0:00:02 > 0:00:05Today, I'm treading the ancient cobbles of England's smallest city,
0:00:05 > 0:00:08along a road which claims to be
0:00:08 > 0:00:11one of the oldest complete residential streets in the world.
0:00:11 > 0:00:16Why am I here? I'm on a mission to find the perfect Escape To The Country.
0:00:31 > 0:00:35On today's show, I'll be helping a couple relocate their family
0:00:35 > 0:00:38from urban sprawl to rural beauty.
0:00:38 > 0:00:41Coffee and croissant out here, I see myself already. Yes.
0:00:41 > 0:00:46My aspiring country-dwellers will be viewing a selection of fine country homes.
0:00:46 > 0:00:49It's somewhere to be very proud of.
0:00:49 > 0:00:52Yes, and I can see being very pleased.
0:00:52 > 0:00:57And there's a mystery house. But will any of the properties match their expectations
0:00:57 > 0:00:59of grand country living?
0:01:01 > 0:01:05Today, I'm in Somerset and this is Vicar's Close
0:01:05 > 0:01:07in the small but perfectly formed city of Wells.
0:01:07 > 0:01:11Vicar's Close was finished back in 1363
0:01:11 > 0:01:14and was made up of 42 small one-up, one-downs
0:01:14 > 0:01:17to house the 42 members of the cathedral choir.
0:01:17 > 0:01:21It was thought that by keeping all the young men close to the cathedral
0:01:21 > 0:01:25they wouldn't be tempted by the sins of the outside world.
0:01:25 > 0:01:28Today it's still home to the cathedral's choristers.
0:01:28 > 0:01:30Not such a bad deal, is it?
0:01:30 > 0:01:34But don't worry. If you're not a bassy baritone or dulcet tenor
0:01:34 > 0:01:39Somerset could still provide a harmonious escape to the country.
0:01:40 > 0:01:42Tucked away in the left-hand corner of Britain,
0:01:42 > 0:01:45Somerset is bordered by Devon and Dorset in the south
0:01:45 > 0:01:48and is the northern gateway to the West Country.
0:01:48 > 0:01:52Tourism is an important £966 million industry,
0:01:52 > 0:01:55with the spectacular land formation of Cheddar Gorge,
0:01:55 > 0:01:57the largest gorge in Britain,
0:01:57 > 0:01:59bringing in 500,000 people a year,
0:01:59 > 0:02:02all helping to top up the tourist till.
0:02:03 > 0:02:07Sheep and dairy farming, however, are still integral to the economy
0:02:07 > 0:02:12in this mostly rural county which produces some fine and tasty cheeses.
0:02:12 > 0:02:15Herds are spread across the diverse landscape
0:02:15 > 0:02:18from the dramatic scenery of Exmoor National Park
0:02:18 > 0:02:21to the Somerset Levels, featuring Glastonbury Tor.
0:02:22 > 0:02:24And it's on these grazing pastures
0:02:24 > 0:02:29that one entrepreneurial farmer gave birth to the Glastonbury music festival,
0:02:29 > 0:02:32an annual pilgrimage for the 180,000 ticket holders.
0:02:36 > 0:02:39Over the past year, property prices in Somerset
0:02:39 > 0:02:42have fallen more steeply than in other counties
0:02:42 > 0:02:44which are closer to London.
0:02:44 > 0:02:47This, combined with the county's really good schools,
0:02:47 > 0:02:50which include a number of cheaper fee-paying schools,
0:02:50 > 0:02:54makes it an ideal location for families wanting to escape the urban sprawl.
0:02:54 > 0:02:57So if your family is thinking of relocating to Somerset,
0:02:57 > 0:03:02take a look at some of these properties which are on the market right now.
0:03:02 > 0:03:05If you have £1.5 million to blow,
0:03:05 > 0:03:08take a look at this six-bedroom family home in East Coker.
0:03:08 > 0:03:12Built of local stone and boasting beautiful timber beams,
0:03:12 > 0:03:15it's also a house that knows how to pamper,
0:03:15 > 0:03:18with an impressive indoor pool and a striking sauna.
0:03:18 > 0:03:23Alternatively, £550,000 would buy this three-bedroom modern house
0:03:23 > 0:03:25in West Bagborough.
0:03:25 > 0:03:29Despite the contemporary feel, it's peppered with period features
0:03:29 > 0:03:31and has 3.5 acres of gardens.
0:03:33 > 0:03:35If only period charm will do,
0:03:35 > 0:03:38and you're looking to spend £385,000,
0:03:38 > 0:03:40this three-bed home in Hurcot is up for grabs.
0:03:40 > 0:03:43Forming the wing of an old farmhouse,
0:03:43 > 0:03:48much of the character has been retained and there's one resident that finds it very cosy.
0:03:49 > 0:03:52We've seen what Somerset has to offer.
0:03:52 > 0:03:56But what will today's buyers bring to the table? Let's meet them.
0:03:56 > 0:04:00Our buyers today are solicitor Richard and wife Helen.
0:04:00 > 0:04:03They live in Watford with their three children,
0:04:03 > 0:04:07William, Freddy and Araminta.
0:04:07 > 0:04:10Their move to Somerset is driven by the new schools they've chosen
0:04:10 > 0:04:13in a bid for a good standard of education.
0:04:13 > 0:04:16All three of them are going to be changing schools.
0:04:16 > 0:04:19We want to help improve their education.
0:04:19 > 0:04:23The oldest one, William, is going into senior school
0:04:23 > 0:04:27and we want to be on hand to take part,
0:04:27 > 0:04:30to see everything that they get involved in.
0:04:30 > 0:04:35Having sold their family home of 15 years in Spring 2008,
0:04:35 > 0:04:38they're currently living in their own buy-to-let cottage
0:04:38 > 0:04:40in the thick of it all.
0:04:40 > 0:04:43We are a little apprehensive, going into the country.
0:04:43 > 0:04:47But I do think that the loss of the noise, traffic and pollution
0:04:47 > 0:04:51will be such a positive thing in our lives, it'll be well worth doing.
0:04:51 > 0:04:56In a slow market, there aren't a huge number of properties available.
0:04:56 > 0:05:00But after a two-year search and having viewed almost 40 properties,
0:05:00 > 0:05:04what is it that's causing so much difficulty?
0:05:04 > 0:05:07We're looking for five bedrooms, four to five bedrooms,
0:05:07 > 0:05:09two or three reception rooms,
0:05:09 > 0:05:12a nice big kitchen/breakfast room again.
0:05:12 > 0:05:14To be able to sit down together,
0:05:14 > 0:05:18to have the children doing things but not on top of each other.
0:05:18 > 0:05:23One little extra I would like, on a domestic front,
0:05:23 > 0:05:26would be a laundry room.
0:05:26 > 0:05:30By that, I mean a room that's actually upstairs
0:05:30 > 0:05:35so that you don't have to keep ferrying all the clothes from five of us
0:05:35 > 0:05:39down the stairs, through the main house and out to a utility room.
0:05:39 > 0:05:44On top of this, they're looking for an office for Richard as he works from home.
0:05:44 > 0:05:47And as Helen's mum will be coming to stay for extended periods,
0:05:47 > 0:05:49they require an annexe for her.
0:05:49 > 0:05:52Finally, as a competitive cyclist,
0:05:52 > 0:05:55there are six bikes of Richard's to take care of.
0:05:55 > 0:05:57It's very cramped in here.
0:05:57 > 0:06:01There's no space for servicing. It's open to the elements.
0:06:01 > 0:06:04It's damp, it's not terribly secure.
0:06:04 > 0:06:07So the new house that I'm looking for
0:06:07 > 0:06:10will have secure storage for the bikes.
0:06:10 > 0:06:14That is quite a list. On top of that, they're looking for a paddock
0:06:14 > 0:06:17where the children can kick a ball
0:06:17 > 0:06:21and they can keep a few chickens or even alpacas.
0:06:21 > 0:06:25The house we're looking for, I'd very much like a period property.
0:06:25 > 0:06:30I love the Georgian period with large sash windows,
0:06:30 > 0:06:32things are symmetrical, high ceilings,
0:06:32 > 0:06:36period features such as the cornicing and fireplaces.
0:06:36 > 0:06:39That would be my ideal.
0:06:39 > 0:06:42Having already sold up, they're in a strong buying position.
0:06:42 > 0:06:45How much money is there to play with for their move?
0:06:45 > 0:06:48If we found a house that ticked all our boxes,
0:06:48 > 0:06:50yours as well as mine,
0:06:50 > 0:06:56then the budget would be £750,000.
0:06:59 > 0:07:04Helen and Richard have been searching for their perfect home for almost two years.
0:07:04 > 0:07:06Now the pressure is really on.
0:07:06 > 0:07:11The children are starting school in September and they need to relocate in a few months.
0:07:11 > 0:07:14What do we have to find to make this dream come true?
0:07:14 > 0:07:18Well, behind me there is Wells Cathedral.
0:07:18 > 0:07:24A wonderful period property, just one of the long list of criteria we need to fulfil.
0:07:24 > 0:07:27They also want four to five bedrooms,
0:07:27 > 0:07:30about two acres of land for alpacas and chickens.
0:07:30 > 0:07:34We need an office for Richard, an annexe for Granny, a laundry room upstairs
0:07:34 > 0:07:38and all of that for £750,000.
0:07:38 > 0:07:44Hmm. I'm starting to realise why they haven't found their dream home just yet!
0:07:44 > 0:07:47Whilst William will be attending boarding school,
0:07:47 > 0:07:51the younger children will be in a day school just outside Shepton Mallet.
0:07:51 > 0:07:55Richard and Helen don't want to be more than a 20-minute drive away.
0:07:55 > 0:07:58We're focusing our search just to the south of Shepton Mallet.
0:07:58 > 0:08:03Over two days, I'll be taking them on a tour of grand country homes.
0:08:03 > 0:08:08I'll be keeping quiet about the price tags until they've given the properties the once-over.
0:08:08 > 0:08:10The journey will end with the mystery house,
0:08:10 > 0:08:13which I can guarantee will give them plenty to think about.
0:08:14 > 0:08:19Hello, Helen, Richard. Thank you for bringing me to wonderful Somerset.
0:08:19 > 0:08:23A great choice of county. You're from Watford. Why have you chosen here?
0:08:23 > 0:08:25Foremost education.
0:08:25 > 0:08:30We're bringing the children down, we've chosen schools, so we're following them down.
0:08:30 > 0:08:32But you have been looking here for quite a while.
0:08:32 > 0:08:35We have indeed. About 18 months, overall.
0:08:35 > 0:08:37Not found it yet. That's why we're here.
0:08:37 > 0:08:40We've got wonderful properties to show you.
0:08:40 > 0:08:43You are quite specific on your criteria, though!
0:08:43 > 0:08:45We've got a lot to cover, but a great budget as well.
0:08:45 > 0:08:49- Are you ready?- Ready! - We'll go look at some houses
0:08:49 > 0:08:52- and at the end there's the mystery house.- Splendid!
0:08:52 > 0:08:54Let's go.
0:08:55 > 0:08:59Richard and Helen's budget of £750,000
0:08:59 > 0:09:02will have to stretch a long way to accommodate all their needs.
0:09:02 > 0:09:07Ideally they're looking for a period property with four or five bedrooms,
0:09:07 > 0:09:09an upstairs laundry room for Helen,
0:09:09 > 0:09:12an office for Richard, an annexe for Helen's mum,
0:09:12 > 0:09:16and a paddock for recreation and keeping chickens or llamas.
0:09:16 > 0:09:21What would you say is the main obstacle why you haven't found somewhere already?
0:09:21 > 0:09:27- I think because we're making this a move for life.- Yes.
0:09:27 > 0:09:33And so we are being quite particular and quite fussy
0:09:33 > 0:09:36but it's because we don't want to make a mistake
0:09:36 > 0:09:39and find that in five years' time,
0:09:39 > 0:09:43actually we should have been six miles further north or west or whatever.
0:09:43 > 0:09:48'So location is crucial, in which case we'd better get it right.
0:09:49 > 0:09:51'Our first house is in North Wootton,
0:09:51 > 0:09:54'three miles from Shepton Mallet
0:09:54 > 0:09:57'and a 20-minute drive from the children's school.
0:09:57 > 0:09:59'This place is every inch of an idyllic Somerset village.
0:10:00 > 0:10:03'but it is no more than a collection of farms and desirable homes
0:10:03 > 0:10:05'popular with Bristol and Bath commuters.
0:10:05 > 0:10:08'The house we're viewing is an older style property
0:10:08 > 0:10:11'that has been extended in recent years.'
0:10:11 > 0:10:15- What do you think?- Wow! - Very, very pretty, actually.
0:10:15 > 0:10:17Very sweet, nice garden.
0:10:17 > 0:10:20It's got a lot of history to it.
0:10:20 > 0:10:23Some of it dates back to 1600s, about 1603.
0:10:23 > 0:10:26- Part of it used to be a cow shed. - THEY LAUGH
0:10:26 > 0:10:29- As long as the cows have moved out! - They've moved out
0:10:29 > 0:10:32and I think you'll be very impressed with the way it looks like now.
0:10:32 > 0:10:35I think you will be pleasantly surprised. Let's take a look.
0:10:41 > 0:10:45- Pretty good for a cottage, huh? - It is very good, yes!
0:10:45 > 0:10:49- I think you'll be even more surprised if you lead the way through there.- OK.
0:10:51 > 0:10:55- This isn't cottagey at all! - I thought you might say that.
0:10:55 > 0:10:58- There's certainly quite a bit of room in here.- Wow, very much.
0:10:58 > 0:11:02- Very bright, isn't it?- Yeah. - I'm surprised.
0:11:02 > 0:11:07- You wouldn't think this from the outside, that there would be this much space inside.- Great windows.
0:11:07 > 0:11:12- They're something you're keen on, the Georgian feel?- Yes, and the fact that you can see out.
0:11:12 > 0:11:15You've got those views taken in very well.
0:11:16 > 0:11:19Yeah, I'm quite impressed.
0:11:19 > 0:11:23I think you'll be even more impressed as we walk through and round.
0:11:23 > 0:11:26Oak floor. They've kept some lovely features, like the fireplace.
0:11:26 > 0:11:30But it's not just here, turn around...
0:11:30 > 0:11:34- Oh, yes!- That's very good. - Oh, I like that.
0:11:34 > 0:11:36Yes, yes.
0:11:36 > 0:11:39It's beautiful - open-plan, but it's discreet.
0:11:39 > 0:11:43Overall it's a little small from what we were after.
0:11:43 > 0:11:46- We're looking for an office as well for me.- Yes.
0:11:46 > 0:11:48- If this is it, it's not enough.- No.
0:11:48 > 0:11:51I'll find you some more, then!
0:11:51 > 0:11:56This could be like Alice in Wonderland. There's a little door over there.
0:11:59 > 0:12:01Yet another surprise for you.
0:12:01 > 0:12:03Oh, wow. Goodness!
0:12:03 > 0:12:06- This is superb! - It's fantastic, isn't it?
0:12:06 > 0:12:09- Yes. Very unexpected.- Yes.
0:12:09 > 0:12:14I can see family living in the other side, and this being grown-ups.
0:12:14 > 0:12:19This beautiful house is certainly spacious and we haven't forgotten the other rooms
0:12:19 > 0:12:23on their wish list. Off the dining area is a study for Richard.
0:12:23 > 0:12:26And off the entrance hall is a laundry room for Helen,
0:12:26 > 0:12:28but sadly for her, it's on the ground floor.
0:12:28 > 0:12:33With that all covered, it's time to head upstairs.
0:12:33 > 0:12:36Up here I think you've got a bit more of that cottagey feel,
0:12:36 > 0:12:42- you can feel the age of the building on this side.- Yes, the ceilings are lower.- The ceilings are low,
0:12:42 > 0:12:46- it's a little bit wonky walls.- Yeah! - You've got the beams.
0:12:46 > 0:12:50That said, there are five bedrooms, four of which are doubles
0:12:50 > 0:12:55- and this is example of the amount of space you get in them.- Yes.
0:12:55 > 0:12:57- It's a good size. - It is. Very pretty.
0:12:57 > 0:13:00Dual aspect - I like that.
0:13:00 > 0:13:04- This could be one of the children's rooms or a guest room. - Yes, I think so.- Or our room.
0:13:04 > 0:13:08- Well, I've got something slightly better in mind for you two. - Have you?
0:13:08 > 0:13:10- THEY LAUGH - Oh, yes!
0:13:10 > 0:13:17- If you like this, you'll definitely be impressed with the room I have for you.- OK.- Splendid! OK.
0:13:17 > 0:13:21The other bedrooms next door aren't quite so generous
0:13:21 > 0:13:24but they are beautifully decorated and all have a lovely cosy feel.
0:13:24 > 0:13:28En route to the master are the bathing facilities.
0:13:28 > 0:13:31- And take a look at your family bathroom.- Oh, right.
0:13:31 > 0:13:34- That's very sweet.- Yes.
0:13:34 > 0:13:36- Yeah, all in there.- It is sweet.
0:13:36 > 0:13:42That will do for the children but what we need is a bathroom just for you. Take a look in here.
0:13:42 > 0:13:45That's more like it!
0:13:45 > 0:13:48Yes, definitely more like it.
0:13:48 > 0:13:50OK, very generous.
0:13:50 > 0:13:51Got everything in.
0:13:51 > 0:13:57I love this house, it answers every question. And the final question is about where you two will sleep.
0:13:57 > 0:13:58Let's have a look.
0:13:59 > 0:14:05- Through here is the bedroom which makes that really an en suite bathroom.- OK.
0:14:05 > 0:14:08- That's very pretty, isn't it? - Yes, double aspects.
0:14:08 > 0:14:11- Look at those views.- There is built-in storage along here.
0:14:11 > 0:14:14- And it opens out onto something quite spectacular.- Uh-huh.
0:14:14 > 0:14:16Let's have a look.
0:14:18 > 0:14:19Out here...
0:14:19 > 0:14:24- a very unique and stunning addition to this property. - Oh, yes!- Beautiful.
0:14:24 > 0:14:27Isn't it just? Look at that view, Glastonbury tor, straight through!
0:14:27 > 0:14:30In fact you can see that from so many of the rooms here.
0:14:30 > 0:14:34Yes, coffee and croissant out here, I can see myself already, yes!
0:14:34 > 0:14:36I think champagne breakfast!
0:14:36 > 0:14:39While we're here, it's a chance for us to talk about
0:14:39 > 0:14:41- the amount of land the comes with this house.- Right.
0:14:41 > 0:14:44You both think it's a great and generous house,
0:14:44 > 0:14:47but your land boundary, you can see clearly here, is this fence.
0:14:47 > 0:14:51- It is the fence?- Yes. - That's disappointing.
0:14:51 > 0:14:54Yeah, very. I think very disappointing.
0:14:54 > 0:14:56What are you looking for?
0:14:56 > 0:15:00Um, well in this plot, I'd say we would want that paddock.
0:15:00 > 0:15:04The local farmer owns this land here.
0:15:04 > 0:15:08- The current owners have already bought a little bit extra land.- Right.
0:15:08 > 0:15:13So there's always the option, over time, to re-negotiate. But land is expensive.
0:15:13 > 0:15:17We haven't quite finished finding somewhere for your mother.
0:15:17 > 0:15:21- See that there, that garage?- Yes. - A generous space yet again.
0:15:21 > 0:15:22You can convert it.
0:15:22 > 0:15:27The land might not be as much a they're looking for, but they could talk to the local farmer
0:15:27 > 0:15:32about renting some. The double garage, with connecting storage area, is a fabulous space
0:15:32 > 0:15:35that could be converted into either an annexe for Helen's mum,
0:15:35 > 0:15:38or an office away from the family house, for Richard.
0:15:38 > 0:15:41- It's a very beautiful and neat garden.- Yes.
0:15:41 > 0:15:45- It's about a quarter of an acre that you do get, and you can have a lovely vegetable patch.- Indeed.
0:15:45 > 0:15:48Let's just have another look at the house.
0:15:48 > 0:15:51It's a gorgeous property from the outside.
0:15:51 > 0:15:55- It is.- But the big question is, how much is it worth?
0:15:55 > 0:15:56How much?
0:15:56 > 0:15:59- I would say 700.- 700,000, OK.
0:15:59 > 0:16:05I would say it's very, very attractive and we're being picky about what we're after
0:16:05 > 0:16:09and so I think it's got a higher price tag.
0:16:09 > 0:16:11720, 725.
0:16:11 > 0:16:14It's on the market at 749,950.
0:16:14 > 0:16:16I was more correct than you!
0:16:16 > 0:16:19That's not a surprising price.
0:16:19 > 0:16:23- It is an attractive property. - Beautiful.
0:16:23 > 0:16:27- Can it potentially be the one for you, though? - There are compromises.- Yes.
0:16:27 > 0:16:32The land is there, and if that's to rent. Again, that's a suitable compromise.
0:16:32 > 0:16:35You clearly have a lot to think about! A lot to discuss.
0:16:35 > 0:16:40Go and have a wander around, see how you feel about it without me following you.
0:16:40 > 0:16:43- I'll catch up with you later on. - Lovely.
0:16:43 > 0:16:47At just under £750,000
0:16:47 > 0:16:51this imposing family home is tucked just under their budget.
0:16:51 > 0:16:53It has an open-plan living area,
0:16:53 > 0:16:55a study for Richard, five bedrooms,
0:16:55 > 0:16:58an option to rent more land
0:16:58 > 0:17:00and a garage and storage area
0:17:00 > 0:17:03that could be converted into an annexe for Helen's mum
0:17:03 > 0:17:07or a study if Richard really did want to escape from the family home.
0:17:08 > 0:17:10I thought this house was lovely.
0:17:10 > 0:17:12It's very attractive, very pretty.
0:17:12 > 0:17:19I love this family open room, this is exactly what we're looking for, for everybody to be included
0:17:19 > 0:17:21and yet have space as well.
0:17:21 > 0:17:24A very homely feeling inside the house.
0:17:24 > 0:17:29It's a shame to move to such a rural location and to feel a little bit cramped.
0:17:29 > 0:17:32There isn't really space for the children to kick a football in the garden.
0:17:32 > 0:17:36- It's not 100%, but... - It's nearly there.
0:17:36 > 0:17:41- ..it's got some very, very positive points.- Yes, definitely. Beautiful.
0:17:41 > 0:17:43- Hello, there!- Hello.
0:17:43 > 0:17:45- You found a place to put Granny yet? - THEY LAUGH
0:17:45 > 0:17:47Down the road!
0:17:47 > 0:17:51- Well we've got more properties to look at so let's keep going.- OK.
0:17:54 > 0:17:59Richard and Helen's move to Somerset will place them on the doorstep of historic Wells,
0:17:59 > 0:18:02the smallest city in England.
0:18:02 > 0:18:04They were keen to pay a visit, and their first stop off
0:18:04 > 0:18:07is at one of the city's most prestigious addresses
0:18:07 > 0:18:10where they are meeting up with local historian Bill Oak.
0:18:10 > 0:18:14OK, well this is the bishop's palace.
0:18:14 > 0:18:18- Why does it look like a castle than a palace?- Well in the early 1300s
0:18:18 > 0:18:23they had permission to build the wall to fortify it.
0:18:23 > 0:18:28It's a gesture of symbolic power, rather than any problems.
0:18:28 > 0:18:33The palace has been home to the bishops of Bath and Wells for 800 years.
0:18:33 > 0:18:36Beyond the moat are 14 acres of gardens
0:18:36 > 0:18:40and the pool which contains the underwater springs or wells, from which the city gets its name.
0:18:42 > 0:18:47And in the far corner over there, St Andrew's well
0:18:47 > 0:18:49in an area known as Scotland.
0:18:50 > 0:18:54It's nothing to do with Scotland but you've heard the phrase "he got off Scot free"
0:18:54 > 0:19:00well, there's a non-taxable area and this is it - Scot free.
0:19:00 > 0:19:06It will be easy to spend a few hours here, but Richard and Helen are keen to explore the backdrop
0:19:06 > 0:19:09and major focal point of this city - the cathedral.
0:19:09 > 0:19:13Dating back to 1180, it's the oldest Gothic cathedral in England
0:19:13 > 0:19:17- and Elsa is their guide.- Hello, welcome to Wells Cathedral.
0:19:17 > 0:19:22One of the best known architectural features are the scissor arches
0:19:22 > 0:19:25which were constructed over 200 years after the cathedral was built
0:19:25 > 0:19:30when evidence of subsidence appeared and it became clear the tower needed to be strengthened.
0:19:30 > 0:19:33Everybody knows Wells by the scissor arches
0:19:33 > 0:19:37and although there are other examples, these are the biggest.
0:19:40 > 0:19:43Their beauty is awe-inspiring but Elsa is keen to show off
0:19:43 > 0:19:47one of the best vantage points in the city - 250 steps high.
0:19:47 > 0:19:48Go carefully through here.
0:19:50 > 0:19:53- Here we are.- Oh, my goodness!
0:19:53 > 0:19:56Glastonbury tor, just in the distance there.
0:19:56 > 0:20:01And that's always a good pinpoint - if you can see it, the weather's not too bad.
0:20:01 > 0:20:04Thanks ever so much, Elsa, for showing us round your beautiful cathedral.
0:20:04 > 0:20:07- It's a great pleasure.- Thank you.
0:20:07 > 0:20:08It's wonderful.
0:20:10 > 0:20:13'The next house is in Barton Saint David,
0:20:13 > 0:20:14'five miles south of Glastonbury
0:20:14 > 0:20:17'and a 25-minute drive from the children's school.
0:20:17 > 0:20:21'The neighbouring village of Keinton Mandeville has a few shops
0:20:21 > 0:20:23'and a pub, but above all it's a rural community
0:20:23 > 0:20:26'offering peaceful village life.
0:20:26 > 0:20:28'The house we're viewing is Grade II listed
0:20:28 > 0:20:31'and it may just have the feel they're looking for.'
0:20:31 > 0:20:36- Well, lovely village.- Yes.- Fantastic Georgian property, just for you!
0:20:36 > 0:20:38Yes, it looks good.
0:20:38 > 0:20:40- Very promising.- Very sizeable.
0:20:40 > 0:20:43It's certainly sizeable and there's a lot to this property.
0:20:43 > 0:20:46This section we're looking at is the main house
0:20:46 > 0:20:50and this is where I see you spending most of your time.
0:20:50 > 0:20:52But there's more to this property.
0:20:52 > 0:20:55- This section is actually the old mill.- Right.
0:20:55 > 0:21:00The mill stream runs down there and the two were joined together at some point.
0:21:00 > 0:21:05- So you've got extra living accommodation. Sound good? - Sounds good so far!
0:21:05 > 0:21:10- Let's go in and have a look. There's a lot to take in. It'll take us a while.- OK.
0:21:16 > 0:21:17Come on through.
0:21:17 > 0:21:21- As you'd expect, a big generous hallway.- Huge!
0:21:21 > 0:21:23But come straight into this room.
0:21:26 > 0:21:30- Helen, is this what you've been dreaming of?- I'm smiling!
0:21:30 > 0:21:34- Yes. Very big.- What is it about this style of property,
0:21:34 > 0:21:37this room, that's got such a big smile on your face?
0:21:37 > 0:21:39It's what I've always hankered after
0:21:39 > 0:21:42- and this has got incredible style. - It has.
0:21:42 > 0:21:47Incredible features, too. We've got the sash windows. Kept all that.
0:21:47 > 0:21:50- The shutters are working. - Working shutters, yes.
0:21:50 > 0:21:52A working fireplace as well.
0:21:52 > 0:21:56It's got that Georgian feel, the high ceilings, big windows,
0:21:56 > 0:21:59- the symmetry of it all, the squareness.- Yep.
0:21:59 > 0:22:02All things to make you nod and smile!
0:22:02 > 0:22:05It gives you a lift, doesn't it, when you walk in.
0:22:05 > 0:22:07You feel like you're walking taller.
0:22:07 > 0:22:09- Yes.- And broader.
0:22:09 > 0:22:12It's somewhere, obviously, to be very proud of.
0:22:12 > 0:22:15Yes, I can see being very pleased.
0:22:17 > 0:22:19I can see where you two are going!
0:22:19 > 0:22:23- It feels like a grand home. - It is a grand house.
0:22:23 > 0:22:25Fitting for your family.
0:22:25 > 0:22:27What we wanted was presence.
0:22:27 > 0:22:29That's one of the things we've said.
0:22:29 > 0:22:33This has obviously got presence by the bucket-load.
0:22:33 > 0:22:35By the bucket-load, indeed.
0:22:35 > 0:22:39Let's look at the other side. Being Georgian, it's equally big on the other side.
0:22:41 > 0:22:47Just across here. They've got lovely parquet floors, although underneath, it could be flagstone.
0:22:47 > 0:22:50That could be an adventure for you to discover.
0:22:52 > 0:22:56- As I promised, an equal size room the other side.- I love it.
0:22:56 > 0:22:59So we just have to make sure Richard's happy!
0:23:01 > 0:23:04- We can make it work, can't we? - What's this? Is this original?
0:23:04 > 0:23:09- No, they put this in, the bookshelf. It's a lovely touch as well.- Yes.
0:23:09 > 0:23:12Or a potential alcove through to a room behind.
0:23:12 > 0:23:15The lady's thinking along my lines!
0:23:15 > 0:23:17Let's check out the room behind!
0:23:17 > 0:23:19Ooh, she's fast!
0:23:22 > 0:23:26- So behind that bookcase, you have your kitchen.- Yes.
0:23:26 > 0:23:32- Terrific, yes.- Terrific, that's good. Positive.- It is very good.
0:23:32 > 0:23:35If we could knock through, make that the dining room,
0:23:35 > 0:23:37that'll make very nice living accommodation.
0:23:37 > 0:23:42There are lovely features. The range cooker is built into what was an inglenook.
0:23:42 > 0:23:47Nice place to cook whilst still part of the family. You're not cut off here.
0:23:47 > 0:23:52Not to disappoint Helen, the kitchen leads onto a handy utility room.
0:23:52 > 0:23:55But if she's insistent on an upstairs option,
0:23:55 > 0:23:57I do have a trick up my sleeve.
0:23:57 > 0:24:00Lovely, light, airy and spacious up here.
0:24:00 > 0:24:03But this room I have to show you
0:24:03 > 0:24:08because it's one of the biggest bathrooms I've ever shown someone around!
0:24:08 > 0:24:10- Indeed!- Look at the size of that!
0:24:10 > 0:24:14- Yes.- You could get a shower in here easily, couldn't you?
0:24:14 > 0:24:19- You could. Or...- A double shower or whatever.- Or it could be your laundry room.- Yes.
0:24:19 > 0:24:21- Upstairs laundry room. - Is this enough space?
0:24:21 > 0:24:24- What you asked for. - Certainly enough space.
0:24:24 > 0:24:27It is. Yes, there's flexibility here.
0:24:27 > 0:24:30- Yes.- Flexibility and convenience
0:24:30 > 0:24:34because it connects through to a lovely bedroom.
0:24:34 > 0:24:38- It's a Jack and Jill bathroom. Entrance from two ways.- Yes.
0:24:38 > 0:24:43- Lovely. Very sizeable. - Lovely view out of the window.
0:24:43 > 0:24:46Bright. It's a lovely big tick!
0:24:46 > 0:24:49You're just uber-happy about everything.
0:24:52 > 0:24:54- This is what I was hoping for.- Yes.
0:24:54 > 0:24:55Let's keep looking.
0:24:55 > 0:24:59'The main part of the house has four double bedrooms.
0:24:59 > 0:25:02'Next door is the smallest, but has a large window.
0:25:02 > 0:25:04'Next to that is a larger double with en-suite.
0:25:04 > 0:25:06'The final bedroom
0:25:06 > 0:25:10'is no disappointment. Light floods in and it has a surprise, too.'
0:25:13 > 0:25:16This is a lovely example of another of the bedrooms.
0:25:18 > 0:25:22Three of the rooms come with their own bathrooms, one of which is down here.
0:25:22 > 0:25:25When I say they come with their own bathrooms,
0:25:25 > 0:25:28they don't skimp on the space!
0:25:28 > 0:25:30A huge bathroom!
0:25:30 > 0:25:34Yes. Yes. I can see Minty, longer term,
0:25:34 > 0:25:37not at the moment at seven, but it won't be long
0:25:37 > 0:25:39before she'll want her own bathroom.
0:25:39 > 0:25:42She'd be spoilt for choice, wouldn't she?
0:25:42 > 0:25:46You've almost forgotten all your other requirements!
0:25:46 > 0:25:48"Yeah, we're really happy."
0:25:48 > 0:25:51What about grandmother?
0:25:52 > 0:25:56Well, we know, you said already there's part two.
0:25:56 > 0:25:58We should investigate.
0:25:58 > 0:26:01I think you should be the one to do it. Open that door there.
0:26:01 > 0:26:03Ooh, close by.
0:26:05 > 0:26:06Oh, wow!
0:26:06 > 0:26:08Amazing!
0:26:10 > 0:26:11Oh, yes!
0:26:11 > 0:26:13Yes!
0:26:13 > 0:26:16Bit of a surprise, hey?
0:26:16 > 0:26:18This annexe housed in the old mill
0:26:18 > 0:26:21could work brilliantly for when Helen's mum comes to stay.
0:26:21 > 0:26:25She won't be cramped, either. There's a good-sized lounge,
0:26:25 > 0:26:28a modern fitted kitchen,
0:26:28 > 0:26:29a clean and tidy bathroom
0:26:29 > 0:26:31and the bonus of two bedrooms.
0:26:31 > 0:26:33And that's just the upstairs.
0:26:33 > 0:26:37Heading downstairs is what I think could be Richard's domain.
0:26:39 > 0:26:41There's a small room that's used as an office
0:26:41 > 0:26:45and next door is a room which might suit Richard even better.
0:26:45 > 0:26:47Much more your emporium!
0:26:47 > 0:26:51Yes, definitely the kind of size I had in mind, yes.
0:26:51 > 0:26:54In fact, you could take that wall down cos it's again plasterboard.
0:26:54 > 0:26:57- Yes.- And open up this whole section. - Yes.- OK.
0:26:57 > 0:27:00- Really have your kingdom! - Yes! Very much so.
0:27:00 > 0:27:06Next door is another large room which connects with the utility room and kitchen in the family house.
0:27:06 > 0:27:09I reckon it would make a good play area for the children.
0:27:09 > 0:27:13And I haven't forgotten Richard's other need.
0:27:13 > 0:27:15Ah, somewhere for my bikes!
0:27:15 > 0:27:20Absolutely. We're now into your back yard. Somewhere for your bikes,
0:27:20 > 0:27:23- double garage over there.- Yes. - And two potting sheds here.
0:27:23 > 0:27:25So you've got choices.
0:27:25 > 0:27:29The possibilities with this house are endless.
0:27:29 > 0:27:35There's the opportunity to reinstate a mill-wheel to generate power to sell to the National Grid.
0:27:36 > 0:27:38Now, it's all been so positive, hasn't it?
0:27:38 > 0:27:43But there's always a drawback. And this is your garden.
0:27:43 > 0:27:46- It's about half an acre. - Right. Which is fine for us
0:27:46 > 0:27:52but I'm thinking about the children and football and it's not a garden that suits that activity.
0:27:52 > 0:27:55- Talking about this manor, let's have another look at it.- Yes!
0:27:55 > 0:27:59Just remind ourselves what's at stake here.
0:27:59 > 0:28:03- Yes.- The land, but the house.- Yes.
0:28:03 > 0:28:06You're inside for an awful lot of time, aren't you?
0:28:06 > 0:28:09So how much would you pay for it?
0:28:09 > 0:28:11It's extremely attractive.
0:28:11 > 0:28:15So I'm going to plump for quite over budget - 800.
0:28:15 > 0:28:18800? I think 775.
0:28:18 > 0:28:19775.
0:28:19 > 0:28:21It could help, though, if I tell you
0:28:21 > 0:28:24it's on the market at £750,000.
0:28:24 > 0:28:29- Right.- It certainly puts it on serious consideration.
0:28:29 > 0:28:33You had such positive feelings about the interior and there's so much to consider.
0:28:33 > 0:28:38Off you go. Wander round at leisure and I'll catch up with you later.
0:28:39 > 0:28:43At £750,000, this handsome property is on the money.
0:28:43 > 0:28:47It has the Georgian-style architecture that appeals to them,
0:28:47 > 0:28:50four double bedrooms, an annexe for Helen's mother,
0:28:50 > 0:28:52and the all-important study for Richard.
0:28:52 > 0:28:55But will it be their "forever" home?
0:28:55 > 0:28:57It has everything that we want.
0:28:57 > 0:29:00It's got a separate flat for Helen's mother,
0:29:00 > 0:29:03the office would be ideal for me.
0:29:03 > 0:29:07Snug area for the children, outbuildings for the bikes.
0:29:07 > 0:29:11No, I think it's not beyond the realms of possibilities.
0:29:11 > 0:29:16I love the house. The house, the number of rooms, sizes of the rooms
0:29:16 > 0:29:20and the grandeur of them were superb.
0:29:20 > 0:29:22It was very impressive
0:29:22 > 0:29:23at 750.
0:29:24 > 0:29:26Hi! Coming in for coffee?
0:29:26 > 0:29:30You've moved in already? No, no. Coming out?
0:29:30 > 0:29:33I know you've got a lot to think about after that house
0:29:33 > 0:29:35- but we're not done yet.- OK...
0:29:35 > 0:29:37- There's more to see.- Splendid.
0:29:43 > 0:29:48'It's in everyone's interest to preserve and look after our countryside.
0:29:48 > 0:29:52'When it comes to the environment, Somerset has an impeccable record.
0:29:52 > 0:29:55'This is the county that recycles the most in Britain. Not only that,
0:29:55 > 0:29:58'it's also found a way of turning a landfill site
0:29:58 > 0:30:01'into an environmental haven for wildlife,
0:30:01 > 0:30:03'as we're about to discover.'
0:30:04 > 0:30:07- Hello, Frances. This is Helen and Richard.- Hello.- Hi.- Hi.
0:30:07 > 0:30:11She's the chief executive of the Carymoor Environmental Trust.
0:30:11 > 0:30:15- So all of this is your domain? - We're on the edge of an active landfill site here.
0:30:15 > 0:30:19But we manage the site over there where they've capped off the landfill.
0:30:19 > 0:30:23We've got 100 acres of landfill over there, where we've created a nature reserve.
0:30:23 > 0:30:26'This 13-year-old project is unique,
0:30:26 > 0:30:29'and was borne out of an idea by a group of environmentalists
0:30:29 > 0:30:32'who were keen to put the land to a secondary use.
0:30:32 > 0:30:35'The site has been divided up into different zones
0:30:35 > 0:30:37'to create experiments to attract wildlife.'
0:30:39 > 0:30:43- What would you attract here?- You're on the edge of a butterfly site.
0:30:43 > 0:30:45We've brought in lots of chalk to create these banks
0:30:45 > 0:30:49to attract the wild flowers that attract different butterflies.
0:30:49 > 0:30:53We've actually recorded 28 of the 57 species of butterfly
0:30:53 > 0:30:56that are found in Britain.
0:30:56 > 0:30:58'The site also has another purpose.'
0:30:58 > 0:30:59We are an educational centre.
0:30:59 > 0:31:04With the children visiting, we show them how people in other parts of the world live.
0:31:04 > 0:31:10This is a replica of part of a shanty town in Cruz Bay, Sierra Leone.
0:31:10 > 0:31:14It was built on site using materials that had come in to be land-filled.
0:31:14 > 0:31:18It allows us to show to children that what we throw away
0:31:18 > 0:31:21would be a resource for somebody somewhere else in the world.
0:31:21 > 0:31:23The full size shanty town
0:31:23 > 0:31:25would have about 6,000 people living in it.
0:31:25 > 0:31:28They would have two toilets between them.
0:31:28 > 0:31:31It's a real eye-opener for the children, to come and see this.
0:31:31 > 0:31:35Hopefully, with centres like this and everyone doing their bit,
0:31:35 > 0:31:38we can start to use our resources much more wisely.
0:31:38 > 0:31:40It's a very important message.
0:31:40 > 0:31:43'It's been a thought-provoking trip for us all.
0:31:43 > 0:31:46'I'm sure Richard and Helen will bring back their children
0:31:46 > 0:31:49'to appreciate the need to care for our environment.'
0:31:54 > 0:31:56As the last of the sun melts into the sky,
0:31:56 > 0:32:01Richard and Helen get the chance to assess the house search so far.
0:32:01 > 0:32:04The thing I loved the most about the farmhouse cottage were the views.
0:32:04 > 0:32:10- Yes.- The surrounding hillside, the view up to Glastonbury Tor off the balcony...
0:32:10 > 0:32:13- that was just fantastic.- And from most of the rooms as well -
0:32:13 > 0:32:17it wasn't as though it was just one area that had a view.
0:32:17 > 0:32:20There was just so much space at the Georgian house -
0:32:20 > 0:32:23- we're not going to be tripping over each other, are we?- No.
0:32:23 > 0:32:26- There's going to be space for everybody.- Yes.
0:32:26 > 0:32:31Undoubtedly. A lot of accommodation. I think it ticked an awful lot of boxes,
0:32:31 > 0:32:33and they've both got the same problem -
0:32:33 > 0:32:38- which is that the plot is not big enough. I'm hoping great things for tomorrow.- Yeah.
0:32:46 > 0:32:50Richard and Helen from Watford are looking to relocate to Somerset
0:32:50 > 0:32:53where they've chosen new schools for their children.
0:32:53 > 0:32:55They have a budget of £750,000
0:32:55 > 0:32:57but have an exhaustive list of requirements,
0:32:57 > 0:32:59not least an annexe for Helen's mum.
0:32:59 > 0:33:04So far, they've viewed two houses, and coming up, the mystery house
0:33:04 > 0:33:07has a door with double benefits.
0:33:07 > 0:33:09It's an original prison door.
0:33:09 > 0:33:12- Really?- Yes! - For keeping us in rather than out!
0:33:12 > 0:33:16It might keep out mother-in-law, actually! She'll never get through there!
0:33:19 > 0:33:23It's the start of another day's property hunting with Richard and Helen.
0:33:23 > 0:33:25With their long list of criteria,
0:33:25 > 0:33:30it was always going to be tricky finding the right property for their budget.
0:33:30 > 0:33:33But after yesterday, it's clear that even with the right house,
0:33:33 > 0:33:36land is still at the forefront of their minds.
0:33:36 > 0:33:39So today, I think we need to tackle that head on.
0:33:39 > 0:33:42'We're heading a little further east this morning,
0:33:42 > 0:33:46'to the village of North Cheriton, 15 miles south of Shepton Mallet.
0:33:46 > 0:33:49'At 45 minutes, it's the longest commute to the children's school
0:33:49 > 0:33:53'but the property has the potential to be worth the compromise.
0:33:53 > 0:33:56'Nearby Wincanton sits close to the Dorset border
0:33:56 > 0:33:58'and is considered the gateway to Somerset.
0:33:58 > 0:34:02'Back in North Cheriton, we've answered their calls for more land.
0:34:02 > 0:34:04'So it makes sense that this is where we start.'
0:34:04 > 0:34:05Now, after yesterday,
0:34:05 > 0:34:09it's very clear that although the house is important, the land is too.
0:34:09 > 0:34:11- Yes.- Yes.- Take a look around.
0:34:11 > 0:34:14How does that suit?
0:34:14 > 0:34:16- Much better.- Space to kick a ball.
0:34:16 > 0:34:19Space to ride bikes. Just what we want, really.
0:34:19 > 0:34:21- The plot's much better. - The plot is good.
0:34:21 > 0:34:25We can fulfil your wishes there. Let's take a look at the house.
0:34:28 > 0:34:30- There is a lot of it...- Good.
0:34:30 > 0:34:32We'll go and explore.
0:34:32 > 0:34:36- It also comes with that annexe there!- Detached cottage!
0:34:36 > 0:34:39I think we've got a lot that will fulfil your criteria.
0:34:39 > 0:34:44It hasn't got the grandeur. But it's all about compromise.
0:34:44 > 0:34:47And you've picked up on the plot and the land!
0:34:47 > 0:34:48That's the spirit, Helen!
0:34:48 > 0:34:51It's all about compromise!
0:34:51 > 0:34:53- But for now, let's get inside.- OK.
0:34:53 > 0:34:58'So the land scores highly, but will they really be prepared to compromise?'
0:35:00 > 0:35:02This is the official entrance to the house.
0:35:02 > 0:35:05The owners come in another door, more like a boot room.
0:35:05 > 0:35:08You have a downstairs cloakroom.
0:35:08 > 0:35:12- And it does lead straight in to a lovely little snug.- It is.
0:35:12 > 0:35:15- Very homely.- Yes.- It is.
0:35:15 > 0:35:19It hasn't quite got that high ceilings feel to it,
0:35:19 > 0:35:22but yeah, it's attractive.
0:35:22 > 0:35:26- Certainly attractive.- Attractive is good. Let's keep exploring.
0:35:27 > 0:35:30Through here, a lovely little but cosy sunroom -
0:35:30 > 0:35:33again giving you views of the garden.
0:35:33 > 0:35:35- Right.- And the land beyond.
0:35:35 > 0:35:38- I find this house continues to open up.- A-ha!
0:35:38 > 0:35:42- Yes.- Yes. That's much more the idea. Kitchen...
0:35:42 > 0:35:44Decent eating area,
0:35:44 > 0:35:48but more casual. You can see the children there having high tea.
0:35:48 > 0:35:51Just through that door is the utility space.
0:35:51 > 0:35:54You could have a downstairs laundry.
0:35:54 > 0:35:59- Right.- See what other opportunities there are. So all you need now is somewhere to relax.
0:35:59 > 0:36:03- Indeed.- You've got the snug, or you can come this way.- OK.
0:36:03 > 0:36:07So through here you've got plenty more living space.
0:36:07 > 0:36:10- I love these French doors.- Yes.
0:36:10 > 0:36:13They go straight out onto your little patioed area and your garden.
0:36:13 > 0:36:18- Right.- Through here is enough space for a big dining table.
0:36:18 > 0:36:22- OK.- That is large, isn't it? It doesn't have the space, does it?
0:36:22 > 0:36:26It doesn't have the...elbow room.
0:36:26 > 0:36:29I think it's just the three of us here and we're looking round,
0:36:29 > 0:36:34and yet we're still all... not quite on top of each other
0:36:34 > 0:36:36but just taking care of where we're going.
0:36:36 > 0:36:39- But - we're at that issue of compromise, aren't we?- Indeed.
0:36:39 > 0:36:43Let's have a look, and reserve judgement.
0:36:43 > 0:36:44Indeed. Open-minded!
0:36:44 > 0:36:48Open-minded. Right, we're heading this way.
0:36:48 > 0:36:51'I don't think this house is grabbing their attention
0:36:51 > 0:36:55'but it has lots to offer. There are five bedrooms over the next two floors.
0:36:55 > 0:36:58'First stop is the family bathroom on the first floor.'
0:37:00 > 0:37:04- Here we have a very generous family bathroom.- That's nice.
0:37:04 > 0:37:08- Yes.- Not bad?- Yes, much more generous.- It's very practical.
0:37:08 > 0:37:13And roomy enough, I was thinking, to be used as a laundry room.
0:37:13 > 0:37:18- Because behind you here is all this cupboard space.- Right.
0:37:18 > 0:37:21If it's really important to you to have an upstairs laundry.
0:37:21 > 0:37:24I think it's a lovely bathroom as it stands, to be frank.
0:37:24 > 0:37:28- I don't think I would interfere. - Good! Compromise. Do the laundry downstairs!
0:37:28 > 0:37:30It's fine!
0:37:30 > 0:37:33Let's have a look at the master.
0:37:35 > 0:37:37And the master bedroom.
0:37:38 > 0:37:40- Very bright.- Yes.- Yeah.
0:37:40 > 0:37:45Bright, roomy, built-in cupboards all the way round. Would this do for you?
0:37:45 > 0:37:49- Yeah, I think so.- I think you're right - it will do...
0:37:51 > 0:37:54- It's not really blowing us away. - Not grand enough?
0:37:55 > 0:37:59It does come with an en-suite, if that helps. I don't know.
0:37:59 > 0:38:00Let's have a look.
0:38:00 > 0:38:03- This is nice.- The en-suite is nice.
0:38:03 > 0:38:05They're not skimping on the en-suite.
0:38:05 > 0:38:07Cast-iron bath, separate shower.
0:38:07 > 0:38:09That's more fitting.
0:38:09 > 0:38:12There's elbow room.
0:38:13 > 0:38:16Space, elbow room, land, space for Mum, office...
0:38:18 > 0:38:21I can see why it's taken so long!
0:38:22 > 0:38:26But I'm determined to get you to focus and work out where the compromise is
0:38:26 > 0:38:28by the end of this journey.
0:38:29 > 0:38:32'Next to the master bedroom are two further double bedrooms,
0:38:32 > 0:38:36'and on the next floor, two more bedrooms that are connected.
0:38:36 > 0:38:41'One is used as a study, but I have a better idea for Richard's needs outside.
0:38:42 > 0:38:48'The fabulous cottage we caught a glimpse of earlier would be ideal for Helen's mum.
0:38:48 > 0:38:52'There's a lounge, kitchen, cloakroom and two upstairs bedrooms.
0:38:53 > 0:38:58'Next door is a garage, which I'm thinking Richard could convert into an office.
0:38:58 > 0:39:01'The bikes haven't been forgotten, either.
0:39:01 > 0:39:03'There's another outhouse ready to go.'
0:39:05 > 0:39:08All in all, this property sits on about an acre of land.
0:39:08 > 0:39:11You've got the half-acre paddock,
0:39:11 > 0:39:13this lovely sloped garden here,
0:39:13 > 0:39:16and this...could be yours.
0:39:16 > 0:39:20- So, the land, the house, space for the in-laws...- Yes.
0:39:20 > 0:39:23- Potential for an office.- Potential.
0:39:23 > 0:39:25What's the price?
0:39:26 > 0:39:27Um...
0:39:28 > 0:39:30..I would say 675.
0:39:31 > 0:39:34Um, I would say...
0:39:34 > 0:39:36not a lot more. 685.
0:39:36 > 0:39:38685. So a lot lower.
0:39:38 > 0:39:42Actually, it's on the market at 749,950.
0:39:42 > 0:39:44- OK.- So right at the top end of your budget.
0:39:44 > 0:39:48- Yes.- And you've obviously guessed a lot lower, so what do you feel?
0:39:48 > 0:39:53Maybe we haven't given due credence to the paddock actually thrown in.
0:39:53 > 0:39:57- Yes.- As such. But... - It's a central village location...
0:39:57 > 0:40:02Have another wander round the house and see. Would you make that compromise on the house
0:40:02 > 0:40:04and the land, to be in a great village -
0:40:04 > 0:40:07- or does it need to be the other way round?- OK.- Off you go.
0:40:07 > 0:40:11Now they're thinking, yes, the land is important,
0:40:11 > 0:40:15but it comes at a price, particularly in such a popular county as Somerset.
0:40:16 > 0:40:22The £749,950 price tag came as a bit of a shock for Richard and Helen.
0:40:22 > 0:40:26But it's a fantastic family home that caters to their needs.
0:40:26 > 0:40:28A large family-style kitchen,
0:40:28 > 0:40:30four double bedrooms with master en-suite,
0:40:30 > 0:40:32a two-bedroom cottage for Helen's mum,
0:40:32 > 0:40:36a garage that could be converted into an office for Richard,
0:40:36 > 0:40:38and it sits on a one-acre plot
0:40:38 > 0:40:42including a paddock providing plenty of space for all they have in mind.
0:40:42 > 0:40:45I do like this open-plan bit. It's like the...
0:40:45 > 0:40:49farmhouse cottage, isn't it - that open area we've talked about,
0:40:49 > 0:40:52- being visible to each other and yet having space.- Yes.
0:40:52 > 0:40:56- I can see that working.- What about the land? Do we need it?
0:40:57 > 0:41:00Well, we're starting to think, aren't we? Um...
0:41:00 > 0:41:02I don't know.
0:41:02 > 0:41:06It's starting to put a big question mark over it.
0:41:06 > 0:41:10It's a lovely house, but Helen did feel the ceilings were a bit low,
0:41:10 > 0:41:13that some of the rooms were a bit dark,
0:41:13 > 0:41:16with the cottagey-type windows.
0:41:16 > 0:41:19It has raised a very big question mark
0:41:19 > 0:41:22over how important the land element is for us.
0:41:22 > 0:41:27And I have to say that at the moment I think we're both veering towards
0:41:27 > 0:41:31losing the land actually within the plot
0:41:31 > 0:41:34and concentrating more on the house.
0:41:36 > 0:41:39- Hello!- Hi!- It's a lovely garden. Absolutely gorgeous.
0:41:39 > 0:41:43I know you've enjoyed looking around this home, but it's not over yet.
0:41:43 > 0:41:46- One more property to see. - Ah, the mystery house.
0:41:46 > 0:41:47Yes!
0:41:52 > 0:41:55The small town of Cheddar is proudly the birthplace
0:41:55 > 0:41:58of what's turned out to be Britain's most popular cheese,
0:41:58 > 0:42:02accounting for 51% of the UK cheese market.
0:42:02 > 0:42:05There's only one Cheddar cheese dairy remaining in town,
0:42:05 > 0:42:07so Richard and Helen are paying a visit
0:42:07 > 0:42:09to learn more about cheddaring -
0:42:09 > 0:42:14the traditional and unique process that sets this cheese apart from all others.
0:42:14 > 0:42:18Well now, these are the pieces of Cheddar on the cooling table...
0:42:18 > 0:42:21and Andy our cheesemaker has already started the cheddaring.
0:42:21 > 0:42:23And by cheddaring,
0:42:23 > 0:42:27what we mean is picking them up, turning them over,
0:42:27 > 0:42:30and then piling them on top of each other.
0:42:30 > 0:42:33The main reason that you're cheddaring and piling
0:42:33 > 0:42:36is to squeeze more and more whey out of the cheese.
0:42:36 > 0:42:39- OK.- OK. And other cheeses, you don't do this for?
0:42:39 > 0:42:41No - this is unique to Cheddar.
0:42:41 > 0:42:42So if you'd like to have a go...
0:42:48 > 0:42:50- Do I get a job(?) - RICHARD LAUGHS
0:42:50 > 0:42:53Good for an apprenticeship, maybe not a full job yet.
0:42:53 > 0:42:57And finally, after it's all chopped up again and put into moulds,
0:42:57 > 0:43:01the 25kg cheeses are laid to mature for 11 months
0:43:01 > 0:43:05in a very special location just a five-minute walk away.
0:43:07 > 0:43:11- So this is the "something special" I promised you.- Wow...- Fantastic!
0:43:11 > 0:43:14It's the only Cheddar cheese that's matured in the Cheddar caves.
0:43:14 > 0:43:18- Why here - why in the caves? - Well, there are two main reasons -
0:43:18 > 0:43:21one is that the temperature in caves is constant,
0:43:21 > 0:43:24- so it was the earliest form of refrigeration...- Right.
0:43:24 > 0:43:26..but also you have a very high humidity, which is great
0:43:26 > 0:43:29when you're maturing a traditional Cheddar.
0:43:29 > 0:43:32- And that really affects the taste? - It really does.
0:43:32 > 0:43:35- So, would you like to try some? - I'd love to.- Yes, please.- OK...
0:43:35 > 0:43:38This cheese has been imitated the world over -
0:43:38 > 0:43:42but to be an authentic Cheddar it needs to be made by hand,
0:43:42 > 0:43:45with unpasteurized milk from the local area,
0:43:45 > 0:43:47and matured in a traditional cheesecloth.
0:43:47 > 0:43:52Some cheese to try. So if you'd like to break a little bit off with your finger...
0:43:52 > 0:43:54- Mmm...- Mmm!
0:43:54 > 0:43:56- It's delicious, isn't it? - Very creamy.
0:43:56 > 0:43:59- Delicious.- Good. Well, I'm glad you enjoyed it.
0:43:59 > 0:44:04We shall come back to your shop and buy some to take home! Share it with the children.
0:44:08 > 0:44:10Sometimes on this show
0:44:10 > 0:44:14you get the opportunity to walk around some truly exceptional properties.
0:44:14 > 0:44:18The mystery house today is fun, quirky, unusual,
0:44:18 > 0:44:20and it's certainly no exception.
0:44:21 > 0:44:24I can reveal that the mystery house is in Bowlish,
0:44:24 > 0:44:27a hamlet just outside Shepton Mallet
0:44:27 > 0:44:30and only a ten-minute drive to the children's school.
0:44:30 > 0:44:36The small market town made its money during the Middle Ages, when it had a significant woollen industry.
0:44:36 > 0:44:38In the 19th century brewing became important,
0:44:38 > 0:44:41with this old brewery being the first in England to brew lager.
0:44:41 > 0:44:45Having the amenities of a town on their doorstep
0:44:45 > 0:44:48would surely be a bonus for Richard, Helen and family.
0:44:48 > 0:44:52Back in Bowlish, our mystery house is a fine Grade II listed home.
0:44:52 > 0:44:57But will it have that all-important feeling they're so desperate for?
0:44:57 > 0:45:00Now, this is all about your dream.
0:45:00 > 0:45:02- Yes.- A long-held dream!
0:45:02 > 0:45:06How your family are going to live and how you want to move to the country.
0:45:06 > 0:45:12For the mystery house, I wanted to show you a property where another family in your position came
0:45:12 > 0:45:17- a long, long time ago, and set up their very own dream.- Gosh. - And this is where they did it.
0:45:17 > 0:45:20- OK.- Certainly very impressive. - Isn't it just?
0:45:20 > 0:45:24- Has it got the presence you're looking for?- Yes, it's got presence.
0:45:24 > 0:45:27This area, Bowlish, was where the Huguenots settled,
0:45:27 > 0:45:31the silk artisans, the French artisans. You can see the French influence.
0:45:31 > 0:45:35- You can, yes.- In this property. - Definitely.- Yes.- For now,
0:45:35 > 0:45:39- it's raining!- Let's go!- We have a house to look at. Let's go inside.
0:45:43 > 0:45:49- Come on in. It's very warm and rustic.- That's better!
0:45:50 > 0:45:52- Comfy kitchen.- Lovely, isn't it?
0:45:52 > 0:45:56- It's quirky.- Quirky, yeah.
0:45:56 > 0:45:58- Definitely.- Good?- Very good.
0:45:58 > 0:46:01- Positive vibes.- Is it fitting in with your dream?
0:46:02 > 0:46:09- Yes, I think so.- So far. There's a bit more for you to show us. - Yes, there's so much more.
0:46:09 > 0:46:11Let's explore further. There's a lot to see.
0:46:11 > 0:46:15One of the great things is the wonderful period features here.
0:46:15 > 0:46:20- Into this room. Look at the Georgian windows, working shutters.- Yes.
0:46:20 > 0:46:22- Fantastic.- Lots of character.
0:46:22 > 0:46:26I love the big furniture they can fit in here. The room can take it.
0:46:26 > 0:46:29- Yes.- Very sturdy furniture.
0:46:29 > 0:46:33- That's reassuring.- What about the layout, how it flows from the kitchen
0:46:33 > 0:46:34but it is a separate space?
0:46:34 > 0:46:38- Yeah, the flow is good... - You've still got a table in there.
0:46:38 > 0:46:45Yes, which is fine for suppers and breakfasts if there's only a few of you around.
0:46:45 > 0:46:47So although it's not open plan,
0:46:47 > 0:46:50you've got eating in both sides.
0:46:50 > 0:46:52It's a working family home, isn't it?
0:46:52 > 0:46:55You can feel the family living here.
0:46:55 > 0:46:58The children are about the same age as yours. They've grown up here.
0:46:58 > 0:47:03Come down a bit further, because I want to show you another impressive feature.
0:47:03 > 0:47:08The back of that door that we could see from the outside. Look at that!
0:47:08 > 0:47:10- Wow, that's huge! - Expecting invaders!
0:47:10 > 0:47:12Funny you should say that,
0:47:12 > 0:47:16- because that is an original prison door.- Really?
0:47:16 > 0:47:18- Yes.- For keeping us in rather than out!
0:47:18 > 0:47:23It might keep out mother-in-law, actually! She'll never get through there!
0:47:24 > 0:47:28Richard, I feel you're going to be in so much trouble at some point!
0:47:28 > 0:47:31But you're right, it'll keep a lot out!
0:47:31 > 0:47:35It keeps the warmth in as well. Come on through.
0:47:37 > 0:47:40And through here, more living space.
0:47:40 > 0:47:43I know this was one of the things you wanted. Flowing through,
0:47:43 > 0:47:46- space for the family to spread out yet be connected...- Yes.
0:47:46 > 0:47:50- What about this?- This is working. Working very well.- Very nice.
0:47:50 > 0:47:56You've got space, without being on top of each other, for everybody to do their own thing.
0:47:56 > 0:47:59Yes. It's very, very nice.
0:47:59 > 0:48:04'This house certainly has the grandeur they're seeking.
0:48:04 > 0:48:07'And it has five bedrooms over the next two floors.
0:48:07 > 0:48:10'The first floor has a family bathroom, which isn't massive -
0:48:10 > 0:48:13'but the double bedroom next door has its own en-suite,
0:48:13 > 0:48:16'which I'm sure Araminta would love.'
0:48:16 > 0:48:17And here's the master.
0:48:17 > 0:48:22- Oh, yes.- Gosh.- Is this more befitting of the lady of the manor?
0:48:22 > 0:48:26- Huge, isn't it?- I think so, yes. I could live in this.
0:48:26 > 0:48:31- Very good.- Although there isn't an en-suite, you're next door to the family bathroom.
0:48:31 > 0:48:33- Right.- Very good.
0:48:33 > 0:48:37'Upstairs again is a whole floor that could be dedicated to the children.
0:48:37 > 0:48:40'They have the luxury of their own shower room,
0:48:40 > 0:48:43'then there are three good-sized rooms they can fight over.
0:48:43 > 0:48:48'But panic not, I haven't forgotten Richard's study or Helen's mum's requirements,
0:48:48 > 0:48:50'which is next on our tour.'
0:48:52 > 0:48:55Of course, there had to be more to this property.
0:48:55 > 0:48:59Through here's the kitchen, but I want you to head that way.
0:48:59 > 0:49:00OK.
0:49:00 > 0:49:03So, discovery... Whoa!
0:49:03 > 0:49:07- Yes, yes.- This is fantastic! - Grandma's potting shed!
0:49:07 > 0:49:14- Grandma's emporium, I think! - Emporium is a better description!
0:49:14 > 0:49:18She has her own bathroom out there, all this accommodation, kitchen,
0:49:18 > 0:49:22- living room and a sunroom. - Sunroom.- And a patio.
0:49:22 > 0:49:25- There's a garden out there. - Excellent.
0:49:26 > 0:49:29'This is a real palace for Grandma.
0:49:29 > 0:49:31'Upstairs is a beautiful bedroom for her too.
0:49:31 > 0:49:35'But I think the other two bedrooms up here could be set aside for Richard's needs.'
0:49:35 > 0:49:39- It's certainly plenty big enough. - Good.- Yeah.
0:49:39 > 0:49:42Very light, spacious...
0:49:42 > 0:49:47Have a knock at that wall. I think that could be taken down fairly easily,
0:49:47 > 0:49:52opening up this space - providing you get the consent, it is Grade II listed...
0:49:52 > 0:49:54You could open up this space. What a place to work!
0:49:54 > 0:49:57It would be terrific. Very inspirational.
0:49:57 > 0:50:02'Fantastic. That's Grandma and Richard well sorted.
0:50:02 > 0:50:06'All that remains now is the outdoor space.'
0:50:06 > 0:50:08Round here, just for you, Helen...
0:50:10 > 0:50:12..a chicken coop already!
0:50:12 > 0:50:14- It isn't bad! - It's a nice sizeable garden
0:50:14 > 0:50:17considering we are on the edge of a town.
0:50:17 > 0:50:21With all that in mind, it's time to have another look at our property.
0:50:21 > 0:50:22A-ha!
0:50:22 > 0:50:24It's very grand, isn't it?
0:50:24 > 0:50:28- It's quite large.- It's large, it's grand, it's got presence!
0:50:28 > 0:50:32Can you afford it, that's the question. How much do you think it's worth?
0:50:32 > 0:50:34I think it's going to be rather pricey.
0:50:34 > 0:50:37I would go for 775.
0:50:37 > 0:50:38I think it's more than that.
0:50:38 > 0:50:41I think it's going to be 799,950.
0:50:42 > 0:50:46Da-da-da! She is spot on! A prize to the lady!
0:50:46 > 0:50:48- You're joking!- I'm not joking!
0:50:49 > 0:50:52- 799,950.- Really?!
0:50:53 > 0:50:55- I don't believe that!- Mmm.
0:50:55 > 0:50:58- You get a lot of house for your money.- Yes.
0:50:58 > 0:51:02- Two houses for your money. - Delivers everything you're looking for.
0:51:02 > 0:51:06It has been on the market for a while, and the price has dropped from 850.
0:51:06 > 0:51:07- Right.- So it's dropped a little.
0:51:07 > 0:51:10Right. Maybe a little bit more...
0:51:12 > 0:51:16- You're a hard person! - I am. I drive a hard bargain.
0:51:16 > 0:51:19You do, but it's making you think that's the way to go.
0:51:19 > 0:51:22Which is great. Go and have a wander around.
0:51:22 > 0:51:25See how you'd fit your furniture in there if this was yours.
0:51:25 > 0:51:28Work out how you'd find the extra money!
0:51:28 > 0:51:30- I'll see you later.- Thank you.
0:51:32 > 0:51:36Result! They love the mystery house. It's a fantastic house.
0:51:36 > 0:51:40The point is, it's a family home, created from a dream,
0:51:40 > 0:51:42and this could fit their very own dream.
0:51:42 > 0:51:47There's no doubt this mystery house, just shy of £800,000,
0:51:47 > 0:51:50has all the presence and grandeur they hanker for.
0:51:50 > 0:51:52There's a family-style kitchen/diner,
0:51:52 > 0:51:56five bedrooms, and an annexe for Helen's mum
0:51:56 > 0:51:59which includes a large study area for Richard.
0:51:59 > 0:52:03I can see this room being used a lot more than just the dining room.
0:52:03 > 0:52:05You've got the kitchen at one end
0:52:05 > 0:52:08and the sitting room at the other end with the snug.
0:52:08 > 0:52:10You'll have people passing through all the time.
0:52:10 > 0:52:14I can see using the laptop, reading the newspaper,
0:52:14 > 0:52:17at the dining room table which we couldn't do before.
0:52:17 > 0:52:21It's got everything that we asked for, except for the land.
0:52:21 > 0:52:25Um, it's grand, it's got the high ceilings,
0:52:25 > 0:52:28but there isn't the land.
0:52:28 > 0:52:33I think maybe that we'd stressed the land as an aspiration.
0:52:33 > 0:52:39I think you were testing us to see how key a requirement that was.
0:52:39 > 0:52:42It's different. It has got an awful lot of character.
0:52:42 > 0:52:46It is making us think very, very hard.
0:52:46 > 0:52:49Definitely major food for thought.
0:52:50 > 0:52:52DOOR CREAKS AND GROANS
0:52:52 > 0:52:55- That's a solid door, isn't it! - A door-and-a-half!
0:52:55 > 0:52:57So homely-looking from out here.
0:52:57 > 0:52:59We've seen all the properties now.
0:52:59 > 0:53:03The weather's cleared up. I hope your minds have cleared up!
0:53:03 > 0:53:05- Time to make some decisions. - Indeed.- OK.
0:53:08 > 0:53:14We've managed to fulfil the vast majority of Richard and Helen's requirements for their budget.
0:53:14 > 0:53:18But will their search for perfection exist for £750,000?
0:53:19 > 0:53:24Making their escape to the country has been a long journey for Helen and Richard.
0:53:24 > 0:53:27It's time to see if they've made a decision.
0:53:31 > 0:53:35Helen and Richard, it's been a two-year search for your dream home,
0:53:35 > 0:53:39and over the last couple of days we've seen quite a lot of property.
0:53:39 > 0:53:42- We started with the farmhouse cottage.- Yes...
0:53:42 > 0:53:44That was a little bit cottagey for you, but what did YOU think?
0:53:44 > 0:53:48We went in... That open-plan area -
0:53:48 > 0:53:51the sitting room, the dining room and then into the wonderful kitchen -
0:53:51 > 0:53:54was just exactly what we were after.
0:53:54 > 0:53:57The views were spectacular all around, with the Mendips
0:53:57 > 0:53:59- and then up to Glastonbury...- Yes.
0:53:59 > 0:54:02It was a beautiful house in many ways, but unfortunately we felt
0:54:02 > 0:54:07that it was sitting a little bit too tightly within its own plot.
0:54:07 > 0:54:10- Well, what did you think of the Georgian house?- Well...yes -
0:54:10 > 0:54:13I'm sitting tall, I was happy.
0:54:13 > 0:54:16I was very much at home in that house. I loved it.
0:54:16 > 0:54:21It was a large, very imposing building. It had presence.
0:54:21 > 0:54:24It was a house you could be justifiably proud of.
0:54:24 > 0:54:28How did you feel about the outside space with that property?
0:54:28 > 0:54:34Well, the outside, unfortunately, was where it did fall apart for us.
0:54:34 > 0:54:37Again, it didn't really have open lawns
0:54:37 > 0:54:41or open paddocks that the children could go out and play, and cycle...
0:54:41 > 0:54:44By the end of the first day, it became very apparent
0:54:44 > 0:54:48- that the outside space and land was more of an issue for you.- Yes.
0:54:48 > 0:54:53So, what did you think about the house with the land?
0:54:53 > 0:54:55The house itself was a little disappointing.
0:54:55 > 0:54:57We felt a bit claustrophobic.
0:54:57 > 0:55:01It's probably a bit mean to say, but we're spending a lot of money.
0:55:01 > 0:55:05To make that what we're looking for, we'd have to do a lot to it.
0:55:05 > 0:55:10Well, there are a lot of... elements to your requirements,
0:55:10 > 0:55:14and finding a property that could give you all that was always going to be difficult.
0:55:14 > 0:55:17But - let's talk about the mystery house.
0:55:17 > 0:55:19It was a good surprise, definitely.
0:55:19 > 0:55:21Because I think what's started to happen
0:55:21 > 0:55:25is that the land has become...
0:55:26 > 0:55:29..something that we can think about over time.
0:55:29 > 0:55:32It's become apparent to me, I think,
0:55:32 > 0:55:37that the accommodation, where we're going to be - as a family with extended family - is important.
0:55:37 > 0:55:41- And that's what we want to continue, this happy home.- Yes.
0:55:41 > 0:55:44Grandma would be very well accommodated!
0:55:44 > 0:55:48- We'd never get rid of her! - THEY LAUGH
0:55:49 > 0:55:52Well, lots of opportunities, lots of properties.
0:55:52 > 0:55:56Lots of options, which is what you want. But have you made any decisions?
0:55:56 > 0:56:01The favourite house out of the properties you showed us was the mystery house.
0:56:01 > 0:56:05So the decision is that we're going to go and have a look at that again.
0:56:05 > 0:56:08Good. I'm glad we helped you along the journey a little.
0:56:08 > 0:56:11That's what we love to do.
0:56:11 > 0:56:13We're pleased we've helped you along your way.
0:56:13 > 0:56:15It's been two years in the making!
0:56:15 > 0:56:21Time is of the essence. With any luck, it won't be long before you make the move to Somerset.
0:56:21 > 0:56:25- Hope so.- Thank you so much for everything that everyone has done.
0:56:25 > 0:56:29It's been brilliant. It's helped us to focus, at a time when we need to.
0:56:29 > 0:56:33- We really appreciate it. Thank you. - Pleasure. Thank you.
0:56:38 > 0:56:40Somerset is a wonderful county
0:56:40 > 0:56:42of mystery, myths and legends.
0:56:42 > 0:56:47Hopefully we've helped Helen and Richard to find their happy ending.
0:56:47 > 0:56:49I'll see you next time on Escape To The Country.
0:56:50 > 0:56:55The latest from Richard and Helen is that they did return to the mystery house,
0:56:55 > 0:56:57but they've had an offer accepted on a Victorian property
0:56:57 > 0:57:00on the outskirts of the small town of Frome.
0:57:00 > 0:57:02If you would like to escape to the country
0:57:02 > 0:57:06and need our help, please contact us through our website:
0:57:31 > 0:57:33Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd
0:57:33 > 0:57:35E-mail subtitling@bbc.co.uk