have a look around.
0:30:15 > 0:30:18- So this is what you're up to. - This window is broken.
0:30:18 > 0:30:22That iron stay has broken off and we can't refit it,
0:30:22 > 0:30:25so what we are going to do is hand forge a new one
0:30:25 > 0:30:29and fix it to the window so the window can operate effectively.
0:30:29 > 0:30:31There are an awful lot of windows here.
0:30:31 > 0:30:33- There are a lot. - You've got a lot to make.
0:30:33 > 0:30:38I'm doing them one at a time and each piece is made individually for each window.
0:30:38 > 0:30:40Every one handmade.
0:30:40 > 0:30:45The hands with such a mammoth responsibility belong to Greg and his apprentice,
0:30:45 > 0:30:49who have a forge a couple of miles away.
0:30:49 > 0:30:51- METALLIC CLANGING - That sounds industrious.
0:30:51 > 0:30:55Here's the forge.
0:30:55 > 0:30:58Please come in. Let me introduce you to the blacksmiths.
0:30:58 > 0:31:01What a scene. Nice to see you.
0:31:01 > 0:31:05- This is David and this is Greg. - Nice to see you.
0:31:05 > 0:31:07This is a fantastic looking forge.
0:31:07 > 0:31:09This is what I imagine a blacksmith's forge
0:31:09 > 0:31:12to look like in the traditional sense. How old is it?
0:31:12 > 0:31:14This is the original forge.
0:31:14 > 0:31:18- This has been a forge for hundreds of years?- That's right.
0:31:18 > 0:31:21I love that you're keeping these old traditions alive.
0:31:21 > 0:31:23Clearly, you're the new apprentice.
0:31:23 > 0:31:26When do you become a fully qualified blacksmith?
0:31:26 > 0:31:31I'm getting there now, but you never stop learning.
0:31:31 > 0:31:34- When Greg says so, you're qualified.- Yes.
0:31:34 > 0:31:35How's he doing?
0:31:35 > 0:31:39When I have to start making the tea is when he's qualified.
0:31:39 > 0:31:41How do we begin?
0:31:41 > 0:31:44There's our old one and that'll be the new one.
0:31:44 > 0:31:47The extra length to allow for the folding and forming of the eye
0:31:47 > 0:31:49and the rolling up of that.
0:31:49 > 0:31:53'Without any ceremony, the wrought iron goes straight into the forge.
0:31:53 > 0:31:56'The forge makes quick work of melting the metal
0:31:56 > 0:31:58'so on with the safety goggles.
0:31:58 > 0:32:02'Originally, it was made from wrought iron, which is no longer produced on an industrial scale,
0:32:02 > 0:32:06'so Greg has to source his from scrap dealers and foreign stocks.'
0:32:08 > 0:32:11How do you know when it's hot enough?
0:32:11 > 0:32:13It needs to reach fire welding temperature,
0:32:13 > 0:32:16- which, with iron, is a white heat.- Whit heat?
0:32:16 > 0:32:17Look at that.
0:32:19 > 0:32:22'The first stage is to make an eye at the end of the stay,
0:32:22 > 0:32:25'so Greg makes quick work of flattening the metal.
0:32:25 > 0:32:28'Speed is of the essence as, the cooler the iron gets,
0:32:28 > 0:32:30'the less malleable it becomes.
0:32:30 > 0:32:33'A quench in the water and it's cool enough to handle.'
0:32:33 > 0:32:35So, there's our eye.
0:32:35 > 0:32:37Now, I'll pass that to David
0:32:37 > 0:32:39to do the second part of forming the eye
0:32:39 > 0:32:42by cutting the notches out either side.
0:32:42 > 0:32:47'Traditionally, the notches would have been chiselled away, the modern convenience
0:32:47 > 0:32:51'of a hacksaw makes a more accurate and speedier cut.
0:32:51 > 0:32:53'And the elbow work falls to the apprentice.'
0:32:53 > 0:32:55Look at that, there it is.
0:32:55 > 0:32:58'It's amazing to see the speed at which Greg and David operate.
0:32:58 > 0:33:00'Teamwork is essential.'
0:33:00 > 0:33:03To watch it happen is just terrific, really.
0:33:03 > 0:33:05They're the best.
0:33:05 > 0:33:07It's beginning to take shape
0:33:07 > 0:33:12and David is kind enough to offer me a chance of helping out.
0:33:12 > 0:33:14You can have a go at doing it with a hot set.
0:33:14 > 0:33:16What, heating it up?
0:33:16 > 0:33:19Yeah, I've never had an apprentice before so you can be my first one.
0:33:19 > 0:33:20You're on.
0:33:20 > 0:33:23I'm holding this, you're going to whack it?
0:33:23 > 0:33:25- Are you ready?- There's your set and your mark's there.
0:33:25 > 0:33:27Hold it firmly.
0:33:29 > 0:33:31'It is nerve-racking and although
0:33:31 > 0:33:33'I'm just holding the set in place,
0:33:33 > 0:33:36'I'm keen not to move an inch or it could be a disaster.'
0:33:37 > 0:33:39- OK.- There we go, right, so, one there,
0:33:39 > 0:33:43'But they're impressed enough to let me loose with the hammer
0:33:43 > 0:33:46'and the key here is to hit the hammer as flat as possible
0:33:46 > 0:33:50'otherwise I'll end up denting the metal instead of flattening it.
0:33:50 > 0:33:54'With a weary arm, I hand back to the professional.
0:33:54 > 0:33:55'He does make it look easy.
0:33:55 > 0:33:57'The workmanship here is inspiring
0:33:57 > 0:34:00'and, seeing how precisely Greg controls the hammer,
0:34:00 > 0:34:02'it's no surprise that blacksmiths
0:34:02 > 0:34:05'were once called upon to perform dentistry.'
0:34:07 > 0:34:10Look at that. That is absolutely glowing, isn't it?
0:34:10 > 0:34:14'With a few finishing details, a piece of history is remade.'
0:34:16 > 0:34:18- Happy?- Yep.
0:34:19 > 0:34:21Where's the old one?
0:34:21 > 0:34:23Let's just have a look at that.
0:34:24 > 0:34:26That's it, that way round.
0:34:26 > 0:34:31You did make it look very simple, but I can see it's very complicated.
0:34:31 > 0:34:34David, thank you very much for getting us down here.
0:34:34 > 0:34:38- You're welcome.- I look forward to seeing that back in the abbey. Brilliant.
0:34:42 > 0:34:47Come on. Who wouldn't want to live in a wonderful old property like that?
0:34:47 > 0:34:50shortly, we'll be exploring my final offering in this,
0:34:50 > 0:34:54our tour of some of the best historic properties that we've had on the show.
0:34:54 > 0:34:57Before we get to it, we've been through the archive,
0:34:57 > 0:35:00we've dusted off the tapes and have this wonderful selection
0:35:00 > 0:35:03of some of the other properties we've had on the show.
0:35:03 > 0:35:08In Somerset, I took a break and let Martin and Gail choose their own property.
0:35:08 > 0:35:12They're all quite pretty. Which one do you fancy?
0:35:12 > 0:35:15- That one over their looks the best. - Yeah, that looks good over there.
0:35:15 > 0:35:17They had an eye for historic properties,
0:35:17 > 0:35:20choosing a 19th century schoolhouse.
0:35:20 > 0:35:23I was just worried Gail wouldn't make it around
0:35:23 > 0:35:25to see all of the period features.
0:35:25 > 0:35:28- That is really nice. My heart's going.- Really?
0:35:28 > 0:35:30Yeah, my heart's pounding.
0:35:30 > 0:35:31Don't die on me, girl.
0:35:31 > 0:35:35But the gallery kitchen soon had her fighting fit.
0:35:35 > 0:35:37- Fantastic.- Amazing. - You're a bit lost for words.
0:35:37 > 0:35:40I am, actually, cos I am now thinking
0:35:40 > 0:35:42there is more to this house.
0:35:42 > 0:35:45There's an awful lot more. Open that door.
0:35:47 > 0:35:49I don't believe this.
0:35:49 > 0:35:51Oh, yes.
0:35:51 > 0:35:54That is just amazing. It's breathtaking.
0:35:54 > 0:35:57Over in Suffolk, Tim Vincent showed history buffs
0:35:57 > 0:36:00Carol and Bill another lovely schoolhouse.
0:36:00 > 0:36:03It's lovely, absolutely lovely.
0:36:03 > 0:36:05Love these converted old buildings.
0:36:05 > 0:36:08Carol's enthusiasm soon rubbed off on Bill.
0:36:08 > 0:36:11- This is lovely.- Isn't that fantastic?
0:36:11 > 0:36:13This is just the sort of room I'd like.
0:36:13 > 0:36:17The modern kitchen had them arguing about the chores.
0:36:17 > 0:36:20Do you see yourself washing up here with Bill sunbathing outside?
0:36:20 > 0:36:22- No, me washing up.- Other way around.
0:36:22 > 0:36:27Up in Northumberland, Chris and Sally were bowled over by a battle house.
0:36:27 > 0:36:30LAUGHTER
0:36:30 > 0:36:32- It's gorgeous.- Beautiful.
0:36:32 > 0:36:35The fortified kitchen secured their interests.
0:36:35 > 0:36:37- Look at the thickness of the walls. - Where do you start?
0:36:37 > 0:36:41That is pretty much a metre thick.
0:36:41 > 0:36:44Outside, they didn't know what to look at next.
0:36:44 > 0:36:46I want it!
0:36:46 > 0:36:48- You want it?- Yes.
0:36:51 > 0:36:56Trawling through the archive, finding the best of the best for this show,
0:36:56 > 0:36:58has been great fun, not least this -
0:36:58 > 0:37:00my final offering for today's programme.
0:37:00 > 0:37:03It takes me back to one of the very first house tours
0:37:03 > 0:37:05I ever conducted on Escape To The Country.
0:37:05 > 0:37:09We were in Dorset in the company of Emma and Malachi.
0:37:09 > 0:37:13They had £450,000 to spend to find their dream home
0:37:13 > 0:37:17and, for that money, Emma wanted a kitchen she could roller-skate around.
0:37:17 > 0:37:21The property you're about to see wasn't the oldest we've ever had on the programme,
0:37:21 > 0:37:23but it wasn't bad, it was Georgian.
0:37:23 > 0:37:26It was packed full of character and grandeur.
0:37:26 > 0:37:29As for Emma and Malachi, it blew them away.
0:37:32 > 0:37:33Two Miles east of Dorchester,
0:37:33 > 0:37:37the pretty village of Stinsford has strong literary traditions.
0:37:37 > 0:37:40Thomas Hardy lived here and the village features as Mellstock
0:37:40 > 0:37:42in his book Under The Greenwood Tree.
0:37:42 > 0:37:45In fact, he was so attached to the place,
0:37:45 > 0:37:47his heart was buried in its 13th century church.
0:37:47 > 0:37:50With so much history in the village,
0:37:50 > 0:37:53I thought I'd start my tour with a little surprise.
0:37:54 > 0:37:56I want you to look at that.
0:37:56 > 0:37:57Yes!
0:37:57 > 0:38:01THEY ALL LAUGH
0:38:01 > 0:38:02You are joking.
0:38:02 > 0:38:04I think she likes it.
0:38:07 > 0:38:12This is very different from everything we've seen before,
0:38:12 > 0:38:15but it's very grand. It's a slice of manor house
0:38:15 > 0:38:19here in the middle of Dorset built around 1750
0:38:19 > 0:38:24by a lord for his naughty daughter
0:38:24 > 0:38:27who ran off with somebody who wasn't of the right social class.
0:38:27 > 0:38:31So he built this for her and tucked her away out of sight down here.
0:38:31 > 0:38:32Is it of interest?
0:38:32 > 0:38:34I'd like to be tucked away in there, too.
0:38:34 > 0:38:36Come on, then.
0:38:39 > 0:38:40Before they get carried away,
0:38:40 > 0:38:44I should point out that they don't get the whole building.
0:38:44 > 0:38:47It's been divided into nine separate residences,
0:38:47 > 0:38:51but they are all still pretty grand in their own right.
0:38:51 > 0:38:54They retain original Georgian features,
0:38:54 > 0:38:58huge fireplaces, converted servants' quarters and fantastic proportions.
0:39:03 > 0:39:04So, guys...
0:39:04 > 0:39:08This is your hallway.
0:39:08 > 0:39:09Wow!
0:39:09 > 0:39:11Very grand.
0:39:11 > 0:39:13Very nice.
0:39:18 > 0:39:20- I'm blown away. - Interesting.
0:39:20 > 0:39:24I'm kind of surprised because you loved the cottage look but...
0:39:24 > 0:39:26This feels like our own manor.
0:39:26 > 0:39:29We could be lord and lady.
0:39:29 > 0:39:32There's a closet aristo in you two, actually.
0:39:32 > 0:39:34And the nine-foot tall fireplace
0:39:34 > 0:39:38would look right at home in the grandest of baronial halls.
0:39:38 > 0:39:40Wow! HE LAUGHS
0:39:40 > 0:39:43Look at that. Look at that.
0:39:43 > 0:39:47They aren't many places with a fireplace like that, I can tell you.
0:39:47 > 0:39:51I have got to say, no. That's unbelievable.
0:39:51 > 0:39:54- That is truly unbelievable. - It's a fireplace your mates will remember.
0:39:54 > 0:39:58I've got to say, it's very tasteful.
0:39:58 > 0:40:00It's beautiful. I'd move in tomorrow.
0:40:00 > 0:40:04So, they both really seem to have fallen in love with this property.
0:40:04 > 0:40:06Lovely, great big high ceilings.
0:40:06 > 0:40:09These I love, look at these.
0:40:09 > 0:40:13'This part of the house has always been grand, but the tasteful conversion
0:40:13 > 0:40:15'means that the former scullery in the basement
0:40:15 > 0:40:19'is no longer off-limits for the lord and lady of the manor.'
0:40:19 > 0:40:20Wow.
0:40:24 > 0:40:27What do you think of this?
0:40:27 > 0:40:30- What could we do with this? - This is amazing.
0:40:30 > 0:40:35- You did say you liked the idea of a basement.- This is perfect.
0:40:35 > 0:40:36This is like a dining area.
0:40:36 > 0:40:38This is fantastic dining area.
0:40:38 > 0:40:42This could be a wine cellar, a music studio, a games room,
0:40:42 > 0:40:43What would this have been used for?
0:40:43 > 0:40:47This would have been storage, kitchen, servants' quarters.
0:40:47 > 0:40:51When Emma said that she'd love to be able to roller-skate around her kitchen,
0:40:51 > 0:40:54I'm not sure she really thought that I'd come up trumps.
0:40:54 > 0:40:57But it's always good to fulfil someone's fantasy.
0:40:57 > 0:41:01I love this kitchen. Malachi, get me those roller skates now.
0:41:01 > 0:41:04- This is very good.- What do you think?
0:41:04 > 0:41:06Handmade oak kitchen.
0:41:06 > 0:41:09- Lovely.- Is this a place you think you could roller-skate round?
0:41:09 > 0:41:11- Absolutely. - I think it's a potential.
0:41:11 > 0:41:14Jules!
0:41:14 > 0:41:18There you go. Get your skates on, love.
0:41:18 > 0:41:20'And there's plenty more to see.
0:41:20 > 0:41:23'Upstairs, first stop is the master bedroom.'
0:41:23 > 0:41:25- En suite.- Yeah.
0:41:25 > 0:41:27Grand enough for a lord, my lord.
0:41:27 > 0:41:29My Lord, I think it's a yes.
0:41:31 > 0:41:35- If I come and see you here, I'll have to call you sir, aren't I? - You might.
0:41:35 > 0:41:39The other bedrooms and family bathroom aren't as grand as the ground floor rooms
0:41:39 > 0:41:41but I think they do the job.
0:41:43 > 0:41:47The huge garden is shared with the other nine residences.
0:41:47 > 0:41:50This really is communal living on a grand scale.
0:41:50 > 0:41:53This building may have an aristocratic heritage,
0:41:53 > 0:41:56but they wouldn't have to be members of the landed gentry to afford it.
0:41:56 > 0:42:03How much change do you think you'd have from your budget of 450,000?
0:42:03 > 0:42:07- There would be change?- This house is on the market for £440,000.
0:42:07 > 0:42:10So we'd have £10,000 spare?
0:42:10 > 0:42:12You could buy it and go on holiday to celebrate.
0:42:12 > 0:42:16Why would I go on holiday when I've just moved into this place?
0:42:16 > 0:42:18I can see this has moved you in a way which,
0:42:18 > 0:42:20to be honest, I didn't expect it to.
0:42:20 > 0:42:23Go back inside, have a good look.
0:42:23 > 0:42:25It's a lot of money.
0:42:25 > 0:42:27Tell me what you think afterwards.
0:42:27 > 0:42:28- Let's run.- Let's go.
0:42:33 > 0:42:36Wow! This one has definitely blown my mind away.
0:42:36 > 0:42:40Coming into the first main room, mind-blowing.
0:42:40 > 0:42:42Huge, beautiful expanse.
0:42:42 > 0:42:44I love the fireplace. Stunning.
0:42:44 > 0:42:47- Did you ever think we could afford this?- No.
0:42:47 > 0:42:49- Something as grand?- No, not really.
0:42:49 > 0:42:51A dream come true. Final.
0:42:55 > 0:42:57Well, what a house and what a couple.
0:42:57 > 0:43:00If only every house tour went that well.
0:43:00 > 0:43:04But there's no denying they fell in love with a classic Georgian gem.
0:43:04 > 0:43:06That was one of the very first house tours
0:43:06 > 0:43:09I ever conducted on Escape To The Country.
0:43:09 > 0:43:11Some would think it's rather a fitting end to this,
0:43:11 > 0:43:13our romp through some of the best of the best
0:43:13 > 0:43:17when it comes to the historic properties from this series.
0:43:17 > 0:43:20I've enjoyed looking back at them. I hope you have to.
0:43:20 > 0:43:21I'll see you next time.
0:43:23 > 0:43:25If you feel like escaping to the country
0:43:25 > 0:43:28and would like our help then why not apply online?
0:43:47 > 0:43:50Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd
0:43:50 > 0:43:53E-mail subtitling@bbc.co.uk