0:00:02 > 0:00:06Today I'm in a county that's famous for this stuff - gorgeous, natural spring water,
0:00:06 > 0:00:11ready to drink, filtered by the granite in the hills that surround me. On a hot day like this...
0:00:11 > 0:00:14..Mmm! It's absolutely fantastic.
0:00:14 > 0:00:19It's so good, they say the Queen never travels without a bottle of it by her side.
0:00:19 > 0:00:22Frankly, if it's good enough for Her Majesty,
0:00:22 > 0:00:28it's certainly good enough for me. Stick around for a very refreshing Escape To The Country.
0:00:40 > 0:00:46In today's show, I'll be helping a couple escape suburbia for pastures new in the countryside.
0:00:47 > 0:00:49- This is lovely.- Isn't it?
0:00:49 > 0:00:52- Oh!- Look.- Oh, well done.
0:00:52 > 0:00:55I'll be guiding them around a selection of rural homes
0:00:55 > 0:00:57and we almost get full marks.
0:00:57 > 0:01:01- I'll give you a nine-and-a-half out of ten.- Hurray! Great!
0:01:01 > 0:01:07And of course there's the mystery house, but will any of our offerings have them heading for the country?
0:01:07 > 0:01:12Today I'm in Worcestershire, standing on top of its famous landmark, the Malvern Hills -
0:01:12 > 0:01:16famous of course for all of that wonderful water.
0:01:16 > 0:01:18They've been drinking it around here for centuries,
0:01:18 > 0:01:22but by the 19th century, Malvern itself had become something of a spa town.
0:01:22 > 0:01:27The great luminaries of the day would come here to take the waters for its restorative powers.
0:01:27 > 0:01:32Among them, the poet Tennyson, and the father of evolution himself, Charles Darwin.
0:01:32 > 0:01:38As you can see from the glorious landscape, there's a lot more to this place than just a drink.
0:01:38 > 0:01:41Worcestershire lies in the West Midlands,
0:01:41 > 0:01:43bordered by five counties.
0:01:43 > 0:01:47One of its most striking land forms are the Malvern Hills,
0:01:47 > 0:01:50which rise dramatically from the plain below.
0:01:50 > 0:01:54At their foot sits Great Malvern. Internationally renowned for its spring water,
0:01:54 > 0:01:58it was also home to one of Britain's most treasured composers - Edward Elgar.
0:01:58 > 0:02:01Delving deeper into the history books,
0:02:01 > 0:02:05the county town of Worcester is dominated by the 12th-century cathedral.
0:02:05 > 0:02:09Today the canals that were the motorways of yesteryear offer attractive places to live.
0:02:09 > 0:02:15If you don't fancy life on the water, then there's a rich variety of housing stock to choose from.
0:02:15 > 0:02:19It has been argued over the years that Worcestershire
0:02:19 > 0:02:24has been the poorer cousin of its glamorous neighbour, Gloucestershire,
0:02:24 > 0:02:26but I think all that is changing.
0:02:26 > 0:02:29In large part, that's due to better transport links,
0:02:29 > 0:02:33not least the new M6 toll road, which really is opening up the entire region.
0:02:33 > 0:02:35But here are a few facts and figures for you.
0:02:35 > 0:02:41In the '90s, people moving into Worcestershire accounted for around 20% of all house sales.
0:02:41 > 0:02:44These days, you can double that. And there's more good news.
0:02:44 > 0:02:46Over in Gloucestershire,
0:02:46 > 0:02:50your average four-bed will set you back a whopping £22,000 more
0:02:50 > 0:02:52than it will here. So as you can see,
0:02:52 > 0:02:55plenty of good reasons to move to this county and as ever,
0:02:55 > 0:02:58there are some fantastic properties on offer.
0:02:59 > 0:03:03If you're looking for a large slice of Worcestershire and have a budget to match,
0:03:03 > 0:03:09then how about this five-bedroom property in Malvern Wells at just under £1.9 million?
0:03:09 > 0:03:12The farmhouse and barn were redeveloped eight years ago
0:03:12 > 0:03:14and are now an impressive family home.
0:03:14 > 0:03:18You'll need to sit on a mower for the ten-acre plot.
0:03:19 > 0:03:21Alternatively, £525,000 would buy
0:03:21 > 0:03:25this four-bedroom cottage just outside Franche.
0:03:25 > 0:03:27Dating back to the 1800s,
0:03:27 > 0:03:31it's the beams and brickwork that help to give this property its cosy feel.
0:03:31 > 0:03:35The veranda is perfectly positioned for soaking up the wonderful view.
0:03:35 > 0:03:41And finally, if you're looking for a stylish home on a more modest £325,000 budget,
0:03:41 > 0:03:46then look no further than this 17th-century, two-bedroom cottage in Broadway.
0:03:46 > 0:03:52The interiors are the epitome of modernity and it's topped off with a pretty courtyard garden.
0:03:52 > 0:03:57So if that sneaky peek at the Worcestershire property market has whetted your appetite
0:03:57 > 0:04:03and you fancy moving here, you're in good company, cos that's exactly what today's buyers want to do.
0:04:03 > 0:04:09Financial director Martin and wife Kim share their modern Wolverhampton home with their two daughters,
0:04:09 > 0:04:1219-year-old Kimberley and 22-year-old Sarah-May,
0:04:12 > 0:04:16plus a menagerie of animals that includes dogs, cats, chickens,
0:04:16 > 0:04:21and goats. In addition, there are four equine friends based two miles away,
0:04:21 > 0:04:24who are the driving force behind this move. Until now,
0:04:24 > 0:04:29it's been the girls who've made the journey to look after them, but that's about to change.
0:04:29 > 0:04:34It takes us ten minutes to get here and it'll be more convenient in the next house
0:04:34 > 0:04:38if Mum can step out of the back door and help us out more if we're jetting off with our careers.
0:04:38 > 0:04:42So it looks like the job has fallen to Mum. Meanwhile,
0:04:42 > 0:04:45Martin works from home, but needs to travel regularly for his job
0:04:45 > 0:04:48so good access to the road networks is important.
0:04:48 > 0:04:50After a 2.5-year search,
0:04:50 > 0:04:54finding a property that suits in the right location is proving tricky.
0:04:54 > 0:04:58- We've looked at quite a few properties.- We have looked at a lot. - A lot of properties.
0:04:58 > 0:05:04We've found that either the house is perfect and the land isn't, or the land is perfect and the house isn't.
0:05:04 > 0:05:07And when husband and wife are looking for different styles,
0:05:07 > 0:05:10that doesn't help either.
0:05:10 > 0:05:11I really like period properties,
0:05:11 > 0:05:16I love fireplaces, room for a range, beams,
0:05:16 > 0:05:19any old-fashioned features.
0:05:19 > 0:05:24I like period properties, but I'm also open to more modern properties.
0:05:24 > 0:05:30They have the advantage of being more energy efficient, quite often more spacious,
0:05:30 > 0:05:37- and therefore they can be more light and airy.- Whatever. Dream on!
0:05:37 > 0:05:41I sense a storm brewing. So what will make them happy?
0:05:41 > 0:05:45The perfect house for me would be three double bedrooms,
0:05:45 > 0:05:49um, en suite would be fabulous.
0:05:49 > 0:05:53Downstairs, I'd like a large kitchen, separate dining room,
0:05:53 > 0:05:56possibly a study and a large lounge.
0:05:56 > 0:05:59I would like the house to be period as well.
0:05:59 > 0:06:04Outside, we would need a minimum of five acres of grazing,
0:06:04 > 0:06:09stable block and preferably, though not essential, a manege,
0:06:09 > 0:06:13but as long as there's room to put one in, that would be fine.
0:06:13 > 0:06:15Before we can start our search,
0:06:15 > 0:06:20Martin and Kim are getting an up-to-date valuation for their house.
0:06:20 > 0:06:22This is a fine, detached family house
0:06:22 > 0:06:25ideally located for schools and amenities.
0:06:25 > 0:06:31I value this property at £399,950.
0:06:34 > 0:06:37With that in mind, what's the budget for this next move?
0:06:37 > 0:06:42Our budget for the move is between £600-650,000.
0:06:42 > 0:06:47So the budget is sorted, but is the road to the dream property paved with harmony?
0:06:47 > 0:06:53To try and find the property that we both 100% agree on, I think is probably impossible.
0:06:53 > 0:06:56As long as he agrees with me, it's not a problem at all.
0:06:56 > 0:07:04Point taken! It'll have to be a compromise. How big I HAVE to compromise is the question.
0:07:08 > 0:07:13Now you might be forgiven for thinking that we're looking for more of an ark than a house,
0:07:13 > 0:07:18for this lot, after all, their £650,000 is going to have to go some way
0:07:18 > 0:07:23to finding the right sort of land to accommodate their four horses and a growing menagerie of animals.
0:07:23 > 0:07:27That will affect the sort of property we can offer them.
0:07:27 > 0:07:31Within that, they want three bedrooms and a nice big kitchen-diner,
0:07:31 > 0:07:35and a study, but here's the rub - Kim wants something old and characterful,
0:07:35 > 0:07:38whereas Martin is quite happy for something quite modern.
0:07:38 > 0:07:42Add to that they both think that they're the boss in this relationship...
0:07:42 > 0:07:45I think this could all get quite interesting, really!
0:07:45 > 0:07:49With Martin's commute in mind, we're concentrating our search
0:07:49 > 0:07:52in hamlets and villages within easy reach of the motorway network.
0:07:52 > 0:07:56Over two days, I'll be showing them around some superb equestrian properties
0:07:56 > 0:08:01but I'll be asking my buyers to guess the price, once they've had a good look around.
0:08:01 > 0:08:03And last is the mystery house -
0:08:03 > 0:08:07a property chosen to challenge their idea of the country dream.
0:08:09 > 0:08:13Well, chaps, here we are on the banks of the Severn, how about that?
0:08:13 > 0:08:14BOTH: Beautiful.
0:08:14 > 0:08:18This house search is slightly different to many because
0:08:18 > 0:08:22- this is driven by your passion for horses, isn't it?- Yes, definitely.
0:08:22 > 0:08:27- You really do want them out the back door, which they're not at the moment.- No, they're not.
0:08:27 > 0:08:33So, are we looking for a house with stables or stables with a house?
0:08:33 > 0:08:35It depends who you ask. Ask the horses!
0:08:35 > 0:08:41But, of course, you've also got two lovely daughters as well, and a growing flock of other animals.
0:08:41 > 0:08:43Lots of them. Yes, like a mini zoo.
0:08:43 > 0:08:45You've been looking for some time...
0:08:45 > 0:08:49We have, about two-and-a-half to three years now.
0:08:49 > 0:08:52- That's what worries me. - It worries us as well!
0:08:52 > 0:08:56You've given us some good numbers to work with, £650,000 or thereabouts
0:08:56 > 0:08:59which is a healthy budget, but we have to accommodate an awful lot
0:08:59 > 0:09:04for that. Are you both going to agree, do you think?
0:09:06 > 0:09:08Yes, definitely.
0:09:08 > 0:09:10Possibly!
0:09:10 > 0:09:14I love it, "Possibly". Let's leave it at possibly and see how we get on. Come on.
0:09:16 > 0:09:22So, for their budget of £650,000, Martin and Kim are looking for an equestrian property.
0:09:22 > 0:09:27Kim is eager to find a large kitchen and Martin needs a study, as he works from home.
0:09:27 > 0:09:30As the girls will move with them, they need three bedrooms
0:09:30 > 0:09:32and above all, there has to be a stable block
0:09:32 > 0:09:34with at least five acres of land.
0:09:34 > 0:09:35It's a tall order,
0:09:35 > 0:09:39but let's hope we can find something that fits the bill.
0:09:39 > 0:09:42Well, having thought about this move for so long,
0:09:42 > 0:09:45how do you feel now that we're at the threshold of a new era for you?
0:09:45 > 0:09:47Excited, I think.
0:09:47 > 0:09:52Looking forward to seeing these houses. It'll be very exciting, yes.
0:09:52 > 0:09:55But you are, by your own admission, Kim, very picky.
0:09:55 > 0:09:58- I'm very picky, yes. - Am I right to be nervous?
0:09:58 > 0:10:00- Very right.- Just be afraid.
0:10:00 > 0:10:02Be afraid? I've never heard that before!
0:10:02 > 0:10:04You've never met ME before!
0:10:04 > 0:10:09It sounds like we could be in for a rough ride, although I hope not!
0:10:09 > 0:10:13The first house we've arranged to see is in Hurtle Hill, just north
0:10:13 > 0:10:17of the Malvern Hills and 15 miles from the county town of Worcester.
0:10:17 > 0:10:22It's an incredibly rural area and there's the bonus of being on the doorstep of the Wyre Forest,
0:10:22 > 0:10:25one of the largest remaining ancient woodlands in Britain.
0:10:25 > 0:10:29Stourport-on-Severn would be Martin and Kim's local town.
0:10:29 > 0:10:33Situated on the banks of the Staffordshire and Worcestershire canal,
0:10:33 > 0:10:37by the late 1700s, it had become the busiest inland port in the Midlands.
0:10:37 > 0:10:41Back in Hurtle Hill, our first house comes with a splendid bonus.
0:10:42 > 0:10:47OK, here we are, our first offering of the day.
0:10:47 > 0:10:49Wow, that is a view to die for, isn't it?
0:10:49 > 0:10:51- Isn't it just?- Absolutely.
0:10:51 > 0:10:54- You wanted Worcestershire, there it is.- Beautiful.
0:10:54 > 0:10:58The house itself is there. That is an old grain store.
0:10:58 > 0:11:02- OK.- 1850, built to go with this farmhouse behind us.
0:11:02 > 0:11:06- Yes.- So they are your neighbours in the farmhouse but you get that.
0:11:06 > 0:11:08- Right.- You like old and characterful.
0:11:08 > 0:11:11- I do, yes.- You want something more contemporary.- Yes.
0:11:11 > 0:11:16I think this could offer you the best of both worlds because you've got a nice period building
0:11:16 > 0:11:21but it lends itself to having quite a contemporary feel for you to kind of put your own mark on it.
0:11:21 > 0:11:24I'm interested in this little tussle between you, old and new.
0:11:24 > 0:11:27I'm being very quiet at the moment, have you noticed?
0:11:27 > 0:11:30- Well...- I have to wait for the first reaction from Kim.
0:11:30 > 0:11:33It is more you from the outside, isn't it?
0:11:33 > 0:11:38- Yes.- So I'm very interested to get on the inside. That is just wow.
0:11:38 > 0:11:42- But your outside impressions are? - Favourable.- Favourable.
0:11:42 > 0:11:45I'll take favourable as a start. Right, come on.
0:11:49 > 0:11:51Right, in you come.
0:11:51 > 0:11:53Now, what do you reckon?
0:11:53 > 0:11:55- Lovely.- Surprised.
0:11:55 > 0:11:57- Are you?- Yes.- Why surprised?
0:11:57 > 0:12:01Because the outside, I think, had the modern feel.
0:12:01 > 0:12:06- Yeah.- You have got the beams and the oldie feel that I know Kim likes.
0:12:06 > 0:12:09- A big smile, look.- Hurrah.
0:12:09 > 0:12:12Just up here, we have got your downstairs cloakroom as well,
0:12:12 > 0:12:15which is always useful, but let's start with the kitchen.
0:12:15 > 0:12:16Come and have a look at this.
0:12:16 > 0:12:21- Range, well done, and a hob. - And a hob.- Very clever.
0:12:21 > 0:12:25In terms of space, kitchen/diner.
0:12:25 > 0:12:26It's a great space.
0:12:26 > 0:12:31I don't feel claustrophobic, which sometimes with the cottage-type property...
0:12:31 > 0:12:35You've got the beamed ceilings, but I can still stand up tall.
0:12:35 > 0:12:37Good. Well, it does go on in terms of space.
0:12:37 > 0:12:41Through that door, we've got you a nice little utility room as well,
0:12:41 > 0:12:44and next door to that, a really big and useful walk-in pantry.
0:12:44 > 0:12:48Brilliant. Fabulous. So far, so good.
0:12:48 > 0:12:52Let's go and find you a reception room, somewhere to relax. You're going to need that.
0:12:58 > 0:13:03- OK, so this is your principle reception room.- OK.- OK.
0:13:03 > 0:13:04- Nice.- Great fireplace.
0:13:04 > 0:13:10But in terms of you and the girls, you know, relaxing, Sunday evening...
0:13:10 > 0:13:14No, this is a good space. The big German shepherd in front of the fire.
0:13:14 > 0:13:17- The Jack Russell up the corner, no problem.- Great!
0:13:17 > 0:13:19- Horses in that corner?- Yeah, yeah.
0:13:19 > 0:13:25- Probably with head through windows being fed by the girls. They'd like that.- Anything is possible.
0:13:25 > 0:13:30Well, let's have a look upstairs before we head outside and see what we can find up there for you.
0:13:30 > 0:13:35'Fantastic. The mix of old and new seems to be appealing to both of them.
0:13:35 > 0:13:38'Maybe this house search won't be as tricky as I thought.'
0:13:38 > 0:13:42Upstairs, there are four bedrooms, one more than they actually asked for.
0:13:42 > 0:13:46The first three are roughly the same size, so Sarah-May and Kimberley
0:13:46 > 0:13:50can take their pick, leaving one spare for Dad to use as an office.
0:13:50 > 0:13:53The family bathroom is small, but the girls will have it
0:13:53 > 0:13:57to themselves as Mum and Dad get an en suite with their room.
0:13:59 > 0:14:02So, finally...
0:14:02 > 0:14:06Ah, lovely. Dual aspect. Brilliant. Brings the light in.
0:14:06 > 0:14:08She has got all the lingo, look.
0:14:08 > 0:14:12Dual aspect. The other thing it has, though, is a really lovely en suite.
0:14:12 > 0:14:16Go and have a look through there, Martin. Tell me what you think.
0:14:16 > 0:14:18- Good size.- Yeah.- Not bad, is it?
0:14:18 > 0:14:22Really good size and, like the family bathroom, it has just been redone.
0:14:22 > 0:14:24Very tasteful.
0:14:24 > 0:14:27- We like the house so far?- We do. - Great.- Surprisingly.
0:14:27 > 0:14:31Good. Well, I'm not surprised, I think it's a great house. But I'm glad you do.
0:14:31 > 0:14:35- Not the house, just us agreeing! - You can agree sometimes.
0:14:35 > 0:14:40- All right, let's go outside and see if we agree on the land because that's...- The key issue.
0:14:40 > 0:14:42That's the money, isn't it?
0:14:42 > 0:14:46'Well, who would have thought, having been given the heads up that
0:14:46 > 0:14:49'they were going to be difficult, this seems like a walk in the park.'
0:14:52 > 0:14:54- Pretty.- It is very, yes.
0:14:54 > 0:15:00From the back of the property there are staggering uninterrupted views of the Malvern Hills.
0:15:00 > 0:15:03They also have plenty of land as the house comes with
0:15:03 > 0:15:06a two-acre garden with a mixed orchard and a five-acre paddock.
0:15:06 > 0:15:09Closer to the house, there is also a double garage.
0:15:09 > 0:15:12Now, there are no purpose-built stables at the moment.
0:15:12 > 0:15:15They are something you would have to look into doing.
0:15:15 > 0:15:19As much as I like the house, that's got to be the big question mark.
0:15:19 > 0:15:21If I can't put the stable block, then...
0:15:21 > 0:15:25- It's not going to work.- And we both like the house, how amazing is that?
0:15:25 > 0:15:28I think that's a first.
0:15:28 > 0:15:30Well, OK, I'm happy to take that.
0:15:30 > 0:15:34So let's have a think about the money, shall we?
0:15:34 > 0:15:36You've got £650,000 to play with.
0:15:36 > 0:15:39Let's ask the accountant.
0:15:42 > 0:15:44I would say 600.
0:15:44 > 0:15:46600.
0:15:46 > 0:15:52I think it's a bit more. I think probably about 620-ish.
0:15:52 > 0:15:54OK, not bad, actually.
0:15:54 > 0:15:59Well, it does begin with a six, but it continues with a 630.
0:15:59 > 0:16:02- £630,000.- Quite close.
0:16:02 > 0:16:09I don't think it is an unreasonable figure for, you know, where it is, its situation and what's on offer.
0:16:09 > 0:16:12Yes. No, I don't think it is an unreasonable...
0:16:12 > 0:16:14But it is something for you to think about.
0:16:14 > 0:16:17Yes, we like it very much, so it is food for thought.
0:16:17 > 0:16:20Go and explore and I'll catch up with you later.
0:16:20 > 0:16:21- Thanks.- Off you go.
0:16:21 > 0:16:27Brilliant, well, what an interesting start to our house search, and the key thing is that for two people
0:16:27 > 0:16:32who were sure they wouldn't actually agree on a property, they have agreed on this one.
0:16:32 > 0:16:35Will they agree on whether it's actually the one to go for? I wonder.
0:16:35 > 0:16:41At £630,000, this barn conversion would offer Martin and Kim the space they need.
0:16:41 > 0:16:45It has a large kitchen/diner with the range Kim is looking for.
0:16:45 > 0:16:48Four bedrooms, one of which Martin could use as a study,
0:16:48 > 0:16:49a double garage,
0:16:49 > 0:16:53and seven acres of land including an orchard and paddock.
0:16:53 > 0:16:57Beautiful house. Absolutely stunning. Why it's still on the market, I do not know.
0:16:57 > 0:17:00I'm actually quite gutted that we have come out here
0:17:00 > 0:17:03and seen this cliff drop here, you know, it's a shame.
0:17:03 > 0:17:06It's suitable for sheep and goats, but not for horses.
0:17:06 > 0:17:08- No.- No.
0:17:08 > 0:17:11I love the house. The gardens are beautiful,
0:17:11 > 0:17:16but unfortunately, it's just a little too steep in places for our horses.
0:17:16 > 0:17:22In all, it was a very good first impression and the views are superb.
0:17:22 > 0:17:29It's the equestrian side that really is the big issue that I'm struggling to get my mind round to see,
0:17:29 > 0:17:31can it be overcome?
0:17:33 > 0:17:36- Enjoy your walk?- Yes, thank you.
0:17:36 > 0:17:38- Did you see enough?- Just about, yes.
0:17:38 > 0:17:41Just about, right, come on, then.
0:17:41 > 0:17:42Let's go.
0:17:44 > 0:17:47For Martin and Kim, a move to this area will bring them close
0:17:47 > 0:17:49to the ancient city of Worcester.
0:17:49 > 0:17:53To give them an insider's guide, they're meeting local expert Georgia Smith.
0:17:53 > 0:17:57This street was really important in the English Civil War.
0:17:57 > 0:18:00It was the Battle of Worcester in 1651.
0:18:00 > 0:18:04This street that we're standing in now, peaceful and calm as it is today,
0:18:04 > 0:18:06saw lots of hand-to-hand fighting
0:18:06 > 0:18:10as the Royalist troops tried to give Charles I time to escape from the city.
0:18:10 > 0:18:15History goes back even further just around the corner at the cathedral.
0:18:15 > 0:18:20The core of it dates back to 1084 and it's home to the largest Norman crypt in England.
0:18:20 > 0:18:22It contains the remains of King John,
0:18:22 > 0:18:25famous for betraying his brother Richard the Lionheart.
0:18:25 > 0:18:32King John was also forced to sign the Magna Carta in 1215 following a dispute with the barons.
0:18:33 > 0:18:34We're right by the tomb of King John.
0:18:34 > 0:18:38Quite a tyrant in his day.
0:18:38 > 0:18:43But I think he realised that he wasn't a fantastic person so he asked to be buried between
0:18:43 > 0:18:44these two saints,
0:18:44 > 0:18:45Oswald and Wulfstan.
0:18:45 > 0:18:49Wulfstan was the founder of Worcester Cathedral and King John thought that,
0:18:49 > 0:18:51by being buried between them,
0:18:51 > 0:18:54he might get to heaven off their coat tails.
0:18:56 > 0:19:02Just opposite the cathedral stands a statue of another famous name associated with Worcester,
0:19:02 > 0:19:05Edward Elgar, the renowned English composer
0:19:05 > 0:19:08whose great works include Land Of Hope And Glory.
0:19:08 > 0:19:09Following his death in 1934,
0:19:09 > 0:19:15his daughter established a museum in the cottage in which he was born three miles from the city centre.
0:19:15 > 0:19:18We can see here a real slice of Elgar's life.
0:19:18 > 0:19:21Things that meant a lot to him.
0:19:21 > 0:19:24I think one of the really interesting things in this room is the gramophone.
0:19:24 > 0:19:29Elgar live at just the right time to be able to benefit from technological changes
0:19:29 > 0:19:33so he was one of the first composers who was able to hear his own music recorded
0:19:33 > 0:19:35and to direct how it sounded.
0:19:35 > 0:19:36What other interests did Elgar have?
0:19:36 > 0:19:39He was a very keen cyclist
0:19:39 > 0:19:42so he would cycle all over the countryside here in Worcestershire
0:19:42 > 0:19:46and of course, some of that countryside was a real inspiration for his music.
0:19:46 > 0:19:49It is undoubtedly a beautiful part of the country.
0:19:49 > 0:19:55Let's hope the landscape inspires Martin and Kim enough to find their dream property.
0:19:57 > 0:20:00The next house we've lined up is in Castle Morton.
0:20:00 > 0:20:03Sitting in the Malvern Hills and eight miles from the town of Great Malvern,
0:20:03 > 0:20:08this attractive small village could be the perfect for a horse-loving family to settle.
0:20:08 > 0:20:12The quiet roads would offer them plenty of opportunities for leisurely rides,
0:20:12 > 0:20:16taking in the views over the surrounding countryside.
0:20:16 > 0:20:18Welland is just a couple of miles away, and like most rural villages,
0:20:18 > 0:20:22the pub and local shop are the focal point of the community.
0:20:22 > 0:20:25Our next house should be right up Kim's street.
0:20:25 > 0:20:29- Lots and lots and lots of period charm in here...- Excellent.
0:20:29 > 0:20:31- ..which I know you're going to love.- Yes.
0:20:31 > 0:20:33- Love it.- I think you'll like it.
0:20:33 > 0:20:35It's really interesting, this.
0:20:35 > 0:20:38Plenty of land which we'll explore a bit later.
0:20:38 > 0:20:41Is this what you had in mind in terms of period and character?
0:20:41 > 0:20:43Not from the outside, but I don't dislike it at all.
0:20:43 > 0:20:46- I think you're going to love it. - Let's hope so.- Let's hope so.
0:20:46 > 0:20:48Look at that face! I hope so, too.
0:20:48 > 0:20:52I feel a little under pressure now, but again I think this house has
0:20:52 > 0:20:56the mix they're looking for, but I'm sure they'll let me know if it doesn't.
0:20:56 > 0:21:00There is so much to show you here, but let's start with the kitchen.
0:21:00 > 0:21:02Now this, I think, is what you were thinking about.
0:21:02 > 0:21:05- This is lovely.- Isn't it?- Ah!
0:21:05 > 0:21:07- Look.- Oh, well done.
0:21:07 > 0:21:09Nice, new range.
0:21:09 > 0:21:12- That is fabulous.- In terms of size...
0:21:12 > 0:21:14It's spacious, it's not too cluttered.
0:21:14 > 0:21:16- No.- But it has got everything in here.
0:21:16 > 0:21:20- Brilliant. So we like the kitchen? - We do very much. - I thought you might.
0:21:20 > 0:21:25Top marks here then, and the bonus is that the noisy washing machine could be tucked away in the utility
0:21:25 > 0:21:30room just at the end of the kitchen, where there is also a cloakroom and access to a snug, which the
0:21:30 > 0:21:33girls might like to snap up as a bit of space for themselves.
0:21:33 > 0:21:36Back off the hall is a more formal room.
0:21:37 > 0:21:40Now, this is currently set up as the dining room.
0:21:40 > 0:21:42- Lovely.- It is a nice sized room.
0:21:42 > 0:21:46Now, it has been beautifully dressed, you're going to have
0:21:46 > 0:21:51to go and raid all the local antique shops in Malvern to fill this up with lots of lovely furniture.
0:21:51 > 0:21:53- Well, the wallet is.- The wallet?
0:21:53 > 0:21:56Yes, the wallet. That's what we call him at home.
0:21:56 > 0:21:58The girls, "Go and find the wallet."
0:21:58 > 0:22:02Oh, my goodness me. You're not going to have much money left after this little expedition.
0:22:02 > 0:22:04That is what is worrying me!
0:22:04 > 0:22:10OK. But back to you, what the wallet might have to afford, it is really, really pretty, so you've
0:22:10 > 0:22:16got this as a dining/reception room, but next door, bearing in mind this was two old cottages,
0:22:16 > 0:22:21you've got a similar sized room, which is probably going to be your main living room.
0:22:21 > 0:22:22Come and have a look at this.
0:22:24 > 0:22:28So, very similar to the room next door, pretty much a mirror image,
0:22:28 > 0:22:33OK, but this dedicated really now as the main living room.
0:22:33 > 0:22:35- It's lovely.- It's a nice size.
0:22:35 > 0:22:39- Very airy, very light.- That's nice too, a lovely wood burner there.
0:22:39 > 0:22:42So how are we doing so far? I know you love it.
0:22:42 > 0:22:49I'm getting a little bit nervous, not for the house, I like the house, what I have seen so far.
0:22:49 > 0:22:52I'm just worried whether the land outside will match
0:22:52 > 0:22:56so we get the whole package because that's always been the key problem.
0:22:56 > 0:23:00We can't seem it marry the two so hopefully...
0:23:00 > 0:23:01Until now.
0:23:01 > 0:23:05Until now, I wonder. Let's see what we can find you upstairs.
0:23:08 > 0:23:10This is great. No major fallouts yet.
0:23:10 > 0:23:14Upstairs, Martin will have to grab one of the four bedrooms as a study
0:23:14 > 0:23:18and then, of course, there is one each for the girls.
0:23:18 > 0:23:22The well-appointed family bathroom is at the end of the landing,
0:23:22 > 0:23:25but let's see what the master has to offer.
0:23:26 > 0:23:28So this is what we have in store for you two.
0:23:31 > 0:23:33Lovely. Yes. Lots of light.
0:23:33 > 0:23:35- Yeah. Loads of light.- Yes.
0:23:35 > 0:23:39- Loads of storage too behind those doors.- Enough room for my suits.
0:23:39 > 0:23:41Come and have a look at this.
0:23:41 > 0:23:44Oh, great. I'm very excited now.
0:23:44 > 0:23:46- Yeah?- Lovely.
0:23:46 > 0:23:49- En suite.- Yeah? OK.- Yeah.
0:23:49 > 0:23:51Good. I thought you would like that.
0:23:53 > 0:23:55So I think...
0:23:55 > 0:23:57this house is doing quite well for you.
0:23:57 > 0:24:03- It's doing very well.- Well, let's go outside because that, I think, is what is going to swing it.
0:24:03 > 0:24:04- Really?- If it needs swinging.
0:24:07 > 0:24:12This is too good to be true and I don't think they will be disappointed with the outside.
0:24:13 > 0:24:18OK. Let's have a look at the back of this very pretty little place.
0:24:20 > 0:24:22How about that?
0:24:22 > 0:24:23- That's lovely.- Yeah?
0:24:23 > 0:24:26- Isn't it sweet?- Yes.
0:24:26 > 0:24:29The gravelled area offers the opportunity for some alfresco dining,
0:24:29 > 0:24:33great in the summer and it overlooks the terrific garden
0:24:33 > 0:24:38packed with mature shrubs which offers a boundary between here and where the horses would live.
0:24:38 > 0:24:44- OK, let's see if this promise of land is all that it has been cracked up to be, shall we?- Yeah.
0:24:45 > 0:24:47That lot...
0:24:47 > 0:24:49is yours.
0:24:49 > 0:24:54- Nine acres of really, really good pasture.- That is excellent.
0:24:54 > 0:25:00- Level.- Yes, it is level as well, but you can see the quality of the grass is there, that's very good.
0:25:00 > 0:25:02- That's got the potential. - Definitely.
0:25:02 > 0:25:07Now, there are no stables as such at present, but you also get that great big barn,
0:25:07 > 0:25:12so I'm thinking go down the internal stable route, free standing, loose boxes.
0:25:12 > 0:25:15Yes, definitely because that's certainly big enough.
0:25:15 > 0:25:19- So have we completed the package? - I don't know yet. How much?
0:25:19 > 0:25:21Ah, right, OK.
0:25:21 > 0:25:23The accountant comes back, you see.
0:25:23 > 0:25:28Good point, all right. So how much do you think it is?
0:25:29 > 0:25:32Let's hope 630, but I think it might be more.
0:25:32 > 0:25:34- £630, nine acres?- I know. I know.
0:25:34 > 0:25:37I'm very nervous that you've actually gone over budget.
0:25:37 > 0:25:41We're not prepared to go over budget so I'm going to have to say 650.
0:25:41 > 0:25:44- 650?- Yeah.- And you really don't want to go over budget?
0:25:44 > 0:25:46No.
0:25:46 > 0:25:50Well, the good news is that it's not over budget.
0:25:50 > 0:25:56This could be yours if you want it for £645,000.
0:25:56 > 0:25:58- OK, yeah.- But it's all here.
0:25:58 > 0:26:02Yes, it's worth it, definitely.
0:26:02 > 0:26:06- I'll give you a 9.5 out of ten. - Great.
0:26:06 > 0:26:08Your pockets feeling a bit lighter?
0:26:08 > 0:26:13- Yes, I'm feeling nervous now. - Feeling sick now.
0:26:13 > 0:26:18- Well, go and explore the barn. Check out this gorgeous property as well while you're at it.- Well done.
0:26:18 > 0:26:20Go and enjoy.
0:26:21 > 0:26:27At £645,000, this could be the ideal property for Martin and Kim.
0:26:27 > 0:26:30It has a family style kitchen/diner with a range,
0:26:30 > 0:26:33four bedrooms, one of which Martin could claim as a study,
0:26:33 > 0:26:38a barn that could be used for stables and it all sits on a nine-acre plot.
0:26:40 > 0:26:44OK, this is a great space. We could do something with this.
0:26:44 > 0:26:46Yes. Integral stables.
0:26:46 > 0:26:49Yes, and the great thing about it because all the horses
0:26:49 > 0:26:52are different sizes, we could get different sized stables in.
0:26:53 > 0:26:59- This is nice and light. The girls would love it in here.- Yes, but I think it'd be more practical...
0:27:00 > 0:27:03- ..as a boot room with the tacks secured.- Do you?- Yeah.
0:27:04 > 0:27:07- You'd have to try and persuade those two otherwise.- True.
0:27:07 > 0:27:12In the last three years, we have seen a lot of houses and this is very close to ticking all the boxes.
0:27:12 > 0:27:19So therefore, yes, it's very much a property that I'm interested in.
0:27:19 > 0:27:23If I'm being highly critical, upstairs was a little small,
0:27:23 > 0:27:28but I think in every property you have to compromise and that would be it, but it's still very do-able.
0:27:28 > 0:27:30It's still a lovely property.
0:27:30 > 0:27:35I wasn't sure you were ever going to come out of there.
0:27:35 > 0:27:36- Lots to look at?- Yes.
0:27:36 > 0:27:40- Definitely worth bringing you here to see it.- Absolutely.
0:27:40 > 0:27:44- A lot to think about.- Yes. - And a lot to take in.
0:27:44 > 0:27:47A lot to spend as well. Come on.
0:27:48 > 0:27:51Like Martin and Kim, I am a passionate gardener,
0:27:51 > 0:27:54creating something out of nothing is a challenge I'm used to,
0:27:54 > 0:27:59but how do you go about it when your garden is a simple one-acre plot, it's a whole landscape?
0:27:59 > 0:28:03I've come to this glorious estate near Bestford to find out.
0:28:03 > 0:28:08Now, as Britons our love of gardening is well-known, but here at Croome Park in 1751,
0:28:08 > 0:28:11one man took that passion to a whole new level.
0:28:11 > 0:28:15He has rightly been described as England's greater ever gardener
0:28:15 > 0:28:19and his name was Lancelot "Capability" Brown.
0:28:19 > 0:28:23To discover more about the link between the estate and Capability Brown,
0:28:23 > 0:28:26I'm meeting the National Trust co-ordinator, Michael Smith.
0:28:26 > 0:28:30Good to see you. What a gorgeous view. Look at this place.
0:28:30 > 0:28:33Why is Croome Park so significant in the story of Capability Brown?
0:28:33 > 0:28:37This was the place where Brown defined his philosophy of landscape design.
0:28:37 > 0:28:42He worked as the head gardener at Stow for ten years, all the time learning about how great design
0:28:42 > 0:28:48could be put in place at a landscape and this is the chance, this very first chance to develop one himself.
0:28:48 > 0:28:53He was handed 14,000 acres to play with by the sixth Earl of Coventry in 1751
0:28:53 > 0:28:56and he created one of his grandest pieces of work.
0:28:56 > 0:29:01Attention to detail was paramount and Brown even went to the extent
0:29:01 > 0:29:04of moving the church to improve the landscape's horizon.
0:29:04 > 0:29:09He then set about creating a parkland design for the enjoyment of his patron.
0:29:12 > 0:29:13Oh, this is lovely, isn't it?
0:29:13 > 0:29:18And all of a sudden this watery landscape opens up and Brown's kept this hidden until this very point.
0:29:18 > 0:29:22No Capability Brown landscape is complete without water, is it?
0:29:22 > 0:29:27And there are various ways of doing it. In some estates Brown had to dam an existing water course,
0:29:27 > 0:29:31but here at Croome, he hasn't got any water to play with and what he does is set out a series
0:29:31 > 0:29:36of immense brick line culvert drains to draw in water for the whole of the 14,000 acres of the estate.
0:29:36 > 0:29:41It is very pleasing to the eye, and yet it is a complete piece of illusion.
0:29:41 > 0:29:43It is like an 18th century theme park, isn't it?
0:29:43 > 0:29:46You turn a corner and there's another attraction, another folly,
0:29:46 > 0:29:48a grotto, maybe a statue of a water nymph.
0:29:48 > 0:29:53Michael's passion for this garden is infectious and it is easy to see why.
0:29:54 > 0:29:58- What have we got here?- Just around the corner from the grotto,
0:29:58 > 0:30:01we have the lasting testament to Capability Brown.
0:30:01 > 0:30:05Capability Brown was very much his nickname. What Brown found here was something
0:30:05 > 0:30:09called Seggymere Common, a great boggy, soggy piece of land.
0:30:09 > 0:30:14Brown got that nickname from looking out at places like Seggymere, spotting their potential
0:30:14 > 0:30:17and saying to his patrons, "Yes, this place has got Capability".
0:30:17 > 0:30:19What do you think is his enduring legacy?
0:30:19 > 0:30:23Well, it is not just the physical creation of landscape.
0:30:23 > 0:30:27What Brown left as an imprint on our minds, the way we appreciate English landscape today
0:30:27 > 0:30:32is very much defined by how Brown saw landscape back in the 18th century.
0:30:32 > 0:30:36It is rather fitting that this memorial should be here where his career really took off.
0:30:36 > 0:30:42This grand landscape may be a little over elaborate for Martin and Kim, but it's certainly worth a visit.
0:30:44 > 0:30:48As the afternoon sun dies away, it's a chance to take a break
0:30:48 > 0:30:53- and reflect on the search so far. - So what do you think of the day?
0:30:53 > 0:30:58- It was very interesting. The converted grain store, what did you think?- I was pleasantly surprised.
0:30:59 > 0:31:01It was very airy.
0:31:01 > 0:31:03The high ceilings, both downstairs and up,
0:31:03 > 0:31:07we could move in there, not have to spend any money on it at all.
0:31:07 > 0:31:09- Fabulous kitchen.- Yeah, nice kitchen.
0:31:09 > 0:31:12- The garden was brilliant. - The views were beautiful.
0:31:12 > 0:31:17And the orchard for the chickens and all the animals, except for the horses. It wouldn't work.
0:31:17 > 0:31:19- It just doesn't work as an equestrian property.- No.
0:31:19 > 0:31:24- What about the Victorian farmhouse? - Now that is really gorgeous.
0:31:24 > 0:31:27Each room was sizeable and airy.
0:31:27 > 0:31:31- Hmm. Downstairs was stunning. - I like downstairs.
0:31:31 > 0:31:32Overall, I mean,
0:31:32 > 0:31:35- that has ticked a lot of the boxes. - It has.
0:31:35 > 0:31:38It's got very close. I'm really looking forward to tomorrow
0:31:38 > 0:31:42to see if they can find something that ticks all the boxes.
0:31:42 > 0:31:44I don't think they'll do it.
0:31:44 > 0:31:46- Well, let's see.- I don't.
0:31:46 > 0:31:48We'll have to have a bet on it!
0:31:58 > 0:32:01Martin and Kim from Wolverhampton have £650,000 to spend
0:32:01 > 0:32:05to find themselves an equestrian property in Worcestershire.
0:32:05 > 0:32:09Two and a half years after starting their own search, they don't seem
0:32:09 > 0:32:12to be able to find a house that suits their different tastes.
0:32:12 > 0:32:16So far, we have shown them two properties, but coming up Kim decides it's time to cave in.
0:32:16 > 0:32:20If that's the only compromise, I might be prepared to go with it.
0:32:20 > 0:32:22Get that on tape!
0:32:25 > 0:32:31Our final day of house-hunting is upon us and as you can probably tell, it's going to be a scorcher,
0:32:31 > 0:32:36I hope in more ways than one. At this stage, I think it's a story of so far so good,
0:32:36 > 0:32:41and that's because both Martin and Kim have remained very focused on what it is exactly they're after.
0:32:41 > 0:32:43Today, two more properties, both very different,
0:32:43 > 0:32:48but they do have one thing in common - no surprise, it's all about horses.
0:32:49 > 0:32:53I can't wait to get cracking this morning as we've arranged a viewing
0:32:53 > 0:32:55on a fabulous property in a rural location
0:32:55 > 0:32:58two miles south of Stourport-on-Severn.
0:32:58 > 0:33:01Hartlebury would be one of Martin and Kim's local villages.
0:33:01 > 0:33:05As you might expect, it has a church and pub, but there are not many
0:33:05 > 0:33:07villages that can boast their own castle.
0:33:07 > 0:33:10Hartlebury Castle was built in the mid-13th century
0:33:10 > 0:33:14as a fortified manor house and was home to the bishops of Worcester until 2007.
0:33:15 > 0:33:19The servants' wing now houses the Worcester County Museum.
0:33:19 > 0:33:22This next property, with its superb facilities, could be the winning ticket,
0:33:22 > 0:33:26but Martin and Kim will have to be the judge of that.
0:33:26 > 0:33:29- Well, I thought we'd start today here.- Wow.
0:33:29 > 0:33:33- What do you think of this? - It's a nice yard.- Very nice yard.
0:33:33 > 0:33:37- It's the first property we've been able to show you that has stabling all ready to go.- Yeah.
0:33:37 > 0:33:42That brings us back to this tussle between whether we're finding a house with stables
0:33:42 > 0:33:45or stables with a house. My sense with this place
0:33:45 > 0:33:48is that it is about stables with a house.
0:33:48 > 0:33:51- But the big compromise here is that.- Yes.
0:33:51 > 0:33:54- I'm not sure... - It's a very large compromise.
0:33:54 > 0:33:58It is a big compromise, but when you see what you get up there
0:33:58 > 0:34:00in terms of the horses,
0:34:00 > 0:34:03- I think you'll feel it was a worth coming.- OK.
0:34:03 > 0:34:07- All right.- We'll be open-minded. - You're going to be have to be, because the house itself
0:34:07 > 0:34:11is very extensive. There's a lot of it. We'll whizz through there fairly briefly
0:34:11 > 0:34:14- and then we'll go outside and see what the horses get.- Great.
0:34:14 > 0:34:16Come and have a look.
0:34:18 > 0:34:21OK, let's start in here.
0:34:21 > 0:34:25- Oh, it's quite impressive. - It's a good size.- It's not bad.
0:34:25 > 0:34:29But have a look in the living room. A number of reception rooms here, but we'll start with this one.
0:34:29 > 0:34:33- It's a good size. - Yeah.- Nice fireplace. Lovely.
0:34:33 > 0:34:35That's currently got a gas fire in it,
0:34:35 > 0:34:38but again, that can be reconstituted
0:34:38 > 0:34:41to be the real thing. Again, the sandstone, which is lovely.
0:34:41 > 0:34:44- And views out to the garden.- Yeah.
0:34:45 > 0:34:47- Follow me through here.- OK.
0:34:48 > 0:34:50Now this...
0:34:51 > 0:34:54- ..is a whopper of a fireplace. - Wow.- That is nice.- Very nice.
0:34:54 > 0:34:58- Very impressive.- Yeah.- Again, it has a gas fire in it for ease, really, but the flues are all there.
0:34:58 > 0:35:01Let's have a look at the kitchen. It's right through here.
0:35:01 > 0:35:03- After you, sir.- Thank you.
0:35:03 > 0:35:06- Ooh, lovely.- Belfast sink, I've always wanted one of those.
0:35:06 > 0:35:10It doesn't have... Well, it's an electric gas range,
0:35:10 > 0:35:13- but again, size-wise, space-wise... - It works.- Yeah. OK.
0:35:15 > 0:35:18Well, I'm being given the nod so I guess they're happy so far.
0:35:18 > 0:35:22Off the kitchen is a rear lobby which is currently used as a tack room and from there
0:35:22 > 0:35:26is access to a cloakroom which could be very useful.
0:35:26 > 0:35:29There's also a snug study, which is small, but apart from a computer
0:35:29 > 0:35:31and a printer, what more will Martin need?
0:35:31 > 0:35:35And the study doesn't mean we're a bedroom down upstairs.
0:35:35 > 0:35:37This house has four so there's plenty of space.
0:35:37 > 0:35:40The first two rooms are a good size
0:35:40 > 0:35:43and I'm sure Sarah-May and Kimberley will be happy with them.
0:35:43 > 0:35:47Then there's a small guestroom or an alternative option for study for Martin.
0:35:47 > 0:35:49Across the landing is the family bathroom,
0:35:49 > 0:35:53which might not be grand in size, but certainly is in style.
0:35:53 > 0:35:57And again, the lucky girls can make this their domain as Mum and Dad have a master suite.
0:35:58 > 0:36:01- It's a decent size.- Yeah.- Wow!- Yeah!
0:36:02 > 0:36:06This is great. This is en suite and dressing area. Have a look.
0:36:06 > 0:36:08- How about that?- Oh, that's lovely.
0:36:09 > 0:36:12- Oh, look at that bath. - It is nice.- Very nice.
0:36:12 > 0:36:14They squeezed in a roll top there.
0:36:16 > 0:36:20- So this is a nice bonus. Somewhere for all your stuff. - Plenty of room for my suits.
0:36:21 > 0:36:24- My little bit, his huge bit. - Yeah, I love it.
0:36:24 > 0:36:28It's a nice house. Yes, it needs a bit of updating and TLC...
0:36:28 > 0:36:33Well, the outside is really what this place is all about. That's why we've brought you here
0:36:33 > 0:36:38and that's why this house tour has been brief, because the tour outside will have to be quite extensive.
0:36:38 > 0:36:39Come and have a look.
0:36:41 > 0:36:43There is certainly plenty of space here for the family
0:36:43 > 0:36:46and I can guarantee that the horses won't be shortchanged either.
0:36:46 > 0:36:50At the back of the house, the yard is surrounded by a range of buildings,
0:36:50 > 0:36:56including two foaling boxes, and then a structure containing two full-sized stables and pony box.
0:36:56 > 0:37:02Then of course there is the huge barn, which gives direct access to the road for hay deliveries.
0:37:02 > 0:37:05In terms of what's immediately outside the door,
0:37:05 > 0:37:08your horses are very secure, very accessible.
0:37:08 > 0:37:11- Hmm.- But grazing-wise, let's have a look over here.
0:37:13 > 0:37:16I think any horse would be proud to call this home.
0:37:16 > 0:37:21Out there are ten acres of land providing three paddocks divided by sturdy fencing.
0:37:21 > 0:37:24And I've left the icing on the cake for last.
0:37:26 > 0:37:27Now then, Kim...
0:37:29 > 0:37:33- ..what about one of these?- This is the business!- Now you're talking. - This is a beautiful outdoor school.
0:37:33 > 0:37:37- It is.- Competition spec, really. - Oh, yes.- You can see that.
0:37:37 > 0:37:40We're a bit quiet at the moment.
0:37:40 > 0:37:42I'm getting the feeling that...
0:37:42 > 0:37:46- you're a bit disappointed. - I'm gutted, I'm not disappointed.
0:37:47 > 0:37:51I'm gutted, really, because it is absolutely fabulous
0:37:51 > 0:37:53and there's nothing wrong with the house at all,
0:37:53 > 0:37:58- but that road is a big compromise. It's one I don't think that I can take.- Let's continue
0:37:58 > 0:38:00with the rest of the acreage here.
0:38:00 > 0:38:04- I think it's still worth you seeing this place.- Yes.
0:38:04 > 0:38:06That's the important thing.
0:38:06 > 0:38:10I knew there had to be a reason for the quietness, but I still think they should give this property
0:38:10 > 0:38:12serious consideration.
0:38:12 > 0:38:14- Long walk on a hot day! - It certainly is.
0:38:14 > 0:38:18We've brought you up here because to get a sense of what this place offers you -
0:38:18 > 0:38:19I know the road is an issue -
0:38:19 > 0:38:23but all in all, you do get an awful lot of land.
0:38:23 > 0:38:25- It's about 10.5 acres.- Right.
0:38:25 > 0:38:28But you've also got access
0:38:28 > 0:38:31to Lincomb Equestrian Centre through that gate.
0:38:31 > 0:38:33- OK.- It's a 50-acre site.
0:38:33 > 0:38:36It's got a 100-jump cross-country course in it.
0:38:36 > 0:38:39200 quid a year is all it costs you
0:38:39 > 0:38:42- to have all-year access...- Crikey. - ..to a fantastic course.
0:38:42 > 0:38:46- The girls would love that, wouldn't they?- That's the thing, OK?
0:38:46 > 0:38:49With so much on offer here for the horses and for the girls,
0:38:49 > 0:38:52- it would be crazy not to show it to you.- Absolutely.
0:38:52 > 0:38:54The equestrian side
0:38:54 > 0:38:57- is perfect.- Yeah.
0:38:57 > 0:39:00OK, let's think about the money, shall we?
0:39:00 > 0:39:02I'm going to let you go first on this one.
0:39:02 > 0:39:04- Oh, great, thanks very much(!) - Go on, Kim.
0:39:04 > 0:39:07Sorry, guys, but I think it's going to be about 595.
0:39:07 > 0:39:09595. OK.
0:39:09 > 0:39:12The road, I think, is a factor
0:39:12 > 0:39:14and that does affect its value.
0:39:14 > 0:39:18So I'm going to say 620,000.
0:39:18 > 0:39:21That's why you're a very good financial director, Martin.
0:39:21 > 0:39:24This is on the market at £630,000.
0:39:24 > 0:39:26You were only out by ten grand.
0:39:26 > 0:39:29You're absolutely right - if it wasn't for the road,
0:39:29 > 0:39:33- you would add on another £50,000-100,000.- Easily.
0:39:33 > 0:39:37- Go and wander back down the hill. - Thanks very much.- See you later.
0:39:38 > 0:39:40At £630,000,
0:39:40 > 0:39:45this property does have a lot to offer anyone serious about an equestrian lifestyle.
0:39:45 > 0:39:48The house is spacious with three reception rooms.
0:39:48 > 0:39:52It has four bedrooms, and outside there are 10.5 acres of land,
0:39:52 > 0:39:56including fives tables, three paddocks and a manege.
0:39:57 > 0:40:00- Absolutely fantastic out there. - Yeah.- Absolutely brilliant.
0:40:00 > 0:40:03- But it's just the noise of that traffic.- Yeah.
0:40:03 > 0:40:06- It is a fast road.- It is very fast. - That's what worries me.
0:40:06 > 0:40:08Yeah, it's constant.
0:40:08 > 0:40:13I thought the house was nice. The access to the riding school
0:40:13 > 0:40:16and beyond, obviously a massive plus point again.
0:40:16 > 0:40:20I know my daughters would love a cross-country course.
0:40:20 > 0:40:25But I still have to keep coming back to my concern about that road.
0:40:25 > 0:40:28This property is very difficult
0:40:28 > 0:40:33because normally we find excellent equestrian facilities
0:40:33 > 0:40:36and a horrible house or the other way round.
0:40:36 > 0:40:38I have to say that this time,
0:40:38 > 0:40:42even though the house needs a little bit of work, I'd be quite happy with both.
0:40:45 > 0:40:47Well, chaps, bearing up in the heat?
0:40:47 > 0:40:50- Only just! - Jules, you've shown us such a lot
0:40:50 > 0:40:54- and given us such a lot to think about as well.- It's not over yet!
0:41:00 > 0:41:05Kim is really keen to keep honeybees when they move and by doing so, she will not only be able to
0:41:05 > 0:41:10harvest delicious honey, but would be performing the vital role of helping to preserve the species
0:41:10 > 0:41:14which is in danger of becoming extinct by 2018.
0:41:14 > 0:41:19This would have a devastating effect on food stocks and would cost the economy millions of pounds.
0:41:19 > 0:41:22With that in mind, we have arranged for her and Martin to
0:41:22 > 0:41:26visit a local organic vegetable farm to meet David Mills whose own bees
0:41:26 > 0:41:32are giving the diminish number of wild bees a helping hand by pollinating the crops here.
0:41:32 > 0:41:35So why aren't there enough wild bees to pollinate the crops?
0:41:35 > 0:41:39Well, unfortunately about 20 years ago a disease was brought into this
0:41:39 > 0:41:42country which has decimated the bee population.
0:41:42 > 0:41:47What we're trying to do now is to redevelop the number of bees so there will be enough bees
0:41:47 > 0:41:52for pollinating the beans and the wild flowers.
0:41:53 > 0:41:58Without the essential role played by the honeybees, a massive 70% of our food crops would be
0:41:58 > 0:42:02in danger of not being pollinated, putting our food security at risk.
0:42:02 > 0:42:06It is important that the bees stay healthy so David checks his hives
0:42:06 > 0:42:12regularly which also gives him the opportunity to extract the honey that has been produced.
0:42:12 > 0:42:18Before opening the hive, David puffs smoke into it which has the effect of calming the colony down.
0:42:18 > 0:42:23When you're handling bees, you want to handle them as gently as possible and then they don't get excited.
0:42:23 > 0:42:27If you're rough with them, they'll be rough with you.
0:42:27 > 0:42:31It looks as if there could be quite a lot of honey in here
0:42:31 > 0:42:34so before we go down further into the hive,
0:42:34 > 0:42:37we'll give them another puff of smoke
0:42:37 > 0:42:39and then we'll take a comb out
0:42:39 > 0:42:41and we'll see what we've got.
0:42:45 > 0:42:50Now that is sealed honey, ready for extraction.
0:42:50 > 0:42:53Now, if I just take some of the capping, the wax capping off,
0:42:53 > 0:42:57- you will see the honey underneath. - Look at that.
0:42:58 > 0:43:04Although there are 40,000 bees in a hive, each one will only produce one teaspoon of honey in its lifetime.
0:43:04 > 0:43:08Nevertheless, on a good year, David's eight hives produce
0:43:08 > 0:43:12about 450 jars and this one is looking very promising.
0:43:12 > 0:43:13It's beautiful.
0:43:13 > 0:43:16I'm thrilled to bits.
0:43:17 > 0:43:23David's hives are obviously in top condition and if Kim can follow his standard, she too will be extracting
0:43:23 > 0:43:28honey and helping to restore the bee population, ensuring their vital role in our ecosystem.
0:43:32 > 0:43:36Now for today's mystery house, there's clearly no point in showing Martin and Kim
0:43:36 > 0:43:41a property that doesn't revolve around horses. But when it comes to the mystery house itself,
0:43:41 > 0:43:45I always like to challenge my buyers, give them something to think about,
0:43:45 > 0:43:48and on this occasion, I suspect to argue about.
0:43:49 > 0:43:54It's time to lift the lid on our mystery house and reveal that it is just outside the hamlet of Lobans,
0:43:54 > 0:43:57a stone's throw over the border into Gloucestershire
0:43:57 > 0:43:59and our closest house yet to a motorway junction for Martin.
0:43:59 > 0:44:03Martin and Kim would be surrounded by open countryside with plenty
0:44:03 > 0:44:09of opportunities for cross-country rides through a network of bridal paths and if they need to pop
0:44:09 > 0:44:13to the shops, their local village store is just a mile away in Pendock.
0:44:13 > 0:44:19Now our mystery house itself is not what they asked for, but when it comes to equestrian facilities
0:44:19 > 0:44:22and acreage, I can guarantee they're going to be spoilt.
0:44:22 > 0:44:24OK.
0:44:24 > 0:44:26- The mystery house.- It's not a house!
0:44:26 > 0:44:32It is a house. Just because it is a bungalow doesn't mean that it's not a house, Martin.
0:44:32 > 0:44:36Bear with me on this one. It is a really, really pretty house and for
0:44:36 > 0:44:39you, Martin, it is a bit more modern than some of the ones we have seen.
0:44:39 > 0:44:41It is very comfortable and very charming.
0:44:41 > 0:44:45- I don't want him to win though. - You don't want him to win?
0:44:45 > 0:44:47There is plenty for you out there.
0:44:47 > 0:44:50So I think as it is the mystery house we should start back to front.
0:44:50 > 0:44:54We will start with the land. Let's cut to the chase with the horses.
0:44:54 > 0:44:59Satisfy you and then you can help me persuade her that this is the house you need.
0:44:59 > 0:45:02- You can try, yes.- Come on.
0:45:02 > 0:45:03I do like a challenge, you know.
0:45:03 > 0:45:08The competition between Martin and Kim is really hotting up
0:45:08 > 0:45:11so it will be interesting to see how the mystery house pans out.
0:45:11 > 0:45:16Hopefully taking a look at the equestrian facilities first will keep Kim on side.
0:45:16 > 0:45:21The stable block can accommodate seven horses and is more like a five-star deluxe equestrian hotel.
0:45:21 > 0:45:26You can't fail to be impressed with this and just wait until Kim sees what's around the corner.
0:45:26 > 0:45:28Come and look at this.
0:45:30 > 0:45:32There we go.
0:45:32 > 0:45:35- Ah.- A nice, all weather manege.
0:45:35 > 0:45:37- How about that?- Beautiful.
0:45:37 > 0:45:41- Another big tick in the box.- Good.
0:45:41 > 0:45:43- Floodlights.- Yes.
0:45:43 > 0:45:45You know, again competition spec.
0:45:45 > 0:45:47- The girls... - Well, they would love it.
0:45:47 > 0:45:51- Well, let's think about land, shall we?- Go on.
0:45:51 > 0:45:54- You wanted five acres, didn't you? - Yes.
0:45:54 > 0:45:56How about 20-ish?
0:45:56 > 0:46:0020-ish, it could be 21.
0:46:00 > 0:46:01Good grief.
0:46:03 > 0:46:07This immense amount of land extends well beyond what the eye can see and
0:46:07 > 0:46:11would give Kim's four horses more space than they could ever dream of.
0:46:11 > 0:46:14Into the bargain, planning permission has been granted
0:46:14 > 0:46:17for a further stable block should they wish to make use of it.
0:46:17 > 0:46:22- I'm getting really, really scared. We've gone quiet because we're very nervous.- Are you, why?
0:46:22 > 0:46:26Either the house is terrible inside which I just don't think it will be.
0:46:26 > 0:46:29There is planning permission, there is extra land.
0:46:31 > 0:46:33You are just teasing now.
0:46:33 > 0:46:35Let's go and check the house out.
0:46:35 > 0:46:37This is for you. We've sorted the horses.
0:46:37 > 0:46:39Horses done.
0:46:39 > 0:46:45Marvellous. So all it is, is for you to fall in love with the house and we've done it.
0:46:45 > 0:46:49- Yes.- Well, yeah and the price.
0:46:49 > 0:46:52Don't worry about the money. Come on. What's a few quid?!
0:47:00 > 0:47:03Well, we started this tour back to front so we might as well come into
0:47:03 > 0:47:06the house through the back door, let's start in here.
0:47:06 > 0:47:08- Quite a utility room, this. - It's huge.
0:47:08 > 0:47:12Downstairs toilet in there and so on. But it's a great boot room...
0:47:12 > 0:47:14- Yes, it is.- ..cum-everything.
0:47:14 > 0:47:16- Yes, it is.- Cats, dogs.
0:47:16 > 0:47:19- Animal bliss.- Still a bungalow.
0:47:19 > 0:47:24It is still a bungalow. I can't change that.
0:47:24 > 0:47:28- There is no pleasing some people. - I am trying to be open-minded.
0:47:28 > 0:47:32You have to be because it really is pretty. Come and look at the kitchen.
0:47:32 > 0:47:35Let's talk about where the humans go for once!
0:47:35 > 0:47:38- OK.- I like the beams and...
0:47:38 > 0:47:40Yeah, I think it works really well.
0:47:40 > 0:47:44- It does work well.- Plenty of work surface as well which is always good.
0:47:44 > 0:47:48And of course, you have got lovely views out there to your ponies in the paddock.
0:47:48 > 0:47:50That is nice.
0:47:50 > 0:47:52- Yes, that would be nice.- You see.
0:47:52 > 0:47:57We talked at the very beginning, didn't we, about the idea of having the horses outside the back door.
0:47:57 > 0:47:58- Yeah.- Outside the kitchen window.
0:47:58 > 0:48:02Come on, there it is, it is the dream package, guys.
0:48:02 > 0:48:06- You're winning me, I think.- Twist her arm. I think you're winning.
0:48:06 > 0:48:08- He is really trying.- Really?
0:48:08 > 0:48:12Adjacent is the dining room, ideal for more formal occasions.
0:48:12 > 0:48:14The French doors frame the garden beautifully.
0:48:15 > 0:48:19Following on, at this end of the bungalow is the family bathroom
0:48:19 > 0:48:23which has been recently refurbished with the ever popular white suite.
0:48:23 > 0:48:27Next to it is the first of the three bedrooms offering one of the girls plenty of storage.
0:48:27 > 0:48:30There is also a slightly smaller room which has
0:48:30 > 0:48:34a massive built-in wardrobe and a lovely view over the garden.
0:48:36 > 0:48:38OK, so this is three of three.
0:48:38 > 0:48:41This is the biggest bedroom here, therefore it is the master.
0:48:41 > 0:48:44- It doesn't have an en-suite.- No.
0:48:44 > 0:48:49You've just got the family bathroom through there, but it is all quite close and convenient.
0:48:49 > 0:48:51Well, that doesn't seem to have put Kim off.
0:48:51 > 0:48:56Back down the hall and right the other end of the bungalow is the lounge.
0:48:57 > 0:48:58OK.
0:48:58 > 0:49:02- This is impressive.- Isn't it nice? - It is, it's lovely.
0:49:02 > 0:49:05- This is a good sized room, isn't it? - Yeah.- I like this.
0:49:05 > 0:49:07Nice wood burner down the end there.
0:49:07 > 0:49:11Very cosy and you've got these lovely double doors overlooking
0:49:11 > 0:49:14your yard and your ponies again.
0:49:14 > 0:49:18- I thought, Martin, you would like this.- Yes, this is... yeah.
0:49:18 > 0:49:20Martin loves this.
0:49:20 > 0:49:23He is being very reserved. He loves this.
0:49:23 > 0:49:26- Do you?- Yes. It feels... me.
0:49:26 > 0:49:28It is an impressive room.
0:49:28 > 0:49:32- You see that, "It feels me," he said.- No, he didn't.
0:49:32 > 0:49:34- No, he didn't.- He's fighting back.
0:49:34 > 0:49:38- Cut. No, he didn't.- OK.
0:49:38 > 0:49:42Let's go and take a step out on to the veranda.
0:49:45 > 0:49:48Well, here we are at the end of the tour of the mystery house.
0:49:48 > 0:49:50This one is difficult.
0:49:50 > 0:49:54Well, seeing as you have fallen love with it, I will ask you to go first.
0:49:55 > 0:49:59It's going to be over budget. The first thought is 675,
0:49:59 > 0:50:02I hope it is a little bit less,
0:50:02 > 0:50:05but 66... no, 675. I will stick with my first.
0:50:05 > 0:50:08675. OK. Kim.
0:50:08 > 0:50:12It's a bungalow so 450.
0:50:12 > 0:50:14You wish! They would be queuing up for that.
0:50:14 > 0:50:16I've just bought it.
0:50:18 > 0:50:21I think it's going to be over budget, but as I said before,
0:50:21 > 0:50:25I'm not prepared to go over budget so I'm sticking with 650.
0:50:25 > 0:50:28Well, the good news is it is not 675.
0:50:28 > 0:50:31It is, however, over budget at 665.
0:50:31 > 0:50:37- For 650 I think you would have a pretty good chance of getting it, if it's of interest.- I like it.
0:50:37 > 0:50:43And even though it's a bungalow, if that's the only compromise, I might be prepared to go with it.
0:50:43 > 0:50:47- You have got that on tape, haven't you?- At last. Brilliant.
0:50:47 > 0:50:52Well, hold that thought, don't let it go away, keep working on it and I'll catch up with you later.
0:50:52 > 0:50:54- OK.- Off you go. Brilliant.
0:50:54 > 0:50:59Well, there we are, finally we might have just about won Kim over to this and so we should have done.
0:50:59 > 0:51:03It's a great property and it has got all the facilities they are after.
0:51:03 > 0:51:07It maybe at the top of the budget, but it is all here.
0:51:08 > 0:51:13At £665,000, this equestrian property could still be within
0:51:13 > 0:51:18their reach, although Martin would have to make alternative arrangements for his office.
0:51:18 > 0:51:24It does however, have a large living room with a wood burning stove, three bedrooms, seven top-of-
0:51:24 > 0:51:28the-range stables and just over 20 acres of land with a manege.
0:51:28 > 0:51:31The equestrian part will probably swing it for me,
0:51:31 > 0:51:37but I have to say I am struggling, as nice as it is, it is not what I would really, really want.
0:51:39 > 0:51:42- These stables are absolutely fabulous.- They are.
0:51:42 > 0:51:47These internal stalls would cost a lot of money to put in.
0:51:47 > 0:51:51The equestrian facilities are absolutely fantastic.
0:51:51 > 0:51:56It is obviously a really, really competitive, working, professional yard.
0:51:56 > 0:52:02You can tell that by the quality of the build, all the equipment is just to die for. Very, very good.
0:52:02 > 0:52:04There isn't a garage.
0:52:04 > 0:52:07There isn't a study
0:52:07 > 0:52:13so I've got to just look and not let the heart rule the head.
0:52:16 > 0:52:18Look at you sunbathing!
0:52:18 > 0:52:22Why not? I thought I would let you take your time in there.
0:52:22 > 0:52:24- Good. All done then?- Yes.
0:52:24 > 0:52:27We have given you plenty to think about over the last few days.
0:52:27 > 0:52:30- Mind-boggling. - Well, that's a good sign.
0:52:30 > 0:52:35Don't worry about it. Let's get you somewhere where you can cool down a bit and get out of the heat
0:52:35 > 0:52:40and carefully consider all that you've seen and then I'll see if the pair of you have made your minds up.
0:52:40 > 0:52:42- Or could agree.- Or can agree.
0:52:47 > 0:52:53There has been a competitive streak running throughout this house search, but now it is time for Kim
0:52:53 > 0:52:57and Martin to consider if one of our houses could work as their new home.
0:53:02 > 0:53:04Well, at long last, it is decision time.
0:53:04 > 0:53:09As we know Martin and Kim have been looking for their ideal country home for at least two,
0:53:09 > 0:53:14maybe three years, but as yet they haven't found it because they failed to agree on the ideal property.
0:53:14 > 0:53:18So have we managed to change that? Well, let's go and ask them.
0:53:21 > 0:53:23Well, you two,
0:53:23 > 0:53:25how are we feeling?
0:53:25 > 0:53:27Shattered.
0:53:27 > 0:53:29Confused.
0:53:29 > 0:53:30OK. Anything else?
0:53:30 > 0:53:33- Shell-shocked.- My goodness me, it's getting worse!- I know.
0:53:33 > 0:53:37Let's think about where it started, the old grain store.
0:53:37 > 0:53:39Yes, very surprising property.
0:53:39 > 0:53:42I thought it was newer than it actually was
0:53:42 > 0:53:45so I was pleasantly surprised when you said it was Victorian.
0:53:45 > 0:53:50- The view, spectacular, that view.- It was a money shot when you looked from the house.- Yeah.
0:53:50 > 0:53:52- Spectacular, that view.- Yeah.
0:53:52 > 0:53:55- Size-wise, how did you find it? - I liked it.
0:53:55 > 0:53:58The high ceilings throughout gave it an airy feel.
0:53:58 > 0:54:03A fabulous sized kitchen, so yes, a lovely property.
0:54:03 > 0:54:05Now, the land was not flat.
0:54:05 > 0:54:13- There was a sheer drop half-way through the grazing area and it was just too steep.- OK.
0:54:13 > 0:54:18We then went to, I thought, a very charming little cottage, nine acres.
0:54:18 > 0:54:21You even got very close to a perfect score.
0:54:21 > 0:54:24That would be my dream house definitely.
0:54:24 > 0:54:25And the land was great.
0:54:25 > 0:54:33The land was great. I think the only down side is you've got to put the stabling etcetera in.
0:54:33 > 0:54:39Then we slept on it and we took you to a purpose-built equestrian property.
0:54:39 > 0:54:44- What did you make of that one overall?- Equestrian facilities, brilliant, couldn't fault them.
0:54:44 > 0:54:48The house needed some work doing to it, but even so, it was OK.
0:54:48 > 0:54:51But I'm afraid that road... Oh, no.
0:54:51 > 0:54:55It's a real shame, isn't it, because actually, it did have it all.
0:54:55 > 0:54:57Our final offering, the mystery house,
0:54:57 > 0:55:00did therefore have an awful lot to make up for.
0:55:00 > 0:55:03- Bungalow!- It was a bungalow,
0:55:03 > 0:55:05but it was full of peace and quiet.
0:55:05 > 0:55:09- Yes, it was. I'll give you that. - That stable block...
0:55:10 > 0:55:13..was in my view one of the best...
0:55:13 > 0:55:18appointed private yards I've seen in a long time.
0:55:18 > 0:55:22- And we more than doubled the acreage.- Yes.
0:55:22 > 0:55:28- Which wasn't bad, and good acres too.- On the equestrian side, you've delivered the full package.
0:55:28 > 0:55:32But let's cut to the quick now. What do you do next?
0:55:32 > 0:55:36Well, from my side, I think the mystery house has the edge.
0:55:37 > 0:55:42I think Kim is still probably more inclined to the Victorian.
0:55:42 > 0:55:44Ah, with the nine acres or so?
0:55:44 > 0:55:49Now, you see, this is the problem we have had since the day we were married -
0:55:49 > 0:55:52he shouldn't think for me because I'm going with the bungalow.
0:55:52 > 0:55:56- You're going to go for the mystery house?- I'm going to go for the mystery house.
0:55:56 > 0:55:59- So we've achieved agreement?- Yes. - You kept that one quiet.
0:55:59 > 0:56:01I'm flabbergasted.
0:56:01 > 0:56:04Well, we heard it here first, Martin.
0:56:04 > 0:56:07Kim and you have agreed on a property.
0:56:07 > 0:56:10Well done, to you and the team. Thank you very much.
0:56:10 > 0:56:13Well, I am delighted, it is a really interesting place.
0:56:13 > 0:56:16I think you and the girls will be really, really happy there.
0:56:16 > 0:56:19- Congratulations. Let us know how you get on.- Will do.
0:56:19 > 0:56:21- Here's to you. Cheers.- Cheers.
0:56:27 > 0:56:31Well, what a rollercoaster of a house search that has been.
0:56:31 > 0:56:35Even Martin was caught completely by surprise, as indeed was I.
0:56:35 > 0:56:39They're both enjoying a well earned glass of champagne as well they might.
0:56:39 > 0:56:43But I have to confess when we started this search, I really didn't think we would be that successful.
0:56:43 > 0:56:47After all they had been looking for quite a long time and as yet hadn't
0:56:47 > 0:56:52found the house of their dreams, but in the end I think the solution has been quite a simple one.
0:56:52 > 0:56:57We have actually found them a property that they can agree on and you can't argue with that.
0:56:57 > 0:56:58I'll see you next time.
0:56:58 > 0:57:02If you want to escape to the country in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland
0:57:02 > 0:57:04or England and would like our help,
0:57:04 > 0:57:06please apply online at:
0:57:19 > 0:57:21Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd
0:57:21 > 0:57:23E-mail subtitling@bbc.co.uk