0:00:02 > 0:00:08Welcome to Escape To The Country. The wonderful house here was the birthplace of a very important man.
0:00:08 > 0:00:13Amongst other things, he was a poet, a soldier, an adventurer and a courtier
0:00:13 > 0:00:19and he introduced us to the spud. But who was he and where am I? Follow me and I'll show you.
0:00:33 > 0:00:41'Today we're helping a retired couple swap Surrey's commuter belt for Green Belt in the West Country.
0:00:41 > 0:00:44'We've got some thrilling rural properties.'
0:00:44 > 0:00:49- Have you seen her get this excited? - Not for a few years!
0:00:49 > 0:00:53'And we also find the perfect retirement panorama.'
0:00:53 > 0:01:01I'm totally gobsmacked by the views and the easy lifestyle I can see that is coming my way.
0:01:03 > 0:01:11Today I'm in Devon and back in 1554 none other than Sir Walter Raleigh was born here at Hayes Barton.
0:01:11 > 0:01:15He's famous for introducing us to the potato and tobacco,
0:01:15 > 0:01:19but he was also one of Elizabeth I's most favourite courtiers
0:01:19 > 0:01:27and famously threw his cloak down over a muddy puddle so she wouldn't get her feet wet. The good old days.
0:01:27 > 0:01:32The third-largest county in the country, Devon lies in the south-west of England,
0:01:32 > 0:01:37between Somerset and Dorset to the east and Cornwall to the west.
0:01:37 > 0:01:44For many, Devon is synonymous with childhood holidays and memories of time spent by the seaside.
0:01:44 > 0:01:48Travel further inland into the heart of the county
0:01:48 > 0:01:54and the wild and intriguing beauty of Dartmoor National Park has inspired writers and artists.
0:01:54 > 0:01:59The beautiful landscape has made it a favourite with home buyers.
0:01:59 > 0:02:04The untouched villages are scattered with period houses and pretty thatched cottages,
0:02:04 > 0:02:09which absolutely typify the English country dream.
0:02:09 > 0:02:13Well, we all love to be beside the seaside
0:02:13 > 0:02:16or so, of course, the song tells us,
0:02:16 > 0:02:19but in Devon house prices certainly reflect that.
0:02:19 > 0:02:2610 years ago they were pretty much on a par with the rest of England and Wales, but times have changed.
0:02:26 > 0:02:30They're now a whopping 17% above the national average,
0:02:30 > 0:02:34thanks in part to a low crime rate, but also this glorious climate.
0:02:34 > 0:02:39So if you can find the money, this is definitely the place to be.
0:02:39 > 0:02:43There's more to Devon's housing stock than quintessential cottages
0:02:43 > 0:02:48as this five-bedroom property in West Alvington demonstrates.
0:02:48 > 0:02:54Centred round an indoor pool, the mix of glass and stainless steel is a serious statement
0:02:54 > 0:02:58of contemporary living with a serious price tag.
0:02:58 > 0:03:02This will set you back £1.25 million.
0:03:02 > 0:03:08In stark contrast, this five-bed family home in Dipperton epitomises country chic at its finest.
0:03:08 > 0:03:14On the market just shy of £700,000, it has three grand reception rooms
0:03:14 > 0:03:17and a fantastic kitchen/breakfast room.
0:03:17 > 0:03:24Lastly, this traditional three-bed cottage in South Molton is bursting with period charm,
0:03:24 > 0:03:30priced at £275,000. It comes complete with a newly-fitted Shaker-style kitchen/diner
0:03:30 > 0:03:35and the house is set amid luscious countryside in rural Devon.
0:03:35 > 0:03:41As ever with this fantastic county, there are plenty of properties to tempt you to move here.
0:03:41 > 0:03:45Me? I just love the weather, as do today's buyers.
0:03:47 > 0:03:53Husband and wife duo David and Dorothy live with dog Gunner in this five-bed chalet bungalow
0:03:53 > 0:03:56a few miles from Woking in Surrey.
0:03:56 > 0:04:02But the time has come to take their foot off the accelerator and swap fast-paced commuter belt living
0:04:02 > 0:04:05for something more leisurely in Devon.
0:04:05 > 0:04:09We're both retired, the children have now grown up.
0:04:09 > 0:04:13David's worked in London for most of his working life.
0:04:13 > 0:04:17The area that we live in is a very busy area.
0:04:17 > 0:04:23We just feel it would be so much nicer to be in a slower, more private area
0:04:24 > 0:04:27with a lot more countryside to view.
0:04:27 > 0:04:34Dave has wanted to pursue his countryside dream for years, but after six decades in Surrey
0:04:34 > 0:04:37Dot is more reluctant to leave.
0:04:37 > 0:04:44Dorothy has always been a little bit worried about leaving Woking because she's lived here all her life.
0:04:44 > 0:04:47- So it's up to you now. - Yes, of course.
0:04:47 > 0:04:53I have been the one who is a little bit more, "I'm not sure about this."
0:04:53 > 0:04:56It's now time for us to enjoy our time together
0:04:56 > 0:05:02and to be as one, cos Dot is my soulmate and deserves my time and attention.
0:05:02 > 0:05:06With more time on their hands, they're after a cosier house.
0:05:06 > 0:05:11We feel that the amount of rooms we have now is not necessary.
0:05:11 > 0:05:18- So downsizing is a very good idea. - And in the past we've had two or three Golden Retrievers.
0:05:18 > 0:05:23We've even downsized to a smaller dog to make our lifestyle even easier.
0:05:23 > 0:05:28So what type of place would suit them and their four-legged friend?
0:05:28 > 0:05:33- A cottage.- We'd prefer a cottage, beams if possible, not too low a ceiling,
0:05:33 > 0:05:38- lovely warm, cosy inglenook fireplace.- A nice mature garden
0:05:39 > 0:05:44with lots to maintain and maybe even a vegetable patch.
0:05:44 > 0:05:48Three bedrooms, one preferably en suite.
0:05:48 > 0:05:54A separate lounge and study, because of our choices of television sometimes,
0:05:54 > 0:06:01- could be a very good idea. - You mean you don't want to watch my football and sport?
0:06:01 > 0:06:06The kitchen, to me, is the hub of the house.
0:06:06 > 0:06:11The dining area is separate from here and I feel it would be so nice
0:06:11 > 0:06:17to have a larger country kitchen where people can gather and we can enjoy each other's company
0:06:17 > 0:06:19while I'm cooking.
0:06:19 > 0:06:25Before we start looking for their new home, we need to find out how much money they have to spend,
0:06:25 > 0:06:27so we invited a local agent round.
0:06:27 > 0:06:32The property is well-presented and has been tastefully extended.
0:06:32 > 0:06:37I would currently estimate the value at £575,000.
0:06:37 > 0:06:42So what's the final budget for their rural relocation to Devon?
0:06:42 > 0:06:47If it ticks all the right boxes, our maximum would be £500,000.
0:06:50 > 0:06:56You certainly can't blame Dave and Dot for wanting to retire here. It's absolutely gorgeous.
0:06:56 > 0:07:02As for their list of requirements, I think they're all doable - a cottage, a garden to potter in
0:07:02 > 0:07:06and for the dog to play in. My big concern, however, is Dot.
0:07:06 > 0:07:10She's giving up 60 years of life in one place.
0:07:10 > 0:07:16Wanting to find your dream home is all well and good, but you have got to be 100% committed to finding it.
0:07:16 > 0:07:19The thing is, is she?
0:07:19 > 0:07:24Dave and Dot both dream about casual walks along the sea front with Gunner,
0:07:24 > 0:07:28so they'd like to be no more than 10-15 miles from the coast.
0:07:28 > 0:07:35So our house quest will take us to villages surrounding Honiton and Axminster to the east of Devon.
0:07:35 > 0:07:41I'll be taking them to see a variety of beautiful country homes, but the price will be a guessing game.
0:07:41 > 0:07:46And the finale will be the mystery house, which will quite literally
0:07:46 > 0:07:50turn the tide on their ideal rural retreat.
0:07:50 > 0:07:54- Hi, guys. Nice to see you. - Nice to meet you.- Excited?- Very.
0:07:54 > 0:08:00- Now this was your idea. - It certainly is. I'm blackmailing Dot to come to the West Country!
0:08:00 > 0:08:04What are your reservations, Dot? I know you're not entirely convinced.
0:08:04 > 0:08:07I'm not 100%, I'm afraid. Not 100%.
0:08:08 > 0:08:12Isolation, really, from being used to living
0:08:12 > 0:08:17in a very, very busy Surrey area with, you know, lots going on
0:08:17 > 0:08:22to suddenly come down to the country where it's quieter
0:08:22 > 0:08:26and not a lot happens compared to what I'm used to.
0:08:26 > 0:08:30- But you've been in Woking for how long?- 62 years.
0:08:30 > 0:08:34- And you've never strayed?- Never.
0:08:34 > 0:08:36So this is quite a number, Dave.
0:08:36 > 0:08:42- You must have dreamt of this on all of your many hours spent commuting into London.- Definitely.
0:08:42 > 0:08:47And many hours on the internet and trying to convince Dot.
0:08:47 > 0:08:52- So why now, then?- Because we're getting older, we're retired now.
0:08:52 > 0:08:56And we enjoy the countryside, David loves the sea.
0:08:56 > 0:09:00So here we are, having a look round
0:09:00 > 0:09:07- and hopefully... - Are you open to be persuaded?- I'm very open to whatever comes along
0:09:07 > 0:09:09and it will be interesting.
0:09:09 > 0:09:13We have got something of an uphill battle, Dave, to convince your wife
0:09:13 > 0:09:19that this is where you should spend the rest of your lives. It's a gorgeous part of the world.
0:09:19 > 0:09:23Devon is a well-worn path for people for people escaping to the country.
0:09:23 > 0:09:31For a top budget of £500,000, Dot and Dave are looking to downsize into a cosy Devonshire cottage
0:09:31 > 0:09:35that's packed full of character features. They need three bedrooms,
0:09:35 > 0:09:41one ideally with an en suite bathroom, two separate reception rooms and spacious country kitchen.
0:09:41 > 0:09:49Location is key - not too isolated and no more than a 20-minute drive from a quick dip in the ocean,
0:09:49 > 0:09:51at least for the dog, Gunner.
0:09:51 > 0:09:56With all that in mind, it's time to kick off today's property search
0:09:56 > 0:10:01and first we're heading to the village of Membury, about 10 miles from the coast.
0:10:01 > 0:10:05Membury sits in the unspoilt region of the Blackdown Hills.
0:10:05 > 0:10:12The village has a local shop with a Post Office and the lanes are lined with picturesque cottages.
0:10:12 > 0:10:17Our first house is a mixture of cob and stone, over 100 years old.
0:10:17 > 0:10:23Set on a hill, it takes prime position to make the most of the glorious scenery.
0:10:23 > 0:10:30- There we are.- Very nice. - What do you think?- Very, very cottagey, as we requested.
0:10:30 > 0:10:36And, yes, this is in keeping with what I would think the country should offer us.
0:10:36 > 0:10:42- Dave, you've been dreaming of this for years. What's your view? - Lots of windows to paint!
0:10:42 > 0:10:46- Yeah, lots of windows!- But the stonework is magnificent.
0:10:46 > 0:10:52The current owners are in the process of moving out, so it's a blank canvas.
0:10:52 > 0:10:54Come on, let's have a look.
0:11:00 > 0:11:03There. Come on in.
0:11:03 > 0:11:07- Quite deceptive, isn't it?- It is. - You don't expect to see all this.
0:11:07 > 0:11:13- In terms of size, this is the main living room. How would it work? - That's what we want.
0:11:13 > 0:11:16- Smaller rooms, cosy rooms.- Yeah.
0:11:16 > 0:11:20Cosy is what we're looking for. We don't want too vast.
0:11:20 > 0:11:24So a pretty good size, actually, for what we're thinking of.
0:11:24 > 0:11:30'Off the lounge is the second reception room, the perfect hideaway for Dave's beloved sport.
0:11:30 > 0:11:34'Next up, somewhere for Dot.' OK, Dot...
0:11:34 > 0:11:36- How about this?- Yes.
0:11:36 > 0:11:41- Actually, it's bigger than I thought it would be.- It's quite surprising
0:11:41 > 0:11:48as to how much space they've incorporated. It's definitely got the farmhouse look.
0:11:48 > 0:11:54But we've also got the utility through here. Anywhere else, we'd say it's the utility,
0:11:54 > 0:12:00- but this is a kitchen. In any other cottage, this would be good enough. What do you think?- Right, OK.
0:12:00 > 0:12:04- Enormous.- That's a fair size. - Very nice.
0:12:04 > 0:12:10'Well, that's the end of the tour on the ground floor. I think they've been impressed so far,
0:12:10 > 0:12:15'but the staircase takes us up to the first floor.
0:12:15 > 0:12:19'There's a large and bright family bathroom and four bedrooms.
0:12:19 > 0:12:23'The single has lovely views and could be used as a study.
0:12:23 > 0:12:29'Then the smallest of the three doubles is a very comfortable size, but will this one suit them?'
0:12:29 > 0:12:37This is, I suppose, the master. It's not the biggest, but it's got all this fitted stuff going on
0:12:37 > 0:12:41and it also has a little shower room and en suite here.
0:12:41 > 0:12:46- Oh, excellent.- Fantastic. - It's the only room that has that.
0:12:46 > 0:12:52So it could be for you or it could be for your guests, but if you want the biggest room,
0:12:52 > 0:12:56- it's through here.- Right.- OK. - Follow me.- Will do.
0:12:58 > 0:13:00There we are. We'll finish in here.
0:13:00 > 0:13:07- This is the biggest room. - OK.- That's a nice size.- Doesn't have the en suite, but quite a nice view.
0:13:07 > 0:13:10- I'm pleasantly pleased.- Dave?
0:13:10 > 0:13:14I think, for me, I could put my own stamp on this.
0:13:14 > 0:13:21That's what I like. The rooms are ready. They just need that extra loving care and it could be ours.
0:13:21 > 0:13:26'That all depends on the price. Let's meet outside and finish off.
0:13:26 > 0:13:30'To the front of the property, there's a paved patio area.
0:13:30 > 0:13:33'To the rear, a sloping lawned garden.'
0:13:33 > 0:13:38Let's have a think about the price. Half a million to spend.
0:13:38 > 0:13:43- I see the wheels are turning, Dot. - The cogs are really churning.- Go on.
0:13:44 > 0:13:46445.
0:13:46 > 0:13:48445. Yeah? Dave?
0:13:48 > 0:13:53I'm going to come in as a conservative Cockney with 425.
0:13:53 > 0:13:58- 425?- With fingers crossed. - Well, it begins with a 4 and it ends with a 5,
0:13:58 > 0:14:03but this is on the market for 465.
0:14:03 > 0:14:06- Right.- 465. So I'm the nearest. - You are.
0:14:06 > 0:14:10The only trouble is my sit-on mower wouldn't like that slope!
0:14:10 > 0:14:13You'd be at the bottom very quickly!
0:14:13 > 0:14:20- Go and have an explore. Check out the house again. I'll catch up with you later.- Yeah.- Go.
0:14:21 > 0:14:29For £465,000, our first property comes with a price tag that is £35,000 under budget.
0:14:29 > 0:14:35Set in the heart of a village with glorious countryside views, the cottage is 150 years old
0:14:35 > 0:14:39and, as you would expect, it's full of period character.
0:14:39 > 0:14:45But it's also tastefully modernised and offers two separate receptions, a stylish kitchen/breakfast room
0:14:45 > 0:14:52with an impressive utility room to match. Upstairs, there are four bedrooms, one with an en suite.
0:14:52 > 0:14:57But outside, will Dave and Dot find the gardens an uphill struggle?
0:14:58 > 0:15:02The house I was pleasantly surprised when I got here.
0:15:02 > 0:15:09It's not too spacious, but looking around you can see that it would be very cosy.
0:15:09 > 0:15:13- So did you enjoy that, then? - Very much. Very educational.
0:15:13 > 0:15:18- Ah! That's what we hope to do. Can we inspire you to buy?- Who knows?
0:15:18 > 0:15:22- A good one to start with.- Very good. - Yeah, Brownie points.
0:15:22 > 0:15:25- Very good.- How about lunch?- Yeah!
0:15:31 > 0:15:36In 2009, a leading lifestyle magazine
0:15:36 > 0:15:40voted Devon one of the most desirable counties to live in.
0:15:40 > 0:15:46Along with the enticing coastlines, it's full of unspoilt villages, of which Otterton
0:15:46 > 0:15:53is one not to miss. During the house hunting week, we sent Dot and Dave to visit it.
0:15:53 > 0:15:58It's a peaceful location today but was more macabre in the 16th century.
0:15:58 > 0:16:02In 1580, the Sheriff of Devon committed a witch to execution
0:16:02 > 0:16:07and erected a pillar at the crossroads as a warning to others.
0:16:07 > 0:16:13The village itself is the stuff of picture postcards whatever the weather.
0:16:13 > 0:16:19Despite its relatively small size, Otterton was once the largest settlement in Devon.
0:16:19 > 0:16:23On the River Otter is Otterton Mill, where Dot and Dave get a guided tour
0:16:23 > 0:16:26by head miller Simon Spiller.
0:16:26 > 0:16:32The mill has been here for over 1,000 years. In fact, there were some Roman ruins on this site,
0:16:32 > 0:16:38some Neolithic flint and the mill is mentioned in the Domesday Book, 1068.
0:16:38 > 0:16:42So we've got a fantastic history of milling.
0:16:42 > 0:16:49It was one of the biggest mills in Devon. There were over 70 at the time of the Domesday Book.
0:16:49 > 0:16:53The mill was closed in 1959, then it fell into disrepair,
0:16:53 > 0:17:00but was restored and reopened in 1977 and now produces flour that is milled every other week.
0:17:00 > 0:17:05Otterton's status as having one of the largest and most productive mills in Devon
0:17:05 > 0:17:11is due to the force of the water from the River Otter, which powers three sets of mill stones.
0:17:11 > 0:17:15So here we are at the mill, milling, as you see behind you.
0:17:15 > 0:17:22The cogs are turning a couple of mill stones. These are French burr mill stones.
0:17:22 > 0:17:28They were brought to the mill from France in the late 19th century by a famous local miller,
0:17:28 > 0:17:29John Uglow.
0:17:29 > 0:17:36You can see on the stone just there an inscription. It says, "This stone worked the first time 'tis true
0:17:36 > 0:17:39"May 1st, 1862."
0:17:39 > 0:17:43It's a great example of the tradition and history here.
0:17:43 > 0:17:47It's the call of the sea that's driving Dave's desire to relocate.
0:17:47 > 0:17:52Not only does Otterton give a real insight into Devon's rich heritage,
0:17:52 > 0:17:59but it's just down the road from the serene Ladram Bay. It's the perfect place to end their tour.
0:18:00 > 0:18:04So it's clear that Dot and Dave have got plenty to keep them busy,
0:18:04 > 0:18:07but we still have to find a house.
0:18:07 > 0:18:14What's your view on the classic thatched, chocolate box cottage, Dot? Does that sort of thing appeal?
0:18:14 > 0:18:19That's my idea, but in reality I probably won't find it.
0:18:19 > 0:18:25- Devon's full of them. There's half a chance we'll find one!- If you can, I'll convince Dot to move down here.
0:18:25 > 0:18:30'Well, Dave, you could be destined for Devon sooner than you think
0:18:30 > 0:18:36'as we may have found the perfect match. We're staying within the beautiful Blackdown Hills,
0:18:36 > 0:18:39'travelling to the outskirts of Dalwood.
0:18:39 > 0:18:46'A charming village, Dalwood is a real rural getaway at its very best.
0:18:46 > 0:18:51'It's full of old stone cottages with a stream meandering through its heart.
0:18:51 > 0:18:56'There's a pub with a thatched roof, a Post Office and convenience store.
0:18:56 > 0:19:00'If Dave and Dot want to get out of Surrey's fast-lane lifestyle,
0:19:00 > 0:19:05'this secluded country lane could be the perfect scenic route.'
0:19:05 > 0:19:08Right. Look at this, Dot.
0:19:08 > 0:19:11- Wow!- Is that chocolate box enough?
0:19:11 > 0:19:13- Wow!- Yeah?
0:19:13 > 0:19:15Yeah, incredible.
0:19:15 > 0:19:19That's our second property for you. You said you wanted a thatch.
0:19:19 > 0:19:23I did. Wow. That really has got character.
0:19:23 > 0:19:28- It's got loads of character.- It's oozing.- And the setting is gorgeous.
0:19:28 > 0:19:33- It's unbelievable.- The views, the peace, the quiet.- Wow.
0:19:33 > 0:19:38It's a property of two halves. The main thatched bit is about 1850.
0:19:38 > 0:19:42- Then to the right - can you see? - that barn has been converted.- Yeah.
0:19:42 > 0:19:49- That contains, amongst other things, the kitchen.- OK.- So the geography is something we have to...- Explore.
0:19:49 > 0:19:52- ..explore.- It's slightly different.
0:19:52 > 0:19:57- Wow!- Your face is a picture! Come on. Let's have a look.- Can't wait!
0:19:57 > 0:20:03'I'm delighted to say that first impressions have left them virtually speechless.
0:20:03 > 0:20:07'What, I wonder, will they make of the other historic gems
0:20:07 > 0:20:13'that this beautiful period property is hiding within its whitewashed walls.'
0:20:14 > 0:20:17Right. Now, then.
0:20:18 > 0:20:25- Wow!- Yeah? Come in, Dave. - Absolutely.- What do you reckon?- Back in time!- Aren't we?- Unbelievable.
0:20:25 > 0:20:30With a wood burner, although this one has the original inglenook.
0:20:30 > 0:20:35Really lovely. The attention to detail in here is beautiful.
0:20:35 > 0:20:40- It's lovely. It's really lovely. - You're excited, aren't you?- Very!
0:20:40 > 0:20:46- Have you seen her get this excited about any other house? - Not for a few years!
0:20:47 > 0:20:54'The fact that this property started life as two separate buildings makes the layout highly unconventional.
0:20:54 > 0:20:59'Leading off the lounge, this might make a good study or a snug.'
0:20:59 > 0:21:05- Down here, this is the downstairs family bathroom. Have a look, Dot.- Oh, wow.
0:21:05 > 0:21:08- The old bath.- That's nice, innit?
0:21:08 > 0:21:13- Yeah.- Very nice.- Not bad, eh? - No, compact. All what we need.
0:21:13 > 0:21:17As I said outside, this is a house of two halves, effectively.
0:21:17 > 0:21:22We are in the old bit, the 1850 bit. It gets more complicated upstairs.
0:21:22 > 0:21:27This is why I want you to really start to use your imagination.
0:21:27 > 0:21:31'Upstairs, there are four bedrooms in this half of the property.
0:21:31 > 0:21:36'Directly off this staircase is the smallest, currently an office.
0:21:36 > 0:21:42'There's also a cosy single room up on the first floor and a bright double, too.
0:21:42 > 0:21:47'Next door, I've got a grand plan for what could be their bedroom.'
0:21:47 > 0:21:51- Now this is the master bedroom. All right?- OK.
0:21:51 > 0:21:56- As it's currently set up.- Right. - Quite tiny.- Just a little bit, yeah.
0:21:56 > 0:22:03And it mirrors the room next door. If you knocked that wall down, which is just a stud wall,
0:22:03 > 0:22:10- you'd double the size of this. - Certainly would.- So you'd end up with a great big room this way
0:22:10 > 0:22:16- overlooking the front of the house. - Wonderful.- And the views which are terrific.- Stunning.
0:22:16 > 0:22:22- That little room we saw upstairs could be the en suite to this. - Definitely.- Lose that door.
0:22:22 > 0:22:26- And enter down a step at the other end.- Makes sense.- Of course.
0:22:26 > 0:22:31- Like it.- Lead on, Dave. Let's go downstairs.
0:22:31 > 0:22:37'So that's the tour of the cottage sorted. We just need to get to the adjacent barn,
0:22:37 > 0:22:42'through the games room at the rear, back down on the ground floor.'
0:22:42 > 0:22:48This is the link between the old cottage and the barn, which is through here.
0:22:48 > 0:22:52- You step down into the kitchen. - Oh, really?
0:22:52 > 0:22:57- Oh, wow!- That's a size, innit? - A nice-sized kitchen.
0:22:57 > 0:23:03- Yeah?- Here you are cooking, here David is with his glass of wine, overseeing all the cooking.
0:23:03 > 0:23:10- And any friends...- And me! - And any friends, so you're still in the hub of the home.
0:23:10 > 0:23:17- So this would work?- I'm sure. - Very much so.- Great. - It's a good size.
0:23:17 > 0:23:21'The utility room is also a very good size
0:23:21 > 0:23:26'and the stable door opens onto the beautiful back garden,
0:23:26 > 0:23:31'but before we get out there, there's yet more to sample inside up the staircase.'
0:23:31 > 0:23:37It is quite steep, but it serves the job of getting us up here to this.
0:23:37 > 0:23:39- Oh, gosh!- OK?
0:23:39 > 0:23:45- Amazing!- Lovely little room. - Oh, what a lovely room.
0:23:45 > 0:23:51- It's full of stuff, obviously, but the best thing about it is the view.- Wow.
0:23:51 > 0:23:54- Absolutely...- I noticed those.
0:23:54 > 0:23:59- This, for your guests, would be terrific.- Superb.- Very much so.
0:24:01 > 0:24:07'Visiting guests would also have the benefit of their own en suite shower room,
0:24:07 > 0:24:14'but once they see the views, they might become permanent residents due to the incredible setting.
0:24:14 > 0:24:21'Directly to the rear, the garden starts with a gravel patio, complete with ornamental pond.
0:24:21 > 0:24:28'Beyond that, this place bursts open with magical unspoilt views as far as the eye can see.
0:24:28 > 0:24:35'The property sits in just over two acres of land, with lawned gardens, green pastures,
0:24:35 > 0:24:39'a sheltered woodland and even a babbling brook.
0:24:39 > 0:24:44'If this doesn't persuade Dot to relocate, I'm not sure what will!
0:24:44 > 0:24:51'I think this is the stuff Devonshire dreams are made of. But how much will it set them back?'
0:24:51 > 0:24:56I think that's on our...upper limit. I think.
0:24:56 > 0:25:01- So what are you saying? - You want me to guess, do you?
0:25:01 > 0:25:04I would say 495.
0:25:04 > 0:25:06Yeah?
0:25:06 > 0:25:10- Dave?- Over the top. 525, if we're lucky.
0:25:10 > 0:25:14525 if you're lucky? It should be about 525, I would think,
0:25:14 > 0:25:20- but the good news is it's not. - Really?- This could be yours for £499,950.
0:25:20 > 0:25:23- OK.- Yeah.- Yeah?
0:25:23 > 0:25:29- So I'm pretty spot on. - You're not bad. Pretty spot on. - You're the one who's right.
0:25:29 > 0:25:35- That's a happy surprise, Dave. - Very good. We can move in there... - Above the kitchen?- Yeah, for now.
0:25:35 > 0:25:42- And work our way through the house. We could just take our time. Rome wasn't built in a day.- Absolutely.
0:25:42 > 0:25:48Instead of me sitting reading a book and having a drink, I'll get my chisel out and go for it.
0:25:48 > 0:25:53- I think you'd have a lot of fun. - Yeah.- We've just got to look to our finances.
0:25:53 > 0:25:58- Yeah, but little by little, easy. - Has this convinced you then, Dot,
0:25:58 > 0:26:03that country life in Devon could be all it was cracked up to be?
0:26:03 > 0:26:08Well, I'm coming round to the fact that a chocolate box is possible
0:26:08 > 0:26:14- and Devon could be quite a nice place.- Yes, good. Well, look, hold that thought.
0:26:14 > 0:26:18Dave, take your wife away and convince her this is the one.
0:26:18 > 0:26:22- You can have a donkey in the paddock. - There you go!
0:26:22 > 0:26:27It's not often that houses come in such a pretty context as this one.
0:26:27 > 0:26:33What really makes this place even better is that it's within budget, albeit just £50 below.
0:26:33 > 0:26:39This delightful Grade 2-listed property is made up of an original thatched cottage
0:26:39 > 0:26:44adjoining a converted barn. It has five bedrooms, a large kitchen/breakfast room
0:26:44 > 0:26:51and two of the prettiest acres in Devon. But is all this enough to persuade Dot to make the move?
0:26:51 > 0:26:58It's taken my breath away, definitely. Beautiful little cottage. Absolutely lovely.
0:26:58 > 0:27:03Fantastic. If this doesn't get Dot to Devon, nothing will.
0:27:03 > 0:27:06- Dave, have you persuaded Dot or not? - I think so.
0:27:06 > 0:27:12- We're getting there.- So this is on the list?- Very much so. - It's taken my breath away.
0:27:12 > 0:27:19- I can't say any more than that. - Excellent. That's all I wanted to hear. Brilliant. Let's go.
0:27:24 > 0:27:29So as the day draws to a close on a very inspirational time in Devon,
0:27:29 > 0:27:33the first stage of our property journey ends on a real high.
0:27:33 > 0:27:40With a top budget of £500,000, David, Dorothy and Gunner have ambitions
0:27:40 > 0:27:43to enjoy a more relaxing retirement in Devon.
0:27:43 > 0:27:48Our tour so far has featured two captivating properties.
0:27:48 > 0:27:51- Loads of character.- It's oozing.
0:27:51 > 0:27:55Coming up with our mystery house, there has to be give and take.
0:27:55 > 0:27:59- That word compromise. - Yes, that's a good word.
0:28:01 > 0:28:04One more day, one more house.
0:28:04 > 0:28:08The mystery house is our final property in our house search.
0:28:08 > 0:28:15Yesterday I think went pretty well. We've gone a long way to convincing Dot she may want to retire here.
0:28:15 > 0:28:21So she's all right. What about him? I think the mystery house is all about Dave.
0:28:21 > 0:28:25And what Dave really wants is access to the beach
0:28:25 > 0:28:29so that's exactly what we're giving him with our mystery package.
0:28:29 > 0:28:35To get there, we're nipping over the county border into Dorset and the village of Charmouth,
0:28:35 > 0:28:38smack bang on the incredible coast.
0:28:38 > 0:28:44On the shores of West Dorset, the large shingle beach and dramatic cliffs are rich with fossils
0:28:44 > 0:28:48of animals that swam the seas millions of years ago.
0:28:48 > 0:28:54Charmouth attracts thousands of holidaymakers each year with a good selection of shops and restaurants,
0:28:54 > 0:29:02but of course it's the proximity to the beach that I think makes the mystery house so very special.
0:29:02 > 0:29:07- What do you think of this, Dave? - This is my favourite neck of the woods in Dorset.
0:29:07 > 0:29:10Charmouth is the pinnacle.
0:29:10 > 0:29:16- If you go for the mystery house, this would be on your doorstep. - Oh...- Wow.- Speechless.
0:29:16 > 0:29:23- There are two good things about it. One, it's not one of those beach huts.- OK.- I was getting worried!
0:29:23 > 0:29:28And the second thing is that the house itself is positioned on a hill
0:29:28 > 0:29:31taking full advantage of the views.
0:29:31 > 0:29:35- There we are.- Oh, that's ace. - Oh, wow.- That's lovely.
0:29:35 > 0:29:39It's very different to what we've looked at. No acres on offer.
0:29:39 > 0:29:45What you see is the garden, pretty much, but it does have a spot for a vegetable patch.
0:29:45 > 0:29:51- Oh, great.- Yeah. - My thinking on this is we're trading off your own acres
0:29:51 > 0:29:58- because you've got all of that on your doorstep.- Who needs a garden when you've got that?- Good!
0:29:58 > 0:30:04- I don't want to spend hours working in the garden. - 'Originally designed as a bungalow,
0:30:04 > 0:30:07'the majority of the living space is on the ground floor.
0:30:07 > 0:30:14- 'The location suits Dave, but will the modern interior suit Dot?' Right. Start in here, Dot.- Oh, wow.
0:30:14 > 0:30:21- That's quite a nice size, innit? - It's not bad.- Surprising. - They've opened up that wall
0:30:21 > 0:30:25- to allow the view to come in. - That gives you the space.- It does.
0:30:25 > 0:30:28- Not squashed.- There's so much light.
0:30:28 > 0:30:31Landscape that way, sea that way.
0:30:31 > 0:30:38You're a bit quiet. I'm a bit worried. You were very excited outside, now you're quiet.
0:30:38 > 0:30:43- It's that word compromise. - Yes, compromise. That's a good word.
0:30:43 > 0:30:47- Is that what you're doing? - Compromise on the kitchen.
0:30:47 > 0:30:52'Not too much compromising, unless it's the toast or the coast.
0:30:52 > 0:30:57'There's a separate utility room and then the main reception room.'
0:30:57 > 0:31:01- This is a room that really makes this place.- Very light again.
0:31:01 > 0:31:06- Couldn't get any lighter unless you took the roof off.- Absolutely not.
0:31:06 > 0:31:09- What do you think?- Yeah.
0:31:09 > 0:31:11Nice size. Good size.
0:31:11 > 0:31:18Access to the terrace, which, Dave, you may sun yourself on later. The beach dream. What do you think?
0:31:18 > 0:31:25I could just see myself out there all the time. In the winter, shut the curtains, put the fire on,
0:31:25 > 0:31:30nice little snug room. Chill out, nothing to do. Watch the world go by.
0:31:30 > 0:31:35'In the corner is a staircase. We'll explore that later.
0:31:35 > 0:31:42'The second reception room has glorious coastal views, making the best of this elevated position.
0:31:42 > 0:31:47'The ground floor is also home to the family bathroom.
0:31:47 > 0:31:54'When it comes to the sleeping quarters, there are three rooms in total, including a double
0:31:54 > 0:31:59'with a great en suite bathroom. There's lots of flexible space.
0:31:59 > 0:32:06'We're going to have a look at what could be a second bedroom, currently another reception area.'
0:32:06 > 0:32:11I'm thinking, Dave, this is you. You with your telly and football
0:32:11 > 0:32:17- and the view.- Definitely, yeah. - Gosh!- So you've got a choice. - You have.
0:32:17 > 0:32:23- I'd be tempted to make this the lounge.- Yeah? And the main living room? Make it a dining area?
0:32:23 > 0:32:28More of a dining room. Lovely view to eat watching the sea.
0:32:28 > 0:32:31- You remember that staircase?- Yes. - Oh, yes.
0:32:31 > 0:32:35Follow me through here. Let's look at that staircase.
0:32:38 > 0:32:43Now this is what we're going to look at. This used to be the garage.
0:32:43 > 0:32:47- Oh, OK.- But this is now, well, potentially a master bedroom.
0:32:47 > 0:32:51- Oh, right. - Or quite a stunning guest bedroom.
0:32:52 > 0:32:55- Now what about this, Dot?- Oh, wow.
0:32:55 > 0:33:00- Oh, that's a surprise.- Isn't it? - This is more of a master bedroom.
0:33:00 > 0:33:07It could be and it currently is. The reason I've suggested it may be a guest room
0:33:07 > 0:33:11- is because the staircase is quite a thing.- Where is it?
0:33:11 > 0:33:15- It's here.- Really? - Through that door there.
0:33:15 > 0:33:19Open that door. Tell me if you love that one.
0:33:19 > 0:33:25- A wet room.- The proper thing. - Oh, excellent.- Yeah.
0:33:25 > 0:33:32- Good. So I think, all in all, that completes the house tour as such.- Yes.
0:33:32 > 0:33:39I'm still totally gobsmacked by the views and the easy lifestyle I could see that's coming my way.
0:33:39 > 0:33:44'And the relaxed lifestyle here will take more of an outdoor focus.
0:33:44 > 0:33:51'There's a double garage outside and the grounds extend to a third of an acre, mainly lawn.
0:33:51 > 0:33:55'The mystery property is a pared-back, low-maintenance option
0:33:55 > 0:34:00'so how much will it cost to get onboard this lifestyle?'
0:34:00 > 0:34:04Top end of our budget. I'm going to go 495.
0:34:04 > 0:34:06495. Yeah.
0:34:06 > 0:34:11- And, for me, 510.- 510.- Yeah.
0:34:11 > 0:34:16- Well, Dave, you are not far off, mate.- For once! - It is, I'm afraid, over budget.
0:34:16 > 0:34:20- Of course.- But it's £25,000 over. - Right.- OK.
0:34:20 > 0:34:25- It's on the market for 525.- Right. - I just think in the longer term
0:34:25 > 0:34:29this is a very interesting proposition for you.
0:34:29 > 0:34:34There is no maintenance to do here, the beach is on your doorstep.
0:34:34 > 0:34:41- With those views, perhaps we could push ourselves just that little bit extra.- Go and have an explore.
0:34:41 > 0:34:43- OK.- I'll catch you later.
0:34:43 > 0:34:50Coastal properties do come at a price and this one costs £525,000.
0:34:50 > 0:34:55The mystery house is currently set up to provide three bedrooms,
0:34:55 > 0:35:00two of which are en suite, two reception rooms and a kitchen/diner.
0:35:00 > 0:35:04Outside it comes with a third of an acre and a ready-made veggie plot.
0:35:04 > 0:35:11And the icing on the cake must be those superb views across the majestic Dorset coast,
0:35:11 > 0:35:17but will Dot be willing to forego her picture postcard cottage for something more modern
0:35:17 > 0:35:21which could realise her husband's dream beach-side location?
0:35:21 > 0:35:25I think this could be a little bit of a think out.
0:35:25 > 0:35:29- It's very tight, isn't it? - It is, really.
0:35:29 > 0:35:32This is not my type of property.
0:35:32 > 0:35:39This is not what I want of the country, but it is, as I know, what David would love.
0:35:39 > 0:35:44On a day like today, what can you say? Look at that view, look at the coastline.
0:35:44 > 0:35:52- Five years ago, that was the first caravan park we stayed in when we started our search.- Is it?
0:35:52 > 0:35:57- Right, then, you two. That's it. Seen enough?- We have indeed.
0:35:57 > 0:36:03- Good. Right, let's get down to the beach, I think, and see what you'll do with the rest of your lives.- OK.
0:36:03 > 0:36:08- Time for a swim.- I'll treat you to an ice cream.- Even better.
0:36:14 > 0:36:21Devon is full of quirky properties and one that I am particularly fond of is A La Ronde,
0:36:21 > 0:36:28created by two cousins in the late 1700s and taking pride of place in Exmouth's countryside.
0:36:28 > 0:36:34During the house hunting week, I met up with Trevor Adams to find out more about this place.
0:36:34 > 0:36:38- What a fantastic building! - A fantastic house. 16-sided.
0:36:38 > 0:36:46- It's been there just over 200 years. - Who built it?- Jane and Mary Parminter. They did the Grand Tour.
0:36:46 > 0:36:51Men were travelling on the Grand Tour from 100 years earlier,
0:36:51 > 0:36:54but women did not normally go.
0:36:54 > 0:36:58- Now why is it 16-sided? - The story in the family is
0:36:58 > 0:37:04that they went into a cathedral in Italy, which is an octagon within an octagon,
0:37:04 > 0:37:08and what they did when they came back was ask for an octagonal house.
0:37:08 > 0:37:13'The Grand Tour was a fashionable rite of passage for the wealthy
0:37:13 > 0:37:19'to learn about language, art and culture. It could last from several months to several years.
0:37:19 > 0:37:24'Cousins Mary and Jane were two very independent and resourceful unmarried ladies
0:37:24 > 0:37:30'in a time when such radical achievements weren't expected from women.
0:37:30 > 0:37:36'Their ingenious construction was designed to capture maximum sunlight throughout the day
0:37:36 > 0:37:41'and is based around a central octagonal room, 10 metres high from floor to ceiling.'
0:37:41 > 0:37:48- This is extraordinary. - We've got eight rooms on the ground floor leading off from this area.
0:37:48 > 0:37:55The sun rises in that direction. They woke up to the sun and moved around during the day with the sun.
0:37:55 > 0:38:00- And they finished up in the dining room.- Brilliant. - Sun setting behind them.
0:38:00 > 0:38:03- What's up there?- The shell gallery.
0:38:03 > 0:38:08That was decorated by Jane and Mary themselves. It's real shells.
0:38:08 > 0:38:12'Jane and Mary's lengthy travels had a profound influence.
0:38:12 > 0:38:20'All the rooms pay homage to their expeditions, showcasing the souvenirs, curiosities and mementos
0:38:20 > 0:38:24- 'collected along the way.' This is the dining room.- How did you guess?
0:38:24 > 0:38:31- This is where they finished up at the end of the day.- Surrounded by all these wonderful images.
0:38:31 > 0:38:35- What happened to these two women? - Mary, the younger of the two,
0:38:35 > 0:38:39she was the second one to die. She left a very unusual will.
0:38:39 > 0:38:45The will specified that the property was to go to the nearest unmarried kinswoman.
0:38:45 > 0:38:52If the lady married, she lost everything. It all went to her husband. They wanted A La Ronde
0:38:52 > 0:38:59to stay within the family. They were unique ladies with a unique house.
0:38:59 > 0:39:02And what they contributed is out of this world.
0:39:02 > 0:39:09'Some 30 years after their deaths, the house was passed on to single female relations as they intended.
0:39:09 > 0:39:13'It stayed within extended family hands right up until 1991
0:39:13 > 0:39:20'when it was bought by the National Trust. There's no doubt they left an extraordinary landmark,
0:39:20 > 0:39:27'but now it's time to find out if any of our properties left a lasting impression with our buyers.'
0:39:27 > 0:39:33I promised Dot and Dave some ice cream and they have promised us a decision.
0:39:36 > 0:39:41- Here we are.- You remembered!- I did! It nearly melted, though.
0:39:41 > 0:39:45- Fantastic.- There you go.- Thank you. - Don't say we don't care.
0:39:45 > 0:39:49Now then, let's have a think about all this.
0:39:49 > 0:39:53How have you found it? We started with a sceptic, Dot.
0:39:53 > 0:39:59- A complete negative sceptic! - And now?- I can now see a bigger picture now.- Yeah.
0:39:59 > 0:40:04Moving to the country could be a very good move.
0:40:04 > 0:40:08- Dave, this is music to your ears. - We're on the way!- On the way.
0:40:08 > 0:40:14Have we got to where you want to be? Have we found you a house? Let's think about the first one.
0:40:14 > 0:40:19Yes, the actual cottage we could certainly mould that.
0:40:19 > 0:40:25The garden was the disappointment. Not large enough and not closed in.
0:40:25 > 0:40:29- Nothing that a fence wouldn't have sorted out.- No, but too small.
0:40:29 > 0:40:34OK. Remember when we were driving to our second property, I said,
0:40:34 > 0:40:39"What would be ideal?" You said, "Whitewash, cottage, thatched roof."
0:40:39 > 0:40:43- And hey, presto!- That's what we got you.- You found it.
0:40:43 > 0:40:48- We did. I thought that was a really interesting...- Most interesting.
0:40:48 > 0:40:52- ..building you could really put your stamp on.- Took my breath away.
0:40:52 > 0:41:00- Yeah? Dave?- Superb. Maybe a little bit too remote for Dot and I never consider myself a farmer.
0:41:00 > 0:41:03Perhaps I could change my lifestyle!
0:41:03 > 0:41:10Then we let you sleep on it, but then we woke you up to another glorious day
0:41:10 > 0:41:15to take you to our mystery house, which was completely different.
0:41:15 > 0:41:21No land, but an extraordinary view here on the Jurassic Coast overlooking the sea.
0:41:21 > 0:41:25Cat among the pigeons! A very sweet house,
0:41:25 > 0:41:32nice location and certainly David is smiling greatly for that property.
0:41:32 > 0:41:38- This is where you've always dreamt of ending up! - A five-year circle to back here.
0:41:38 > 0:41:45- Neighbours for Dot.- Yeah. - A nice-sized garden. Who wants any more?
0:41:45 > 0:41:50- Well, you changed your tune! - I've totally changed tack now. I don't need a garden.
0:41:50 > 0:41:54I want that view and what we hear behind us - the sea.
0:41:54 > 0:41:58Of the three, has any one of them really captured your imagination?
0:41:58 > 0:42:03- I think number two. We'll go back for a look.- The thatch.- Yeah.
0:42:03 > 0:42:07You are retired, but everybody's got to have something to do.
0:42:07 > 0:42:11I can imagine the pair of you pottering around there. Great house.
0:42:11 > 0:42:17I think we could do well there and sell our vegetables to the local market!
0:42:17 > 0:42:21Ever the businessman! Eat your ice cream before it melts.
0:42:21 > 0:42:26- Congratulations.- Thanks for taking us round.- It's been wonderful.
0:42:29 > 0:42:34We begin every house search trying to find somebody their dream home.
0:42:34 > 0:42:40This one has been a bit different. Dave would agree this has been as much about convincing Dot
0:42:40 > 0:42:45that Devon or Dorset is where she wants to spend the rest of her life.
0:42:45 > 0:42:51We have given them one very, very enticing option, but have we convinced her?
0:42:51 > 0:42:57Well, I think we have. When blessed with weather like this and coastline like that,
0:42:57 > 0:42:59how could we fail?
0:42:59 > 0:43:05Dot and Dave went back to our second property for another viewing, but decided against making an offer.
0:43:05 > 0:43:12But Dot is now fully committed to making the move. We hope they find their perfect house soon.
0:43:12 > 0:43:18If you'd like to escape to the country in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland,
0:43:18 > 0:43:23and would like our help, please apply online.
0:43:32 > 0:43:36Subtitles by Subtext for Red Bee Media Ltd - 2011
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