0:00:02 > 0:00:04Today I'm standing in front of what may look like
0:00:04 > 0:00:08a big bush, but actually it's the largest tree in the UK.
0:00:08 > 0:00:12And which county is home to such a magnificent tree?
0:00:12 > 0:00:14Join me in a moment to find out.
0:00:26 > 0:00:30In today's show we'll be helping a couple currently living in Kuwait
0:00:30 > 0:00:32find a slice of England to call home.
0:00:32 > 0:00:36- This is lovely. You've achieved your wow. Well done.- Good!
0:00:36 > 0:00:39I'll be showing them a selection of rural gems...
0:00:39 > 0:00:42I'm just starting to get those shivers up my spine
0:00:42 > 0:00:45that normally mean that Jan is about to write a cheque!
0:00:45 > 0:00:48..and then there's our mystery house, a splendid offering where
0:00:48 > 0:00:51they will get more than they bargained for.
0:00:52 > 0:00:56Today I'm in Staffordshire, and this yew tree
0:00:56 > 0:00:59is officially the largest tree in the UK.
0:00:59 > 0:01:03It dates back to the 1400s and it stands here on the Shugborough estate.
0:01:03 > 0:01:06It looks so unusual because its branches have become so heavy
0:01:06 > 0:01:10that they've drooped down and created this huge circumference.
0:01:10 > 0:01:13But I am told that you can still explore right the way through
0:01:13 > 0:01:16to the centre to find the heart of this very, very old tree.
0:01:16 > 0:01:20So, while I navigate my way through to the centre, why don't you explore
0:01:20 > 0:01:24what else there is to see in this wonderful county?
0:01:24 > 0:01:27Staffordshire sits slap bang at the heart of England
0:01:27 > 0:01:30and covers just over 1,000 square miles.
0:01:30 > 0:01:33Our property search focuses on the north of the county.
0:01:33 > 0:01:36Back in the 18th century, it was the availability of
0:01:36 > 0:01:41local coal and clay that made this area ideal for the pottery industry
0:01:41 > 0:01:43that was to become world famous.
0:01:43 > 0:01:47It was to boost this growing trade that in the mid-1770s, Josiah Wedgwood
0:01:47 > 0:01:52became instrumental in helping create the Trent and Mersey Canal.
0:01:52 > 0:01:55Linking up with the rivers Trent, Mersey, Severn and Thames,
0:01:55 > 0:01:59it opened up valuable trade routes with much of the country.
0:01:59 > 0:02:02Farming the Staffordshire moorland was a hard task.
0:02:02 > 0:02:06Many farmers were forced to turn to the pottery trade to supplement their income.
0:02:06 > 0:02:09Today, it's that same wild and rugged land that's attracting
0:02:09 > 0:02:13thousands of visitors keen to explore this varied landscape.
0:02:13 > 0:02:16And the Peak District National Park is an ideal place
0:02:16 > 0:02:18for those seeking outdoor pursuits.
0:02:18 > 0:02:22Staffordshire's close proximity to Birmingham means there's a massive
0:02:22 > 0:02:26variation in house price from one end of the county to the other.
0:02:26 > 0:02:28The areas closer to Birmingham are the most expensive.
0:02:28 > 0:02:33The cheaper areas are closer to Stoke-on-Trent and Newcastle-under-Lyme, further north.
0:02:33 > 0:02:37Now, recently announced plans to build 5,800 new rural homes
0:02:37 > 0:02:39in the south are afoot.
0:02:39 > 0:02:42But estate agents still think this is unlikely to meet the demand
0:02:42 > 0:02:45for large semi-detached properties.
0:02:45 > 0:02:47But if location is no consideration and money is no bond,
0:02:47 > 0:02:50there's still some great houses out there for the taking.
0:02:50 > 0:02:52So have a look at these.
0:02:53 > 0:02:57If you are torn between period and contemporary, then this 1.5 million
0:02:57 > 0:03:00house in Tutbury could be the property of your dreams.
0:03:00 > 0:03:05Dating back to 1850, the huge rooms have been lovingly restored.
0:03:05 > 0:03:08A new extension has created contemporary living space
0:03:08 > 0:03:10tailor made for family living.
0:03:10 > 0:03:14Or if you're looking for a large family home for considerably less,
0:03:14 > 0:03:17then how about this four-bedroom house in Haycroft?
0:03:17 > 0:03:19On the market for £595,000,
0:03:19 > 0:03:22it started life as two separate houses,
0:03:22 > 0:03:26which means there's bundles of space, with four reception rooms
0:03:26 > 0:03:28and a good-sized mature garden.
0:03:28 > 0:03:32Finally, if a barn conversion is up your street, this four-bedroom
0:03:32 > 0:03:37home in Leek is up for grabs for £50 short of 370,000.
0:03:37 > 0:03:41Immaculately decorated throughout, it sits on a three-quarter-of-an-acre plot
0:03:41 > 0:03:44with a sweet seating area to take in the far-reaching views.
0:03:44 > 0:03:49There's plenty to be found roaming around the Staffordshire countryside,
0:03:49 > 0:03:52and speaking of roaming, let's meet today's buyers,
0:03:52 > 0:03:55who've been on the move for over 20 years.
0:03:55 > 0:03:57Today we are giving a guiding hand
0:03:57 > 0:04:01to an RAF Tornado navigator Martin and his wife Janet.
0:04:01 > 0:04:04Martin's career means they're rolling stones
0:04:04 > 0:04:07who clocked up ten homes over the last 22 years.
0:04:07 > 0:04:11They're currently living in a fabulous five-bedroom rented villa in Kuwait.
0:04:11 > 0:04:16Martin and Janet will be returning to the UK in the near future and have decided it's high time
0:04:16 > 0:04:19they press the eject button on their nomadic lifestyle and buy a home
0:04:19 > 0:04:22where they can put down their roots.
0:04:22 > 0:04:24They're over in the UK on a house-hunting holiday
0:04:24 > 0:04:27and are staying with Martin's uncle
0:04:27 > 0:04:31whilst they find their dream home. Unearthing a house to match
0:04:31 > 0:04:33their Kuwait palace could be tricky.
0:04:33 > 0:04:37We moved there a year ago, to Kuwait,
0:04:37 > 0:04:40and I think we did fall in love with the house,
0:04:40 > 0:04:42because it's just so unlike anything we've had before.
0:04:42 > 0:04:47It's massive. Big, sweeping staircase, loads of bedrooms, loads of bathrooms.
0:04:47 > 0:04:50Space, light, everything, fantastic.
0:04:50 > 0:04:54But despite their huge house and the endless sunshine in Kuwait,
0:04:54 > 0:04:59Martin and Janet still find themselves drawn back to the British countryside.
0:04:59 > 0:05:03We want to move to the country primarily for all the things that we don't have in Kuwait.
0:05:03 > 0:05:08We love the countryside so much. We want to be able to walk and buy some dogs.
0:05:08 > 0:05:12Being part of a village community, for me, particularly if Martin does
0:05:12 > 0:05:15end up working away during the week, is going to be paramount.
0:05:15 > 0:05:20Something with a little bit of life but not a town, not a huge town
0:05:20 > 0:05:22or anything that's too busy, perfect.
0:05:22 > 0:05:26We have said that we have one prime criteria for this house,
0:05:26 > 0:05:29and that is that it has to be within walking distance of a pub.
0:05:29 > 0:05:32Not because we like to drink heavily.
0:05:32 > 0:05:34It's because we see the pub as the heart of a community.
0:05:34 > 0:05:38So to that end, we wouldn't want to be right out in the sticks.
0:05:38 > 0:05:40A thriving village, even a small town,
0:05:40 > 0:05:43but somewhere where there's a community, where we can meet people
0:05:43 > 0:05:48and where, if we do have to go away for a while because of work, when we come back
0:05:48 > 0:05:52people will remember us and they will know which is our house.
0:05:52 > 0:05:53So, the location is nailed,
0:05:53 > 0:05:57but what about the interior requirements for their new home?
0:05:57 > 0:06:00The most important room in the house for me is the study.
0:06:00 > 0:06:01It's my sanctuary.
0:06:01 > 0:06:03I have a massive shoe collection.
0:06:03 > 0:06:05Over 200 pairs of shoes.
0:06:05 > 0:06:08I've bought 47 pairs of shoes in the last six months.
0:06:08 > 0:06:12So what I'll be looking for in my bedroom is even bigger space than this.
0:06:12 > 0:06:16That's an incredible number of shoes, even by my standards!
0:06:16 > 0:06:19What sort of house would be befitting for such a collection?
0:06:19 > 0:06:22Either a detached or semi-detached,
0:06:22 > 0:06:26like a barn conversion that would be a bit open-plan inside.
0:06:26 > 0:06:28We're looking for between two and four bedrooms,
0:06:28 > 0:06:33a smallish garden and a big kitchen. There's a lot of things that you can add on to your wish list.
0:06:33 > 0:06:37I'd love to have a larder. An open fire would be wonderful.
0:06:37 > 0:06:41And once they get all settled, Janet can't wait to lead a country lifestyle.
0:06:41 > 0:06:44I'd just like to get some dogs and walk in the country.
0:06:44 > 0:06:47I keep going on about it, that's all I want to do.
0:06:47 > 0:06:49Without a property to sell,
0:06:49 > 0:06:52they are ready to sign on the dotted line right away.
0:06:52 > 0:06:54But before we can start the search,
0:06:54 > 0:06:57we need an idea of how much money there is to play with.
0:06:57 > 0:07:00Our budget for this is 350,000.
0:07:00 > 0:07:02But for the right house,
0:07:02 > 0:07:05we would go up to about 400,000.
0:07:07 > 0:07:10Although not mammoth, with no chain and cash in the bank,
0:07:10 > 0:07:15the budget is attractive to sellers. And their property requirements are pretty simple.
0:07:15 > 0:07:17It's got to have a big kitchen,
0:07:17 > 0:07:20be easy to maintain and have a pub nearby.
0:07:20 > 0:07:23They're even willing to look at semi-detached houses,
0:07:23 > 0:07:26so that should make our job a little bit easier.
0:07:26 > 0:07:28Martin and Janet are looking forward to
0:07:28 > 0:07:30leading an outdoors lifestyle in the UK.
0:07:30 > 0:07:34They're keen to be close to the Peak District National Park.
0:07:34 > 0:07:37Over two days, I'll be taking them on a tour of three tempting houses,
0:07:37 > 0:07:41but will keep the prices a secret until they've finished each viewing.
0:07:41 > 0:07:44Our final stop will be the mystery house,
0:07:44 > 0:07:48which often pushes the boundaries and is always a gamble.
0:07:48 > 0:07:50Hello, Jan.
0:07:50 > 0:07:52- Hi, Martin.- Hi. Good to meet you.
0:07:52 > 0:07:55- You could have brought some sunshine from Kuwait with you!- Wish we had!
0:07:55 > 0:07:57We wish we had, yes!
0:07:57 > 0:08:00It's pretty different. You're on holiday, aren't you?
0:08:00 > 0:08:03- Yes, we are.- Have you done much property hunting?
0:08:03 > 0:08:07We've done bits and pieces. We've done quite a lot of research before we came over here.
0:08:07 > 0:08:11We need to have a home base that we can call home. When everybody says
0:08:11 > 0:08:14"I'm going home," they've got somewhere to go home to,
0:08:14 > 0:08:15which we don't have.
0:08:15 > 0:08:19And then over the next few years we'll spend more time there,
0:08:19 > 0:08:22and when we finally move back, we'll have the home we want.
0:08:22 > 0:08:26We have got some fantastic properties to show you, including the mystery house.
0:08:26 > 0:08:29I suggest we get out of the rain and get property searching.
0:08:29 > 0:08:31- Excellent.- Come on.
0:08:32 > 0:08:35So, Martin and Janet have up to £400,000 available
0:08:35 > 0:08:38to find a property they can come home to.
0:08:38 > 0:08:43They're looking for two to four bedrooms, a large kitchen and a small garden.
0:08:43 > 0:08:44With no property to sell
0:08:44 > 0:08:45and all ready to go,
0:08:45 > 0:08:47they're in a strong buying position.
0:08:49 > 0:08:53I'm certain you've got quite a network of friends
0:08:53 > 0:08:55and an entertaining circle back in Kuwait.
0:08:55 > 0:08:58We do a lot of stuff back home,
0:08:58 > 0:09:01and actually the one thing that's scaring me a little,
0:09:01 > 0:09:06moving from a city, where we do lots of things, I belong to choir groups
0:09:06 > 0:09:11and this group, and we play games and have social events,
0:09:11 > 0:09:14and we have a good social network.
0:09:14 > 0:09:18Just a little bit scared of moving and having to make new friends in a village.
0:09:18 > 0:09:20I have no doubts or qualms
0:09:20 > 0:09:24that you will make friends very easily!
0:09:26 > 0:09:29To find that house, we're kicking off in Lapley,
0:09:29 > 0:09:31nine miles south-west of Stafford.
0:09:31 > 0:09:34Embedded in glorious Staffordshire countryside, this village
0:09:34 > 0:09:39was awarded best-kept small village in Staffordshire in 2009.
0:09:39 > 0:09:41But despite the pristine surroundings,
0:09:41 > 0:09:44it doesn't have the pub Martin and Janet are seeking.
0:09:44 > 0:09:47Just as well that Wheaton Aston a mile away comes to the rescue,
0:09:47 > 0:09:51with a canal-side watering hole popular with the locals.
0:09:51 > 0:09:55The towpath would offer them lovely walks when they get their puppy.
0:09:55 > 0:09:57In Lapley, we've arranged a viewing
0:09:57 > 0:10:00in a conservation and design award-winning development.
0:10:00 > 0:10:04And the style of home is top of their wish list.
0:10:04 > 0:10:07This is the first property we want to show you. It is a barn conversion,
0:10:07 > 0:10:09which I know is on your wish list.
0:10:09 > 0:10:13- Absolutely. - Is that the garden? Is that it?
0:10:13 > 0:10:15I knew you'd spot that straightaway!
0:10:15 > 0:10:17- Yes.- No, that's good.
0:10:17 > 0:10:21- That's a good thing.- Is that about the right size for you? - We don't want to garden!
0:10:21 > 0:10:24- Yes, that is the garden. - That's all we want!
0:10:24 > 0:10:28Yeah, first impressions, very favourable.
0:10:28 > 0:10:32- Doing well, but it is raining, so let's get inside and have a proper look.- OK.
0:10:32 > 0:10:36This barn conversion in this pretty village has got us off to a good start.
0:10:36 > 0:10:39Right, in we come.
0:10:39 > 0:10:41Into the dry. This, as you can see,
0:10:41 > 0:10:45could be an entrance hallway, but it's a little room, really.
0:10:45 > 0:10:47It's a striking entrance.
0:10:47 > 0:10:51You come in and you walk into here and it gives you... Well, I've already got
0:10:51 > 0:10:54a warm, homely feeling about it.
0:10:54 > 0:10:55It's nice, I like it.
0:10:55 > 0:10:59But I think it works as it is, as a sort of a snug.
0:10:59 > 0:11:03We'll install you here, let's find somewhere for you! Come on.
0:11:05 > 0:11:08So here we are, a much bigger space for your living room,
0:11:08 > 0:11:11and the feature you just can't miss.
0:11:11 > 0:11:13- What a beautiful fireplace. - Stunning, isn't it?
0:11:13 > 0:11:15It is gorgeous, actually.
0:11:15 > 0:11:18Fireplaces are a big thing for us.
0:11:18 > 0:11:19We like to sit around the fire.
0:11:19 > 0:11:23There's nothing quite like sitting around an open fire.
0:11:23 > 0:11:25So this room's another tick then?
0:11:25 > 0:11:28Not exactly, I wouldn't say.
0:11:28 > 0:11:30- A small tick.- It's getting there,
0:11:30 > 0:11:33but it's not giving us that sense of space that we are looking for.
0:11:33 > 0:11:36Our main criterion that we need is space,
0:11:36 > 0:11:40and this is lovely, cottage-y, cosy, quintessentially English,
0:11:40 > 0:11:44which is what we're looking for, but it's not giving us that feeling of space.
0:11:44 > 0:11:48But you have been living in Kuwait, where everything is a lot bigger!
0:11:48 > 0:11:52So, you're back in little old England, things are a lot smaller here.
0:11:52 > 0:11:54Yeah, we have made an allowance in our minds for that.
0:11:54 > 0:11:59We knew we weren't going to get the space that we've got now,
0:11:59 > 0:12:02but it's still there in our mind, this space. We know it's possible.
0:12:02 > 0:12:07Let's go and have a look at the kitchen, because I think that's got a nice size and feel to it.
0:12:12 > 0:12:19- Here's your kitchen. - Oh, that's lovely.- Lovely, I like that word! What do you think?
0:12:19 > 0:12:23It is, it's just cottage-y, isn't it? It's just lovely.
0:12:23 > 0:12:26I can actually see us in here.
0:12:26 > 0:12:29It's got a lot of work space, which is what Jan likes. It's not huge,
0:12:29 > 0:12:34- but we can exist in here. It's nice. - As a kitchen, it works perfectly.
0:12:34 > 0:12:36The one thing we're missing with the house so far
0:12:36 > 0:12:40is there's nowhere that we can get our dining table.
0:12:40 > 0:12:45Entertaining is a big part of our life, and it's not something I'm prepared to compromise on,
0:12:45 > 0:12:47not having anywhere for people to sit and dine.
0:12:47 > 0:12:52I did consider... This wall could be maybe taken down, and you'd open
0:12:52 > 0:12:56this up into one big kitchen dining space, with the living room there.
0:12:56 > 0:13:00- That would be gorgeous. - That's very interesting.
0:13:00 > 0:13:03That would then give us space to put our big table with,
0:13:03 > 0:13:06what has always been Jan's desire,
0:13:06 > 0:13:10to be able to be cooking and still interacting with guests.
0:13:10 > 0:13:14I hate that, I'm in the kitchen and missing everything that's going on.
0:13:14 > 0:13:17Eventually I come in all ragged and hot, carrying food,
0:13:17 > 0:13:20and think, "I've missed three hours of conversation."
0:13:20 > 0:13:24So yeah, actually this is the open-plan space thing that we're desperately wanting,
0:13:24 > 0:13:28so that I can cook and interact and talk with friends,
0:13:28 > 0:13:30not all in different rooms.
0:13:30 > 0:13:32Something to think about, and while they're at it,
0:13:32 > 0:13:36they could incorporate the utility room into the kitchen,
0:13:36 > 0:13:37making the space even larger.
0:13:37 > 0:13:40So, that wraps it up for the downstairs.
0:13:40 > 0:13:45Upstairs, it feels incredibly spacious, and the first stop is the family bathroom.
0:13:45 > 0:13:47Poke your heads in, have a look.
0:13:47 > 0:13:50- Yes, very nice indeed.- Nice.
0:13:50 > 0:13:53Very tasteful. Yes.
0:13:53 > 0:13:57The vaulted ceilings in this property certainly make the bedrooms feel bigger.
0:13:57 > 0:14:00The first is a single and could always act as a study.
0:14:00 > 0:14:05Then there's two small doubles, and that leaves just one more room.
0:14:05 > 0:14:08What do you think of this as a master bedroom?
0:14:08 > 0:14:13- Lovely.- More than adequate, yes. Nice. Again, I love the height.
0:14:13 > 0:14:16The height compensates for the lack of floor space, if you will.
0:14:16 > 0:14:19It feels like a very light, airy room.
0:14:19 > 0:14:23We have just noticed a lack of storage space, as well.
0:14:23 > 0:14:25You've got all your shoes to accommodate!
0:14:25 > 0:14:28- Well, goodness me! - Well, that's one bedroom!
0:14:28 > 0:14:32Yeah, that's like a bedroom, never mind a storage space!
0:14:32 > 0:14:35Martin might have a good point there, and although this room
0:14:35 > 0:14:38isn't as large as they'd hoped, it has an en-suite shower room.
0:14:38 > 0:14:43Finally, we are heading outside, where I have a small surprise in store.
0:14:45 > 0:14:48Right, back outside, and hallelujah,
0:14:48 > 0:14:51I think the rain is easing off now!
0:14:51 > 0:14:52Come on out.
0:14:52 > 0:14:57Now, we're back in our little small bijou garden, but here is your double garage,
0:14:57 > 0:14:58all remote controlled.
0:14:58 > 0:15:02Don't give him that, you know what men are like with their little toys!
0:15:02 > 0:15:04Sold! I don't care about the rest of it!
0:15:04 > 0:15:07Just play with this all the time!
0:15:07 > 0:15:10- It's a really good space, actually. - Yes, a nice, big garage.
0:15:10 > 0:15:14- And you said this garden is just about what you're looking for?- Yeah.
0:15:14 > 0:15:18Minimal. We're not in a position to be able to upkeep a garden at the moment,
0:15:18 > 0:15:21and it's just perfect. Lots of pots. I can do pots.
0:15:21 > 0:15:24- It's a courtyard feel to it, hasn't it?- Yes.
0:15:24 > 0:15:27Come this way, there's just a little bit extra I want to show you.
0:15:27 > 0:15:30- OK.- I hope it's not a field!
0:15:31 > 0:15:33It's not exactly a field!
0:15:35 > 0:15:38- A little bit more bijou! - It's really sweet, though.
0:15:38 > 0:15:43I might have to wait a while before I buy that croquet set I've been promising myself!
0:15:43 > 0:15:45It's really, really sweet, actually.
0:15:45 > 0:15:50And this is it. You've now seen the whole property in its entirety.
0:15:50 > 0:15:52Which brings us to the question
0:15:52 > 0:15:55of how much you think you'd have to pay for a house like this.
0:15:55 > 0:15:59- I'd go for about 365.- OK.- Yeah...
0:15:59 > 0:16:02Possibly 375, I think. Probably in the middle.
0:16:02 > 0:16:05Martin, you're amazing.
0:16:05 > 0:16:09Having not had a look at a property in this county, you're spot-on!
0:16:09 > 0:16:11That's 1-0, Jan!
0:16:11 > 0:16:15It's started raining again, so I think you should go back inside
0:16:15 > 0:16:18and have another look around, and I'll see you later on.
0:16:18 > 0:16:19Thank you very much.
0:16:22 > 0:16:25Well, there you go. I think we got off to a good start there.
0:16:25 > 0:16:29It's been a while since they looked, but they were spot-on.
0:16:29 > 0:16:33It's a little bit smaller than they might like, but downsizing from a Kuwaiti palace
0:16:33 > 0:16:37is something they're going to have to get used to.
0:16:37 > 0:16:42At £365,000, this barn conversion sits comfortably within their budget,
0:16:42 > 0:16:44and it's in the middle of a village,
0:16:44 > 0:16:47providing the community environment they're looking for.
0:16:47 > 0:16:50The lounge has the fabulous fireplace they're so desperate for.
0:16:50 > 0:16:53There's four bedrooms, including a master en suite.
0:16:53 > 0:16:55And the outdoor space is manageable.
0:16:57 > 0:17:01With this house, there is a but. It meets so many of our criteria.
0:17:01 > 0:17:02It ticks so many of our boxes.
0:17:02 > 0:17:05Unfortunately, there are two things, really.
0:17:05 > 0:17:07One of which, there's not much storage space.
0:17:07 > 0:17:12The open-plan in this reception area, we'd struggle to entertain,
0:17:12 > 0:17:14to get our dining table in.
0:17:14 > 0:17:17Apart from that, it's a cracking house, it really is.
0:17:18 > 0:17:23- Now, that's a cracking fireplace, isn't it?- I absolutely adore it. Absolutely.
0:17:23 > 0:17:27The only problem I find with the whole house is just this area here.
0:17:27 > 0:17:31It's not big enough for our dining table.
0:17:31 > 0:17:34I love the fact that the rooms are airy
0:17:34 > 0:17:37and the colours are neutral.
0:17:37 > 0:17:41However, it's just a tad small, I think, for what we're looking for.
0:17:41 > 0:17:43We're a couple who like to entertain.
0:17:43 > 0:17:46We're looking for a comfortable home for two, but with room for 30.
0:17:46 > 0:17:48A-ha! There you are.
0:17:48 > 0:17:49You've had a good explore?
0:17:49 > 0:17:52- Thank you very much, yes. - But we've got a lot more to do,
0:17:52 > 0:17:54- so let's keep exploring.- OK.
0:17:59 > 0:18:01Martin and Janet enjoy living in Kuwait,
0:18:01 > 0:18:05but are looking forward to returning to England and all things English.
0:18:05 > 0:18:08Lichfield is Staffordshire's premier heritage city,
0:18:08 > 0:18:12so to find out more about the place, they're meeting up with
0:18:12 > 0:18:14tourism office Lynn Norman at the cathedral.
0:18:14 > 0:18:18There have been three cathedrals on this particular site.
0:18:18 > 0:18:22The first one was 700s, then there was the Norman
0:18:22 > 0:18:27cathedral in the 11th century, and then later on there was the Gothic.
0:18:27 > 0:18:30It's the Gothic that we're looking at today.
0:18:30 > 0:18:33This is the only medieval cathedral in the country
0:18:33 > 0:18:35with three spires.
0:18:35 > 0:18:39The cathedral has seen much repair work over the years,
0:18:39 > 0:18:42but it was architect Sir George Gilbert Scott who was
0:18:42 > 0:18:44responsible for the restoration work in the mid-1800s,
0:18:44 > 0:18:47leaving the cathedral as it is today.
0:18:47 > 0:18:51So as we're walking along here, you can see this beautiful
0:18:51 > 0:18:54Sir George Gilbert Scott screen coming into view.
0:18:54 > 0:18:58Across the top are the musicians.
0:18:58 > 0:19:02The design, as I say, was by George Gilbert Scott himself,
0:19:02 > 0:19:06but the ironmongery was all done by a gentleman called Skidmore.
0:19:06 > 0:19:10It's certainly an impressive piece of craftsmanship to be enjoyed.
0:19:10 > 0:19:13Just a stone's throw from the cathedral
0:19:13 > 0:19:16is the museum of Dr Samuel Johnson, a prominent writer who held
0:19:16 > 0:19:20the accolade of producing the first English language dictionary in 1755.
0:19:20 > 0:19:25It took him ten years to write this dictionary.
0:19:25 > 0:19:29He'd anticipated that it was only going to take him three years.
0:19:29 > 0:19:33The strange way that he created this dictionary was to collect
0:19:33 > 0:19:35all the books that he knew of and liked,
0:19:35 > 0:19:39and then emphasised from A to Z.
0:19:39 > 0:19:42And that was then passed on to his workman,
0:19:42 > 0:19:45and that's how they created this great dictionary,
0:19:45 > 0:19:47the forerunner of all the dictionaries we have today.
0:19:47 > 0:19:49To round off the afternoon,
0:19:49 > 0:19:53they're stopping off for a quick refreshment.
0:19:53 > 0:19:55In the 1730's, there was a pub
0:19:55 > 0:19:59for every 40 members of the community.
0:19:59 > 0:20:02The women were very well known for brewing in the area.
0:20:02 > 0:20:06They were given a licence to brew in their backrooms
0:20:06 > 0:20:09and of course, it was from that period where all the names
0:20:09 > 0:20:12associated with the brewing industry came from.
0:20:12 > 0:20:15So we have the lounge, which was part of the house,
0:20:15 > 0:20:16We have the bar,
0:20:16 > 0:20:19which was as far as the customers could go within the house.
0:20:19 > 0:20:22So that's where all of those names came from.
0:20:22 > 0:20:25- So they were barred from going into the house?- Absolutely, yes.
0:20:25 > 0:20:28I'm sure their new-found knowledge will come in handy
0:20:28 > 0:20:30for many a pub quiz to come.
0:20:30 > 0:20:32For our next house,
0:20:32 > 0:20:35we're navigating our way over the border into Shropshire
0:20:35 > 0:20:38to Childs Ercall, 19 miles from Stafford.
0:20:38 > 0:20:41Surrounded by agricultural land, the village is small,
0:20:41 > 0:20:43yet has a buzzing community.
0:20:43 > 0:20:46The Social Club has got to be the number one spot to meet the locals.
0:20:46 > 0:20:48'If they fancy taking up a new hobby,
0:20:48 > 0:20:50then, there's a bowling club.
0:20:50 > 0:20:53The house we're viewing sits on the edge of the village
0:20:53 > 0:20:57and although it was built just four years ago, it's full of charm.
0:20:57 > 0:20:59- This is the house.- Wow.
0:21:01 > 0:21:03A-ha! It's lovely.
0:21:03 > 0:21:05That's a very impressive outside.
0:21:05 > 0:21:07Isn't it? Brick and timber.
0:21:07 > 0:21:12- Beautiful structure.- Yeah, stunning, actually, from the outside.
0:21:12 > 0:21:14Let's go inside.
0:21:18 > 0:21:20- Right, in you come.- Thank you.
0:21:20 > 0:21:22I think you'll be pleased.
0:21:22 > 0:21:25It looks beautiful. I'm almost speechless.
0:21:25 > 0:21:27It's like a show home.
0:21:27 > 0:21:30Something out of a design magazine.
0:21:30 > 0:21:33It's got that wow factor, certainly, when you walk in.
0:21:33 > 0:21:35- I'm feeling a bit low.- Are you?
0:21:35 > 0:21:36- Yes.- OK.
0:21:36 > 0:21:41Just initially, my first thought is I'm feeling, yet again,
0:21:41 > 0:21:45- just a little bit low.- If you're feeling a bit close in here,
0:21:45 > 0:21:47- let's look at the kitchen, cos that opens out.- Lovely.
0:21:49 > 0:21:50So, here you go.
0:21:50 > 0:21:52A kitchen which is big enough for you to dine in.
0:21:52 > 0:21:54Yes, definitely.
0:21:54 > 0:21:58And it wraps round the corner, there, into a little snug area.
0:22:00 > 0:22:02Now, this is getting there.
0:22:02 > 0:22:05- Love the dual sinks. - A lot of work space, as well.
0:22:05 > 0:22:08- It's quality. All the things that we like.- Great.
0:22:08 > 0:22:11Out there, you've got your utility space
0:22:11 > 0:22:14and there's a downstairs cloakroom and shower.
0:22:14 > 0:22:15So, so far, so good.
0:22:15 > 0:22:19- So far, so good.- Right, let's have a look at the living room.
0:22:22 > 0:22:25I mean, what do you think of it for room size?
0:22:25 > 0:22:28Without trying, we'd fill this room with furniture.
0:22:28 > 0:22:29It is just on the small side.
0:22:29 > 0:22:32- But so well done.- Beautiful.
0:22:32 > 0:22:35Yes, I can't fault it at all. It has got a lovely feel.
0:22:35 > 0:22:39I could see it being really, really cosy in the winter.
0:22:39 > 0:22:43We have a very eclectic group of furniture and hangings
0:22:43 > 0:22:44and we've got wall hangings.
0:22:44 > 0:22:48I should imagine after 20-odd years of travelling around the world,
0:22:48 > 0:22:50you've got a lot of memorabilia.
0:22:50 > 0:22:52Turkish rugs and Indian wall hangings
0:22:52 > 0:22:56and big pieces of Dutch furniture.
0:22:56 > 0:23:00Sadly, it doesn't fit in every house and we're struggling with this.
0:23:00 > 0:23:03But this is going to be base camp for a while.
0:23:03 > 0:23:07Exactly. Maybe, we need to change the way we look at things.
0:23:07 > 0:23:09You are downsizing.
0:23:09 > 0:23:12Quite a nice property to do it in, if you get to that point.
0:23:12 > 0:23:16- I think you're searching for a tick and it's not quite coming. - Well, maybe not.
0:23:16 > 0:23:18I'm going to sell this room.
0:23:18 > 0:23:20Look at these amazing timbers!
0:23:20 > 0:23:24Look at that wood-burning fire! That's a great focal point.
0:23:24 > 0:23:28Come on, you two. You did say you wanted a cosy log fire.
0:23:28 > 0:23:31This house may be just a few years old, but the design,
0:23:31 > 0:23:35incorporating quality oak beams, provides wonderful character.
0:23:37 > 0:23:38Now, up here, I think...
0:23:38 > 0:23:41Well, it certainly opens up, doesn't it?
0:23:41 > 0:23:45- They've made an impressive upstairs hallway.- This is lovely.
0:23:45 > 0:23:48- You've achieved your wow. Well done.- Good!
0:23:48 > 0:23:50Fantastic. Glad to hear it.
0:23:50 > 0:23:53Two of the three bedrooms here are singles,
0:23:53 > 0:23:55one of which could be a study for Martin,
0:23:55 > 0:23:58but will they fit their possessions into what would be their room?
0:23:59 > 0:24:02So, here is the master bedroom.
0:24:02 > 0:24:04- Oh, very nice.- Yeah, delightful.
0:24:04 > 0:24:07I have a feeling, so I'm going to say it for you,
0:24:07 > 0:24:10that you might mention the lack of storage.
0:24:10 > 0:24:13- No wardrobes.- No wardrobes. - We can buy wardrobes.
0:24:13 > 0:24:17We can get round it for the right property. It's not a drama.
0:24:18 > 0:24:20But this is a very nice bedroom.
0:24:20 > 0:24:24You looked a bit shocked. Is he not usually this placid and accommodating?
0:24:24 > 0:24:27I'm shocked that you think it's my clothes we'll have trouble with
0:24:27 > 0:24:30and actually, Martin is the proud owner of about 70 shirts.
0:24:30 > 0:24:3270? What do you mean 70 shirts?!
0:24:32 > 0:24:36- Probably more like 50. - No. No, when... No, more like 70.
0:24:36 > 0:24:40There's a lot of shirts. I don't throw them away. They all get used.
0:24:40 > 0:24:42- 50, 70 - what's the difference? - Exactly.
0:24:42 > 0:24:45I want to take you through to the bathroom, which I think you'll like.
0:24:45 > 0:24:48It looks like an en-suite but, actually, it's a Jack and Jill,
0:24:48 > 0:24:51so it is the family bathroom. Let's look.
0:24:51 > 0:24:54Now, this is a gorgeous bathroom, I think.
0:24:54 > 0:24:56Oh, isn't it? Yes.
0:24:56 > 0:24:59It's really well done.
0:24:59 > 0:25:03It's a wow, it's romantic, it's comfortable.
0:25:03 > 0:25:05It's great. Lovely room.
0:25:05 > 0:25:07There's no doubt this beautiful house
0:25:07 > 0:25:09has been carefully designed
0:25:09 > 0:25:13and I think the outdoor space will be easy to maintain.
0:25:13 > 0:25:15- Out here...- Oh, this is pretty.
0:25:16 > 0:25:20Absolutely just the perfect size for us, isn't it?
0:25:20 > 0:25:21It is. Just what we want.
0:25:21 > 0:25:24Some mature little things, but just this area for sitting.
0:25:24 > 0:25:27Or you could put your hot tub here, darling.
0:25:27 > 0:25:29Fantastic.
0:25:29 > 0:25:30Space for a hot tub.
0:25:30 > 0:25:34We had to give up our hot tub when we went to Kuwait and we miss it dreadfully.
0:25:34 > 0:25:36Just perfect.
0:25:36 > 0:25:38It's just a manage itself garden.
0:25:38 > 0:25:43- And it attracts so many beautiful butterflies.- I can see, yes!
0:25:43 > 0:25:46I love this wildlife garden, but the land doesn't end here.
0:25:46 > 0:25:48Round the corner is a good-sized lawn,
0:25:48 > 0:25:50bordered by young shrubs.
0:25:50 > 0:25:52The owners are planning to put up a fence
0:25:52 > 0:25:55to screen out the neighbours beyond.
0:25:55 > 0:25:57Well, it begs the question, now, then -
0:25:57 > 0:26:00how much do you think this property is worth?
0:26:00 > 0:26:02- Oh.- I don't know.
0:26:02 > 0:26:05I think, just looking at the quality of the building,
0:26:05 > 0:26:08the fact it's been designed, bespoke,
0:26:08 > 0:26:10it's got some really, really nice touches.
0:26:10 > 0:26:13I think this is up towards the top end of our budget.
0:26:13 > 0:26:16I reckon this is about 400,000.
0:26:16 > 0:26:19I'm going to go on 370.
0:26:19 > 0:26:23- 370?- Yeah, yeah, really. - Interesting.
0:26:23 > 0:26:25So, it's fairly expensive, then,
0:26:25 > 0:26:28for not providing all the space that you need.
0:26:28 > 0:26:31Tell me how you feel about it now, then,
0:26:31 > 0:26:35because this property is on the market at £337,000.
0:26:35 > 0:26:36Wow.
0:26:36 > 0:26:39I'm quite surprised at that. I thought it would be a bit more.
0:26:39 > 0:26:42I am. I was quite comfortable with my 400,000.
0:26:42 > 0:26:45No, I was thinking it wasn't as much as four but certainly,
0:26:45 > 0:26:47not as low as that.
0:26:47 > 0:26:48So, pleasantly surprised.
0:26:48 > 0:26:50- It's certainly a beautiful house. - It is.
0:26:50 > 0:26:53It won't be too much torture to send you back in
0:26:53 > 0:26:55- to have another look. - No, we'd love to.
0:26:55 > 0:26:59Just wander round it and take in the attention to detail.
0:26:59 > 0:27:01- I will see you later on. - Thank you.
0:27:01 > 0:27:06At £337,000, this property is well under their guess-timates.
0:27:06 > 0:27:10And for that price tag, they get an open-plan kitchen/diner,
0:27:10 > 0:27:12the bonus of a utility room,
0:27:12 > 0:27:15three bedrooms, including a master en-suite
0:27:15 > 0:27:17and a garden that, apart from a good mow,
0:27:17 > 0:27:18should be easy to maintain.
0:27:18 > 0:27:21- It's absolutely delightful.- It is.
0:27:21 > 0:27:22It's a stunning house.
0:27:22 > 0:27:25It's a real shame this room is just too small.
0:27:25 > 0:27:28- You wouldn't get most of our furniture in here.- No.
0:27:28 > 0:27:32It's not big enough for us two to stamp our character on this house.
0:27:32 > 0:27:36We're big people with big furniture and big ideas.
0:27:36 > 0:27:38Frustration is my overwhelming feeling,
0:27:38 > 0:27:40having looked round this house, now.
0:27:40 > 0:27:43It's so close, it's so lovely, it just doesn't work.
0:27:43 > 0:27:46I think they've probably seen enough of this one.
0:27:46 > 0:27:49- Are you ready?- Yes, thank you. - Come on, then. Let's keep moving.
0:27:58 > 0:28:01Staffordshire is home
0:28:01 > 0:28:04to one of the most intact pieces of history in the UK -
0:28:04 > 0:28:06Shugborough Hall.
0:28:06 > 0:28:09It's the only complete, working, historic estate in Britain
0:28:09 > 0:28:12and as Martin and Janet are looking forward
0:28:12 > 0:28:15to immersing themselves in English culture,
0:28:15 > 0:28:18I'm sure it will be top of their wish list of places to visit.
0:28:18 > 0:28:22I couldn't resist a tour and my guide is Judy Chivers.
0:28:22 > 0:28:24Now in the hands of the National Trust,
0:28:24 > 0:28:26the house belonged to the Earls of Lichfield,
0:28:26 > 0:28:29the Anson family for over 300 years and today,
0:28:29 > 0:28:33they retain 36 rooms as a private residence.
0:28:33 > 0:28:36In its heyday, there would have been 30 servants here,
0:28:36 > 0:28:38busily attending to the family's every need.
0:28:38 > 0:28:41Not least at mealtimes.
0:28:41 > 0:28:43Oh, wow, Judy.
0:28:43 > 0:28:45This is a very stately dining room.
0:28:45 > 0:28:47Presumably, this really does show you
0:28:47 > 0:28:49the Upstairs Downstairs sort of mix
0:28:49 > 0:28:52that you would've had because you'd have had the family, here,
0:28:52 > 0:28:53served by how many servants?
0:28:53 > 0:28:58Well, depending on how many people were to have dinner,
0:28:58 > 0:28:59they would have a footman each.
0:28:59 > 0:29:01But this house is unusual. Look at this.
0:29:01 > 0:29:05Ah! So, we've got a bank of mirrors, here.
0:29:05 > 0:29:07Yes, and the footmen would have stood here
0:29:07 > 0:29:09and instead of behind the chairs
0:29:09 > 0:29:11where they could listen to salacious gossip,
0:29:11 > 0:29:14they could ascertain by looking in the mirrors,
0:29:14 > 0:29:16when anybody needed more food or wine.
0:29:16 > 0:29:20The working environments of the mansion have been recreated
0:29:20 > 0:29:23so visitors can step back in time to the 19th century.
0:29:23 > 0:29:26First stop for me is the engine room of all homes.
0:29:26 > 0:29:27A-ha!
0:29:27 > 0:29:30So, here we are in the heart of the home, in the kitchen.
0:29:30 > 0:29:32This is Sarah, the kitchen maid.
0:29:32 > 0:29:35- Hello, Sarah. Nice to meet you. - Hello, nice to meet you.
0:29:35 > 0:29:37Now, what are you making here?
0:29:37 > 0:29:39I'm making some biscuits for the nursery.
0:29:39 > 0:29:43They're called Tilly's Teatime Treats - the children love them.
0:29:43 > 0:29:46- Ah, and how many children do they have in the nursery?- 13.- 13?
0:29:46 > 0:29:48- Keeps us busy.- Absolutely.
0:29:48 > 0:29:51I'll let you get back to the baking.
0:29:51 > 0:29:53The living history continues in the laundry,
0:29:53 > 0:29:56where back-breaking work was carried out six days a week
0:29:56 > 0:30:00with simple tools. The estate was almost self-sufficient.
0:30:00 > 0:30:05Grain was ground in the flour mill, and a variety of breads made in the bakery.
0:30:05 > 0:30:06They even had their own brewery.
0:30:06 > 0:30:10The kitchen garden grew a huge range of produce, and even now
0:30:10 > 0:30:14ancient varieties of fruit can still be found here.
0:30:14 > 0:30:19There's so much more history to be soaked up, but for now, it's time to move on.
0:30:23 > 0:30:26As the sun sets over Staffordshire, Martin and Janet return to base
0:30:26 > 0:30:28to reflect on the day's events.
0:30:28 > 0:30:31So, what did you think of that converted forge?
0:30:31 > 0:30:34Actually, I really quite liked it but...
0:30:34 > 0:30:37it just wasn't big enough for what we wanted.
0:30:37 > 0:30:40It was well finished, I thought it was in a nice place.
0:30:40 > 0:30:43Um...and yeah, there were some gorgeous features,
0:30:43 > 0:30:47- and I would kill for that fireplace. - It felt right, didn't it?
0:30:47 > 0:30:51That suggestion Denise made of knocking the wall down.
0:30:51 > 0:30:54If we had the time to do that...
0:30:54 > 0:30:58- it's pretty close to a solution, isn't it?- It is. Almost, yeah.
0:30:58 > 0:31:03What about your thoughts about the new build cottage that we looked at?
0:31:03 > 0:31:06From the outside, it looked like there was so much space,
0:31:06 > 0:31:09I got quite excited standing outside it.
0:31:09 > 0:31:11And then we went inside.
0:31:11 > 0:31:16Kitchen was pretty good, but it was just that lounge.
0:31:16 > 0:31:19We put one bit of furniture in there, and that's the room full.
0:31:19 > 0:31:21Our coffee table would take up the whole room.
0:31:21 > 0:31:26- It was great upstairs. - Beautiful house, well appointed. - The bathroom?- Oh, well...
0:31:26 > 0:31:28I've always wanted a bath like that,
0:31:28 > 0:31:31- but you can't buy a house just for a bath.- No.
0:31:31 > 0:31:33Close but no cigar.
0:31:42 > 0:31:48RAF Tornado navigator Martin and wife Janet are currently based in Kuwait.
0:31:48 > 0:31:53But their latest mission is to snap up a slice of the English countryside they can call their own.
0:31:53 > 0:31:58They have a budget of up to £400,000, and so far have viewed two houses.
0:31:58 > 0:32:00Coming up, we might have found our target.
0:32:00 > 0:32:04- Now we're getting there, yeah. - Oh, it's beautiful.
0:32:06 > 0:32:08After yesterday, one thing is very clear.
0:32:08 > 0:32:11Jan and Martin are looking for a house for two people
0:32:11 > 0:32:15that can accommodate up to 30 for entertainment!
0:32:15 > 0:32:18And I think that's a tall order on anybody's budget, but especially theirs.
0:32:18 > 0:32:21Today, we do have a couple of options
0:32:21 > 0:32:23and I think they may just do the trick.
0:32:23 > 0:32:25So let's get going!
0:32:25 > 0:32:28So, it's chocks away at full throttle!'
0:32:28 > 0:32:31Our first house this morning is a more unusual proposition,
0:32:31 > 0:32:33and it's in Wychnor, 20 miles from Stafford.
0:32:33 > 0:32:37The property we're viewing sits in a development of 12 dwellings,
0:32:37 > 0:32:40in the grounds of a country club with fabulous facilities.
0:32:40 > 0:32:44The local shops are in Barton-under-Needwood, a five-minute drive away.
0:32:44 > 0:32:49And there's more pubs than Martin and Janet can poke a stick at. Let's see what they think.
0:32:49 > 0:32:51Wow, it's beautiful round here.
0:32:51 > 0:32:53- Lovely area.- Listen.
0:32:53 > 0:32:55BIRDS CHIRRUP FAINTLY
0:32:55 > 0:32:58- Pretty good, huh? - The sound of silence!- Yeah!
0:32:58 > 0:32:59The sound of silence.
0:32:59 > 0:33:01This club has facilities like a golf club,
0:33:01 > 0:33:05swimming pool, tennis court, pub and restaurant.
0:33:05 > 0:33:10When I say on your doorstep, I do pretty much mean literally.
0:33:10 > 0:33:13- Has anybody ever kissed the presenter?- Not yet!
0:33:13 > 0:33:16When I show you the house, you may well just! So save that thought!
0:33:16 > 0:33:18- Let's have a look.- Thank you.
0:33:18 > 0:33:23I think this neat, self-contained little community could suit them down to the ground.
0:33:23 > 0:33:27I'm sure you're dying to know which one we want to show you.
0:33:27 > 0:33:29- Absolutely, yes.- Got an idea?
0:33:29 > 0:33:33- The one right in front of us, I guess.- No. That one!
0:33:33 > 0:33:36This one in the corner.
0:33:36 > 0:33:39- Lovely.- It's so cute, actually.
0:33:39 > 0:33:41For your purposes, the fact that you're going to be
0:33:41 > 0:33:44travelling backwards and forwards, having neighbours...
0:33:44 > 0:33:49- Ready-made community, peace and quiet, the ticks are rattling. - Good.- Let's get in!
0:33:49 > 0:33:51Let's get in, come on!
0:33:51 > 0:33:55And, if that's not enough, this house also comes with
0:33:55 > 0:33:57a four-acre wood shared with the other properties.
0:33:57 > 0:34:00I can't wait to see their faces when we get inside.
0:34:01 > 0:34:07- Now, this is, I think, what you're looking for.- Wow.
0:34:07 > 0:34:09Now we're getting there, yes.
0:34:09 > 0:34:12- Oh, it's beautiful.- It is.
0:34:12 > 0:34:14It opens up, doesn't it?
0:34:14 > 0:34:18You can see all the space of... Instead of just looking there,
0:34:18 > 0:34:21you just look up, you just can't help looking up.
0:34:21 > 0:34:24That's what I wanted to do. Look at that fireplace.
0:34:24 > 0:34:27- It's great, isn't it? - I just love it, it's gorgeous.
0:34:27 > 0:34:29No, I love it.
0:34:29 > 0:34:30Yes. Wow. Tick.
0:34:30 > 0:34:32Tick, yes. Tick, tick!
0:34:32 > 0:34:35- You like it so much, you've both gone speechless!- I know.
0:34:35 > 0:34:39It's funny, because it's such a big room, I don't know what to look at.
0:34:39 > 0:34:42I'm trying to find something wrong with it. That's the thing.
0:34:42 > 0:34:46You know me, I'm desperately trying to find something wrong with it.
0:34:46 > 0:34:49Ever since we have arrived here, it's been, "Wow, wow, wow."
0:34:49 > 0:34:53I'm just waiting for the disappointment round the corner when it's not what we want.
0:34:53 > 0:34:58I'm pretty confident there won't be one, but, let's see as we work our way through the rooms.
0:34:58 > 0:35:03I'm just starting to get those shivers up my spine that normally mean Jan is about to write a cheque!
0:35:03 > 0:35:05I get the feeling you're quite impulsive.
0:35:05 > 0:35:09- We've got a mystery house as well. - I'm very impulsive.
0:35:09 > 0:35:13- But this is a really rocking start to this property.- Yes.
0:35:13 > 0:35:16It's about to get better. Let's keep going.
0:35:20 > 0:35:24So I'm hoping there's space for your mammoth dining table in here.
0:35:24 > 0:35:26Yes. It would fit in here.
0:35:26 > 0:35:29- Holy smoke! - It would fit beautifully here.
0:35:29 > 0:35:32As you can see, we're looking straight onto the kitchen.
0:35:32 > 0:35:36This is exactly what I was looking for, yes.
0:35:36 > 0:35:39Even more than that, just to give you the geography of this place,
0:35:39 > 0:35:43- we're in the original dovecote of this property. - Yes, I saw that outside.
0:35:43 > 0:35:45The hexagonal-shaped roof.
0:35:45 > 0:35:49So, this is where we are now. Off that way you've got a double garage.
0:35:49 > 0:35:52You have one bedroom through there, that could be the guest bedroom.
0:35:52 > 0:35:56and we've even got a little bit of office space.
0:35:56 > 0:36:01- It's got practicality and quirkality. - Quirkality!- Is that a word?
0:36:01 > 0:36:03It is now.
0:36:03 > 0:36:06This is the first house I've walked into and thought, "I can feel us here."
0:36:06 > 0:36:10You know when you start placing your own furniture, that's when you know.
0:36:10 > 0:36:15- The practical items will fit, and we will fit.- Shall we go through to the kitchen?- Yes.
0:36:17 > 0:36:21- Jan, the kitchen. This is what you've been looking for.- Yes.
0:36:21 > 0:36:24I think it's definitely that cooker that will do it for you.
0:36:24 > 0:36:29I'm desperately trying to find something I don't like in here, and there's just nothing.
0:36:29 > 0:36:31That cooker is my idea of heaven.
0:36:31 > 0:36:37This has got, from what we've seen of the house so far, it's got the old, the country feel.
0:36:37 > 0:36:41But it's got that contemporary edge that we were talking about. I can see Jan in here.
0:36:41 > 0:36:46I thought he was going to say, "I can see Jan there, chopping vegetables."
0:36:46 > 0:36:48He can see you being happy here, Jan!
0:36:48 > 0:36:52I don't know, you have to work a bit harder to make sure she's happy!
0:36:52 > 0:36:54- "I can see Jan making my tea in there."- I can!
0:36:54 > 0:36:57He can, he'll be sitting right there!
0:36:57 > 0:37:01I'll have a little sofa here, and I'll read the paper whilst you're cooking tea.
0:37:01 > 0:37:07- Some things haven't changed and gone contemporary!- Some things haven't modernised, you're right.
0:37:07 > 0:37:09Somebody has to pay for the house, Jan.
0:37:09 > 0:37:12Yes. There is that. I knew he'd come in useful at some point.
0:37:13 > 0:37:18But I think this could be it? Even I could picture you, Jan, right there.
0:37:18 > 0:37:21I certainly can't find anything about this whole place I don't like.
0:37:21 > 0:37:26We'll keep exploring. I'm pretty positive you won't find, but let's keep looking.
0:37:33 > 0:37:36This house just keeps on delivering.
0:37:36 > 0:37:39- Here we are, upstairs in the dovecote.- This is beautiful.
0:37:39 > 0:37:42In your master bedroom, and look up.
0:37:42 > 0:37:45- I can't even see all the way up! - THEY LAUGH
0:37:47 > 0:37:52- Deary me, you're right. - I could lie in bed all day and just look at that ceiling.
0:37:52 > 0:37:54It does deliver in spades, doesn't it?
0:37:54 > 0:37:57You've got plenty of space, you could put a huge bed in here.
0:37:57 > 0:37:59And...built-in storage!
0:37:59 > 0:38:01Plenty of space.
0:38:01 > 0:38:05- Shoe wardrobes!- Shoes, clothes...
0:38:05 > 0:38:09This is another room where, as Jan was in the kitchen downstairs,
0:38:09 > 0:38:12you can't actually find anything wrong with it.
0:38:12 > 0:38:16It's a blank canvas, almost, in terms of you being able to put your own belongings in.
0:38:16 > 0:38:18- And they would fit.- Perfectly.
0:38:18 > 0:38:22The great thing is that the family bathroom is just over there.
0:38:22 > 0:38:29I say family bathroom, there's only one bedroom up here so it's your en suite. Let's have a look.
0:38:32 > 0:38:35- And...the bathroom.- Wow.
0:38:35 > 0:38:38I don't even think you could complain about this.
0:38:38 > 0:38:39- No. Not at all.- Love it.
0:38:39 > 0:38:42Huge bath, and just look round the corner.
0:38:43 > 0:38:46Ah-h-h! No running up and down the stairs to the shower.
0:38:46 > 0:38:50- Absolutely not.- It just keeps delivering, this house, doesn't it?
0:38:50 > 0:38:53- It does.- I could literally move in.
0:38:53 > 0:38:55And actually might.
0:38:55 > 0:38:57I just love it. Love it.
0:38:57 > 0:39:01- Of course, for that to happen, we need to get the right price for you, don't we?- We do.
0:39:01 > 0:39:03Which is what we haven't talked about yet!
0:39:03 > 0:39:07- It's the worrying part. - So, let's go out to the garden, have a look at that,
0:39:07 > 0:39:10and then talk about how much it will cost. OK? Come on.
0:39:10 > 0:39:14Did you notice that? WILL cost. Did you notice that?
0:39:22 > 0:39:24Finally, the garden.
0:39:24 > 0:39:26This is perfect.
0:39:26 > 0:39:29Not too much lawn.
0:39:29 > 0:39:34- Just perfect, low maintenance. - Another great entertaining space. - Small place to sit outside.
0:39:34 > 0:39:37- Room for a hot tub.- How much do you think you'd have to pay for it?
0:39:37 > 0:39:39What it's on the market for?
0:39:39 > 0:39:43- 380.- All the fixtures and fittings and the actual reception area,
0:39:43 > 0:39:48I think if it were three bedrooms we'd be looking at another 30.
0:39:48 > 0:39:50I think it's 399.
0:39:50 > 0:39:53If it's over our budget, I'll be very disappointed.
0:39:53 > 0:39:58- Because it's made such an impact on us.- Are you ready to get your chequebook out?
0:39:59 > 0:40:03This property, I can't believe how accurate you are, given that you've been in Kuwait
0:40:03 > 0:40:08and out of the property scene completely! It's on at £399,950.
0:40:09 > 0:40:15It was on at £440,000 for a while, it's been dropped recently, so that's pretty much the price.
0:40:15 > 0:40:18That's it. It's within budget. I know you've got a lot to think about now.
0:40:18 > 0:40:20No, there isn't a lot to think about.
0:40:20 > 0:40:22Well, we've got the mystery house to see.
0:40:22 > 0:40:26Oh, sorry, there is one other thing. This has got to be a first for telly.
0:40:28 > 0:40:30Ooh, I'm going to blush!
0:40:30 > 0:40:34But if you buy this house, then I'm very, very happy.
0:40:34 > 0:40:38And on that note, in you go, before it gets any more risque!
0:40:38 > 0:40:40You're such a tart!
0:40:40 > 0:40:45That's definitely a first for telly. I got a kiss because we may have just found their perfect house.
0:40:45 > 0:40:50But we've still got the mystery house to come and that could just put a spanner in the works.
0:40:50 > 0:40:52It's crystal clear
0:40:52 > 0:40:55that Martin and Janet love this immaculate property,
0:40:55 > 0:40:58on the market for £50 short of £400,000.
0:40:58 > 0:41:02It offers spacious and light accommodation, with a large lounge,
0:41:02 > 0:41:04fabulous kitchen, two bedrooms
0:41:04 > 0:41:06and a study for Martin.
0:41:06 > 0:41:10This is what we've been chuntering about, isn't it? Light, airy...
0:41:10 > 0:41:13Can you just imagine us cuddled up in front of this fire?
0:41:13 > 0:41:15Stunning. I used that word a couple of times
0:41:15 > 0:41:17with the other houses,
0:41:17 > 0:41:21but this time, it just ticks all our boxes.
0:41:21 > 0:41:26The list of criteria that we have mentioned, it wipes the first half-dozen off
0:41:26 > 0:41:29without even batting an eyelid and then just keeps going.
0:41:29 > 0:41:33The location, I think, is absolutely perfect. It's so beautiful.
0:41:33 > 0:41:37Coming up the country lanes, where the fields have just been harvested...
0:41:37 > 0:41:43The car park to the country club appears to me to be further enough away that you won't hear
0:41:43 > 0:41:47the clanking of car doors constantly. As far as I'm concerned
0:41:47 > 0:41:52it's an added bonus, because that's the facilities that we're going to make full use of and utilise,
0:41:52 > 0:41:55from the sports facilities to the bar. Everything's there.
0:41:55 > 0:42:01It's got a sense of homeliness, it's got style, it's got a bit of contemporary.
0:42:01 > 0:42:05It's light, it's airy, there's space, there's room for our things.
0:42:05 > 0:42:08I can see us living here, I really can.
0:42:10 > 0:42:11- Hello, you two.- Hi.
0:42:11 > 0:42:17I hate to drag you away from this near-perfect property, but our journey is not over quite yet.
0:42:17 > 0:42:19Let's keep going.
0:42:22 > 0:42:26Staffordshire is widely regarded as one of the finest producers of china in the world,
0:42:26 > 0:42:31thanks to the efforts of famous producers such as Josiah Spode and Josiah Wedgwood.
0:42:31 > 0:42:36As a early as 1785, the operations in Stoke-on-Trent
0:42:36 > 0:42:41employed 20,000 workers, giving the area the name the Potteries.
0:42:41 > 0:42:45Martin and Janet are meeting up with Janice Beech for a tour of the Gladstone Pottery Museum.
0:42:45 > 0:42:49It's the last standing Victorian factory.
0:42:49 > 0:42:54There were about 2,000 bottle ovens in Stoke in their heyday, in the Victorian times.
0:42:54 > 0:42:55All firing away, 24/7.
0:42:55 > 0:42:59The men that worked in the ovens, of course, they spent
0:42:59 > 0:43:05up to four, five days in here, never going home, working, and loved it.
0:43:05 > 0:43:10And if you read the histories, they're all proud of their job and thought it was wonderful.
0:43:10 > 0:43:16The huge bottle ovens were the workhorses of the process and could hold up to 2,000 containers,
0:43:16 > 0:43:21known as saggers, which were used to protect and hold the china pieces when being fired.
0:43:21 > 0:43:23How hot did it get in here when they were firing?
0:43:23 > 0:43:26It would've been about 1,250 degrees.
0:43:26 > 0:43:30Which took quite a few days to get to temperature.
0:43:30 > 0:43:35And just sheer skill, really, cos no thermometers.
0:43:35 > 0:43:37Timing and temperature were critical,
0:43:37 > 0:43:40but after seven days of firing and then cooling,
0:43:40 > 0:43:43the saggers were removed and the pieces were ready for decoration,
0:43:43 > 0:43:48And Janice is keen for Janet to put her creative talents to the test.
0:43:48 > 0:43:53During the 1700s, massive quantities of beautifully decorated white porcelain
0:43:53 > 0:43:55were imported from China. It was cheap,
0:43:55 > 0:43:59and an ideal accompaniment for the tea chests the vessels were carrying.
0:43:59 > 0:44:01And it also acted as a ballast for the ships.
0:44:01 > 0:44:05The colour and clarity of the porcelain soon gained popularity,
0:44:05 > 0:44:08and the English potters became envious of the material.
0:44:08 > 0:44:12The local potters, Spode and Wedgwood, tried desperately to copy it.
0:44:12 > 0:44:16Eventually Spode, who was born in Burslem, so was Josiah Wedgwood,
0:44:16 > 0:44:21actually eventually discovered by putting bone into the pottery
0:44:21 > 0:44:24that he could achieve this lovely white translucency.
0:44:24 > 0:44:27I think that's absolutely fantastic, actually.
0:44:27 > 0:44:28Can you give me a job?
0:44:28 > 0:44:34I think so! I've been trying to recruit people. I think you should apply for a job.
0:44:34 > 0:44:39- Wonderful. Did you know you were artistic?- I do now!- Yes!
0:44:45 > 0:44:50For our mystery property, we've decided to deliver some of what our couple are looking for.
0:44:50 > 0:44:56It's certainly got community spirit and there's plenty of space to entertain, but I'm pretty certain
0:44:56 > 0:45:00it's something so grand even they wouldn't have considered it.
0:45:00 > 0:45:03Today's mystery house is an unusual offering,
0:45:03 > 0:45:06and it's just outside Biddulph, 10 miles from Stoke-on-Trent.
0:45:06 > 0:45:08The busy high street of Congleton
0:45:08 > 0:45:11is just three miles away and caters for most needs.
0:45:11 > 0:45:15And, of course, there's the all-important pub for socialising.
0:45:15 > 0:45:17Our mystery property is one of just nine apartments
0:45:17 > 0:45:21that form part of Biddulph Grange, a handsome Grade 2 listed house.
0:45:21 > 0:45:26It sits within 73 acres of woodland and meadows,
0:45:26 > 0:45:29which would be perfect walking territory for Martin and Janet.
0:45:29 > 0:45:32Gosh, you've done it again, haven't you?
0:45:32 > 0:45:36Surpassed myself. This is how far your budget could stretch!
0:45:36 > 0:45:39Sort of.
0:45:39 > 0:45:42- Maybe a small part of it. - You're on the right track, yes.
0:45:42 > 0:45:45This is an old Victorian manor house. It's so grand, isn't it?
0:45:45 > 0:45:47Beautiful, absolutely stunning.
0:45:47 > 0:45:49It's been divided up into nine apartments.
0:45:49 > 0:45:54- Nine?!- Yes.- That surprises me, I thought it would be more.- Yeah? So a lot to look forward to there.
0:45:54 > 0:45:58- Can't wait.- I hardly dare think about what might be inside.
0:45:58 > 0:46:01Again, you could've just... You can work up for another kiss.
0:46:02 > 0:46:05Be causing a divorce at this rate! Come on, let's go!
0:46:07 > 0:46:10The apartment I want to show them is located at the back of the building,
0:46:10 > 0:46:13overlooking a lovely communal courtyard.
0:46:13 > 0:46:18So as you come through, you have a potential bedroom there, family bathroom behind me
0:46:18 > 0:46:22and through into this hallway, you get the idea,
0:46:22 > 0:46:24it's all on one level.
0:46:24 > 0:46:27- What do you think? - Yeah. It's a bit dark.
0:46:27 > 0:46:28- Feels dark?- It feels dark.
0:46:28 > 0:46:31Let me show you a lighter room, then. Let's go into the kitchen.
0:46:34 > 0:46:38- What do you think of this for a kitchen?- Oh, I love it.
0:46:38 > 0:46:40This is great, isn't it? Yes.
0:46:40 > 0:46:44Just ever so slightly still too dark.
0:46:44 > 0:46:47The lighting can be sorted out, but, no, it's a lovely space.
0:46:47 > 0:46:49It's got a nice...
0:46:49 > 0:46:55Nice area in the middle here for eating, and this little step all adds a little bit of style to it.
0:46:55 > 0:46:59- Really nicely done.- It's lovely. - Yeah, lovely. Very nice.
0:46:59 > 0:47:04Well, we've scored well on the kitchen. Let's see some of the other rooms. This way.
0:47:09 > 0:47:13- Here is your living room.- Ha-ha!
0:47:13 > 0:47:15- Very nice. - That's light and airy, isn't it?
0:47:15 > 0:47:19- Isn't it just?- This is a big room into which big furniture could go.
0:47:19 > 0:47:23I almost feel like I haven't got anything that'd fit in with the character of this property.
0:47:23 > 0:47:27I almost feel like this property requires a character, and that's not the one that I've got.
0:47:27 > 0:47:31Well, it's not over yet. The second of the three bedrooms
0:47:31 > 0:47:35has a huge arched window and is being used as a study,
0:47:35 > 0:47:39but I want to show them the master, which will surely accommodate
0:47:39 > 0:47:41a wardrobe or two for all those shoes and shirts.
0:47:41 > 0:47:45- And this is yet another grand room in this house.- Oh, it is.
0:47:45 > 0:47:47- Your master bedroom. - It's rather lovely.
0:47:47 > 0:47:51Although I feel, really, that I would love this as my dining area.
0:47:51 > 0:47:54Bigger reception, put more of my things in here.
0:47:54 > 0:47:57I just somehow feel it's a little bit of a wasted space just for...
0:47:57 > 0:48:01Except for the en suite, do we want an en suite dining room?
0:48:01 > 0:48:04- I don't know if there is one. - There is one right here, good point.
0:48:04 > 0:48:09- Let's have a look, and then you can work out whether it would work being next to your dining room.- True.
0:48:11 > 0:48:14A big en suite with the master bedroom, so you are right,
0:48:14 > 0:48:19if you had it as a dining room it would be interesting to have this
0:48:19 > 0:48:22located at the end. Got a big stand-up shower there,
0:48:22 > 0:48:27- huge bath and all the space around here.- It's a fantastic bathroom.
0:48:27 > 0:48:30It is, actually. Again, it's dark!
0:48:30 > 0:48:32- Nothing that a bit of lighting can't fix.- I know!
0:48:32 > 0:48:36- You don't want a really bright bathroom, though.- Yes, you do!
0:48:36 > 0:48:40- You do want a really bright bathroom. - Yes, you do!
0:48:41 > 0:48:45This has got to be the largest en suite I've ever seen, but I can't see the bedroom
0:48:45 > 0:48:48working as a dining room for entertaining all their friends.
0:48:48 > 0:48:52Just as well I have something else up my sleeve to tempt them, and it's outside.
0:48:56 > 0:49:01If you're wondering why I've brought you away from the apartment, it's because this is obviously
0:49:01 > 0:49:06an old manor house and the common parts are shared by all nine residents.
0:49:06 > 0:49:10And the Grand Hall is one of the common parts, just through here.
0:49:10 > 0:49:12- Wow.- Wow, indeed.
0:49:12 > 0:49:19This could be the answer to the problems of how you entertain all your many guests. Come this way.
0:49:21 > 0:49:24Now, come in here.
0:49:25 > 0:49:27This area here...
0:49:27 > 0:49:29- is an amazing room, isn't it? - Isn't it just?
0:49:29 > 0:49:35And the beauty of this mystery house is that you all get equal access to it, you all own it.
0:49:35 > 0:49:41Current residents use this for parties, black-tie events, they've had weddings, they've just had
0:49:41 > 0:49:45friends round, sitting round in this area. The only stipulation is
0:49:45 > 0:49:48if you are doing something you invite the others, that's it.
0:49:48 > 0:49:51Other than that, it's everyone's to use.
0:49:51 > 0:49:54Objectively, it's a lovely place and I like this room,
0:49:54 > 0:49:57but I don't feel comfortable about this.
0:49:57 > 0:50:01Let's go outside, stand on that amazing, beautiful, pristine lawn,
0:50:01 > 0:50:07and ponder how much it could cost to live in a house like this. Come on.
0:50:07 > 0:50:11Well, they certainly didn't bargain for all this.
0:50:11 > 0:50:15There is no doubt it's a unique property, but how deep will they have to dig in their pockets?
0:50:15 > 0:50:20It's a very grand, big house, beautiful apartment, a great location,
0:50:20 > 0:50:22but how much do you think it will cost you?
0:50:23 > 0:50:26I think it's going to be right up at the top end,
0:50:26 > 0:50:30possibly just even a little bit over our budget, maybe 410.
0:50:30 > 0:50:34I think a little bit under, I think probably about 380, 385.
0:50:34 > 0:50:35Quite a bit under.
0:50:35 > 0:50:40So, a big split in your price range this time, and...
0:50:40 > 0:50:41you're both wrong!
0:50:43 > 0:50:45You've lost your credibility now.
0:50:45 > 0:50:48- It's somewhere in the middle, it's on at £400,000.- Right.
0:50:48 > 0:50:53- So bang on the top of your budget. - Right.- What do you think about that?
0:50:53 > 0:50:57It's lovely, it's impressive, it's stunning, it's really well-presented,
0:50:57 > 0:51:00it's genteel living, it's not Martin and Janet.
0:51:00 > 0:51:04It's more a beautiful retreat for the weekends,
0:51:04 > 0:51:10but we are looking for a home base that we can mess about with and mess up, and it's just too nice.
0:51:10 > 0:51:16Why don't you wander off and have another wander round the grand Victorian palace?
0:51:16 > 0:51:19- Mm, yes.- I will see you later. - OK, thanks.
0:51:19 > 0:51:23At £400,000, this mystery property is at the top end of their budget.
0:51:23 > 0:51:26It's an unusual proposition, but it would offer them
0:51:26 > 0:51:28the community feel they're looking for.
0:51:28 > 0:51:31There's a large high-spec kitchen, three bedrooms,
0:51:31 > 0:51:35including a master en suite, and the use of a communal hall and grounds.
0:51:35 > 0:51:39In your career and everything else we've had forced communal living
0:51:39 > 0:51:42for a long time, people telling you where you can and...
0:51:42 > 0:51:46What you can and can't do. I just feel that this is our opportunity to have
0:51:46 > 0:51:50our own piece of countryside. I don't want other people telling me what to do.
0:51:50 > 0:51:54We've done that regimented communal living with rules and regulations.
0:51:54 > 0:51:57Overall, I still don't think it would work for us.
0:51:57 > 0:52:04We're back to the classic rooms, and it is a classic building, so there's no reason it shouldn't have rooms.
0:52:04 > 0:52:08It just hasn't got that flow, that openness that we're after.
0:52:08 > 0:52:13It's a very, very dark property, and it's not that open space that we are looking for, you know?
0:52:13 > 0:52:17The joy of those high beams, it's just not there.
0:52:17 > 0:52:22- A lovely spot just to sit and think about things.- Gorgeous view.
0:52:22 > 0:52:24I see you've found a place to rest your feet.
0:52:24 > 0:52:29I hope your brains are still working, because you have a think about what you're going to do next.
0:52:32 > 0:52:36As Martin and Janet's mission draws to an end, it's time to consider
0:52:36 > 0:52:40their options and for us to discover whether we have hit the target.
0:52:41 > 0:52:45For the first time in ages, I am certain of the favourite
0:52:45 > 0:52:49property of our couple, and my money is going on the converted dovecote.
0:52:49 > 0:52:54But am I right? And more importantly, do they love it enough to make it their home?
0:52:54 > 0:52:56Let's find out.
0:53:00 > 0:53:04Well, my dears, it's been 22 years
0:53:04 > 0:53:08and a journey from Kuwait back all the way to Staffordshire,
0:53:08 > 0:53:13but here we are trying to find you a perfect house in the country for you to settle down.
0:53:13 > 0:53:16We started with the old converted forge.
0:53:16 > 0:53:20Cast your minds back, what did you think when we first walked up to it?
0:53:20 > 0:53:24It looked very much like what we were after from the outside.
0:53:24 > 0:53:27So then when we went in, did it live up to the promise?
0:53:27 > 0:53:31It didn't have that open-plan look we're looking for.
0:53:31 > 0:53:34It was warm, it was country,
0:53:34 > 0:53:38it was homely and it was really well done,
0:53:38 > 0:53:45but it was...just lacked that ability to flow through the downstairs.
0:53:45 > 0:53:47We looked at a detached property together, didn't we?
0:53:47 > 0:53:50A new build, built to an old design.
0:53:50 > 0:53:52Lots of timber and brick.
0:53:52 > 0:53:54From the outside, that was impressive,
0:53:54 > 0:53:57but how did you feel when you went in and had a wander round?
0:53:57 > 0:54:01The kitchen was nice, it was beautiful, large, well-appointed.
0:54:01 > 0:54:06I liked the fact it went round the corner, that was the open bit of it.
0:54:06 > 0:54:10But as we discussed, we wouldn't get our furniture in that living room.
0:54:10 > 0:54:14One thing we won't compromise on is making everything we own fit the house.
0:54:14 > 0:54:17- It's got to be the other way round. - Yeah.
0:54:17 > 0:54:19We're prepared to make certain sacrifices,
0:54:19 > 0:54:23but not changing our lifestyle to fit into a house that clearly isn't us.
0:54:23 > 0:54:26We'll thin our stuff down, it's got to happen,
0:54:26 > 0:54:29but as Jan says, not to just be able to buy one property
0:54:29 > 0:54:33are we prepared to throw away all our cherished possessions.
0:54:33 > 0:54:36It almost felt like a mystery house when we got to the old dovecote.
0:54:36 > 0:54:38It looked so tiny from outside,
0:54:38 > 0:54:41this lovely little cottage in the corner,
0:54:41 > 0:54:43and initially I just thought, "Oh, no.
0:54:43 > 0:54:49"This is going to be low beams, little cottage, exactly what I'm not looking for, tucked in the corner."
0:54:49 > 0:54:51But a surprise for you as you walked through!
0:54:51 > 0:54:55Exactly the opposite effect from the other house. You went inside,
0:54:55 > 0:54:58and it seemed to go back and back and back and, yeah...
0:54:58 > 0:55:04And the essence of space the moment you walked through the door, I just loved everything about it.
0:55:04 > 0:55:05Yeah. It just...
0:55:06 > 0:55:10- It hit everything.- Well, to end the journey we, of course,
0:55:10 > 0:55:13had the mystery house just to throw a spanner in the works.
0:55:13 > 0:55:18It was a lovely show home experience for me that I'd be proud
0:55:18 > 0:55:21to show people, but I couldn't see myself living in it.
0:55:21 > 0:55:24- It's genteel living. - And it's time to move on from that?
0:55:24 > 0:55:29- Yeah.- You were here on holiday, but we've been on a property search.
0:55:29 > 0:55:31Of course, that brings us to the question of have
0:55:31 > 0:55:34any of the properties we've shown you hit the mark?
0:55:34 > 0:55:38I think it's very clear which one the winner is, it's the old dovecote.
0:55:38 > 0:55:40- Yes?- Absolutely!
0:55:40 > 0:55:42That's hit the spot.
0:55:42 > 0:55:45But what is the next step for you?
0:55:45 > 0:55:48We've got three next steps in our minds.
0:55:48 > 0:55:51One of which, we just need to establish what sort of access
0:55:51 > 0:55:54there is to the leisure facilities that are next door,
0:55:54 > 0:55:59we just need to talk to the bank to make sure that their provisional offer still stands for the cash,
0:55:59 > 0:56:05and we need the phone number of the estate agent so we can go tomorrow morning for a second viewing, because
0:56:05 > 0:56:09we leave the country in four days' time and we've got to get moving.
0:56:09 > 0:56:13I love it, so impulsive, so direct. So military!
0:56:13 > 0:56:16"I have a three stage plan!"
0:56:16 > 0:56:20- And if it all goes ahead...- It'll be happening at 0900 tomorrow morning!
0:56:20 > 0:56:24- You'll be moving in!- Chocks away! - THEY ALL LAUGH
0:56:24 > 0:56:28- And are you on board with that plan?- Apparently!
0:56:28 > 0:56:32- Thank you both very much, it's been an absolute pleasure. - Thank you.
0:56:35 > 0:56:40Jan and Martin may well have spent the last couple of years living it up on the Kuwaiti sand dunes,
0:56:40 > 0:56:44but all they've really wanted is to come home to the Staffordshire hills
0:56:44 > 0:56:50and to live a simple life with a traditional home, a roaring fire and a pub on their doorstep.
0:56:50 > 0:56:53And do you know what? I think we've found it for them.
0:56:53 > 0:56:56I'll see you next time on Escape to the Country.
0:56:56 > 0:57:00If you want to escape to the country in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland
0:57:00 > 0:57:03or England and need our help, please apply online at:
0:57:22 > 0:57:25Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd
0:57:25 > 0:57:27E-mail subtitling@bbc.co.uk