0:00:02 > 0:00:04This Steam Age cotton mill engine
0:00:04 > 0:00:07stands as an historic reminder of the pivotal role
0:00:07 > 0:00:11that this part of the country played in the mighty Industrial Revolution.
0:00:11 > 0:00:12Where am I?
0:00:12 > 0:00:15We'll find out as we Escape To The Country.
0:00:27 > 0:00:32In today's show, I'll be helping a couple swap their suburban house
0:00:32 > 0:00:34for a new home in the country.
0:00:34 > 0:00:38I didn't think I'd ever say it, but it's picture-postcard.
0:00:38 > 0:00:41I'll be showing them a selection of superb rural germs.
0:00:41 > 0:00:44Wow!
0:00:44 > 0:00:46Totally unexpected.
0:00:46 > 0:00:49And there's the mystery house.
0:00:49 > 0:00:52But will any of the properties entice the cash out of their pockets?
0:00:55 > 0:00:58This is Bancroft mill in Barnoldswick,
0:00:58 > 0:01:01on the border between Lancashire and Yorkshire.
0:01:01 > 0:01:04This was the last of 13 mills built on the edge
0:01:04 > 0:01:07of what was Yorkshire's industrial centre.
0:01:07 > 0:01:11Now this 13 ton wheel of this mill engine
0:01:11 > 0:01:14used to power 1,250 weaving looms.
0:01:14 > 0:01:16It's pretty impressive, isn't it?
0:01:16 > 0:01:19Nowadays, it's been lovingly restored and maintained by a team
0:01:19 > 0:01:25of enthusiasts who are oh, so keen to maintain the history of this region.
0:01:25 > 0:01:28Today, we're focusing on the area where North Yorkshire
0:01:28 > 0:01:31rubs shoulders with neighbouring Lancashire.
0:01:31 > 0:01:32To the east of the border,
0:01:32 > 0:01:36this region is dominated by the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
0:01:36 > 0:01:40Totalling 680 square miles, its breathtaking scenery
0:01:40 > 0:01:44is characterised by fells and valleys, woodlands and rivers.
0:01:44 > 0:01:50Deeply woven into the fabric of the Dales life is livestock farming.
0:01:50 > 0:01:52An important employer for several centuries,
0:01:52 > 0:01:57it has left an extensive network of dry-stone walls behind that now typify this area.
0:01:57 > 0:02:01Despite the Dales' close proximity to Leeds and Bradford,
0:02:01 > 0:02:04it is significantly rural, offering almost 1,000 miles
0:02:04 > 0:02:08of public footpaths and seemingly endless countryside to explore.
0:02:11 > 0:02:15This part of the country is definitely happening right now.
0:02:15 > 0:02:18In 2008, Skipton's High Street won the Great British
0:02:18 > 0:02:22Street of the Year award for its independent boutiques and shops.
0:02:22 > 0:02:26It beat London's trendy Portobello Road and High Street Kensington.
0:02:26 > 0:02:32Add to that a Michelin-starred restaurant and you have a recipe for one desirable hotspot.
0:02:32 > 0:02:35So what do you get for your money round here?
0:02:35 > 0:02:41With £1.75 million to spend, take a look at this home near Pateley Bridge.
0:02:41 > 0:02:45The six-bedroom Grade II listed property bears all the hallmarks of a period house,
0:02:45 > 0:02:48but also has a fabulous contemporary leisure wing,
0:02:48 > 0:02:51with a gym overlooking the indoor swimming pool.
0:02:53 > 0:02:57Alternatively, £625,000 would buy this
0:02:57 > 0:03:01superb three-bedroom house sitting in a conservation area in Skipton.
0:03:01 > 0:03:05The huge windows allow the natural light to flood in,
0:03:05 > 0:03:07and there's a fabulous riverside terrace.
0:03:09 > 0:03:12Or, if you're chasing a truly rural setting, then check out this
0:03:12 > 0:03:17three-bedroom cottage on the market in Dallowgill for £400,000.
0:03:17 > 0:03:22The interior has a rustic feel, and the uninterrupted views are second to none.
0:03:24 > 0:03:27It's heartening to see such a great selection of properties
0:03:27 > 0:03:29currently on the market.
0:03:29 > 0:03:34And it bodes well for today's buyers, so it's time to meet them.
0:03:34 > 0:03:39Engineer John and retired HR director Margaret live in a large six-bedroom house
0:03:39 > 0:03:45in Braintree, Essex, with their dogs Beauty and Taz, who have free rein of the half-acre plot.
0:03:45 > 0:03:51With John's retirement looming, Margaret's elderly mum moving in, and the need for a lifestyle change,
0:03:51 > 0:03:55the time is right for them to up sticks and head to the country.
0:03:55 > 0:03:58It's a move that can't come soon enough.
0:03:58 > 0:04:02We've lived here over 13 years now and we've seen it become over-developed.
0:04:02 > 0:04:08There's the noise from the road, car after car, and our next property
0:04:08 > 0:04:12will be one that gives us peace and quiet, space, rural aspect,
0:04:12 > 0:04:15somewhere to walk the dogs and let them roam.
0:04:15 > 0:04:17The decision to relocate was made a year ago,
0:04:17 > 0:04:20but so far they have only looked at properties on the internet.
0:04:20 > 0:04:25The key to the move is not just finding a house with a separate lounge for Margaret's mum
0:04:25 > 0:04:29so she can have some independence, but also finding space to accommodate their hobbies.
0:04:33 > 0:04:36This is my passion, and it's the bikes, and they are noisy.
0:04:39 > 0:04:44And my passion is music, which is also noisy, and I will need my own music room.
0:04:44 > 0:04:47But it's not just music and motors that they have to house.
0:04:47 > 0:04:53Margaret also has plenty of gym equipment, so what sort of house would suit them best?
0:04:53 > 0:05:01My dream property in the country would be traditional Yorkshire stone,
0:05:01 > 0:05:04lots of reception rooms,
0:05:04 > 0:05:11large plots, lots of land, garage for John,
0:05:11 > 0:05:13in the middle of nowhere.
0:05:13 > 0:05:18We need to get cracking, but first John and Margaret are getting a current valuation
0:05:18 > 0:05:23for the house they bought 13 years ago for £183,000.
0:05:23 > 0:05:25It's a very individual detached property
0:05:25 > 0:05:27on the favoured side of Braintree,
0:05:27 > 0:05:29on a good-sized plot,
0:05:29 > 0:05:32flexible accommodation, with the possibility of a nice, self-contained annex.
0:05:32 > 0:05:38And for that reason, I value the property at offers in the region of £525,000.
0:05:40 > 0:05:42'It's a slight disappointment,'
0:05:42 > 0:05:45but I have to bear in mind the current market.
0:05:45 > 0:05:48And I'm just thinking, well, it isn't just our house,
0:05:48 > 0:05:53so the house that we are looking for should have been affected in a similar way.
0:05:53 > 0:05:58For this move, we've got to be looking at
0:05:58 > 0:06:02a maximum budget of £500,000 total.
0:06:05 > 0:06:10So, a key component to this move will be Margaret's mum, who's moving in with them.
0:06:10 > 0:06:16She needs her own independent space, which means we need to find a house with two to three reception rooms.
0:06:16 > 0:06:19Then there's the dogs. We need a large enough garden for them to run around in,
0:06:19 > 0:06:23and of course, we need outside space for John's motorbikes
0:06:23 > 0:06:24and a music room for Margaret.
0:06:24 > 0:06:27So there's plenty to contend with here.
0:06:27 > 0:06:30John and Margaret are keen for us to focus our search
0:06:30 > 0:06:34to the west of Skipton, heading towards Lancashire.
0:06:34 > 0:06:36I'll be giving them a tour of gorgeous country homes,
0:06:36 > 0:06:38but I won't reveal the price tag straightaway.
0:06:38 > 0:06:41And last, of course, is the mystery house,
0:06:41 > 0:06:45which will challenge their idea of the perfect country retreat.
0:06:45 > 0:06:51John and Margaret, thank you very much for bringing me to North Yorkshire, a gorgeous county.
0:06:51 > 0:06:54That's a big move for you, from Essex all the way up here.
0:06:54 > 0:06:56- Yes, it is.- It is. Well-thought out.
0:06:56 > 0:07:01We love the area, we love the scenery and we particularly love the people.
0:07:01 > 0:07:03And we like Yorkshire across to Lancashire.
0:07:03 > 0:07:07So we've got a nice area that we can look for properties.
0:07:07 > 0:07:09- There's a lot to move, isn't there? - There is.
0:07:09 > 0:07:13We've got all the musical instruments to think about.
0:07:13 > 0:07:16We have. And this move will give me the time and space
0:07:16 > 0:07:18to practise and to use them more.
0:07:18 > 0:07:21- What about you, John? - Mine is the bikes.
0:07:21 > 0:07:23I'll bring the bikes up, possibly build some more,
0:07:23 > 0:07:27and be able to use them out in the countryside, which is what they're made for.
0:07:27 > 0:07:30And there's, of course, your mother to consider.
0:07:30 > 0:07:34Yes, she's 89, very fit and healthy, will enjoy the move as much as we will
0:07:34 > 0:07:38and have her twilight years in a really nice place.
0:07:38 > 0:07:40What would you be willing to compromise on?
0:07:40 > 0:07:43Yeah, I think I'd have to accept that possibly I won't get the garage
0:07:43 > 0:07:45and workshop area from the outset.
0:07:45 > 0:07:48And if I have to have it built afterwards, then so be it,
0:07:48 > 0:07:51but the budget must obviously accommodate that.
0:07:51 > 0:07:53At least you're willing to compromise.
0:07:53 > 0:07:56That said, we've got brilliant properties to show you.
0:07:56 > 0:07:59- I can't wait to get house hunting, so let's go.- Absolutely.
0:07:59 > 0:08:04John and Margaret have a budget of £500,000.
0:08:04 > 0:08:07Ideally, they would like a traditional stone-built house
0:08:07 > 0:08:10with a separate reception room for Margaret's mum,
0:08:10 > 0:08:12a music room for the piano,
0:08:12 > 0:08:14a room for the gym equipment,
0:08:14 > 0:08:16a garage for John's bikes,
0:08:16 > 0:08:18and plenty of land for the dogs to run around.
0:08:18 > 0:08:21I think it's going to be tricky to achieve everything
0:08:21 > 0:08:25they want for their budget in this very desirable part of the world.
0:08:25 > 0:08:28Let's see if they'll be flexible regarding their needs.
0:08:34 > 0:08:38How excited are you both feeling to be out here looking for properties?
0:08:38 > 0:08:42I'm really excited. It's another period of our lives we are entering,
0:08:42 > 0:08:48and it's just a really... Well, more than exciting.
0:08:48 > 0:08:52It's a life-changing couple of days.
0:08:52 > 0:08:54It's certainly a huge leap.
0:08:54 > 0:08:56I hope we can help John and Margaret with their search.
0:08:58 > 0:09:03Bearing in mind they're looking for a beautiful rural location, we decided to kick-off the search
0:09:03 > 0:09:07in Newby, a quarter of a mile outside the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
0:09:07 > 0:09:11This area is not cheap, especially with the village of Clapham on its doorstep.
0:09:11 > 0:09:15With its beautiful beck, popular attractions and amenities,
0:09:15 > 0:09:18it has long been a tourist destination.
0:09:18 > 0:09:23Combine that with its neat housing stock and you have a very desirable place to live.
0:09:23 > 0:09:25And that, I'm afraid, is reflected in the prices.
0:09:25 > 0:09:28The house we're viewing is a stone-built,
0:09:28 > 0:09:34Grade II listed former farmhouse, dating back to the 17th century.
0:09:35 > 0:09:38You're quite close to the Lancashire border.
0:09:38 > 0:09:43You will have neighbours close to you, it's great for dog-walking, lots of wonderful walks here.
0:09:43 > 0:09:45And this could be the village that you live in
0:09:45 > 0:09:49if you decided to buy this property. First impressions?
0:09:49 > 0:09:50- Very good.- Like the stone.
0:09:50 > 0:09:55The stonework is very nice. And very country looking, but substantial.
0:09:55 > 0:09:58- Let's see what the inside has to hold then.- OK.
0:10:03 > 0:10:05In we come.
0:10:05 > 0:10:10And immediately you have the feel of this cottage.
0:10:10 > 0:10:12It's interesting, it's light.
0:10:12 > 0:10:16- Not too low.- It's quite wide.- You're just skimming the surface there!
0:10:16 > 0:10:18But it's quite wide.
0:10:18 > 0:10:21- Go through to the first reception room.- Thanks.
0:10:22 > 0:10:25- What do you think?- Yes.
0:10:25 > 0:10:29You're on an absolute winner with the window seat, that's my dream.
0:10:29 > 0:10:31- Really?- Yeah, the window seat.
0:10:31 > 0:10:34So that's a particularly nice one.
0:10:34 > 0:10:36John, the fireplace.
0:10:36 > 0:10:42- When the current owners moved in, it was actually covered over, Sixties fireplace.- Oh!- I know.
0:10:42 > 0:10:45And they unearthed all of that.
0:10:45 > 0:10:47- It has a nice feel. - Good, so great start.
0:10:47 > 0:10:51- This could be the room where the two of you relax.- Yes.
0:10:51 > 0:10:56But we need to find somewhere for your mother. So come this way.
0:10:56 > 0:10:58Because I think this would just be the right thing.
0:10:58 > 0:11:04It would be next door to the main living room, but snug enough for her to enjoy.
0:11:04 > 0:11:08- It's quite big.- Do you think she'd be comfortable in here?
0:11:08 > 0:11:10- Yeah. She would.- Love it.
0:11:10 > 0:11:14- You've done well so far.- Fantastic! Then let's keep exploring. This way.
0:11:14 > 0:11:15OK.
0:11:23 > 0:11:26You get a third reception room with this property.
0:11:26 > 0:11:31You don't have to compromise because you get the snug for mother.
0:11:31 > 0:11:35- What do you think of this as a dining room?- That's a huge table!
0:11:35 > 0:11:37- It shows how big the room is.- And...
0:11:37 > 0:11:40- The fireplace.- It's a nice room.
0:11:40 > 0:11:45I can see our furniture in it, which means we would be in it. Because they go together.
0:11:45 > 0:11:51That is great. Another important room for us to check out on this floor is, of course, the kitchen.
0:11:51 > 0:11:53- Let's have a look.- OK.
0:11:57 > 0:11:59At the back of the house, you've got quite a bit of space.
0:11:59 > 0:12:01A bit larder area there.
0:12:01 > 0:12:06That used to be the cheese room, where the farmers made cheese.
0:12:06 > 0:12:11But through here, is, yes, a small kitchen.
0:12:11 > 0:12:14- What do you think? - I think it's too small.
0:12:14 > 0:12:17In its present...
0:12:17 > 0:12:19It's not what I was expecting.
0:12:19 > 0:12:26The kitchen itself can be replaced, it's not so much about units and cooker and the functional things.
0:12:26 > 0:12:29I am already feeling a bit claustrophobic.
0:12:29 > 0:12:31'There's no denying, it is small.
0:12:31 > 0:12:34'But just off the kitchen there's a utility room
0:12:34 > 0:12:37'to hide the white goods, and there's a handy porch area too.
0:12:37 > 0:12:39'But that's it for down here.
0:12:39 > 0:12:42'Heading upstairs, there are five bedrooms over two floors.
0:12:42 > 0:12:47'Just at the top of the stairs is a family bathroom which has a separate shower.
0:12:47 > 0:12:51'The first double bedroom has a wonderful feature beam providing character.
0:12:51 > 0:12:55'And then there's a small box room which would be great for storage.
0:12:55 > 0:12:58'Which leaves us with two rooms still to see.'
0:12:58 > 0:13:00This is a nice example of a double.
0:13:00 > 0:13:03Do you think this would work for your mother, perhaps?
0:13:03 > 0:13:06It would certainly be big enough for my mother. It's a reasonable room.
0:13:06 > 0:13:08This isn't the master?
0:13:08 > 0:13:12- No, this is not the master. Let's go and have a look.- OK.- OK.
0:13:14 > 0:13:17So this would be your master bedroom.
0:13:17 > 0:13:18Much better size.
0:13:18 > 0:13:20It's a big room, but there are some lovely features.
0:13:20 > 0:13:23You've got this great beam running across.
0:13:23 > 0:13:26A beam across the window as well, which has also got a window seat.
0:13:26 > 0:13:28And higher ceilings!
0:13:28 > 0:13:32- Yes. The room is good. - There's no en suite here.
0:13:32 > 0:13:35We gathered that, because of the age of the property.
0:13:35 > 0:13:37How do you feel about that?
0:13:37 > 0:13:42The en suite, we don't have one at present so it's not a huge problem.
0:13:42 > 0:13:47My problem at this moment is there's no downstairs cloakroom for my mother.
0:13:47 > 0:13:50'The fifth and final bedroom is on the top floor.
0:13:50 > 0:13:55'There's plenty of natural light and it can take a double bed.
0:13:55 > 0:13:58'This room rounds off the inside of the house.
0:13:58 > 0:14:03'All that's left to show John and Margaret is the outdoor space which I know they need for the dogs.'
0:14:03 > 0:14:07It's time for us to have a look at the garden area that comes with this property.
0:14:10 > 0:14:13So through here,
0:14:13 > 0:14:16a lovely lawn area. What do you think?
0:14:16 > 0:14:17Very nice as a garden.
0:14:17 > 0:14:21If it's the only garden, then it's too small.
0:14:22 > 0:14:24OK!
0:14:24 > 0:14:27The dogs would run around once and be bored.
0:14:27 > 0:14:32- But as plants and as a garden, it's a very nice area.- Very nice.
0:14:32 > 0:14:34Lovely flowers.
0:14:34 > 0:14:36- What more could you ask for? - A bit more!
0:14:36 > 0:14:39A bit more garden. Come on, follow me.
0:14:39 > 0:14:44'Fortunately, there is more, hiding just round the corner.'
0:14:44 > 0:14:47Now, back here, you've got your own little meadow.
0:14:47 > 0:14:49A little shed here, a pond.
0:14:49 > 0:14:53All of this area which actually goes up to that stone wall there.
0:14:53 > 0:14:58And if that's not enough, you have a formal garden through those archways there
0:14:58 > 0:15:01and all of this section behind this wall would be yours as well.
0:15:01 > 0:15:05- It was a vegetable patch until recently, it's been laid to lawn. - This is much better.
0:15:05 > 0:15:09- All in all, half an acre.- Ah. - Is that enough for you?
0:15:09 > 0:15:12Yeah, that's on it. That's just about right.
0:15:12 > 0:15:16- I'm assuming, have we not got a garage somewhere?- No.
0:15:16 > 0:15:18- Nothing?- No.
0:15:18 > 0:15:24- Ouch.- The question now is, how much would you be willing to pay for this property?
0:15:24 > 0:15:31Well, I'm struggling because it's got certain aspects that don't make it 100% for me.
0:15:31 > 0:15:35I would struggle to say it's more than 400,000.
0:15:35 > 0:15:38I think it is in excess of 400, but not much.
0:15:38 > 0:15:42My concerns are the A65.
0:15:42 > 0:15:44We can hear it, we can see it,
0:15:44 > 0:15:50and a big thing for me is having the shared driveway where the other property comes up past our house.
0:15:50 > 0:15:54I would struggle above 425.
0:15:54 > 0:15:56It's quite a way under your budget.
0:15:56 > 0:16:03- I must tell you that actually, this property is on the market for £499,000.- Ouch!
0:16:03 > 0:16:05What do you think about that?
0:16:05 > 0:16:09With the work that I would need to do to bring it up to what I need,
0:16:09 > 0:16:15to give it the outside space and garage, and the possibility of the kitchen not being quite big enough,
0:16:15 > 0:16:17I couldn't live with that.
0:16:17 > 0:16:18I think it's too much.
0:16:18 > 0:16:23Time for you to do some thinking. Take a walk through the Jane Austen style garden
0:16:23 > 0:16:25- and I'll catch up with you later on. - Thank you.
0:16:25 > 0:16:29John and Margaret's lack of knowledge of the local property market
0:16:29 > 0:16:33has meant the £499,000 price tag has come as a bit of a shock.
0:16:33 > 0:16:37This is, however, a quality home in a highly desirable location,
0:16:37 > 0:16:39close to the amenities of Clapham
0:16:39 > 0:16:42and right on the doorstep of the National Park.
0:16:42 > 0:16:46There are last three reception rooms, one of which can be a snug for Margaret's mum.
0:16:46 > 0:16:50Four bedrooms, gardens and a paddock extending to half an acre.
0:16:50 > 0:16:54It doesn't tick all their boxes, and as it sits at the top end of their budget,
0:16:54 > 0:16:57John and Margaret will have to think about compromises.
0:16:57 > 0:17:00This is a nice, interesting room.
0:17:00 > 0:17:02It is a lovely dining room.
0:17:02 > 0:17:05I worry about you and this beam.
0:17:05 > 0:17:09But I can see our furniture, I can see us in here.
0:17:09 > 0:17:11A very traditional property,
0:17:11 > 0:17:14it's got some very good plus features.
0:17:14 > 0:17:16In some ways, the property isn't spacious enough.
0:17:16 > 0:17:19Also, it currently doesn't have a garage,
0:17:19 > 0:17:24so it would mean I'd need to get built a double garage and the workshop.
0:17:24 > 0:17:28I'm struggling with the practicalities, particularly for my mother.
0:17:28 > 0:17:32And I have yet to understand where my gym would go.
0:17:32 > 0:17:35I have a huge problem with the kitchen.
0:17:35 > 0:17:37Hello, there.
0:17:37 > 0:17:39Had plenty of time to think?
0:17:39 > 0:17:41We had a good look round.
0:17:41 > 0:17:45- Interesting house.- Let's keep moving. - OK.
0:17:48 > 0:17:52Skipton's location, on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park,
0:17:52 > 0:17:55has given it the title "The Gateway to the Dales".
0:17:55 > 0:17:57It's an ideal base for exploring the area.
0:17:57 > 0:18:02So earlier in the week, Margaret and John ventured out to explore.
0:18:02 > 0:18:06The market town came to prominence in the 17th century,
0:18:06 > 0:18:10when the Leeds-Liverpool canal was built, bringing prosperity to the town.
0:18:10 > 0:18:13Providing a magnificent backdrop is Skipton Castle,
0:18:13 > 0:18:17regarded as one of the best-preserved medieval castles in England.
0:18:17 > 0:18:21John and Margaret were keen to fit in a tour with castle guide Jack Beck.
0:18:22 > 0:18:26Good afternoon, and welcome to Skipton Castle.
0:18:26 > 0:18:28- This way, please.- Thank you very much.
0:18:28 > 0:18:30The castle is 900 years old.
0:18:30 > 0:18:35The first castle which was built here was built in the year 1090.
0:18:35 > 0:18:40It was built by a chap called Robert de Romille, one of the Norman knights
0:18:40 > 0:18:43who came over to this country with William the Conqueror.
0:18:43 > 0:18:49The castle saw its most colourful period during the English Civil War in the 1640s.
0:18:49 > 0:18:56As a royalist stronghold, it suffered damage during a three-year siege by Cromwell's forces.
0:18:56 > 0:19:00Lady Anne Clifford, the last Clifford to own Skipton Castle,
0:19:00 > 0:19:06ordered repairs and commemorated the work in 1659 by planting a yew tree in the courtyard.
0:19:09 > 0:19:14The castle's high position, built on limestone and granite rock next to Eller Beck,
0:19:14 > 0:19:16was its main defence.
0:19:16 > 0:19:23We're now behind the castle, and as you can see, it is practically a sheer drop over 120 feet.
0:19:23 > 0:19:27So really, they only had to worry about three sides to defend.
0:19:27 > 0:19:34But if you were attacking the castle and you had been detailed off to attack it from this side,
0:19:34 > 0:19:39climbing the rock face there, especially where we are situated now
0:19:39 > 0:19:46between the privy and the waste chute, I think you'd say that you'd drawn the short straw!
0:19:46 > 0:19:49Nowadays, visitors don't have to climb the wall
0:19:49 > 0:19:55to get the best vantage point, as 250 steps up, the watch tower provides the perfect view.
0:19:57 > 0:20:01Our next property is in a much more rural location, in the hamlet of
0:20:01 > 0:20:05Cold Cotes, again, a stone's throw from the National Park.
0:20:05 > 0:20:10Two miles to Ingleton, it does put them further away from amenities,
0:20:10 > 0:20:12but this old milling town has a good selection of shops.
0:20:12 > 0:20:17The scenic Settle to Carlisle rail line runs past the town over the Ribblehead Viaduct,
0:20:17 > 0:20:20offering passengers glorious views of the Dales.
0:20:20 > 0:20:24Back in Cold Cotes, the house we are seeing is Grade 2 listed.
0:20:24 > 0:20:28Here we are in Cold Cotes, and look at the stunning views behind you.
0:20:28 > 0:20:31- Pretty fantastic?- Perfect. - It's beautiful.
0:20:31 > 0:20:33It's quite quiet. All you've got are the sounds of the local animals.
0:20:33 > 0:20:37Your little pet lamb in there, and the birds.
0:20:37 > 0:20:40This is the gorgeous property that could be yours.
0:20:40 > 0:20:43- I think it's lovely, and I love the setting.- It's solid.
0:20:43 > 0:20:45The dry-stone walls, I love.
0:20:45 > 0:20:49This property is owned by farmers, it has been a working farm.
0:20:49 > 0:20:53They've been here 16 years, they're moving on to a new location.
0:20:53 > 0:20:57They've sold that outbuilding, with planning permission to be developed into a family home.
0:20:57 > 0:21:03But as part of that, those two structures come down, so your views will extend all the way round.
0:21:03 > 0:21:07Then you'll get half of this little plot of land here, just where those trees are.
0:21:07 > 0:21:13A wall will be erected where those trees are there, in front of the new property, round the back
0:21:13 > 0:21:18so this will be your driveway and they will enter their property from the other side.
0:21:18 > 0:21:22You also get this lovely pen here at the front, nice bit of land here, and some more.
0:21:22 > 0:21:25But we will come back to that.
0:21:25 > 0:21:27- How are you feeling so far? - Very positive.- Very good.
0:21:27 > 0:21:31Lovely spot, and the house looks good from the outside.
0:21:31 > 0:21:35- I bet you can't wait to get inside! - No, we can't.- No.- Come on then.
0:21:41 > 0:21:44Nice high ceilings in this property.
0:21:44 > 0:21:46No danger of the banged heads.
0:21:46 > 0:21:50And straight through, because you come right into a lovely big kitchen.
0:21:50 > 0:21:53Now, this is much better, Denise.
0:21:53 > 0:21:56This is much more my dream, my vision.
0:21:56 > 0:21:58Oh, your dream!
0:21:58 > 0:22:01I like the shape. And the size.
0:22:01 > 0:22:05- The fireplace is just... - With the range. There's room to make it your own.
0:22:05 > 0:22:07It's big enough. Certainly big enough.
0:22:07 > 0:22:11- Fantastic, good start. Let's move into this reception room here.- OK.
0:22:11 > 0:22:14Come in here.
0:22:14 > 0:22:19- I think this is another very good sized room. - It's a lovely sitting room.
0:22:19 > 0:22:22- And my window seat!- There's a window seat with your name on it!
0:22:22 > 0:22:25I can't contain my excitement on that.
0:22:25 > 0:22:28And the view from that window seat is just superb.
0:22:28 > 0:22:32- Behind us, you can see they've fitted in an upright piano in this room.- Oh, yes.
0:22:32 > 0:22:35Could you fit your baby grand in here? Is this the right room for it?
0:22:35 > 0:22:39You could certainly fit the baby grand in.
0:22:39 > 0:22:41It probably would go in that corner.
0:22:41 > 0:22:43And you could fit other things in as well?
0:22:43 > 0:22:46Oh, yes, yes! It wouldn't affect this part of the room at all.
0:22:46 > 0:22:48Fantastic, so we've found the space for you.
0:22:48 > 0:22:50Perhaps the piano.
0:22:50 > 0:22:52Let's consider Mum now.
0:22:52 > 0:22:54- OK.- Out this way.
0:22:55 > 0:22:58Through to the back of the house, we've got this lovely big hallway here.
0:22:58 > 0:23:01Grand stairs that we will come back to.
0:23:01 > 0:23:05Through there you've got a pantry area. But through here
0:23:05 > 0:23:09is a lovely little room which I think could make an ideal snug.
0:23:09 > 0:23:11What do you think?
0:23:11 > 0:23:13Yes, it's big enough.
0:23:13 > 0:23:16A little bit dark, a little bit concerned about only the one window.
0:23:16 > 0:23:20But you can get round that with better lighting.
0:23:20 > 0:23:23- You'd get the right lighting in the room.- It's doable.
0:23:23 > 0:23:26'Great! It looks like the snug scores well.
0:23:26 > 0:23:29'Just behind it is a large utility area with a cloakroom
0:23:29 > 0:23:32'which will be convenient for Margaret's elderly mum.
0:23:32 > 0:23:36'Time now to head upstairs where we find four bedrooms.
0:23:36 > 0:23:40'The first is a good-sized double, and the second is a little smaller,
0:23:40 > 0:23:44'but I think it would still accommodate a double bed.
0:23:44 > 0:23:47'Next door is a family bathroom which is bright and clean.'
0:23:47 > 0:23:51Come into this room because this is bigger than a double!
0:23:51 > 0:23:56Oh, this is a spacious room, this is big.
0:23:56 > 0:24:00It's big enough to be a sitting room, bedroom as dual-purpose.
0:24:00 > 0:24:03- Which I thought would be wonderful for Mother.- Yeah, ideal.
0:24:03 > 0:24:05Everywhere you go you've got those views.
0:24:05 > 0:24:08- A lovely view.- Uninterrupted.
0:24:08 > 0:24:10What about the two of you? Can't leave you out!
0:24:10 > 0:24:15- Let's find the master bedroom. - We've got an outhouse, have we? - Maybe!
0:24:17 > 0:24:22So here is the master bedroom, and it's another lovely big room.
0:24:22 > 0:24:23It is another big room.
0:24:23 > 0:24:26Yeah, and lovely high ceilings.
0:24:26 > 0:24:29- But with this one with the beam. - Exactly. You've got the beam,
0:24:29 > 0:24:33- the window.- Oh, I've got a part window seat! I have got a me-sized.
0:24:33 > 0:24:37- You've got an individual one. - A personal window seat.
0:24:37 > 0:24:39Gorgeous view.
0:24:39 > 0:24:41Just absolutely lovely view.
0:24:41 > 0:24:44And on top of that, I think I've spied something in there.
0:24:44 > 0:24:47Something that you might like, have a look.
0:24:47 > 0:24:50It's not for the bikes, it is an en suite.
0:24:50 > 0:24:52Right, yes, very nice.
0:24:52 > 0:24:55It's got the stand-up shower, it's a fairly big space.
0:24:55 > 0:24:59- You wouldn't have to do anything, would you?- It's a hidden gem. - Fantastic.
0:24:59 > 0:25:02So the bathroom scores highly and that rounds off the upstairs.
0:25:02 > 0:25:07But there is more to this property beyond these four walls.
0:25:07 > 0:25:12Attached to this old farmhouse is an outbuilding which could be converted into a gym for Margaret.
0:25:14 > 0:25:17Back outside the front of the house.
0:25:17 > 0:25:21- It is beautiful. - Isn't it gorgeous?- Stunning.
0:25:21 > 0:25:23Beautiful views here.
0:25:23 > 0:25:26So peaceful, and you do get a fair amount of land out here.
0:25:26 > 0:25:29You get the paddock that you saw when you came in,
0:25:29 > 0:25:33you also get this little garden area here.
0:25:33 > 0:25:36All in all, this plot sits on about a quarter of an acre.
0:25:36 > 0:25:40If you did want a little bit more, the owners of this property,
0:25:40 > 0:25:44remember, they are farmers, own that paddock over there as well. And it is up for sale.
0:25:44 > 0:25:48OK, that might be of great interest.
0:25:48 > 0:25:53The big question is, how much do you think this property is on the market for?
0:25:53 > 0:25:59I think from when I first came up that it's likely to be...
0:25:59 > 0:26:00on our budget or above.
0:26:00 > 0:26:04I can't see it being below 500,000.
0:26:04 > 0:26:06Give me a figure.
0:26:06 > 0:26:10Location, it's not perfect in some ways.
0:26:10 > 0:26:14- 535.- OK, John?
0:26:14 > 0:26:17As Margaret says, it's not perfect in every way.
0:26:17 > 0:26:21It does need some work, workshops and garage wise.
0:26:21 > 0:26:23I think...
0:26:23 > 0:26:27it's probably on the market for 490.
0:26:27 > 0:26:29Leaving you a little bit of space to do something.
0:26:29 > 0:26:33But in real terms, it would need to be about 450 to make it work.
0:26:33 > 0:26:37Really? You think if it was 450, this could be a house for you?
0:26:37 > 0:26:40- It's a distinct possibility. - Well, guess what?
0:26:40 > 0:26:45- This property is on the market at £450,000.- Is it?- Oh, yes.
0:26:45 > 0:26:48Now that does surprise me, that really does.
0:26:48 > 0:26:51- What about you, John? - Yeah, I'm surprised as well.
0:26:51 > 0:26:55No, 450, which gives you plenty of room to do the work that needs to be done.
0:26:55 > 0:26:58You are planning and thinking already.
0:26:58 > 0:27:02It's only been on the market for eight weeks. I think there's a lot of potential for you there.
0:27:02 > 0:27:08So go back inside, start working out if it could be the property for you, and I'll catch up with you later on.
0:27:08 > 0:27:11- Thank you.- Off you go.- OK, thanks.
0:27:11 > 0:27:13Well, that was a nice surprise for them!
0:27:13 > 0:27:19They completely guessed over-budget this time, but John was really taking a moment to consider there.
0:27:19 > 0:27:23I think this may be the property for them, but there's so much more to show them.
0:27:23 > 0:27:29At £450,000, this house is a whopping 50 grand under budget
0:27:29 > 0:27:31and provides them with plenty of scope.
0:27:39 > 0:27:42There's the option to buy the paddock opposite.
0:27:42 > 0:27:46It may need some updating, but this is reflected in the price.
0:27:46 > 0:27:51I just love this room, this is just the sort of room that I have dreamed of.
0:27:51 > 0:27:53The dresser, look at the range.
0:27:53 > 0:27:55- It's so nice. - It's big, it's all in proportion.
0:27:55 > 0:27:59- High ceilings.- The fireplace, yeah, no, it's absolutely lovely.
0:27:59 > 0:28:01I love this house.
0:28:01 > 0:28:05I think it has some rooms that are absolutely perfect for us.
0:28:05 > 0:28:07I love the sitting room.
0:28:07 > 0:28:10The plot is just gorgeous, with the stunning views.
0:28:10 > 0:28:13It's not perfect
0:28:13 > 0:28:18and downstairs would need some thought about the flow of rooms and some alterations,
0:28:18 > 0:28:20but the price allows us to do that.
0:28:20 > 0:28:25It is a very nice, big, strong, solid house.
0:28:25 > 0:28:28The price seems good. It does have some issues,
0:28:28 > 0:28:31which I obviously need to get sorting out.
0:28:31 > 0:28:35I just love walking out of this front door, don't you?
0:28:35 > 0:28:37- Yeah.- It is gorgeous.
0:28:37 > 0:28:39- It feels right.- It does, doesn't it?
0:28:39 > 0:28:41And what better day to do it on?
0:28:41 > 0:28:43But we're not finished yet.
0:28:47 > 0:28:53As the sun starts to set, it's a chance to take stock of the property search so far.
0:28:54 > 0:28:56What do you think of the house by the beck?
0:28:56 > 0:29:00It had a lot of charm, there were some bits of it that were very nice.
0:29:00 > 0:29:03There was just too much that wasn't right.
0:29:03 > 0:29:06The shared driveway, the house right nearby.
0:29:06 > 0:29:10There was a difficulty with where to put your garages,
0:29:10 > 0:29:11it was all compromise.
0:29:11 > 0:29:16I think the living room would be compromised, putting the piano in there as well.
0:29:16 > 0:29:19That would be a shame, because that was one of the nicest rooms.
0:29:19 > 0:29:21It would have taken up too much space.
0:29:21 > 0:29:22So how about the farmhouse?
0:29:22 > 0:29:27Farmhouse - much nicer, much nicer views.
0:29:27 > 0:29:30Much better position.
0:29:30 > 0:29:35It's a much more substantial house and I think it would work a lot better.
0:29:35 > 0:29:38There was a lot of that house I really loved.
0:29:38 > 0:29:43The flow and what some of the rooms were used for after the kitchen and sitting room
0:29:43 > 0:29:46were more difficult and would need some changing.
0:29:46 > 0:29:52And I've also got reservations about the fact that there's no garage in whatsoever to start with.
0:29:52 > 0:29:56I can honestly say I look forward to tomorrow and see what comes of that.
0:29:56 > 0:29:59I think today has been a fantastic eye-opener.
0:30:02 > 0:30:07John and Margaret from Braintree in Essex are looking to ditch their suburban home
0:30:07 > 0:30:10and find a slice of rural life on the Yorkshire/Lancashire border.
0:30:10 > 0:30:14They have a budget of £500,000 and are hoping to find
0:30:14 > 0:30:17a property large enough for Margaret's mother to move in,
0:30:17 > 0:30:20and accommodate a piano, gym equipment and John's bikes.
0:30:20 > 0:30:26They've viewed two properties, which have given them a good indication of what they can get for their money.
0:30:26 > 0:30:30And coming up, Margaret finds her perfect spot.
0:30:30 > 0:30:31- This is me, isn't it?- Yeah.
0:30:31 > 0:30:34This is the Margaret room.
0:30:37 > 0:30:39It's day two of our property search
0:30:39 > 0:30:44and John and Margaret have a big budget, but they have also got a very big wish-list.
0:30:44 > 0:30:49So today we are going to take our search further afield, pop over the border and go to Lancashire.
0:30:49 > 0:30:52We are moving further away from the National Park
0:30:52 > 0:30:55where our half-million-pound budget will buy a larger house.
0:30:55 > 0:30:58Our next offering is in Barnoldswick.
0:30:58 > 0:31:00At just nine miles from Skipton,
0:31:00 > 0:31:03it's the closest house to the market town.
0:31:03 > 0:31:06Salterforth in the Pendle Valley is just a mile from Barnoldswick
0:31:06 > 0:31:10and displays its milling history through old workers' cottages.
0:31:10 > 0:31:13There is a pub Margaret and John might like to try.
0:31:13 > 0:31:19And from here, they could follow the towpath of the Leeds to Liverpool Canal back to Barnoldswick.
0:31:19 > 0:31:22This is the house that we want to show you.
0:31:22 > 0:31:26If you come up here, you can see the wonderful views down to Salterforth
0:31:26 > 0:31:31but I thought the thing that would really impress you John, would be this.
0:31:31 > 0:31:35- Spot on! Triple integral garage. Perfect start.- Good!
0:31:35 > 0:31:36But what about the house?
0:31:36 > 0:31:40It's very nice, very impressive. Lovely stone.
0:31:40 > 0:31:43The property dates back to the 1600s, it's made from local sandstone.
0:31:43 > 0:31:47I'm surprised that you say it's that old. I didn't think it was.
0:31:47 > 0:31:49It's in great condition. A lot of love and care,
0:31:49 > 0:31:52but you really need to get inside to get a good look at it.
0:31:52 > 0:31:54- Yeah.- Come on.- Thank you.
0:31:54 > 0:32:01Coming over the border and being further from the National Park means we are getting more for our budget.
0:32:01 > 0:32:05- Come on in. It's lovely and warm and cosy in this property.- It is.
0:32:05 > 0:32:08I love this flagstone floor through the hallway.
0:32:08 > 0:32:11I want to bring you straight in to one of the reception rooms.
0:32:11 > 0:32:14I like the original features.
0:32:14 > 0:32:18Especially the range. It looks like nothing needing doing to it.
0:32:18 > 0:32:20I feel like I have stepped back an era.
0:32:20 > 0:32:23It's just so different.
0:32:23 > 0:32:26- It's a nice size.- I was thinking maybe your grand piano
0:32:26 > 0:32:29could fit in here quite nicely, what do you think?
0:32:29 > 0:32:33It would fit, probably in this big corner there.
0:32:33 > 0:32:38- Because you need to keep it away from the radiators.- And the fire.
0:32:38 > 0:32:39- Good.- Good?- Positive.
0:32:39 > 0:32:41- Positive, happy?- Yes.
0:32:41 > 0:32:43Let's see the second reception room then.
0:32:43 > 0:32:49- These rooms are separated by these doors, put in by the current owners. - Good, good.
0:32:49 > 0:32:52You get another good-sized reception room.
0:32:52 > 0:32:54Yes, once again, nicely proportioned.
0:32:54 > 0:32:56Another fireplace, working.
0:32:56 > 0:32:59- This actually used to be the kitchen.- Oh, right.
0:32:59 > 0:33:02The current owners swapped things around.
0:33:02 > 0:33:05- How do you feel about the piano being next door?- Doesn't bother me.
0:33:05 > 0:33:09- The garage is far enough away at the other end of the house.- Good answer!
0:33:09 > 0:33:11I think it's time we headed over that way.
0:33:11 > 0:33:16- We've got to find out where they moved the kitchen to.- Lead on.
0:33:16 > 0:33:18Across here, we're going into the kitchen.
0:33:18 > 0:33:21Originally this was the lounge.
0:33:21 > 0:33:25This wall was put up by the current owners, so it was all one big space.
0:33:25 > 0:33:29It is now their kitchen area. What do you think?
0:33:29 > 0:33:33Yes, it's a nice big space, isn't it? Smashing floor.
0:33:33 > 0:33:37- Is it a space you think could work for you?- Absolutely, there's no doubt about that.
0:33:37 > 0:33:41That's great news. And there's more to this spacious house.
0:33:41 > 0:33:46Off the rear lobby is another small reception room - the ideal snug for Margaret's mum.
0:33:46 > 0:33:50And conveniently, just next door there's a shower-room.
0:33:50 > 0:33:53Let's not forget there's also a garage for John.
0:33:53 > 0:33:56Oh, yes! Ideal space.
0:33:56 > 0:33:59I could fill this a treat!
0:33:59 > 0:34:03- Ideal, that is the word I was waiting to hear you say, John.- Yes.
0:34:03 > 0:34:05Is this enough space for you and the bikes?
0:34:05 > 0:34:08Perfect space for the bikes. I'd need one addition.
0:34:08 > 0:34:11- What's that?- Put some heating in, it's a little bit chilly.
0:34:11 > 0:34:15I was thinking, if you're feeling generous, you could share this space
0:34:15 > 0:34:17- and have your gym equipment in here too?- No.
0:34:17 > 0:34:22No, I didn't think that was going to be a... It's a nice suggestion,
0:34:22 > 0:34:28- but he would need this amount of space. I understand that. - All of this space, OK.
0:34:28 > 0:34:31Well, at least we've made you happy.
0:34:31 > 0:34:34I think it's time to check out the upstairs.
0:34:34 > 0:34:37Clearly, the garage is going to be John's domain.
0:34:37 > 0:34:42Let's see if we can find something to keep Margaret happy upstairs.
0:34:42 > 0:34:46Up here, I love the way we have got all of this exposed stonework.
0:34:46 > 0:34:53- That's nice.- And there's even more of it as you come up to this really impressive hallway up here.
0:34:53 > 0:34:55- Ooh! Massive!- Isn't it just?
0:34:55 > 0:34:58The first room I want to show you is tucked around here at the back.
0:35:01 > 0:35:04Not particularly big bedroom for the master.
0:35:04 > 0:35:08It does fit a good-sized double bed, and it's got two added extras.
0:35:08 > 0:35:12- You've got a walk-in wardrobe and an en suite.- That makes a difference.
0:35:12 > 0:35:16Without that, you wouldn't have space for wardrobes.
0:35:16 > 0:35:18Exactly. Have a look back there.
0:35:20 > 0:35:24- Good size.- A nice bonus? - That's a good bonus, yes.
0:35:24 > 0:35:29- And it makes more sense of the room as the master.- Yes.
0:35:29 > 0:35:30- And...- The view.- Gorgeous view.
0:35:30 > 0:35:35That's what you've got to look at. You don't need pictures on the wall.
0:35:35 > 0:35:37A wonderful picture frame of a window.
0:35:37 > 0:35:41Do you think this could work for the two of you as your master bedroom?
0:35:41 > 0:35:44- Yes. All positives. It's good.- Yeah.
0:35:44 > 0:35:46- Yes, this works.- Fantastic.
0:35:46 > 0:35:51- There's a lot of rooms up here so let's keep exploring.- OK.
0:35:51 > 0:35:56Just down the landing is a great room for Margaret's mum, with a large built-in wardrobe.
0:35:56 > 0:36:00The family bathroom is bright and is big enough to take a separate shower.
0:36:00 > 0:36:03The owners use the third double bedroom as a workout space,
0:36:03 > 0:36:06but I doubt Margaret would get all her equipment in here.
0:36:06 > 0:36:10No worries, though, because I think there are possibilities next door.
0:36:10 > 0:36:12This could be your 4th bedroom.
0:36:12 > 0:36:15- It's currently being used as an art studio.- Oh, wow!
0:36:16 > 0:36:19That's totally unexpected.
0:36:19 > 0:36:21A lovely ceiling. And space!
0:36:21 > 0:36:24I just wish it was downstairs.
0:36:24 > 0:36:27It's a fantastic room and I could certainly...
0:36:27 > 0:36:32- I could see gym equipment, with a stronger floor.- Yeah.
0:36:32 > 0:36:38Good! So now we've found a space for you as well. So excited.
0:36:39 > 0:36:42This house is scoring well on all fronts.
0:36:42 > 0:36:44Let's see if the garden can seal the deal.
0:36:50 > 0:36:52It's so beautifully peaceful out here.
0:36:52 > 0:36:57The wonderful thing about this property is that you're surrounded by these panoramic views.
0:36:57 > 0:37:00- Lovely. - Looking out into the countryside.
0:37:00 > 0:37:05All in all, you get about a quarter of an acre with this house.
0:37:05 > 0:37:10- This lovely area here has been so immaculately looked after. - It certainly is immaculate.
0:37:10 > 0:37:14- Back there, a little patio area, you can sit out.- Some dry-stone wall.
0:37:14 > 0:37:18You do have dry-stone wall, and down that side you've got a vegetable patch.
0:37:18 > 0:37:21And even a few mature trees just over there.
0:37:21 > 0:37:24How do you think it could work as a garden for the two of you?
0:37:24 > 0:37:27- I think as a garden it's lovely. - It works very well.
0:37:27 > 0:37:32We would have to change it to accommodate the dogs, which would be a shame.
0:37:32 > 0:37:35It's not a dog-friendly plot of land.
0:37:35 > 0:37:39- OK.- It's certainly an enjoyment plot of land.
0:37:39 > 0:37:43Well, you've got an enjoyable plot of land, a fabulous property and a great location.
0:37:43 > 0:37:49- How much do you think it's on the market for?- I would say, it would have to be around 495.
0:37:49 > 0:37:54I think this is actually a fair bit cheaper than Margaret said.
0:37:54 > 0:38:00I think this would be probably in the low 400s.
0:38:00 > 0:38:02The low 400s?
0:38:02 > 0:38:04So it's a big difference there.
0:38:04 > 0:38:05We always are different.
0:38:05 > 0:38:07I'm a spender.
0:38:07 > 0:38:08I'm the spender.
0:38:08 > 0:38:10This one goes to you, Margaret.
0:38:10 > 0:38:16This property is, spot on, you are right, on the market for £495,000.
0:38:16 > 0:38:18It's been on since February.
0:38:18 > 0:38:21I think the way that they've renovated and everything, that is worth it.
0:38:21 > 0:38:25I was guessing, because I don't know the area
0:38:25 > 0:38:30and I just took it to be off the tourist trail, so it may have been that bit cheaper.
0:38:30 > 0:38:33I think you need to go and spend some more time back there,
0:38:33 > 0:38:39wander around, see if maybe the dogs could be accommodated here, and I'll catch up with you later on.
0:38:39 > 0:38:40OK, thank you.
0:38:42 > 0:38:44It's just quite difficult, isn't it?
0:38:44 > 0:38:49With a list as long as theirs, there is always going to be something which isn't quite right.
0:38:49 > 0:38:54They've got to concentrate now on what they are willing to compromise on to make this move happen.
0:38:54 > 0:39:00So Margaret's guess was spot on at £495,000.
0:39:15 > 0:39:21This house actually, selfishly, fulfils my immediate need with the garage.
0:39:21 > 0:39:27But I do feel that it's a little bit lacking for the overall purposes.
0:39:27 > 0:39:33This is a lovely house in great condition and with a lot of accommodation.
0:39:33 > 0:39:35It's spacious, particularly upstairs.
0:39:35 > 0:39:38And I love the artist's studio.
0:39:38 > 0:39:40Well, this is your room.
0:39:40 > 0:39:44It's such an interesting room, it's just so unusual.
0:39:44 > 0:39:47It's a real struggle between the head and the heart,
0:39:47 > 0:39:54because it isn't absolutely right in its current form for my mother and the dogs.
0:39:54 > 0:39:58I am not discounting this property as a contender, but it needs a lot more thought.
0:40:03 > 0:40:05With years of retirement ahead of them,
0:40:05 > 0:40:09John and Margaret are looking forward to indulging in their passion for gardening,
0:40:09 > 0:40:12so they are visiting Parcevall Hall Gardens,
0:40:12 > 0:40:17the only Royal Horticultural Society and English Heritage garden in Yorkshire open to the public.
0:40:17 > 0:40:21- The head gardener is Phil Nelson. - Hello. Nice to meet you, Phil.
0:40:21 > 0:40:25- Welcome to Parcevall. - What a beautiful spot!
0:40:25 > 0:40:28It's just unique and so off the beaten track.
0:40:28 > 0:40:34Yeah. The gardens were laid out primarily between 1927 and 1930, by Sir William Milner.
0:40:34 > 0:40:37He was a trained architect and he came up from London
0:40:37 > 0:40:40to look for somewhere to build as a gentleman's country residence.
0:40:40 > 0:40:42The long house was a ruin when he bought it.
0:40:42 > 0:40:46Before the gardens were developed, it was just fields, pastureland.
0:40:46 > 0:40:49Quite a young garden really, only 80 years old,
0:40:49 > 0:40:52all the trees and everything in the garden,
0:40:52 > 0:40:55although they have matured into the landscape around them.
0:40:55 > 0:40:59The 24-acre plot is laid out in a series of gardens
0:40:59 > 0:41:02and is home to a rich abundance of plants and trees
0:41:02 > 0:41:05from places as far as Western China and the Himalayas
0:41:05 > 0:41:08that thrive in the soil types found here.
0:41:08 > 0:41:10Margaret and John are keen to learn about
0:41:10 > 0:41:14one of their favourite plants - the acid-soil-loving rhododendron.
0:41:14 > 0:41:18When we move up into this area, we will be bringing rhododendrons in our tubs.
0:41:18 > 0:41:22And our soil at home is not good for that. We've got special soil.
0:41:22 > 0:41:25Is the soil here going to be OK for us to plant them?
0:41:25 > 0:41:29Yeah, right throughout this area, there's a lot of heather moorland peat.
0:41:29 > 0:41:31It's acidic soil, it would be perfect.
0:41:31 > 0:41:35Your plants will benefit from being out of the tubs and into the ground.
0:41:35 > 0:41:38Around the corner, the ground changes.
0:41:38 > 0:41:41The North Craven Fault Line runs through the site
0:41:41 > 0:41:46and has pushed the limestone up through the grit stone layer to form a belt of rock,
0:41:46 > 0:41:49making it the ideal space for - you've guessed - a rock garden
0:41:49 > 0:41:51where the soil is alkaline.
0:41:51 > 0:41:59Perfect for growing the cultivated peony, the Asiatic poppy, and New Zealand's wild Spaniard.
0:41:59 > 0:42:04Back at the hall, the south-facing wall is the ideal spot for wisteria to flourish.
0:42:04 > 0:42:07We'd really love to have something like a wisteria,
0:42:07 > 0:42:13but I'm really anxious about pruning a large climber of this sort.
0:42:13 > 0:42:18What wisterias do, is it climbs by putting out these large tendrils.
0:42:18 > 0:42:24And these are now taking the life out of the plant if you don't want them.
0:42:24 > 0:42:28So we go back to a couple of nodes from the base
0:42:28 > 0:42:30and just take a clean cut.
0:42:30 > 0:42:33You do that right throughout the wisteria.
0:42:33 > 0:42:36What you can also do... This wisteria is coming out from the wall
0:42:36 > 0:42:39and it's just going to get bigger and bigger.
0:42:39 > 0:42:42You can actually cut into the woody material.
0:42:44 > 0:42:46Again, maybe just at that joint there
0:42:46 > 0:42:50and remove that part of the wisteria.
0:42:50 > 0:42:54It also gives you the opportunity to tie it in again if it's come away from the tying-in point.
0:42:54 > 0:42:58Phil, thank you very much. It's been a very interesting day.
0:42:58 > 0:43:01It's a beautiful spot. Thank you for your time.
0:43:01 > 0:43:02Thanks very much, Phil.
0:43:02 > 0:43:04Very informative.
0:43:10 > 0:43:14For John and Margaret, there seems to be a big gap between their expectations,
0:43:14 > 0:43:17that wish-list, and what they can actually afford.
0:43:17 > 0:43:22But it's mystery house time, so we're going to show them a property they would never have looked at,
0:43:22 > 0:43:25which gives them scope to do everything they want and then some.
0:43:27 > 0:43:31I can reveal that the mystery house lies on the edge of Colne,
0:43:31 > 0:43:3312 miles south-west of Skipton.
0:43:33 > 0:43:37Barrowford, a few miles away, has the sleepy community feel they're seeking.
0:43:37 > 0:43:41There's a small selection of shops, and the towpath
0:43:41 > 0:43:46of the nearby Leeds to Liverpool Canal offers prime dog-walking opportunities.
0:43:46 > 0:43:50It's our final house and I can't wait to see what they think.
0:43:50 > 0:43:54Right, this is the mystery property.
0:43:54 > 0:43:56It is just through here.
0:43:56 > 0:43:59Come in. Take a look.
0:43:59 > 0:44:03- Yes.- It's lovely.- Stunning. - MARGARET LAUGHS
0:44:03 > 0:44:05I have heard people say it before
0:44:05 > 0:44:08and I didn't think I'd ever say it, but it's picture-postcard.
0:44:08 > 0:44:10- It is.- It is picture-postcard.
0:44:10 > 0:44:14I love the windows. Love the stone.
0:44:14 > 0:44:17This is the mystery property because it is attached.
0:44:17 > 0:44:19But it's only attached at that end.
0:44:19 > 0:44:22- How do you feel about that? - It's different for us.
0:44:22 > 0:44:26We've not had attached before, but we are open-minded.
0:44:26 > 0:44:29If everything else is perfect, spot on...
0:44:29 > 0:44:33Perhaps that's the compromise. If everything else is there.
0:44:33 > 0:44:36Great start. There is one more surprise with this property,
0:44:36 > 0:44:38but we'll come to that at the very end.
0:44:38 > 0:44:42- I can't wait that long! - Let's look inside. Come on.- OK.
0:44:42 > 0:44:47It was a gamble, selecting this semi-detached house, but it looks like it's paid off already.
0:44:54 > 0:44:59Come in this way. You've got a big utility room back there with a downstairs cloakroom.
0:44:59 > 0:45:02But I want to show you this.
0:45:02 > 0:45:05This is much more like it.
0:45:05 > 0:45:08Yeah, absolutely much more what I would be looking for.
0:45:08 > 0:45:13It's so unexpectedly modern within the outside.
0:45:13 > 0:45:16Such clean lines and obviously a lovely size.
0:45:16 > 0:45:20- But the windows are gorgeous, even nicer from inside.- Yes.
0:45:20 > 0:45:22Come forward and have a look.
0:45:22 > 0:45:25I love that this flagstone floor all the way through.
0:45:25 > 0:45:28- It's a beautiful floor. - It's a great touch, isn't it?
0:45:28 > 0:45:30Yes, the dogs will like that. THEY LAUGH
0:45:30 > 0:45:32And I will like it.
0:45:32 > 0:45:35I love islands and this one's particularly nice.
0:45:35 > 0:45:37I had to give mine up to get a table.
0:45:37 > 0:45:39But lots of worktop space.
0:45:39 > 0:45:43- You wouldn't have to do anything, would you?- No, absolutely not.
0:45:43 > 0:45:45Great. Good. Happy?
0:45:45 > 0:45:47- Yes.- Spot on. Fantastic.
0:45:47 > 0:45:48- Let's go.- Let's keep moving.
0:45:51 > 0:45:54There's a lovely wide hallway back here.
0:45:54 > 0:45:59- Come through here because I give you... - JOHN CHUCKLES
0:45:59 > 0:46:03this as your first reception room.
0:46:03 > 0:46:06- No, no, you've given me this as my music room.- Ah!
0:46:06 > 0:46:10It has to be, because look. There are pianos already in here.
0:46:10 > 0:46:12The room is already used to music.
0:46:12 > 0:46:16So, immediately, this speaks to you and says, "This is the room for my piano."
0:46:16 > 0:46:20Yeah. Well, you know, I'd like to look at this superb fireplace.
0:46:20 > 0:46:22- It is gorgeous.- That is unusual.
0:46:22 > 0:46:24- It's French limestone.- Yeah.
0:46:24 > 0:46:26It was designed by the owner.
0:46:26 > 0:46:30The lady of the house, she designed it, and then it was crafted by local craftsmen.
0:46:30 > 0:46:33- It's very, very nice.- Yeah.
0:46:33 > 0:46:36This is the first reception room, but there are two more.
0:46:36 > 0:46:38Let's have a look in here first.
0:46:40 > 0:46:43Reception room number two for you.
0:46:43 > 0:46:46It's a nice shape, yes.
0:46:46 > 0:46:48- I mean, tall.- Useful square.
0:46:48 > 0:46:52The beautiful windows again.
0:46:52 > 0:46:56But useful. It's a useful area. It's a distinct possibility for my mum, isn't it?
0:46:56 > 0:46:57Yeah, definitely. It's good.
0:46:57 > 0:47:00It fits. This will work.
0:47:00 > 0:47:03Well, there's one more so let's scoot next door.
0:47:04 > 0:47:06Et voila.
0:47:06 > 0:47:08We have another room for you.
0:47:08 > 0:47:12- Spoilt for choice in this house. - Wow. Some chair!
0:47:12 > 0:47:15No, I'm sorry, I've changed my mind.
0:47:15 > 0:47:18- THIS is my music room.- Ah!
0:47:18 > 0:47:20No, this is me, isn't it?
0:47:20 > 0:47:23- Yeah.- This is the Margaret room.
0:47:23 > 0:47:25- Yeah, this will do you.- Yeah.
0:47:25 > 0:47:28And looking at the big furniture that's in here,
0:47:28 > 0:47:32the baby grand must be able to go in here with the other instruments.
0:47:32 > 0:47:35- It's fine.- This is not a John room.
0:47:35 > 0:47:37This is a Margaret room.
0:47:37 > 0:47:38- Margaret heaven.- Oh, I love it.
0:47:38 > 0:47:40We found Margaret heaven.
0:47:40 > 0:47:42This is fantastic.
0:47:42 > 0:47:47We've given you three reception rooms, Margaret heaven, great kitchen. Let's head upstairs.
0:47:47 > 0:47:49- OK.- OK.
0:47:51 > 0:47:54What a superb start to a house tour.
0:47:54 > 0:47:55I couldn't be happier.
0:47:55 > 0:47:59I hope they are just as thrilled with the rest of the property.
0:47:59 > 0:48:04Upstairs, the elegant decoration continues and the first stop is the bathroom.
0:48:05 > 0:48:08- I think this is very impressive. - Very nice.
0:48:08 > 0:48:11- Oh, massive. Yeah. - It's just a lot of space.
0:48:11 > 0:48:13It's just a nice big room, isn't it?
0:48:13 > 0:48:17- It's like a room with a bath in it, rather than just a bathroom.- Yeah.
0:48:17 > 0:48:20More bonus points there then.
0:48:20 > 0:48:27Across the landing is the first of the four bedrooms and I think it's ready-made for Margaret's mum.
0:48:27 > 0:48:30Next door is a single room, again immaculately fitted out.
0:48:30 > 0:48:34Then there's bedroom number three, which could squeeze in a double bed.
0:48:34 > 0:48:37And, as always, I've saved the best till last.
0:48:37 > 0:48:40This room is for you, I think, Margaret.
0:48:40 > 0:48:42Look at that window seat.
0:48:42 > 0:48:45Yes, it's the Margaret window seat.
0:48:45 > 0:48:48Yeah. Lovely windows again.
0:48:48 > 0:48:52Hasn't got the en suite, but again, there are compromises and other features.
0:48:52 > 0:48:55I think we've made a hit with the inside of the house.
0:48:55 > 0:48:59We are going outside because there's that surprise that I promised you.
0:48:59 > 0:49:00- OK.- Come on.
0:49:02 > 0:49:08The love and attention that's been paid to this house really shows through, and it continues outside.
0:49:10 > 0:49:14Out here, I think it's just as nice outside as it has been inside.
0:49:14 > 0:49:17Lovely discrete areas to entertain in.
0:49:17 > 0:49:21- You can see a table and chairs here. - Some nice seating areas. - Outside the front porch,
0:49:21 > 0:49:26you can enjoy a glass of wine on a nice summer's evening. It leads all the way up here.
0:49:26 > 0:49:29We've got a couple of grassed areas and at the back there,
0:49:29 > 0:49:34there's a gate that leads on to a pathway, so you can go for lovely walks in the countryside.
0:49:34 > 0:49:36I can imagine you both sitting out here relaxing.
0:49:36 > 0:49:38- Oh, yes, and my mother. - No issue with that.
0:49:38 > 0:49:44- Not an awful lot for John to garden at the moment, but...- No, no, there isn't really, is there?- Not yet.
0:49:44 > 0:49:47I think this house could do with just a little bit more, couldn't it?
0:49:47 > 0:49:50- Yes.- It's time for that surprise. Follow me.
0:49:54 > 0:49:57This house doesn't come with the garage John longs for,
0:49:57 > 0:50:00but planning permission has been granted to build one
0:50:00 > 0:50:04next to a separate gravel parking area just in front of the house.
0:50:04 > 0:50:06And there's plenty of space outside
0:50:06 > 0:50:11with two paddocks, a chicken coop and a vegetable patch.
0:50:11 > 0:50:14Three-and-a-half acres with his property.
0:50:14 > 0:50:15That's impressive.
0:50:15 > 0:50:20I mean, it's not only nice, in terms of the greenness
0:50:20 > 0:50:24and the amount of land, it's in the right place.
0:50:24 > 0:50:28So, well, now the big question is, with all of this land,
0:50:28 > 0:50:31a stunning picture-postcard property there behind you,
0:50:31 > 0:50:34give me a number. What's the price, do you reckon?
0:50:34 > 0:50:38It is a substantial, lovely house.
0:50:38 > 0:50:41I would say 530,000.
0:50:41 > 0:50:44I'd go with 525.
0:50:44 > 0:50:46John, you get the prize this time.
0:50:46 > 0:50:51You are spot on. It's on the market at £525,000.
0:50:51 > 0:50:53It's a little bit over your budget. What do you think?
0:50:53 > 0:50:55I think it's very good value.
0:50:55 > 0:51:01I think, for what is here, all in all, although it's not absolutely what we want
0:51:01 > 0:51:05- and we would have to spend a bit more, it's still good value, isn't it?- It is. Yeah.
0:51:05 > 0:51:10I think it's time you had a wander round. Scope out those rooms and I'll catch up with you later.
0:51:10 > 0:51:12- OK.- OK, thank you.- See you later.
0:51:13 > 0:51:15I love it when a plan comes together.
0:51:15 > 0:51:19It's the mystery house, something they probably would never have looked at,
0:51:19 > 0:51:21but this could be the one.
0:51:22 > 0:51:27This beautiful property is over budget at £525,000.
0:51:27 > 0:51:33But it has been on the market two years, so it's possible there may be some room to negotiate.
0:51:47 > 0:51:51This is the room with the wow factor.
0:51:51 > 0:51:53This really is a special room.
0:51:53 > 0:51:56- And the fireplace.- Elegant, the fireplace, the windows.
0:51:56 > 0:51:57The fireplace sets it off.
0:51:57 > 0:52:00The space. It's just gorgeous.
0:52:00 > 0:52:05This house is absolutely stunning and I really love it.
0:52:05 > 0:52:08The head and the heart don't have a struggle here.
0:52:08 > 0:52:14It has some truly stunning rooms, particularly the kitchen and the sitting room.
0:52:14 > 0:52:18The plot itself is absolutely gorgeous.
0:52:18 > 0:52:20Now this is just a kitchen to die for.
0:52:20 > 0:52:23This is so what we were looking for.
0:52:23 > 0:52:25This house is very surprising.
0:52:25 > 0:52:29Although it's a semi, which I didn't really want,
0:52:29 > 0:52:34the property is certainly large enough to accommodate what we need.
0:52:34 > 0:52:37It is so nice, it must be given serious consideration.
0:52:37 > 0:52:39SHE RINGS A BELL
0:52:39 > 0:52:41Time's up. I had to get your attention.
0:52:41 > 0:52:45Right, let's find somewhere for you to sit down and have a think.
0:52:51 > 0:52:55John and Margaret have now seen a selection of properties available for their budget
0:52:55 > 0:52:58and it's time to think about their priorities.
0:53:04 > 0:53:07It's quite difficult to read this couple.
0:53:07 > 0:53:11John and Margaret seem to like a lot about the properties we've shown them,
0:53:11 > 0:53:15but I'm not sure if any one property has everything that they were looking for.
0:53:15 > 0:53:19But there's only one way to find out. Let's ask them.
0:53:22 > 0:53:25John and Margaret, we started with the house by the beck.
0:53:25 > 0:53:27What did you feel when we walked up to it?
0:53:27 > 0:53:29I thought it was a very attractive property.
0:53:29 > 0:53:32There were some particularly nice features.
0:53:32 > 0:53:34The living room was very, very nice.
0:53:34 > 0:53:36Lovely fireplace, we liked that.
0:53:36 > 0:53:41The kitchen was not suitable and would have needed a lot of work.
0:53:41 > 0:53:46We did have a concern about the shared drive and a major thing looking onto the A65.
0:53:46 > 0:53:50And finally, there was the issue with no garages.
0:53:50 > 0:53:53Let's talk about the farmhouse with those spectacular views.
0:53:53 > 0:53:59I thought the house was spectacular from outside, its position.
0:53:59 > 0:54:00Its views were just gorgeous.
0:54:00 > 0:54:03And there was plenty of room for the dogs.
0:54:03 > 0:54:08The sitting room was particularly nice although the piano would have had to have gone in the sitting room,
0:54:08 > 0:54:10but it was a very nice sitting room.
0:54:10 > 0:54:13But then I began to be a little disappointed in regard to OUR needs
0:54:13 > 0:54:18because I couldn't identify where my mother might go,
0:54:18 > 0:54:22where there would be a nice room for her, and anything else really.
0:54:22 > 0:54:25It disappointed me a little bit towards the back.
0:54:25 > 0:54:29Now that was an extensive and quite specific wish-list that you had,
0:54:29 > 0:54:32but you did give us a lot of scope to travel around
0:54:32 > 0:54:36so we popped over the border to Lancashire and went to the house on the hill.
0:54:36 > 0:54:39- The house on the hill... - Had a garage!
0:54:39 > 0:54:43- THEY LAUGH - It fulfilled my selfish need for the massive garage.
0:54:43 > 0:54:48And the gardens were lovely, in terms of gardening and flowers and it was immaculate.
0:54:48 > 0:54:53I think that, inside the house, there was a lot to be pleased about.
0:54:53 > 0:54:56The things that concerned me about that property
0:54:56 > 0:54:59was not finding anywhere to put the gym equipment.
0:54:59 > 0:55:02I couldn't easily identify that.
0:55:02 > 0:55:05Well, finally, there was the mystery house.
0:55:05 > 0:55:07I think you threw us quite a big curve ball there
0:55:07 > 0:55:11because it didn't fill some of the boxes,
0:55:11 > 0:55:17but it filled other boxes so well it's made us think.
0:55:17 > 0:55:20Well, the kitchen was to die for. There is no doubt.
0:55:20 > 0:55:22The sitting room was just mind-blowing.
0:55:22 > 0:55:24Never seen anything like it.
0:55:24 > 0:55:29And of course, I thought immediately, "My room, my music room, my baby grand."
0:55:29 > 0:55:32- Then we found another room, even better.- Which you also claimed!
0:55:32 > 0:55:38- And there was definitely the separate room for my mother. - And then there was the surprise.
0:55:38 > 0:55:393.5 acres.
0:55:39 > 0:55:42- It was much more than you asked for. - Yes, much, much more.
0:55:42 > 0:55:47So, tell me, do you like any of the properties enough to put an offer in?
0:55:47 > 0:55:49- Yes, we do.- Yes, we do.
0:55:49 > 0:55:55We like the mystery house enough to put an offer in.
0:55:55 > 0:55:59Our offer would need to be a bit less than they are looking for.
0:55:59 > 0:56:02It's been really nice spending time with the two of you.
0:56:02 > 0:56:04Thank you. And same for us.
0:56:04 > 0:56:06- It's been wonderful. - We've enjoyed it.
0:56:06 > 0:56:10I am so pleased that you have chosen one of our properties. Do let us know how you get on.
0:56:10 > 0:56:12- We will do.- We will.
0:56:16 > 0:56:20Finding your dream home is not an exact science.
0:56:20 > 0:56:22And sometimes, despite all the lists and criteria,
0:56:22 > 0:56:25you get exactly what you want in the most unexpected place.
0:56:25 > 0:56:28I think that's the case for John and Margaret.
0:56:28 > 0:56:33And if they buy our mystery house, it will not be long before John, Margaret, mum, the dogs,
0:56:33 > 0:56:37the piano and the bikes can all start their very own Escape To The Country.
0:56:37 > 0:56:39I'll see you next time.
0:56:40 > 0:56:44The latest from John and Margaret is that, after serious consideration,
0:56:44 > 0:56:47they have decided not to put an offer on the mystery house
0:56:47 > 0:56:49and have moved their house hunt to Lincolnshire,
0:56:49 > 0:56:52where they will be able to get so much more for their money.
0:56:52 > 0:56:55And if you would like to Escape To The Country,
0:56:55 > 0:56:58and would like our help, please contact us through our website.
0:57:21 > 0:57:25Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd
0:57:25 > 0:57:28E-mail subtitling@bbc.co.uk