0:00:02 > 0:00:04This dinky des res behind me is called Bridge House.
0:00:04 > 0:00:09And it's a one-up, one-down built 500 years ago as an apple store.
0:00:09 > 0:00:15And it was constructed over this running stream in an extraordinary attempt to avoid paying land tax.
0:00:15 > 0:00:17Find out where we are in just a moment.
0:00:29 > 0:00:33In today's show, I will be helping a couple who want to step out of retirement
0:00:33 > 0:00:38and make a new life for themselves running a B&B in England's lovely Lake District.
0:00:38 > 0:00:40We'll be getting them excited about a house.
0:00:40 > 0:00:43- That's the house.- Yeah. - That's the house?
0:00:43 > 0:00:45We'll be offering them unexpected opportunities.
0:00:45 > 0:00:48We said that whatever you came up with we'd look at.
0:00:48 > 0:00:51Any sort of business and, great, let's look.
0:00:51 > 0:00:56And there's the mystery house which could make them reassess their plans entirely.
0:00:57 > 0:01:02Today I'm in Ambleside, a village right in the heart of the Lake District here in Cumbria.
0:01:02 > 0:01:07And Bridge House is probably the most photographed and painted building in the whole county.
0:01:07 > 0:01:10Even J M Turner captured it on canvas.
0:01:10 > 0:01:16In its long history it's had many uses, but in the 1850s a family with six children lived there.
0:01:16 > 0:01:21I don't think even I could persuade someone to buy it under those conditions.
0:01:21 > 0:01:24Sitting shoulder to shoulder with the Scottish border,
0:01:24 > 0:01:26Cumbria in the north-west of England
0:01:26 > 0:01:28is the country's second largest county
0:01:28 > 0:01:31and home to the Lake District National Park.
0:01:31 > 0:01:36The park's mountain landscape consists of volcanic rock and slate peaks
0:01:36 > 0:01:38which give way to lake-filled valleys.
0:01:38 > 0:01:43Boasting 16 lakes, this is a hugely popular holiday destination,
0:01:43 > 0:01:47attracting some eight million visitors every year who flock to the area
0:01:47 > 0:01:50to take advantage of all the outdoor activities on offer.
0:01:50 > 0:01:55As well as tourism, farming is extremely valuable to the economy with around three million sheep
0:01:55 > 0:01:59grazing on the hill farms and moorlands.
0:01:59 > 0:02:04Cumbria's dramatic landscape has inspired generations of artists, writers and poets.
0:02:04 > 0:02:07It was William Wordsworth who declared that the Lake District
0:02:07 > 0:02:10was the loveliest spot that man has ever known.
0:02:10 > 0:02:11And I couldn't agree more.
0:02:14 > 0:02:18The Lake District National Park is pretty sparsely populated.
0:02:18 > 0:02:20There's just under 23,000 properties here
0:02:20 > 0:02:25and it's a big area, so it works out to about 26 per square mile.
0:02:25 > 0:02:29Now, if you want to live inside the park, that makes it very expensive
0:02:29 > 0:02:33but just take a look at what your money can buy.
0:02:33 > 0:02:37For a premium price tag of £1.25 million,
0:02:37 > 0:02:42this five-bedroom house in Troutbeck has an enormous sitting room and a rather fine kitchen
0:02:42 > 0:02:46with dual-aspect windows that make the most of its prime position
0:02:46 > 0:02:49overlooking Lake Windermere and the fells.
0:02:49 > 0:02:52At the gateway to the northern lakes at Penrith, this impressive
0:02:52 > 0:02:58period five-bedroom family home is up for grabs at £650,000.
0:02:58 > 0:03:02Immaculately renovated throughout, with a light and spacious family kitchen,
0:03:02 > 0:03:10modern bathrooms and an enormous conservatory to relax in and soak up the beautiful rural location.
0:03:10 > 0:03:17Or how about this three-bedroom rustic barn conversion in Gosforth on the market for £380,000?
0:03:17 > 0:03:20Lying on the western edge of the National Park, this family home
0:03:20 > 0:03:25also comes with planning permission to add a further two bedrooms on the first floor.
0:03:25 > 0:03:30A great opportunity to maximise the beautiful views over the surrounding countryside.
0:03:31 > 0:03:35You see, properties inside the Lake District National Park are pretty special
0:03:35 > 0:03:39but are they special enough to float to the boat of today's buyers? Let's meet them.
0:03:39 > 0:03:43Today's house-hunters are Andrew and Linda Dagg who, two years ago,
0:03:43 > 0:03:45sold their printing business in Leeds
0:03:45 > 0:03:49and, by their own admission, have been on holiday ever since.
0:03:49 > 0:03:53But now the couple, who have three grown-up daughters and two grandchildren,
0:03:53 > 0:03:55are looking to begin a new chapter.
0:03:55 > 0:04:01We've had 10 very happy years in this house but we've a long way to go till we retire properly.
0:04:01 > 0:04:03We need something to do to keep us busy.
0:04:03 > 0:04:06We're too young to be getting out of bed with nothing to do.
0:04:06 > 0:04:08They are selling their house in Pudsey,
0:04:08 > 0:04:14West Yorkshire, with plans for a new lease of life in the Lake District to run a bed and breakfast business.
0:04:14 > 0:04:20We'd like to move to the Lake District because we've grown up there as a family on holiday.
0:04:20 > 0:04:24It's an area that's very busy with tourism and we see it as an opportunity therefore
0:04:24 > 0:04:29to have a nice little business that will make some reasonable money utilising tourism.
0:04:29 > 0:04:33Linda and Andrew have a clear wish-list for their dream home in the country.
0:04:33 > 0:04:38I think what we need from this next property is four-plus letting bedrooms.
0:04:38 > 0:04:42Two bedrooms for us, perhaps a sitting room.
0:04:42 > 0:04:46A cosy country kitchen with a range.
0:04:46 > 0:04:50- That will be nice. I think it's important that the private side is the private side.- Yes.
0:04:50 > 0:04:53We want separating from the guests.
0:04:53 > 0:04:56Yeah. I think I'd like a garden if possible.
0:04:56 > 0:04:57Well, I would like a garden.
0:04:57 > 0:04:59- I want a garage.- You want a garage.
0:05:02 > 0:05:05A property with views and character.
0:05:05 > 0:05:08Somewhere that visitors want to come and stay.
0:05:08 > 0:05:11But life's not all about work. Andrew and Linda also want
0:05:11 > 0:05:16to use their move to the Lakes to indulge in more outdoor pursuits.
0:05:16 > 0:05:19We're really excited about moving to the country and I, for one,
0:05:19 > 0:05:22can't wait to get involved with outdoor pursuits again.
0:05:22 > 0:05:27And I'm particularly looking forward to getting another Labrador and marching the hills.
0:05:27 > 0:05:30And Linda's excited about moving to the country too.
0:05:30 > 0:05:35Yes, painting in the Lake District should be amazing and joining the local community clubs
0:05:35 > 0:05:37and being an active part of a village.
0:05:37 > 0:05:44I really enjoy growing fruit and vegetables and I'm hoping that we'll have the facility to grow them
0:05:44 > 0:05:49in the bed and breakfast and hopefully I'll be able to make jams and chutneys
0:05:49 > 0:05:50and serve them in the business.
0:05:50 > 0:05:54I like cooking. Andrew likes eating.
0:05:54 > 0:05:55And I enjoy wildlife.
0:05:55 > 0:05:58I love being out and about walking.
0:05:58 > 0:06:02I enjoy the Lakes themselves, in terms of rowing or kayaking.
0:06:02 > 0:06:06And when it comes to decision-making, who's the boss?
0:06:06 > 0:06:09Who makes the decisions? I think we both make the decisions.
0:06:09 > 0:06:12Yeah, I'd be frightened to make them on my own.
0:06:15 > 0:06:20But before we can start looking for their new home, we need to find out what their house is worth.
0:06:20 > 0:06:24The property is in a fantastic location in one of the most sought-after areas in Pudsey.
0:06:24 > 0:06:26It's four bedrooms, three reception rooms.
0:06:26 > 0:06:29Was formerly two cottages knocked into one,
0:06:29 > 0:06:31so offers very good-sized family accommodation.
0:06:31 > 0:06:34And I would value the property at £375,000.
0:06:37 > 0:06:41I'm very happy with the estate agent's valuation at the moment.
0:06:41 > 0:06:43We've got to bear in mind the market we're in.
0:06:43 > 0:06:45We've been here 10 years. We've made a good return.
0:06:46 > 0:06:50So what's Andrew and Linda's budget for their escape to the country?
0:06:50 > 0:06:54Our budget for this move is £600,000 to £650,000.
0:06:56 > 0:07:00Of course, Andrew and Linda couldn't have picked a better spot to open a B&B
0:07:00 > 0:07:06and according to the Lake District Tourist Board, bookings are up 18% on the same time last year.
0:07:06 > 0:07:10However, I'm slightly worried that they are not prepared to look at outside the park
0:07:10 > 0:07:14because that's putting a lot of pressure on their £650,000 budget.
0:07:14 > 0:07:18They do want six bedrooms, four for the guests and two for themselves.
0:07:18 > 0:07:21And views. And views, they're always expensive.
0:07:21 > 0:07:24Andrew and Linda want a perfect Lakeland location
0:07:24 > 0:07:27which would also drawing perspective B&B guests,
0:07:27 > 0:07:32so our search will radiate out from the popular towns of Keswick and Windermere.
0:07:32 > 0:07:35In today's show, I'll be taking them to see three fantastic properties
0:07:35 > 0:07:38amongst which I hope is their ideal home.
0:07:38 > 0:07:43The last is the mystery house which will serve up something they hadn't bargained on.
0:07:44 > 0:07:46- Morning, guys.- Morning, Alastair.
0:07:46 > 0:07:49- Isn't the Lake District beautiful? - Isn't it just.
0:07:49 > 0:07:51- Fabulous.- I'm glad you're looking here.
0:07:51 > 0:07:53You've been on a permanent holiday for the last two years?
0:07:53 > 0:07:57Yes, we have. We had a really good time.
0:07:57 > 0:07:59Why are you stopping being on holiday?
0:07:59 > 0:08:01Basically, we want something to do.
0:08:01 > 0:08:03We want to reason to get up, a purpose.
0:08:03 > 0:08:07- You're bored of your retirement? - We're bored of all the travelling and fun.
0:08:07 > 0:08:09Just a tad too young to retire.
0:08:09 > 0:08:11- So you want something more serious? - Yes.
0:08:11 > 0:08:13A lifestyle, not too serious.
0:08:13 > 0:08:15But I hear are looking for B&Bs?
0:08:15 > 0:08:17- Yes.- Something like that.
0:08:17 > 0:08:20I can't remember us finding a place like that before.
0:08:20 > 0:08:23- No, it's different. - This is a great place to look.
0:08:23 > 0:08:27- Absolutely.- I did want to know whether you've had any experience of running a B&B?
0:08:27 > 0:08:31No experience running a B&B but we'd stayed in them and we've asked people
0:08:31 > 0:08:34that own them what the lifestyle's like.
0:08:34 > 0:08:38And it's quite a flexible way of going on.
0:08:38 > 0:08:44If we want to go and see family or family come to us, we can have no vacancies open.
0:08:44 > 0:08:49- Just take it as it comes but we appreciate it is hard work. - Absolutely.
0:08:49 > 0:08:52What about the business side of things?
0:08:52 > 0:08:56The Lake District is a great place to have a B&B but it's expensive.
0:08:56 > 0:08:59- Very expensive.- So I want to talk to about your budget.- Sure.
0:08:59 > 0:09:01You said 650?
0:09:01 > 0:09:05We said 600, 650 for a tidy business.
0:09:05 > 0:09:12Less than that if we're going to be investing in something that we will need to turn into a business.
0:09:12 > 0:09:14- Shall we get going? - Yes.- Love to.
0:09:14 > 0:09:17Andrew and Linda have a budget of £650,000
0:09:17 > 0:09:21to find their home with a B&B business in the Lake District.
0:09:21 > 0:09:24The property needs to have private quarters,
0:09:24 > 0:09:28including two double bedrooms and spacious reception rooms for family visitors.
0:09:28 > 0:09:33For the B&B side, they are looking for at least four bedrooms all with en suite bathrooms.
0:09:33 > 0:09:37And the property must be within the National Park
0:09:37 > 0:09:39and offer outstanding views.
0:09:39 > 0:09:42I fear getting what they want is going to be an uphill struggle
0:09:42 > 0:09:44but let's see what we can do.
0:09:46 > 0:09:51Is there anything you're anxious about the business or is at an exciting prospect?
0:09:51 > 0:09:52No, excited about it.
0:09:52 > 0:09:55- Absolutely.- It will be good fun.
0:09:55 > 0:10:00It's different to just buying a business in the sense that it's a home as well,
0:10:00 > 0:10:05so the value of the property underwrites the business risk in many senses.
0:10:05 > 0:10:07It's win-win, whichever way we look at it.
0:10:07 > 0:10:11- We like win-win.- We like win-win. - We do.
0:10:11 > 0:10:14Well, let's just hope we back a winner from our selection of properties,
0:10:14 > 0:10:18starting with our first one in a tranquil village of Thornthwaite,
0:10:18 > 0:10:20which lies at the north end of the Lakes.
0:10:21 > 0:10:23The location makes an excellent base
0:10:23 > 0:10:29for touring the northern lakes, particularly for travellers who prefer a more rural getaway.
0:10:29 > 0:10:34But for all the important amenities, the lively town of Keswick is just three miles down the road.
0:10:34 > 0:10:38Our first property is an 18th-century manor house which I'm hoping will fit the bill.
0:10:38 > 0:10:42But as they'll discover, there's a price to be paid.
0:10:42 > 0:10:45Ta-dah!
0:10:45 > 0:10:49- Wow! That's lovely, isn't it? - That's beautiful.
0:10:49 > 0:10:50Yeah.
0:10:50 > 0:10:52- That's the house.- That's the house?
0:10:52 > 0:10:57- Well, from this, it's just everything I ever thought.- Stunning.
0:10:57 > 0:11:00I love it when people say that. That's fantastic.
0:11:00 > 0:11:06The whole entrance is welcoming and pretty and traditional and good.
0:11:06 > 0:11:09- Stunning. Looks lovely. - I can't wait to get inside.
0:11:09 > 0:11:11I'm not surprised they like what they see.
0:11:11 > 0:11:14This elegant house sits very comfortably in the landscape,
0:11:14 > 0:11:18especially seeing as it's constructed entirely out of local stone.
0:11:18 > 0:11:22I just want to point out this solid slate. Irreplaceable.
0:11:22 > 0:11:24You could never get that again.
0:11:24 > 0:11:26Boot cleaners.
0:11:26 > 0:11:28Excellent.
0:11:28 > 0:11:32'A solid first reaction and I'm sure the inside won't fail to impress either,
0:11:32 > 0:11:37'as we head through the generous entrance hall and straight into the lounge.'
0:11:37 > 0:11:42- What do you think about the proportions of this one? - Perfect.- Absolutely. Perfect.
0:11:42 > 0:11:45The room is a very nice size and all our furniture would fit,
0:11:45 > 0:11:48the furniture we'd want to bring, wouldn't it?
0:11:48 > 0:11:51- Yes, look at the windows. - Look at the VIEW!
0:11:51 > 0:11:53That's more to the point, isn't it, yeah.
0:11:53 > 0:11:56A lovely bay window with shutters.
0:11:56 > 0:11:59A lovely fireplace there, with a good draw, apparently.
0:11:59 > 0:12:01- So it works?- They all work, yeah. - Splendid.- Good.
0:12:01 > 0:12:06'The proportions and potential of this house seem to be hitting the nail on the head.'
0:12:07 > 0:12:11- Got your own bar.- No!
0:12:13 > 0:12:15What can I get you?
0:12:16 > 0:12:19Again, the present owners are using this as their sort of dining room.
0:12:19 > 0:12:23- You've got this exquisite slate fireplace.- It's lovely, isn't it?
0:12:23 > 0:12:25Original, and it's all solid slate.
0:12:25 > 0:12:27Pretty much priceless.
0:12:27 > 0:12:30I love the windows. They are just fantastic.
0:12:30 > 0:12:33And what's beyond.
0:12:33 > 0:12:39Just bear in mind that this wall, this little hatch here, connects through to the kitchen.
0:12:39 > 0:12:42Right. All will become clear.
0:12:45 > 0:12:49'There's a lot to think about and a lot to see and I have a simple suggestion
0:12:49 > 0:12:54'that could really tailor this property's layout to suit Andrew and Linda's specific needs.'
0:12:54 > 0:13:01- The kitchen is the heart of the home.- Absolutely. Yes. Nice space.
0:13:01 > 0:13:02Yes. Good range.
0:13:02 > 0:13:05- Got a sofa.- Sofa.
0:13:05 > 0:13:11You've got a big, nice, solid-fuel burner there and a nice inset.
0:13:11 > 0:13:14But what I want you to bear in mind is that this wall is actually,
0:13:14 > 0:13:16unlike most of the walls, not so very thick.
0:13:16 > 0:13:22- Right.- So what I was thinking was that you could have that front room as your front room,
0:13:22 > 0:13:29knock through into the kitchen because if we go through here, this could all be your private quarters.
0:13:29 > 0:13:31OK, lead on.
0:13:35 > 0:13:38So coming back into the hall with these lovely flagstones,
0:13:38 > 0:13:42you'll notice this is a fire door cos they used to run it as a business.
0:13:42 > 0:13:48- So effectively this would seal off your whole half of the house from your guests.- Right.
0:13:48 > 0:13:51You'd have that front room, the kitchen.
0:13:51 > 0:13:53You've got a whole annexe at the back of the house here.
0:13:53 > 0:13:57And in the annexe there's a host of rooms to consider
0:13:57 > 0:14:00including an office, perfect for running their business.
0:14:00 > 0:14:04A games room. Plenty of storage with a large cellar.
0:14:04 > 0:14:06A bathroom and a utility room.
0:14:06 > 0:14:10Also on the ground floor, is the first of seven bedrooms
0:14:10 > 0:14:14which will be ideal as Andrew and Linda's sleeping quarters.
0:14:14 > 0:14:17- Oh yes. - It's a lovely-size room, Alastair.
0:14:17 > 0:14:19- Great, yeah.- What do you think?
0:14:19 > 0:14:20Great, yes. Wardrobe space.
0:14:20 > 0:14:23And you've got a very nice en suite down there.
0:14:23 > 0:14:25- A bathroom.- What more do we need?
0:14:25 > 0:14:26Windows onto the garden.
0:14:26 > 0:14:28Lovely windows onto the garden.
0:14:28 > 0:14:30- I like it lots.- I do.- Like it lots.
0:14:30 > 0:14:35- Do you want to go and see the guests' accommodation?- Yes, please. - Absolutely.- Upstairs.
0:14:36 > 0:14:39Halfway between the ground floor and the first floor
0:14:39 > 0:14:43is a small mezzanine level which houses a kitchenette and a store room.
0:14:43 > 0:14:48And further up on to the first floor, there are three guest bedrooms.
0:14:48 > 0:14:50Let's take a look, they are using this as the guest dining room.
0:14:52 > 0:14:57- But it could also be reinstated as a very nice bedroom.- Yes.
0:14:57 > 0:15:00- Great potential, don't you think? - Absolutely.
0:15:00 > 0:15:02- It just goes on and on, doesn't it? - It does.
0:15:02 > 0:15:08But if you put a bit of love and kindness and made it really beautiful, high end,
0:15:08 > 0:15:16reinstated this fireplace, put in some beautiful bedding, you could charge a fortune.
0:15:16 > 0:15:17You could, you could.
0:15:19 > 0:15:21This room also has access to the kitchenette, which could
0:15:21 > 0:15:25further boost its potential as a self-catering letting.
0:15:25 > 0:15:30The first of three double bedrooms on the first-floor comes with an en suite shower-room
0:15:30 > 0:15:34and across the hallway is an enormous bedroom with enough room for a double bed,
0:15:34 > 0:15:38two single beds, sofas and a spacious en suite bathroom.
0:15:38 > 0:15:40Perfect to rent out to families.
0:15:40 > 0:15:45Lastly on this floor is another double bedroom and large family bathroom.
0:15:45 > 0:15:48But it doesn't end there.
0:15:48 > 0:15:53A trip upstairs to the second floor brings us to the remaining three of the seven bedrooms.
0:15:53 > 0:15:57A massive double room with attractive exposed roof timbers.
0:15:57 > 0:15:59Another good-sized double and, across the hallway,
0:15:59 > 0:16:02the smallest of all which still has room to fit a double bed.
0:16:04 > 0:16:07Finally, this floor also has a modern shower-room.
0:16:07 > 0:16:12That's a lot of rooms and there's plenty more to see outside in the garden.
0:16:14 > 0:16:18Out in the fresh air with your view and your mountains.
0:16:18 > 0:16:21- Yes, impressive. - Super. And sunshine.
0:16:21 > 0:16:23- And sunshine.- Glorious.
0:16:23 > 0:16:29- And you've got your own already made veggie patch.- Oh, veggie plot!
0:16:29 > 0:16:31- That's great.- Summer house.
0:16:31 > 0:16:34- Yes. Absolutely glorious. - You've surpassed yourselves.
0:16:34 > 0:16:37You have, you have.
0:16:37 > 0:16:40- Spot on. - It's an amazing property and I think it could, with investment,
0:16:40 > 0:16:44earn you quite a lot of money if you were serious about this business part.
0:16:46 > 0:16:48However, how much you think it costs?
0:16:48 > 0:16:54I'm going to suggest probably about 650,000, maybe a little more.
0:16:56 > 0:17:00I think I like it, so it's got to be 680.
0:17:00 > 0:17:04OK, so this is the difficult bit.
0:17:04 > 0:17:06It's on the market for 795.
0:17:06 > 0:17:08- Right.- Right.
0:17:08 > 0:17:13And I know that's an awful lot over what you were hoping to spend,
0:17:13 > 0:17:18- but I know that you really wanted a lot of the things that this house offered.- Absolutely.
0:17:18 > 0:17:23This is a lot to take on and I know it's a big change of perspective, but have a look round the house.
0:17:23 > 0:17:26- Thank you.- And we'll meet out front.
0:17:26 > 0:17:29- Super, OK. Thank you. - Thank you very much indeed.
0:17:29 > 0:17:35Well, I hate having to tell somebody that the property is so far out of their budget, but
0:17:35 > 0:17:42I still think this property really offers them what they want and that they might be able to embrace that.
0:17:42 > 0:17:46Just might.
0:17:46 > 0:17:50Over budget at £795,000, this beautiful manor house is proof
0:17:50 > 0:17:55that Andrew and Linda's dream lakeside property isn't going to come cheap.
0:17:55 > 0:18:00With extensive accommodation on three storeys, comprising four reception rooms,
0:18:00 > 0:18:07seven bedrooms, three with en suite, a three-roomed annexe with its own bathroom and separate access,
0:18:07 > 0:18:10with far-reaching views of the surrounding countryside,
0:18:10 > 0:18:14this elegant property is certainly gives Andrew and Linda what they asked for -
0:18:14 > 0:18:17a comfortable family home and a potential B&B income -
0:18:17 > 0:18:20but the price is a hefty reality check for them.
0:18:21 > 0:18:24- So what do you think of the kitchen, Linda?- I like it, yes.
0:18:24 > 0:18:27It's a big enough to do what we want.
0:18:27 > 0:18:31Words are difficult to describe this property.
0:18:31 > 0:18:34There is more than adequate space for us and the family.
0:18:34 > 0:18:39And there's a more than adequate, a very nice room for letting.
0:18:39 > 0:18:41It ticks all of the boxes.
0:18:41 > 0:18:44I think the house is just spot on.
0:18:44 > 0:18:46The location is divine.
0:18:46 > 0:18:49Everything about it is good.
0:18:49 > 0:18:52It's over budget, but I'll have to work on Andrew.
0:18:53 > 0:18:59Let's step out over this beautiful slate porchway one more time. But who knows, you might be back.
0:18:59 > 0:19:00Let's hope so.
0:19:04 > 0:19:07It all goes to show that if you want views, you have to pay a premium.
0:19:07 > 0:19:11With views like these you can see why the Lake District attracts
0:19:11 > 0:19:14millions of keen walkers like Linda and Andrew every year.
0:19:14 > 0:19:17The trouble is that all those pairs of feet trampling
0:19:17 > 0:19:21the public footpaths are having a detrimental effect on the landscape.
0:19:21 > 0:19:25So I've come to meet John Atkinson who is project manager
0:19:25 > 0:19:29of a £5 million lottery-funded scheme called Fix The Fells.
0:19:30 > 0:19:31- Morning, John.- Morning.
0:19:31 > 0:19:33- How you doing?- What an amazing view.
0:19:33 > 0:19:36- It's great, isn't it? - It's a good job you've got.
0:19:36 > 0:19:37It's the best job in the world.
0:19:37 > 0:19:40So you're here fixing the fells. What does that involve?
0:19:40 > 0:19:43Basically we are dealing with access-related erosion,
0:19:43 > 0:19:47so lots of people go out for a walk in the fells, really enjoy the day,
0:19:47 > 0:19:50but it does have a massive impact on the ground that they walk on.
0:19:50 > 0:19:54I imagine fell walkers are pretty responsible. They don't seem like vandals.
0:19:54 > 0:19:56It's not intentional damage then?
0:19:56 > 0:20:00No, it's not. It's because the paths get worn and people tend to walk
0:20:00 > 0:20:04on the nice grassy edge because it's softer on your feet, easier to walk
0:20:04 > 0:20:07and people like walking side by side chatting to each other.
0:20:07 > 0:20:09The path gets wider and then the middle bit gets a bit worn
0:20:09 > 0:20:13and perhaps running with water, so people walk on the edge
0:20:13 > 0:20:20and something has gone from a metre wide to two metres, three metres, to 22 metres.
0:20:20 > 0:20:21- 22 metres wide?- Yes.
0:20:21 > 0:20:23Wow, that's like a motorway.
0:20:23 > 0:20:25- Yeah.- So what's the answer?
0:20:25 > 0:20:28Not obviously to limit the number of walkers, but what?
0:20:28 > 0:20:30It's a never-ending project.
0:20:30 > 0:20:37Look after the fells, really, trying to re-landscape them, make the access sustainable.
0:20:37 > 0:20:39So can we see the work which is going on?
0:20:39 > 0:20:42- Yes, we've got some chaps working over the hills. - I might even help them.
0:20:42 > 0:20:44Let's have a look.
0:20:44 > 0:20:48So far, the scheme has repaired more than 160 Lake District paths.
0:20:48 > 0:20:53Moving rocks to provide crossing points where the paths have become most eroded
0:20:53 > 0:20:58and filling in the gaps to stop people from simply going round and exacerbating the problem.
0:20:58 > 0:21:00They are doing a great job but at least 60 paths are still
0:21:00 > 0:21:05in desperate need of restoration and the scheme is looking for volunteers to join in the effort.
0:21:08 > 0:21:09Tip it over.
0:21:09 > 0:21:11- Just like that.- That's perfect.
0:21:11 > 0:21:13That's great, that.
0:21:13 > 0:21:17We'll fill in the sides, put some blocking there, put some blocking there to funnel people in.
0:21:17 > 0:21:20That's going to save this for how long?
0:21:20 > 0:21:23This will be here hopefully for 100 years now.
0:21:23 > 0:21:29Maintaining these pathways is vital to preserving the state of this beautiful but fragile landscape.
0:21:33 > 0:21:38With the sun beginning to set, the first day of our property tour of the Lake District is over.
0:21:42 > 0:21:44Andrew and Linda are bored of retirement
0:21:44 > 0:21:50and want to exchange their laid-back life in Leeds for a more energetic livelihood in the Lake District.
0:21:50 > 0:21:56With a budget of £650,000, they are looking for a B&B business with access to outdoor pursuits.
0:21:56 > 0:22:02So far, they've seen one potential business, but do they really want to be open all hours?
0:22:02 > 0:22:06- Can you see yourself here? - Actually, I could.
0:22:06 > 0:22:10Or will we be able to change their minds entirely with the mystery house?
0:22:11 > 0:22:17Even though I showed them a property that was very expensive yesterday, Linda and Andrew seemed fairly happy
0:22:17 > 0:22:20so today I thought I'd push the envelope a little bit further
0:22:20 > 0:22:24and see whether that rocks their Lakeland boat.
0:22:24 > 0:22:30Our first property of the day lies in the pleasant village of Bampton Grange, situated in a quiet corner
0:22:30 > 0:22:33on the eastern edge of the Lake District National Park.
0:22:33 > 0:22:38Bampton Grange is a small historic hamlet which is home to many buildings of architectural quality
0:22:38 > 0:22:42set in a pastoral location surrounded by farmland.
0:22:42 > 0:22:46Although not in the heart of the main tourist track, the village has
0:22:46 > 0:22:50great road links being only five miles from the M6, which will make it
0:22:50 > 0:22:54an easier commute when Andrew and Linda's three daughters and two grandchildren come to visit.
0:22:54 > 0:22:59Our next property will challenge their commitment to running a full-time business.
0:22:59 > 0:23:01Will they go for it?
0:23:01 > 0:23:04This building here in the 1770s was a popular coaching house.
0:23:04 > 0:23:08And now it's a popular pub, hotel and restaurant.
0:23:08 > 0:23:11And it's up for sale. How do you feel about owning a pub?
0:23:11 > 0:23:17Listen, we said that whatever you came up with we'd look at, any sort of business, and great, let's look.
0:23:17 > 0:23:23- This is a big business. Do you want to look inside? - Absolutely.- Yes.
0:23:23 > 0:23:27Well, they seem intrigued but they are not giving away too much just yet.
0:23:27 > 0:23:31So let's take a look inside the pub and find out whether it will be bottoms up
0:23:31 > 0:23:33or last orders for Linda and Andrew.
0:23:33 > 0:23:36Come on in.
0:23:36 > 0:23:38- Come into your bar.- Wow.
0:23:38 > 0:23:41Oh, wow! That's really nice.
0:23:41 > 0:23:43- Isn't it?- Yeah, OK.
0:23:43 > 0:23:45- Cosy.- We like it.
0:23:45 > 0:23:48- We do like it.- Nice. Yes.
0:23:48 > 0:23:53- You said you wanted to be busier. - Yes.- And you wanted to meet people. And, you know, country pub...
0:23:53 > 0:23:57- Yeah, yeah. - It's a good way of meeting people.
0:23:57 > 0:23:59It's an excellent way of meeting people, yes.
0:23:59 > 0:24:01The pub is very popular with locals.
0:24:01 > 0:24:04A lot of people passing from the walking trade
0:24:04 > 0:24:07and then, all the people who are staying with you.
0:24:07 > 0:24:08The owner has put a lot of money in.
0:24:08 > 0:24:13100,000 in the last three years remodelling and renovating.
0:24:13 > 0:24:15She makes quite a lot of money from the business.
0:24:15 > 0:24:20Also got an open fire over there that you can set during the winter months.
0:24:20 > 0:24:26- Does one have to ski here in the winter? The skis on the wall! - The long walk home.
0:24:26 > 0:24:28You don't have to walk home because you live here.
0:24:29 > 0:24:32'Smiles all round in the lounge bar and we haven't even touched a drop.
0:24:32 > 0:24:36'Back through the entrance lobby to the reception.'
0:24:36 > 0:24:41This is your reception area because, remember, this is a small hotel, B&B,
0:24:41 > 0:24:44as well as a pub.
0:24:44 > 0:24:47This is where you would greet your guests.
0:24:47 > 0:24:51- It's only been up and running in this format for the last two-and-a-half years.- Right.
0:24:51 > 0:24:54So the present owner has done an awful lot of work.
0:24:54 > 0:24:58It was pretty run-down. The turnover is about a quarter of a million a year.
0:24:58 > 0:25:01At the moment, because she's invested quite a lot,
0:25:01 > 0:25:05she makes about 40 grand profit.
0:25:05 > 0:25:08Well, that's good, considering the investment, yeah.
0:25:08 > 0:25:11- You would be on the upward curve if you came here.- Sure.
0:25:11 > 0:25:17This is the dining room and restaurant.
0:25:17 > 0:25:22- Right, OK. A nice size.- It is, yes.
0:25:22 > 0:25:24The property itself is great.
0:25:24 > 0:25:26I like the property tremendously,
0:25:26 > 0:25:31- but we've got different styles of table here which probably isn't what we would do.- No.
0:25:31 > 0:25:37- This is a very good point, because, as it stands, everything in the pub comes with the deal.- Right.
0:25:37 > 0:25:41So you might want to negotiate - "I don't want all that stuff."
0:25:41 > 0:25:48Off the reception area, there are ladies and gents restrooms, a staff room with pool table and a staircase
0:25:48 > 0:25:53which takes us to the first floor where we're going to take a look at one of the eight letting rooms.
0:25:55 > 0:26:00This is a good-sized one right at the front. You get a lovely view over St Patrick's, the church.
0:26:00 > 0:26:03Oh, it's nice. Yes, it's a nice size.
0:26:03 > 0:26:05Works well.
0:26:05 > 0:26:09And they've got very handsome en suites. That's all been put in recently.
0:26:09 > 0:26:14- In terms of accommodation, I think it's really kind of... - It works well.
0:26:14 > 0:26:17There's everything here that they need, yes.
0:26:17 > 0:26:21There are a further seven newly-decorated bedrooms on the first floor.
0:26:21 > 0:26:25Another twin bedroom with a flat screen TV and en suite shower room.
0:26:25 > 0:26:30Four double bedrooms featuring stylish en suites with roll-top baths.
0:26:30 > 0:26:34And also two single bedrooms, again with en suite showers.
0:26:34 > 0:26:38Now we've seen were the guests sleep, it's time to head back downstairs
0:26:38 > 0:26:42and out the front door to find out what Linda and Andrew would call home.
0:26:42 > 0:26:45And, en route, there's the food prep areas which, of course,
0:26:45 > 0:26:49are more of an industrial catering zone than rustic country kitchen.
0:26:49 > 0:26:53And next door to the kitchen is the staircase that leads to the private accommodation.
0:26:56 > 0:27:01The present owner converted all the upstairs attic space into her private dwelling.
0:27:01 > 0:27:03- Nice.- It is.
0:27:03 > 0:27:05So it's quite contemporary.
0:27:05 > 0:27:07- Yes.- But nice and airy.
0:27:07 > 0:27:10You've got a little kitchenette at the end there. It's quite a nice space.
0:27:10 > 0:27:14I'm thinking of your family, particularly your grandchildren,
0:27:14 > 0:27:18so they're not running under the feet of locals and you have a whole separate area,
0:27:18 > 0:27:20which is very airtight from the pub downstairs.
0:27:20 > 0:27:24- Yes.- Shall we have a look at the sleeping accommodation? OK.- On we go.
0:27:26 > 0:27:30So far, the landlord's residence with its mix of contemporary and traditional decor
0:27:30 > 0:27:32is receiving a thumbs-up.
0:27:34 > 0:27:37This is being used as the master, but it's quite sizable, isn't it?
0:27:37 > 0:27:41- It's a good size.- It's big.
0:27:41 > 0:27:45Nice views down over the bridge there along the edge of the church.
0:27:45 > 0:27:47- Oh, that's a pretty view, yes.- It is.
0:27:47 > 0:27:51Lots and lots of built-in storage which is also useful.
0:27:51 > 0:27:54As well as the master bedroom, there are another two bedrooms
0:27:54 > 0:27:57in the living quarters and a large family bathroom.
0:27:57 > 0:28:00I've thrown the potential of a publican's life into the mix,
0:28:00 > 0:28:06but will the price of the property give them the courage to take a punt on pulling pints?
0:28:06 > 0:28:11- It's a handsome-looking pub, you've got to admit that.- It is. It's very nice. It stands out.
0:28:11 > 0:28:18- It does.- One of the drawbacks, apart from the fact that you'll be tied to the bar all your life,
0:28:18 > 0:28:21is that there's not very much outside space.
0:28:21 > 0:28:23There's no space for your veggie garden.
0:28:23 > 0:28:25True, true.
0:28:25 > 0:28:30- You've just got these bits and bobs.- I don't think I'll have time. - I was going to say that.- Exactly.
0:28:30 > 0:28:32It's a big proposition.
0:28:32 > 0:28:36And I suppose the key piece of information that you need is how much it costs.
0:28:36 > 0:28:39I don't like this bit. Andrew, you can go first.
0:28:39 > 0:28:42I'm going to plump for 600.
0:28:42 > 0:28:44I think I'd say a little bit more.
0:28:44 > 0:28:48There's a lot of accommodation there and she has put a lot of money into it.
0:28:48 > 0:28:50650, 660?
0:28:52 > 0:28:54You're closer.
0:28:54 > 0:28:56It's actually on the market for 595.
0:28:56 > 0:28:58Oh, wow!
0:28:58 > 0:29:01- So well within your budget.- Yes.
0:29:01 > 0:29:06- It's whether it's well within your capabilities.- We are going to have to think about that one.
0:29:06 > 0:29:10Well, you've got time cos I'm going to send you back in to have a rummage around.
0:29:10 > 0:29:13- Don't get lost.- OK. Thank you. - I'll see out the front.- OK, bye-bye.
0:29:13 > 0:29:15Thank you.
0:29:15 > 0:29:19Now, that is not a reality check, but a curve ball.
0:29:19 > 0:29:22That's what we call that - a curve ball.
0:29:22 > 0:29:26Because they really weren't expecting it to be a full-on pub, hotel and restaurant.
0:29:26 > 0:29:29So I'm very interested to see what they think about that.
0:29:31 > 0:29:37At £595,000, this four-star serious business proposition is back well within budget.
0:29:37 > 0:29:42It has a lounge bar with open log fire, eight modern letting bedrooms, all en suite,
0:29:42 > 0:29:46and spacious living quarters with a large living room,
0:29:46 > 0:29:49master suite and two further bedrooms.
0:29:49 > 0:29:52The property is situated in a more rural part of the Lakes
0:29:52 > 0:29:55but still attracts a high level of visitors.
0:29:55 > 0:30:00All the guest accommodation is wonderful. The en suite's superb, isn't it?
0:30:00 > 0:30:03The property itself, I think, has character.
0:30:03 > 0:30:05It's in a good state of repair.
0:30:05 > 0:30:08The decor is nice, particularly the letting rooms.
0:30:08 > 0:30:11I think a project like this is going to take a bit of thinking about.
0:30:11 > 0:30:13It's a commitment.
0:30:13 > 0:30:15Can you see yourself here?
0:30:15 > 0:30:17Actually, I could.
0:30:17 > 0:30:18I could. I like it.
0:30:18 > 0:30:22Do you know, I'd come and visit you if you had this place.
0:30:22 > 0:30:24- Would you?- It's beautiful. Absolutely beautiful.
0:30:24 > 0:30:27Not that I'm trying to sway you in any sense.
0:30:27 > 0:30:28Come on, off we go.
0:30:33 > 0:30:38When they make their move to Cumbria, Andrew and Linda are keen to learn how to sail,
0:30:38 > 0:30:42and the Lake District has 13 major lakes covering 885 square miles.
0:30:42 > 0:30:45So there's plenty to quench their nautical cravings.
0:30:45 > 0:30:48They've come to meet Steve Sykes from the local sailing centre
0:30:48 > 0:30:53based at Ullswater to learn the art of traditional sailing.
0:30:53 > 0:30:56Hi, guys. I'm Steve and I'm taking you for a taster session.
0:30:56 > 0:30:59We're going to get you geared up, onto the boat and change your life.
0:30:59 > 0:31:00Lovely.
0:31:02 > 0:31:08At eight miles long and nearly a mile wide, Ullswater is the second largest lake in the National Park.
0:31:08 > 0:31:11The magnificent surrounding mountains can create changing
0:31:11 > 0:31:14weather patterns, causing challenging sailing conditions.
0:31:14 > 0:31:19But today the wind is calm so it should be, well, plain sailing.
0:31:19 > 0:31:24All kitted out in their safety gear, it's time for Andrew and Linda to hit the water.
0:31:24 > 0:31:30For today's lesson, Steve will be demonstrating the basic principle of traditional sailing -
0:31:30 > 0:31:32how to steer the boat.
0:31:32 > 0:31:38Right, guys. When we're sailing, I've got the tiller, the stick, in my back hand, for obvious reasons.
0:31:38 > 0:31:41Pull it towards me, come away from the wind.
0:31:41 > 0:31:44Push it away from me, go into the wind.
0:31:44 > 0:31:47Right. The rope's in my front hand.
0:31:47 > 0:31:50I want to pull the rope in, pull it down to my thumb,
0:31:50 > 0:31:56pull it in again. What we've really got to be careful of, use your back foot to do it,
0:31:56 > 0:31:58is to push the rope back there.
0:31:58 > 0:32:02If we get hit by a bit of a gust, I can just let it go.
0:32:02 > 0:32:07If I'm standing on it and we get hit by a gust, we're going in there, yeah.
0:32:07 > 0:32:11The tiller is attached to the rudder, which provides leverage to turn the boat.
0:32:11 > 0:32:16But will this crew keep their heads above water when Linda puts her navigation skills to the test?
0:32:16 > 0:32:19The wind, you're in a mountainous area.
0:32:19 > 0:32:23- So the wind is going to be unpredictable because of the mountains.- Yeah.
0:32:23 > 0:32:28You've got slopes on the mountain that are exposed to the sun.
0:32:28 > 0:32:31You've got slopes that are never exposed to sun,
0:32:31 > 0:32:35so you have cool air dropping, warm air rising.
0:32:35 > 0:32:37- It's all over the place.- Right.
0:32:37 > 0:32:42It makes sailing really interesting, but then again, it's beautiful.
0:32:42 > 0:32:46So how many years does it take to master this craft?
0:32:46 > 0:32:50If you've got the time, it just comes down to how you can practise.
0:32:50 > 0:32:52If running a busy business is what they want,
0:32:52 > 0:32:56I'm not sure Linda and Andrew will have much time to sail off into the sunset.
0:32:56 > 0:33:00Unless, that is, I can tempt them with the mystery house.
0:33:00 > 0:33:02Spot on, guys. Awesome session.
0:33:02 > 0:33:06- Fantastic, thank you. - Yeah, you've enjoyed it? - Really enjoyed it, Steve.
0:33:06 > 0:33:07No worries.
0:33:11 > 0:33:15I think to be honest with that last property we've pushed the business side
0:33:15 > 0:33:19as far as we can go without consigning Andrew and Linda to an early grave.
0:33:19 > 0:33:23So I think for the mystery house we're going to bring everything
0:33:23 > 0:33:28back down to a much more quiet and tranquil pace.
0:33:31 > 0:33:34It's right down to the southernmost point of the Lakes
0:33:34 > 0:33:37for our mystery property, the hamlet of Oxen Park.
0:33:37 > 0:33:39It's set among the picturesque low-lying fells
0:33:39 > 0:33:42between Lake Windermere and Coniston Water.
0:33:42 > 0:33:45Full of pretty cottages, farmhouses and distinctive dry-stone walling,
0:33:45 > 0:33:52Oxen Park is set amongst a magnificent backdrop of fell views and uninterrupted farmland.
0:33:52 > 0:33:56If our last house was all about work, work, work, the mystery house is quite the opposite,
0:33:56 > 0:34:00dangling the carrot of total relaxation in front of them.
0:34:00 > 0:34:02We'll be keeping the business at arm's length
0:34:02 > 0:34:06and concentrate on a country home just for the two of them to enjoy.
0:34:06 > 0:34:09- Here we have the mystery house.- Yes.
0:34:09 > 0:34:11- It's a mystery.- It's lovely.
0:34:11 > 0:34:13- It is a mystery.- It's pretty.
0:34:13 > 0:34:17The idea of the mystery house is that it's something completely tangential.
0:34:17 > 0:34:20Not completely not what you asked for - it's in the Lake District.
0:34:20 > 0:34:24but it's a whole another view of this retirement business.
0:34:24 > 0:34:28The property is this whitewashed bit.
0:34:28 > 0:34:30And in many ways the reason I'm bringing you here
0:34:30 > 0:34:33is not so much to look at the property but to look at this.
0:34:33 > 0:34:36Well, views were right up there on Andrew and Linda's wish list,
0:34:36 > 0:34:40and in the outlook department, this cottage definitely delivers.
0:34:40 > 0:34:42Here we have
0:34:42 > 0:34:47- what I think is the biggest selling point of this property. - Yes, the view.
0:34:47 > 0:34:50But not necessarily the bit of the Lakes that you were looking for.
0:34:50 > 0:34:53- Different. - It's different, more gentle.
0:34:53 > 0:34:56The property is not a business venture.
0:34:56 > 0:34:58I wouldn't run a B&B from here.
0:34:58 > 0:35:06But we're hoping that this would be a lovely base for you in the Lakes, for you and your family,
0:35:06 > 0:35:10and it would give you some money to maybe look at some other businesses.
0:35:10 > 0:35:13We know that you've been looking at some other options.
0:35:13 > 0:35:16- Shall we go inside?- Let's do it.
0:35:16 > 0:35:19The cottage has an abundance of charm and character,
0:35:19 > 0:35:22both inside and out, but will it manage to charm them?
0:35:22 > 0:35:25Come into the cosy cottage.
0:35:29 > 0:35:34It's nice. I suppose it's quite a nice, big living room.
0:35:34 > 0:35:36You need a bit of imagination here.
0:35:36 > 0:35:40Not all of our furniture would fit here, but I suppose as a family room it's quite nice.
0:35:40 > 0:35:43Let's look in through at the old kitchen.
0:35:43 > 0:35:46'The lounge didn't get a warm reaction so we'll head through to
0:35:46 > 0:35:49'the second reception with the hope that this room will fare better.'
0:35:49 > 0:35:53- This would have been the old kitchen in the cottage.- Right.
0:35:53 > 0:35:57They used to have a huge range here, back in the 40s and 50s,
0:35:57 > 0:36:00which was replaced by a horrible one in the 60s
0:36:00 > 0:36:05- and then replaced by this very pretty open fire recently. - Does it work?
0:36:05 > 0:36:08- Yes.- Right, that's nice.
0:36:08 > 0:36:09This is nice.
0:36:09 > 0:36:11It's quaint.
0:36:11 > 0:36:14- But it's...- Full of character.
0:36:14 > 0:36:17Way too small for what we're looking to do and for our family.
0:36:17 > 0:36:21We would like to be able to have family come and spend time with us.
0:36:21 > 0:36:25- Let's whizz round.- What else is there?- Let's go and have a look in the kitchen.
0:36:25 > 0:36:28I think this is quite a sweet little kitchen.
0:36:28 > 0:36:34It's small. It's hardly traditional.
0:36:34 > 0:36:35I think it's charming.
0:36:35 > 0:36:40Continuing to be not really what we're looking for, I think.
0:36:40 > 0:36:45It's a shame because it is a charming little cottage for somebody, but maybe not you two.
0:36:45 > 0:36:48Let's have a quick whizz upstairs.
0:36:48 > 0:36:51'Shame they haven't been seduced by the downstairs of this cottage
0:36:51 > 0:36:54'but perhaps the layout upstairs will raise a smile.'
0:36:56 > 0:36:58You've got choices on the staircase.
0:37:00 > 0:37:02It's a three-way split.
0:37:05 > 0:37:08You can go that way, you can go that way, and I'll go this way.
0:37:08 > 0:37:11No, we'll all go this way.
0:37:13 > 0:37:17Upstairs there's a good sized and light family bathroom
0:37:17 > 0:37:23and there are four comfortably sized double bedrooms, great for when their three daughters come to visit.
0:37:23 > 0:37:28Who wouldn't want to wake up to those fine views over the garden and surrounding countryside?
0:37:28 > 0:37:33And we're going to take a look at the largest of the four bedrooms.
0:37:33 > 0:37:36So we go into this bedroom.
0:37:36 > 0:37:39- Characterful.- Not for you.
0:37:39 > 0:37:42Sunny, love the fireplace.
0:37:42 > 0:37:44It's got some nice original features.
0:37:44 > 0:37:46It does.
0:37:46 > 0:37:49- But it's a bit small. - Not really what we're looking for.
0:37:49 > 0:37:52Let's go outside and talk about the price.
0:37:52 > 0:37:54'You win some, you lose some.
0:37:54 > 0:37:58'I thought I might be able to tempt them with these beautiful surroundings,
0:37:58 > 0:38:03'but we'd better get into the garden and find out what they think it's all worth.'
0:38:03 > 0:38:08Just out of interest, what do you think this little pocket of the southern Lakes costs?
0:38:08 > 0:38:14I think it's a very sweet little cottage with a fantastic view,
0:38:14 > 0:38:20- but we're out of the Lake District a little way here.- It's still in the park.- Still in the park?- Very much.
0:38:20 > 0:38:24I'm going to stick my neck out at 250.
0:38:24 > 0:38:26I'd go 295.
0:38:26 > 0:38:29295. Marvellous! Marvellous!
0:38:29 > 0:38:31It's on the market for 550.
0:38:31 > 0:38:35Oh, sorry! Oh, God!
0:38:35 > 0:38:36- That's great.- That's awful.
0:38:36 > 0:38:39Your eyes did light up a little bit when you saw it.
0:38:39 > 0:38:45I think if it's done nothing else, it's focused us on wanting to do B&B.
0:38:45 > 0:38:47So in that sense, at least it's raised those issues,
0:38:47 > 0:38:50and it's made you clear that B&B is what you want to do.
0:38:50 > 0:38:51Yes.
0:38:53 > 0:38:58At £550,000, the mystery house is £100,000 under budget
0:38:58 > 0:39:01which they could plough into a business investment.
0:39:01 > 0:39:06There are two reception rooms and four double bedrooms, enough for a visiting family.
0:39:06 > 0:39:09And the cottage has stunning views over the landscape,
0:39:09 > 0:39:12only a few minutes' drive from the shores of Coniston Water,
0:39:12 > 0:39:16great for all those outdoor pursuits they wanted to indulge.
0:39:16 > 0:39:20I think it's going to make somebody a super little cottage.
0:39:20 > 0:39:24Fantastic views, some lovely features, but not for us.
0:39:24 > 0:39:26I would agree 100%.
0:39:26 > 0:39:30It's just such a shame because the views are just fabulous.
0:39:30 > 0:39:32Have you changed your mind?
0:39:32 > 0:39:34- No, not at all.- No, not all!
0:39:34 > 0:39:37But it has brought things into focus a little bit, hasn't it?
0:39:37 > 0:39:39Very clearly focused, absolutely.
0:39:39 > 0:39:45We thought and talked, but I think our initial reaction is probably the one that we would run with.
0:39:45 > 0:39:48Now's we need to get an overview of everything we've seen,
0:39:48 > 0:39:52so let's find a place to sit down and have a little head scratch.
0:39:59 > 0:40:04Andrew and Linda have had the chance to explore the area and I've shown them properties
0:40:04 > 0:40:07to suit both their business and recreational aspirations,
0:40:07 > 0:40:09even if they didn't all suit their budget.
0:40:09 > 0:40:11So there's plenty to consider.
0:40:12 > 0:40:16We have rather dizzied Andrew and Linda with the number of options
0:40:16 > 0:40:22for their Lakeland retirement, so it's about time we find out which one, if any, they most prefer.
0:40:26 > 0:40:30Beautiful as the Lakes are, it's exhausting because everything is so beautiful
0:40:30 > 0:40:33and it takes so long to get everywhere because the Lakes are so big.
0:40:33 > 0:40:36It has been tiring, but it's been great.
0:40:36 > 0:40:41- I enjoyed it.- Can you cast your mind back, I know it seems a long time ago, back to the Georgian house?
0:40:41 > 0:40:43- You seemed to like that. - Is that the wow house?
0:40:43 > 0:40:45Is that the wow house?
0:40:45 > 0:40:52The wow house remains the wow house. That's the dream house, almost, isn't it?
0:40:52 > 0:40:57- We've got some hard talking to do, I think.- We have.
0:40:57 > 0:40:59Very much enjoyed the Georgian house.
0:40:59 > 0:41:02Ticked almost every box.
0:41:02 > 0:41:05Remarkable in terms of it satisfying what we wanted.
0:41:05 > 0:41:09But it did make me smile all the way around it. The wow face-ache house.
0:41:09 > 0:41:14What about the hotel and the pub and the restaurant all-in-one?
0:41:14 > 0:41:16That was a big project.
0:41:16 > 0:41:23I think if we were perhaps wanting to commit that sort of energy, we would go for that, wouldn't we?
0:41:23 > 0:41:27- We loved the atmosphere.- Absolutely thoroughly enjoyed the place, yeah.
0:41:27 > 0:41:33And I can see us having a nice time there, working hard and playing hard.
0:41:33 > 0:41:36I just wonder whether we're looking for that level of commitment.
0:41:36 > 0:41:40Perhaps we need to look at some figures and we need to understand a little bit
0:41:40 > 0:41:44of what staff could do that would make our lives a little easier.
0:41:44 > 0:41:46We did enjoy it. We did enjoy it.
0:41:46 > 0:41:48It was good, a good find.
0:41:48 > 0:41:53You made it very clear that you were not keen on the actual property of the mystery house, but in terms of
0:41:53 > 0:41:57buying a property that didn't have a big business attached, like the pub,
0:41:57 > 0:42:03or that may have the potential for restoration, what are your thoughts on that?
0:42:03 > 0:42:10I like the thought of restoring something, or building to make separate visitor accommodation.
0:42:10 > 0:42:12I really do think that's a good idea.
0:42:12 > 0:42:15Overall, looking at all the properties we've seen
0:42:15 > 0:42:18and the thoughts that you've had, what are your conclusions?
0:42:18 > 0:42:20Is there a property you might move on?
0:42:20 > 0:42:24The pub is still on the radar, as is the Georgian house itself.
0:42:24 > 0:42:27So it's been a really useful experience for us.
0:42:27 > 0:42:29It's been a pleasure showing you around.
0:42:29 > 0:42:34I think that if any two people are going to make a good go of running a B&B here,
0:42:34 > 0:42:38- it's going to be you two, so book me in when you open up. - It'll be our pleasure.
0:42:38 > 0:42:41- It has been a pleasure. Thank you.- Thank you.
0:42:44 > 0:42:49I think we've done a fine job on focusing those two canny business brains
0:42:49 > 0:42:51on what exactly they want from their Lakeland life.
0:42:51 > 0:42:57And if I come appear in a few years' time, I know that I will stay in Andrew and Linda's B&B.
0:42:57 > 0:43:00And if you've been inspired by our rural retreats,
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