0:00:02 > 0:00:05I'm at the inlet of one of the country's most famous rivers,
0:00:05 > 0:00:08where the River Isis meets the River Thame
0:00:08 > 0:00:10to form the longest river in England.
0:00:10 > 0:00:15And this river has shaped the geographic and political history of this county
0:00:15 > 0:00:21because it was in this area that William the Conqueror crossed in 1066 to claim victory over London.
0:00:21 > 0:00:26So where am I? Join me in a moment as we escape to the country.
0:00:38 > 0:00:43On today's show, we're conspiring with a retired couple to escape the Essex suburbs.
0:00:43 > 0:00:46But will the hills be alive with the sounds they're looking for?
0:00:46 > 0:00:49I'm not sure about this road.
0:00:49 > 0:00:51We strive to strike the right notes.
0:00:51 > 0:00:53You can't have complete silence all the time.
0:00:53 > 0:00:56And finally, it's music to our ears.
0:00:56 > 0:00:58Quiet enough for you?
0:00:58 > 0:01:00- No trains.- Or cars.
0:01:00 > 0:01:03Just a bell. And a duck.
0:01:03 > 0:01:05Today I'm in Oxfordshire,
0:01:05 > 0:01:08and this mighty river is, of course, the River Thames.
0:01:08 > 0:01:12Or to call it by its correct name, the Thame Isis.
0:01:12 > 0:01:16Now, at 215 miles long, its source begins in the Cotswolds
0:01:16 > 0:01:18before travelling through Oxfordshire,
0:01:18 > 0:01:21creeping and curling through London,
0:01:21 > 0:01:24and eventually flowing through to the Thames Estuary
0:01:24 > 0:01:26and out into the North Sea.
0:01:26 > 0:01:31Landlocked Oxfordshire is the most rural and least populated country in the southeast of England,
0:01:31 > 0:01:37with almost a quarter of the countryside lying within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
0:01:37 > 0:01:40Against a backdrop of the Chiltern Hills to the east,
0:01:40 > 0:01:42and the Cotswolds to the west,
0:01:42 > 0:01:44this county has some truly beautiful scenery,
0:01:44 > 0:01:50and the mighty River Thames meanders through some of Oxfordshire's most picturesque towns.
0:01:50 > 0:01:53Right on the banks of the Thames sits the city of Oxford,
0:01:53 > 0:01:57famous for its prestigious university founded in the 11th century,
0:01:57 > 0:02:00and the oldest university in the UK.
0:02:00 > 0:02:04For over 800 years, this city has been home to elite academics,
0:02:04 > 0:02:06and is now a major draw for tourists,
0:02:06 > 0:02:09with a variety of shops and historic buildings.
0:02:09 > 0:02:12From grand houses to pretty thatched cottages,
0:02:12 > 0:02:15there's a wealth of handsome property here,
0:02:15 > 0:02:19making Oxfordshire one of the most desirable places to live in the country.
0:02:19 > 0:02:22There's so much greenery to explore here,
0:02:22 > 0:02:26and an interest in all things green certainly wouldn't be a bad thing,
0:02:26 > 0:02:29because Oxfordshire is a big-bucks county.
0:02:29 > 0:02:30The average detached house here
0:02:30 > 0:02:33is about 43% higher than the national average.
0:02:33 > 0:02:35The most sought-after properties
0:02:35 > 0:02:38are within that golden two-hour commute to London,
0:02:38 > 0:02:40No matter how deep your pockets are,
0:02:40 > 0:02:43it pays to do your research into this county
0:02:43 > 0:02:46so you can work out which pocket of it you could live in.
0:02:46 > 0:02:50If you're property hunting with £1,250,000
0:02:50 > 0:02:55this detached home in Shiplake is largely laid out on the ground floor,
0:02:55 > 0:02:58and comes with six bedrooms, five bathrooms,
0:02:58 > 0:03:00a glossy, state-of-the-art kitchen,
0:03:00 > 0:03:03and very spacious reception rooms.
0:03:04 > 0:03:05Further north in Witney,
0:03:05 > 0:03:10this former waterworks has been converted into seven unique properties,
0:03:10 > 0:03:13including this stylish four-bedroom studio house.
0:03:13 > 0:03:15On the market for just under £700,000,
0:03:15 > 0:03:18it has particularly striking open-plan living areas
0:03:18 > 0:03:20on the first floor,
0:03:20 > 0:03:23which are enhanced by a huge, glass atrium roof.
0:03:23 > 0:03:26But if you're looking for something more traditional,
0:03:26 > 0:03:32£400,000 could buy you this quaint thatched cottage in Great Haseley.
0:03:32 > 0:03:36It has three bedrooms, and recent refurbishments include a handmade oak kitchen
0:03:36 > 0:03:39and high-spec bathroom.
0:03:39 > 0:03:42Oxfordshire certainly has plenty to offer today's buyers.
0:03:42 > 0:03:46But for this pair, I think it's less of an escape to the country,
0:03:46 > 0:03:48and more of an escape from their children.
0:03:48 > 0:03:50Now, that's got to be a first.
0:03:50 > 0:03:54Husband and wife Barry and Karen along with their dog Harvey
0:03:54 > 0:03:57live in this eight-bedroom Victorian house in Brentwood.
0:03:57 > 0:03:59Barry has recently retired,
0:03:59 > 0:04:03but there's no end in sight for Karen's workload if they stay in Essex.
0:04:03 > 0:04:06We've lived here for some time now.
0:04:06 > 0:04:08Everything's revolved around the children.
0:04:08 > 0:04:11They're older now, they are all working. We've got to move on.
0:04:11 > 0:04:14And we won't do it if we stay here.
0:04:14 > 0:04:17I will still wait on them and run round after them,
0:04:17 > 0:04:20so we must move on and live a life of our own,
0:04:20 > 0:04:23and they've got to get on with it, whether they like it or not.
0:04:23 > 0:04:27But their three sons aren't being left high and dry,
0:04:27 > 0:04:30as selling up will release some capital to help them buy.
0:04:30 > 0:04:36So with three less people to accommodate, what type of property do they have in mind for this downsize?
0:04:36 > 0:04:39We'd like three to four good-size bedrooms,
0:04:39 > 0:04:42a nice-size kitchen,
0:04:42 > 0:04:43and two reception rooms
0:04:43 > 0:04:47so that we can have our televisions in different rooms.
0:04:47 > 0:04:50A property with some character, some history,
0:04:50 > 0:04:53hopefully some interesting features,
0:04:53 > 0:04:55and I'd also like a double garage.
0:04:55 > 0:04:57I'd like an en suite
0:04:57 > 0:05:01so if the boys do come back, they can pig out in another bathroom,
0:05:01 > 0:05:03and not use mine.
0:05:03 > 0:05:07They're also looking for some respite, not only from the boys,
0:05:07 > 0:05:09but also from each other.
0:05:09 > 0:05:11My favourite room is this living room.
0:05:11 > 0:05:16I have my jukebox with all my favourite 45s from the sixties and seventies.
0:05:16 > 0:05:18And, of course, I have my TV,
0:05:18 > 0:05:20with the surround system,
0:05:20 > 0:05:24where I can watch all the programmes Karen's not interested in.
0:05:24 > 0:05:28We need two reception rooms so we can have our own entertainment.
0:05:28 > 0:05:31My favourite room in the house is my kitchen.
0:05:31 > 0:05:35When we move I'd like to be able to have a room similar size to this
0:05:35 > 0:05:37so I can have a range cooker,
0:05:37 > 0:05:40island like this one, and a butler sink.
0:05:40 > 0:05:45That's the features of their preferred property. What about their preferred location?
0:05:45 > 0:05:47I would like it to be a bit quieter.
0:05:47 > 0:05:51I don't like a lot of noise. This is quite noisy, where we live now.
0:05:51 > 0:05:56It's also important that if there's a village community, we can get to know that community.
0:05:56 > 0:06:00So why have they chosen to flee as far as Oxfordshire?
0:06:00 > 0:06:03I've got two sisters who live not too far away,
0:06:03 > 0:06:05Berkshire way.
0:06:05 > 0:06:07I'd like to be a bit closer to them.
0:06:07 > 0:06:11I would very much like to be near the Thames,
0:06:11 > 0:06:14so that I could get a boat.
0:06:14 > 0:06:19Very interesting if I could go up the Thames and see some of the other places.
0:06:19 > 0:06:22I think he thinks he's going to be Captain Pugwash.
0:06:25 > 0:06:27Their current home is already on the market,
0:06:27 > 0:06:31but after they've doled out three deposits to help their sons move,
0:06:31 > 0:06:35what's left over for Barry and Karen's rural relocation?
0:06:35 > 0:06:37We would start at £600,000,
0:06:37 > 0:06:40and we would go up to £800,000,
0:06:40 > 0:06:45but that would have to be the absolute finished product and tick all our boxes.
0:06:45 > 0:06:49Downsizing. It is always a little bit tricky.
0:06:49 > 0:06:52The buyers say they want a smaller property,
0:06:52 > 0:06:56but they tend to want room sizes like they have in their current home.
0:06:56 > 0:06:59For today's buyers, their requirements seem modest.
0:06:59 > 0:07:03Three bedrooms, two reception rooms and a double garage.
0:07:03 > 0:07:06But to find that on the edge of a village in Oxfordshire,
0:07:06 > 0:07:09in a quiet location, at the lower end of their budget
0:07:09 > 0:07:14so there's plenty of money left over for the boys, that is going to be the challenge.
0:07:16 > 0:07:19Karen wants to move closer to her two sisters,
0:07:19 > 0:07:23so our house search will take us near to the Berkshire border
0:07:23 > 0:07:25and into the villages of South Oxfordshire.
0:07:25 > 0:07:28And we're hoping to quench Barry's nautical cravings,
0:07:28 > 0:07:32as our locations lie between Oxford and Henley-on-Thames,
0:07:32 > 0:07:34all within easy reach of the river.
0:07:34 > 0:07:36Over the next couple of days,
0:07:36 > 0:07:40we'll be taking Barry and Karen on a tour of some beautiful country homes,
0:07:40 > 0:07:45but I'll be keeping the prices to myself until after the house tours.
0:07:45 > 0:07:47And we'll save the mystery house for last,
0:07:47 > 0:07:52where we'll be stepping into the medieval past to find something for their future.
0:07:54 > 0:07:57Good morning to you both and welcome to Oxfordshire.
0:07:57 > 0:08:00It's a great choice of county, isn't it? And a beautiful day.
0:08:00 > 0:08:05- It's lovely. - You've done part one of your escape. Do your sons know you're here?
0:08:05 > 0:08:07Yes, they do now.
0:08:07 > 0:08:09- And are they ready for it? - Not really.
0:08:09 > 0:08:10Not at all. Not at all.
0:08:10 > 0:08:15It's a big lifestyle change for you, but I imagine it's bigger for them.
0:08:15 > 0:08:17It will be. We've always been there for them.
0:08:17 > 0:08:21It's time for us to make our own life and let them get on with theirs.
0:08:21 > 0:08:23So what exactly are you looking for?
0:08:23 > 0:08:25We are supposed to be downsizing.
0:08:25 > 0:08:29Exactly, downsizing. You've got eight bedrooms at the moment.
0:08:29 > 0:08:31- It's going to be a major shift. - It is.
0:08:31 > 0:08:33But we have to do it.
0:08:33 > 0:08:37You don't want to spend half the time cleaning the place, do you?
0:08:37 > 0:08:38No, that's what I do all day.
0:08:38 > 0:08:40Something smaller. Less work.
0:08:40 > 0:08:43- And manageable.- Yeah, manageable.
0:08:43 > 0:08:47With a smaller house, you can still have plenty of open space around you here.
0:08:47 > 0:08:49That's what we'd like. The countryside.
0:08:49 > 0:08:53And a small garden. I would like a garden. Nothing this big.
0:08:53 > 0:08:55And the river. Being here in Oxfordshire...
0:08:55 > 0:08:58- Access to the river. - That's something I'd like to do.
0:08:58 > 0:09:02I'd like to be near the river and hopefully do a bit of boating.
0:09:02 > 0:09:04And the budget. £600,000 to £800,000.
0:09:04 > 0:09:08That's healthy for what you're looking for, but a very wide range.
0:09:08 > 0:09:12We could go up to £800,000, and we'd feel comfortable with that,
0:09:12 > 0:09:14so obviously we're in your hands,
0:09:14 > 0:09:16and see what values the properties are.
0:09:16 > 0:09:19You are in our hands, and we haven't got much time.
0:09:19 > 0:09:21Your property, under offer?
0:09:21 > 0:09:25We've got an offer on the house and we have to move out in three weeks.
0:09:25 > 0:09:27- Three weeks.- Three weeks.
0:09:27 > 0:09:28- OK, no pressure.- No pressure.
0:09:28 > 0:09:32It's a good job we've got brilliant houses to show you,
0:09:32 > 0:09:35and, of course, the mystery house. I'm feeling confident.
0:09:35 > 0:09:38With a top budget of £800,000,
0:09:38 > 0:09:40Barry and Karen want to downsize
0:09:40 > 0:09:42to a detached character property
0:09:42 > 0:09:44with at least three bedrooms,
0:09:44 > 0:09:45an en-suite bathroom,
0:09:45 > 0:09:47a spacious kitchen diner,
0:09:47 > 0:09:49and two separate reception rooms.
0:09:49 > 0:09:51They also want a double garage
0:09:51 > 0:09:53and a low-maintenance garden.
0:09:53 > 0:09:56The location needs to be on the edge of a village
0:09:56 > 0:09:57away from busy roads,
0:09:57 > 0:09:59as Karen wants peace and quiet.
0:09:59 > 0:10:03Barry's keen to be near the Thames as he'd like somewhere to moor a boat.
0:10:07 > 0:10:12So without further ado, it's time to cast off and head straight to our first property.
0:10:12 > 0:10:16We're travelling to South Moreton in South Oxfordshire.
0:10:16 > 0:10:19It's a pretty, rural village surrounded by open countryside.
0:10:19 > 0:10:22There are good road links out of the village,
0:10:22 > 0:10:26useful for Karen to travel to Berkshire to see her two sisters.
0:10:26 > 0:10:29The village has a church, a chapel, and a pub.
0:10:29 > 0:10:34Set on a corner plot is our first house, a beautiful, detached, period cottage.
0:10:34 > 0:10:36Right, step through here.
0:10:36 > 0:10:38This is your front garden.
0:10:38 > 0:10:41As you can see, we are right next to the village road,
0:10:41 > 0:10:44but that does mean you're very close to the village.
0:10:44 > 0:10:48- How do you feel about that? - It would be a problem for us.
0:10:48 > 0:10:49And particularly for Karen
0:10:49 > 0:10:53because noise affects her far more than me.
0:10:53 > 0:10:56And this is the middle of the day.
0:10:56 > 0:10:59I just wonder if rush hour it gets worse.
0:10:59 > 0:11:01On the whole, it's been quiet,
0:11:01 > 0:11:03and also when we go into the house...
0:11:03 > 0:11:06Talking of the house, let's have a look at it.
0:11:06 > 0:11:07It does look nice.
0:11:07 > 0:11:12And not too big a garden. I won't be spending all the time mowing.
0:11:12 > 0:11:16You do get more space behind, but we'll see that later.
0:11:17 > 0:11:19Straight into lovely, bright hallway.
0:11:19 > 0:11:25We go through here to the first of the reception rooms in this property.
0:11:25 > 0:11:28- It's a nice room. - It's nice and bright, isn't it?
0:11:28 > 0:11:29Lots of windows.
0:11:29 > 0:11:32Lovely French doors looking out onto open farmland.
0:11:32 > 0:11:34I like the fireplace.
0:11:34 > 0:11:37It's a working fireplace. Great feature. Lovely and warm.
0:11:37 > 0:11:39You want two reception rooms.
0:11:39 > 0:11:41We do, definitely.
0:11:41 > 0:11:44- Who would get this one? - Depends what the other one's like.
0:11:44 > 0:11:47- Yeah, as long as I get the best one. - Good point.
0:11:47 > 0:11:50Let's have a look through here and see another one.
0:11:50 > 0:11:54Up through here, this was the old garage,
0:11:54 > 0:11:57and they've created a second reception room.
0:11:57 > 0:12:00- It's nice.- They've done a good job. It's quite bright.
0:12:00 > 0:12:04- You've got windows either side, views.- There's the view at the back.
0:12:04 > 0:12:08And that door leads through to a utility space and boot room
0:12:08 > 0:12:09and out onto the garden.
0:12:09 > 0:12:11- That's good.- That's nice.
0:12:11 > 0:12:13- No, it's a good size. - It's a nice room.
0:12:13 > 0:12:17We are in the extension, but it's got that cottagey feel.
0:12:17 > 0:12:18It has. it's a nice room.
0:12:18 > 0:12:20And this is just one side, the extension.
0:12:21 > 0:12:23So let's pop over and see some more.
0:12:23 > 0:12:26Moving back from the converted wing into the original cottage,
0:12:26 > 0:12:29the ground floor also has a cloakroom,
0:12:29 > 0:12:32a compact study complete with countryside views,
0:12:32 > 0:12:35and a large dining room featuring another attractive fireplace.
0:12:35 > 0:12:38But next door, there's yet more space to dine,
0:12:38 > 0:12:42and the high-quality finish there should make Karen feel at home.
0:12:42 > 0:12:45So here is the kitchen, and what do you think of it?
0:12:45 > 0:12:48- This is nice.- This is lovely. - This is very good.
0:12:48 > 0:12:51- I've got my island. - Yeah, you've got the island.
0:12:51 > 0:12:53- And it's bright, isn't it?- Very.
0:12:53 > 0:12:54Room for a big table.
0:12:54 > 0:12:58They've created it in the corner so you've got extra seating.
0:12:58 > 0:13:00- And the alcove over there. - And a snug.
0:13:00 > 0:13:03So really, that's an extra reception room.
0:13:03 > 0:13:06You could watch television at opposite ends of the house.
0:13:06 > 0:13:10Yeah, you're right. And by the way, there's no noise from outside.
0:13:10 > 0:13:12We're not hearing any traffic.
0:13:12 > 0:13:13It's winning you over.
0:13:13 > 0:13:15Yeah, I'm quite sold on it.
0:13:15 > 0:13:17Halfway through the tour,
0:13:17 > 0:13:19and although Barry is sold,
0:13:19 > 0:13:22I'm not sure Karen is ready to reach for her chequebook just yet.
0:13:22 > 0:13:24But there's plenty more to see,
0:13:24 > 0:13:27so let's find out if the upstairs will persuade her.
0:13:28 > 0:13:30Come through.
0:13:31 > 0:13:34This is a good example of one of the bedrooms.
0:13:34 > 0:13:36Reasonable size, isn't it?
0:13:36 > 0:13:38- Quite good size. - Not that large, but...
0:13:38 > 0:13:41Big enough for one of your boys, I'm sure.
0:13:41 > 0:13:45Oh yeah, when they come and visit us, they'd think this was nice.
0:13:45 > 0:13:46I think it's more than nice,
0:13:46 > 0:13:49particularly when you consider there's an en suite.
0:13:49 > 0:13:51- That's nice.- That's fine, isn't it?
0:13:51 > 0:13:53And it's got a shower.
0:13:53 > 0:13:55And we've got built-in wardrobes as well,
0:13:55 > 0:13:58so you've got your cupboard space built in.
0:13:58 > 0:14:00You get enough in this room.
0:14:00 > 0:14:02- Yeah, it's a good size.- Big enough.
0:14:02 > 0:14:05There are three further guest bedrooms on the first floor,
0:14:05 > 0:14:10another good-size double, and two smaller, cosy, cottage-style single rooms.
0:14:10 > 0:14:14And there's the family bathroom, complete with roll-top bath.
0:14:14 > 0:14:18But next we're going to take a look at the master suite.
0:14:18 > 0:14:20- Oh, this is nice.- Lovely. - Isn't this a nice room?
0:14:20 > 0:14:23You immediately look up in the eaves.
0:14:23 > 0:14:24You've got the beams.
0:14:24 > 0:14:26Yes, it's a lovely room.
0:14:26 > 0:14:28And nice and bright.
0:14:28 > 0:14:31Nice to wake up and look out there and see that view.
0:14:31 > 0:14:33And you have an en suite just there too.
0:14:33 > 0:14:35Could this work for the two of you?
0:14:35 > 0:14:37I think it could.
0:14:37 > 0:14:38This is a lovely room.
0:14:38 > 0:14:39Isn't it tremendous?
0:14:39 > 0:14:42"Tremendous". Ooh!
0:14:42 > 0:14:44It's really bright and everything.
0:14:44 > 0:14:45I think he likes it, Karen.
0:14:46 > 0:14:49This house has really impressed Barry.
0:14:49 > 0:14:51It looks like he's already packing to move in.
0:14:51 > 0:14:55But the jury's still out on whether his wife will be joining him.
0:14:55 > 0:14:57Here's the other part of the garden.
0:14:57 > 0:15:00It's got a couple of levels, some dimensions,
0:15:00 > 0:15:03mature trees, cherry blossom, an apple tree.
0:15:03 > 0:15:07And you're, well, one side looking onto open fields,
0:15:07 > 0:15:11but of course, you are on the other side, backed by the road.
0:15:11 > 0:15:14- It is a lovely house. - It's a beautiful house.
0:15:14 > 0:15:18They've done it beautifully, but I'm not sure about this road.
0:15:18 > 0:15:20You can't make up your mind just yet.
0:15:20 > 0:15:23You don't know how much it is, which is my next question.
0:15:23 > 0:15:26- What do you think? - I would say possibly £700,000.
0:15:26 > 0:15:28Barry, what are your thoughts?
0:15:28 > 0:15:31A little bit higher. £725,000.
0:15:31 > 0:15:35For a couple who don't know the area well, you're pretty good at this,
0:15:35 > 0:15:36and Barry, you are spot on.
0:15:36 > 0:15:39- It's on the market at £725,000. - Great.
0:15:39 > 0:15:43The house is extremely nice. The garden's a little bit small.
0:15:43 > 0:15:46It's a big issue, I think, this road.
0:15:46 > 0:15:48Which is a shame. The house was lovely.
0:15:48 > 0:15:50The house is indeed lovely,
0:15:50 > 0:15:53so spend a bit more time with it while you've got the chance.
0:15:53 > 0:15:55And I'll see you later on.
0:15:55 > 0:15:56OK, thank you.
0:15:56 > 0:15:59On the market for £725,000,
0:15:59 > 0:16:03this beautiful cottage is chock full of character features
0:16:03 > 0:16:07and has five bedrooms, two of which come with en-suite bathrooms.
0:16:07 > 0:16:09There are also three reception rooms,
0:16:09 > 0:16:11including a family room for Barry
0:16:11 > 0:16:14where he can crank up his jukebox without disturbing Karen
0:16:14 > 0:16:18at the other end of the house in the large kitchen-breakfast room.
0:16:18 > 0:16:22This is a great property, and it does meet all of the criteria and more,
0:16:22 > 0:16:25but will its roadside location bypass its benefits?
0:16:25 > 0:16:27The property itself looked lovely.
0:16:27 > 0:16:30It couldn't be nicer. They've done it beautifully.
0:16:30 > 0:16:33But that road, you really can hear it.
0:16:33 > 0:16:37I think the kitchen, master bedroom, the main lounge,
0:16:37 > 0:16:40and also the dining room, I think they're nice rooms.
0:16:40 > 0:16:44The garden, I would have liked something a little bit bigger.
0:16:44 > 0:16:47But that would not necessarily be a major concern
0:16:47 > 0:16:48if there wasn't the noise.
0:16:48 > 0:16:52- It's quite quiet out here now, isn't it?- It is now.
0:16:52 > 0:16:53It is now.
0:16:53 > 0:16:58Well, we're not done yet. There's a lot more to see in Oxfordshire.
0:17:02 > 0:17:05With Barry's ambition to buy his very first boat,
0:17:05 > 0:17:07a trip to Oxfordshire wouldn't be complete
0:17:07 > 0:17:09without visiting Henley-on-Thames.
0:17:09 > 0:17:12It's a picturesque town on the banks of the river,
0:17:12 > 0:17:14and just a short walk from the water
0:17:14 > 0:17:16is the pretty market square
0:17:16 > 0:17:19with its impressive town hall, shops and restaurants.
0:17:19 > 0:17:22Barry and Karen are meeting Town Mayor Jennifer Wood
0:17:22 > 0:17:25to find out more about the town's rich heritage.
0:17:25 > 0:17:30Henley was founded in the 12th century as a port supplying timber and grain,
0:17:30 > 0:17:33and was once pivotal to trade between Oxford and London.
0:17:33 > 0:17:35By the late 16th century,
0:17:35 > 0:17:38it had become a major centre for the production of malt.
0:17:38 > 0:17:42But it wasn't until the 17th and 18th centuries
0:17:42 > 0:17:45that the town's wealth was really established.
0:17:45 > 0:17:49This was the time that the merchants stayed here, they built here,
0:17:49 > 0:17:53the nearer to the river they were, the wealthier they were.
0:17:53 > 0:17:56Unfortunately, though, with the advent of the railway,
0:17:56 > 0:17:58the river wasn't so important
0:17:58 > 0:18:02because it was easier, probably cheaper and quicker,
0:18:02 > 0:18:05to transport goods by rail than by river.
0:18:05 > 0:18:07All was not lost.
0:18:07 > 0:18:10Because what the river became full of was pleasure boats,
0:18:10 > 0:18:13and that's how Henley's known today.
0:18:13 > 0:18:16Henley's history is intrinsically linked to the river,
0:18:16 > 0:18:19which is now a centre for both recreation and sport.
0:18:19 > 0:18:22The town is best known for its annual Royal Regatta,
0:18:22 > 0:18:26which is held ever summer, attracting some of the world's finest rowers.
0:18:26 > 0:18:30It's also a highlight on the British social calendar.
0:18:30 > 0:18:34Jennifer is taking Barry and Karen along the idyllic stretch of water
0:18:34 > 0:18:35used in the competition.
0:18:35 > 0:18:37When did it become a royal regatta?
0:18:37 > 0:18:39Well, it started in 1839,
0:18:39 > 0:18:44but it became a royal regatta when Prince Albert visited in 1851.
0:18:44 > 0:18:48Since then, every royal head of state has become a patron,
0:18:48 > 0:18:53and they do come, not every year, but they do come most years, yeah.
0:18:53 > 0:18:57Situated a mile and a half downstream from Henley is Temple Island,
0:18:57 > 0:19:02which is dominated by an ornamental folly built in 1771,
0:19:02 > 0:19:04designed by the English architect James Wyatt.
0:19:04 > 0:19:07With wonderful views across the river,
0:19:07 > 0:19:11this venue has long been used as a vantage point to watch the regatta,
0:19:11 > 0:19:15and the island itself marks the start of the rowing competition,
0:19:15 > 0:19:17which has a unique match racing format.
0:19:17 > 0:19:19What sets Henley apart?
0:19:19 > 0:19:24In the Royal Regatta, you have only two boats rowing at one time.
0:19:24 > 0:19:28In an international regatta, or anywhere else, actually,
0:19:28 > 0:19:31even at Dorney, you can have seven or eight boats going at once.
0:19:31 > 0:19:36There may only be two teams competing for glory in Henley's Regatta,
0:19:36 > 0:19:40but we've got three properties in the running for our house quest,
0:19:40 > 0:19:42so it's time to head to the next destination.
0:19:45 > 0:19:47For our second port of call,
0:19:47 > 0:19:49we're travelling six miles south
0:19:49 > 0:19:51towards the edge of the county border
0:19:51 > 0:19:53to the village of South Stoke,
0:19:53 > 0:19:56which is just over a mile away from Goring-on-Thames.
0:19:56 > 0:20:00In 2009, Goring-on-Thames was crowned Oxfordshire Village of the Year.
0:20:00 > 0:20:02There's a good choice of shops,
0:20:02 > 0:20:05and a local railway station has direct links to London,
0:20:05 > 0:20:10particularly useful for when Barry and Karen's three sons come to stay.
0:20:10 > 0:20:14To tempt them further, back in South Stoke, they'll find a village pub.
0:20:14 > 0:20:18Walking distance from the river, situated in a quiet, no-through road,
0:20:18 > 0:20:20is our second property.
0:20:20 > 0:20:22Not too much noise in the road.
0:20:22 > 0:20:23No, no.
0:20:23 > 0:20:25- Happy about that?- Yes. A lot quieter.
0:20:25 > 0:20:27Unless you've closed the road?
0:20:27 > 0:20:31No, no, no trickery. This is how it is.
0:20:31 > 0:20:34What about the house itself?
0:20:34 > 0:20:37Initially, it looked quite a small house,
0:20:37 > 0:20:40but I see it goes back further than I expected.
0:20:40 > 0:20:43- Well, we are downsizing. - Yeah, of course.
0:20:43 > 0:20:45You're right, it is a smaller house.
0:20:45 > 0:20:49And it's got a garage.
0:20:49 > 0:20:50A double garage, no less.
0:20:50 > 0:20:54You're by the river, you're also by one of the main train lines,
0:20:54 > 0:20:56the London to Swansea route.
0:20:56 > 0:20:57That's very close, is it?
0:20:57 > 0:21:01It's very close. You'll hear the train in a moment.
0:21:01 > 0:21:03You will get the trains going by,
0:21:03 > 0:21:06but you're close to get back to Essex or for the boys to visit.
0:21:06 > 0:21:08No, that's good.
0:21:08 > 0:21:10What are you thinking, Karen?
0:21:10 > 0:21:12Just wondering about the train.
0:21:12 > 0:21:15Well, I don't think that's going to be a problem.
0:21:15 > 0:21:16No, we'll see.
0:21:16 > 0:21:18We'll see. Reserving judgment.
0:21:18 > 0:21:22- You can't have complete silence all the time.- No. No, but we'll see.
0:21:22 > 0:21:26OK. A somewhat shaky start, and I'm not referring to the passing trains.
0:21:26 > 0:21:29However, it is set close to the river for Barry,
0:21:29 > 0:21:34but seeing as they've both set their hearts on an older, period property,
0:21:34 > 0:21:36how will they rate this more modern-style home?
0:21:39 > 0:21:40Step inside.
0:21:40 > 0:21:41Oh, OK.
0:21:41 > 0:21:44And let's go straight through
0:21:44 > 0:21:47into the lounge.
0:21:47 > 0:21:49- This is a nice room.- Do you like?
0:21:49 > 0:21:51- Yes, very nice.- It's all right.
0:21:51 > 0:21:55The only thing I feel, I don't think the room's got much character.
0:21:55 > 0:21:57It looks all very pleasant.
0:21:57 > 0:21:59I think you've got some nice little features.
0:21:59 > 0:22:05That's lovely, leading out onto the decked area of the garden, getting in a bit of light,
0:22:05 > 0:22:07and sometimes you can add character yourself,
0:22:07 > 0:22:09so it could be something.
0:22:09 > 0:22:11You've certainly got enough scope here.
0:22:11 > 0:22:12Yeah, you could do.
0:22:12 > 0:22:16- Reserving judgment? - Yes, not ruling anything out.- Good.
0:22:16 > 0:22:18You have to compromise when you're downsizing
0:22:18 > 0:22:20and you want a particular location.
0:22:20 > 0:22:23- It's hard to get everything you want. - That's true.
0:22:23 > 0:22:26Let's have a look at the other side.
0:22:26 > 0:22:30Fortunately, they don't have to compromise on separate reception spaces.
0:22:30 > 0:22:33They just have to figure out who gets the bigger one.
0:22:33 > 0:22:34So this is the second.
0:22:34 > 0:22:36Size-wise, it's fine.
0:22:36 > 0:22:38And it's light.
0:22:38 > 0:22:40- I'd get my television in here, I think.- Good.
0:22:40 > 0:22:42And it's bright.
0:22:42 > 0:22:44So you've taken this as your room?
0:22:44 > 0:22:47Well, no, I think Karen would insist this is my room,
0:22:47 > 0:22:50as she'd want the larger room.
0:22:50 > 0:22:52Let's take a look at the kitchen.
0:22:52 > 0:22:55I just want to remind you, this is a smaller property,
0:22:55 > 0:22:58we are downsizing, so it's a slightly smaller kitchen.
0:22:58 > 0:23:00But I still think you'll like it.
0:23:04 > 0:23:06Yes, it is smaller.
0:23:06 > 0:23:08I did warn you.
0:23:08 > 0:23:10But there again, there's only two of us
0:23:10 > 0:23:12so it's not a big issue, is it?
0:23:12 > 0:23:17- It's got everything, it's got the big fridge.- It's bright, isn't it?
0:23:17 > 0:23:18And it's functional.
0:23:18 > 0:23:20Bright and functional.
0:23:20 > 0:23:22I don't think this is a problem for size.
0:23:22 > 0:23:25- No, size...- We can't compare it to what we had before.
0:23:25 > 0:23:29I think we've got to say, "Right, OK, we could live with it."
0:23:29 > 0:23:33There's enough surfaces to work on, isn't there?
0:23:33 > 0:23:35- Yeah.- No?
0:23:35 > 0:23:36No.
0:23:36 > 0:23:41I'm shocked that the modern, immaculate kitchen has failed to impress,
0:23:41 > 0:23:45despite Barry's best efforts to convince his wife otherwise.
0:23:45 > 0:23:48So let's get moving upstairs to the sleeping quarters.
0:23:48 > 0:23:50Perhaps they will help change her mind.
0:23:50 > 0:23:54Alongside the newly-fitted, contemporary family bathroom,
0:23:54 > 0:23:55there are four bedrooms.
0:23:55 > 0:23:59The three guest bedrooms comprise two doubles and a smaller single,
0:23:59 > 0:24:03but we're going to see the bedroom Barry and Karen could call their own.
0:24:03 > 0:24:05So this is the master suite.
0:24:05 > 0:24:07Plenty of storage.
0:24:07 > 0:24:09Plenty of storage. Big, deep wardrobes there.
0:24:09 > 0:24:12His and hers, so no fighting over space.
0:24:12 > 0:24:14That could still happen.
0:24:14 > 0:24:17- There's a reasonable amount of space.- Yeah.
0:24:17 > 0:24:19Have a look at that bathroom.
0:24:19 > 0:24:21It's got a lovely double shower.
0:24:21 > 0:24:22- Yeah, that's fine.- Is it?
0:24:22 > 0:24:24So what are you thinking?
0:24:24 > 0:24:26Oh yeah, it's similar to ours.
0:24:26 > 0:24:27Yeah, this room's fine.
0:24:27 > 0:24:29Fine, fine, fine.
0:24:29 > 0:24:32I think that's what it is. It's fine.
0:24:32 > 0:24:35- That's how I see it. - Yeah, it's fine.
0:24:35 > 0:24:38It's not making us jump up and down.
0:24:38 > 0:24:42I must say, I'm really surprised they haven't taken to this house,
0:24:42 > 0:24:47as, for many people, this would be a perfect home in a fantastic location.
0:24:47 > 0:24:50So let's find out just how much they think it's worth.
0:24:50 > 0:24:52The garden's very important to you, Barry.
0:24:52 > 0:24:55What do you think of the size of this one?
0:24:55 > 0:25:01The size is fine. It's well-maintained, I wouldn't spend a lot of time having to look after it.
0:25:01 > 0:25:03Whatever you think of this property,
0:25:03 > 0:25:04it comes at a price.
0:25:04 > 0:25:06Let's work out what that is.
0:25:06 > 0:25:09We'll start with you, Barry, who was spot on last time.
0:25:09 > 0:25:12Yeah, OK, I think £625,000.
0:25:12 > 0:25:14OK, Karen?
0:25:14 > 0:25:17I think it would be more than that because of the location.
0:25:17 > 0:25:23From where it is, I suspect it would be about £720,000.
0:25:23 > 0:25:26That's a wide difference between your two guesses.
0:25:26 > 0:25:30And this time, I think you've almost split the difference,
0:25:30 > 0:25:32but you're slightly closer.
0:25:32 > 0:25:35It's on the market at £675,000.
0:25:35 > 0:25:37- Mm.- OK.
0:25:37 > 0:25:41- You're don't love the house, but you like the garden, don't you?- Yes.
0:25:41 > 0:25:45Take one last lap around this garden and I'll see you later.
0:25:45 > 0:25:46- OK.- Thanks very much.
0:25:46 > 0:25:50Under budget again, this time by over £100,000,
0:25:50 > 0:25:56this modern, detached property comes with a price tag of £675,000.
0:25:56 > 0:25:57It has four bedrooms
0:25:57 > 0:25:59with an en suite to the master,
0:25:59 > 0:26:02the two separate reception rooms they specified,
0:26:02 > 0:26:03a kitchen-breakfast room.
0:26:03 > 0:26:06And outside, there's a double garage for Barry
0:26:06 > 0:26:08and a low-maintenance garden.
0:26:08 > 0:26:12The location may be ideally situated for easy access to the river,
0:26:12 > 0:26:17but it's clear they're unwilling to forgo the more traditional features
0:26:17 > 0:26:18for something more modern.
0:26:19 > 0:26:21The location was lovely.
0:26:21 > 0:26:25Right near the river, which was where we wanted to be.
0:26:25 > 0:26:27We could have possibly moored a boat there.
0:26:27 > 0:26:30But the downstairs space isn't going to be enough.
0:26:30 > 0:26:34I know we're downsizing, but we wouldn't have enough room.
0:26:34 > 0:26:36Overall, it's not quite for us.
0:26:36 > 0:26:39It hasn't got the character that I think we're looking for.
0:26:39 > 0:26:42Ah, decided to have one more look inside.
0:26:42 > 0:26:43Yes, just one more.
0:26:43 > 0:26:45Just see what it looks like.
0:26:45 > 0:26:48Well, don't tell me if you've changed your mind yet,
0:26:48 > 0:26:51but it has been a long day so let's get a move on.
0:26:55 > 0:26:58Leaving Barry and Karen to collect their thoughts
0:26:58 > 0:27:01regarding the properties we've shown them so far,
0:27:01 > 0:27:04the first day of house hunting comes to an end.
0:27:05 > 0:27:07With a budget of £800,000,
0:27:07 > 0:27:10Barry and Karen are hoping to cut the apron strings
0:27:10 > 0:27:15and enjoy a peaceful retirement near the river in rural Oxfordshire.
0:27:15 > 0:27:17So far, we've seen two great properties,
0:27:17 > 0:27:21yet try as we might, Karen hasn't been won over.
0:27:21 > 0:27:25We can live with it. There's enough surfaces to work on, isn't there?
0:27:25 > 0:27:27- Yeah.- No?- No.
0:27:27 > 0:27:33But coming up, the regal splendour of the mystery house may be the winning ticket.
0:27:33 > 0:27:35I feel like a lord and lady.
0:27:35 > 0:27:37That's right.
0:27:39 > 0:27:43Well, yesterday didn't turn out quite the way I wanted it to.
0:27:43 > 0:27:47For Barry and Karen, there was just too many compromises
0:27:47 > 0:27:48they weren't willing to make.
0:27:48 > 0:27:52So today, for the mystery house, it's all about the wow factor.
0:27:52 > 0:27:55A spectacular interior, fantastic location,
0:27:55 > 0:27:58and access to all the amenities they could have wanted.
0:27:58 > 0:28:03There are compromises, but I'm hoping the wow factor outweighs them all.
0:28:03 > 0:28:06The mystery property is the last stop of our tour,
0:28:06 > 0:28:09and takes us eight miles south of Oxford to Abingdon.
0:28:09 > 0:28:11One of England's oldest market towns,
0:28:11 > 0:28:14it's believed that some of the buildings in Abingdon
0:28:14 > 0:28:16date back to the 1100s.
0:28:16 > 0:28:19There's a range of high street stores, restaurants and pubs,
0:28:19 > 0:28:21and right in the heart of the town
0:28:21 > 0:28:24sits the 17th century County Hall,
0:28:24 > 0:28:26which now houses the town museum.
0:28:26 > 0:28:29Abingdon was built on the banks of the Thames,
0:28:29 > 0:28:32which reveals the first clue of our mystery package.
0:28:32 > 0:28:35We're taking a more scenic route to get there,
0:28:35 > 0:28:38for its location is right on this glorious river bank.
0:28:38 > 0:28:42Now, so far, noise has been a troublesome factor in our house tour,
0:28:42 > 0:28:46so will Karen's ears be able to take a town centre location?
0:28:47 > 0:28:51Now, this is what I wanted to show you.
0:28:51 > 0:28:53- Oh, it's tremendous. - Isn't it amazing?
0:28:53 > 0:28:56Is this one house or several houses?
0:28:56 > 0:28:57Well, I'm glad you asked.
0:28:57 > 0:29:00At one point, it was a couple of houses joined together,
0:29:00 > 0:29:03but you will notice that here you have a neighbour,
0:29:03 > 0:29:05and there you have a neighbour.
0:29:05 > 0:29:09So one thing about this mystery house is that it's not detached.
0:29:09 > 0:29:13And I know that's something you could maybe live with, but...
0:29:13 > 0:29:15- How are you feeling, Karen? - I don't know.
0:29:15 > 0:29:17It's very open, isn't it?
0:29:17 > 0:29:20It is, but just to remind you what we've come from.
0:29:20 > 0:29:24- The river is beautiful. - It looks quite exciting, doesn't it?
0:29:24 > 0:29:25It's different, isn't it?
0:29:25 > 0:29:28And just for me, Karen, have a listen.
0:29:29 > 0:29:31- Yeah.- Is it quiet enough for you?
0:29:31 > 0:29:35- No trains.- Or cars.- Just the bell.
0:29:35 > 0:29:37Just the odd bell from the church.
0:29:37 > 0:29:39And a duck.
0:29:39 > 0:29:43Those are the sorts of sounds you expect in the countryside.
0:29:43 > 0:29:45Backing right onto the banks of the Thames,
0:29:45 > 0:29:49this captivating property forms part of a 15th century building
0:29:49 > 0:29:51that was once owned by Abingdon Abbey
0:29:51 > 0:29:53and is tucked away in a quiet street
0:29:53 > 0:29:56believed to be one of the oldest parts of the town.
0:29:56 > 0:30:00They wanted period features, and that's exactly what we're giving them here.
0:30:00 > 0:30:04On a grander scale than they could ever have imagined.
0:30:04 > 0:30:06This house is all about drama.
0:30:08 > 0:30:09Look at this!
0:30:09 > 0:30:10Goodness me.
0:30:10 > 0:30:13- It feels like... - I feel like a lord and lady.
0:30:13 > 0:30:16- That's right. - It's like the Tower of London.
0:30:16 > 0:30:18The panels were put in around 1910,
0:30:18 > 0:30:20and they're all from Flanders, Belgium.
0:30:20 > 0:30:22- Really?- Yeah.
0:30:22 > 0:30:25And everything is just so, first-class condition.
0:30:25 > 0:30:29The windows were put in about the same time, lovely stained glass,
0:30:29 > 0:30:33and obviously nothing obstructing you out there so the sunlight pours in.
0:30:33 > 0:30:35It's absolutely marvellous.
0:30:35 > 0:30:37It's a huge room, isn't it?
0:30:37 > 0:30:38Could that work?
0:30:38 > 0:30:42Could you two actually, maybe amalgamate,
0:30:42 > 0:30:46and rather than having two reception rooms, share this one dramatic space?
0:30:46 > 0:30:49I think you're telling us something there.
0:30:49 > 0:30:52Oh, you're quick, Barry.
0:30:52 > 0:30:53That's me, you see.
0:30:53 > 0:30:55He's not born today.
0:30:55 > 0:30:57I think we might have to, don't you?
0:30:57 > 0:30:58We may have to, yes.
0:30:58 > 0:31:02You seem to be wowed by this room.
0:31:02 > 0:31:04Just wait until you see the kitchen. You ready?
0:31:04 > 0:31:06- Yes, we are.- Yes.
0:31:09 > 0:31:10Right.
0:31:10 > 0:31:12I'm ready for another big reaction.
0:31:12 > 0:31:14Look at this!
0:31:14 > 0:31:15Oh, my word! Look at it!
0:31:16 > 0:31:18- This is tremendous.- Come on, then.
0:31:18 > 0:31:23Oh. Isn't this wonderful? It's an amazing kitchen.
0:31:23 > 0:31:26And look, there's so many lovely little bits.
0:31:26 > 0:31:27Look at this.
0:31:27 > 0:31:31I love this. This is a safe, and they're using it now...
0:31:31 > 0:31:35If I could open it cos it's quite heavy. It's a proper safe.
0:31:35 > 0:31:36- Here we go.- Oh.
0:31:36 > 0:31:38You'll like this.
0:31:38 > 0:31:39That's absolutely marvellous.
0:31:39 > 0:31:42It's ideal, this kitchen.
0:31:42 > 0:31:45Ideal. Karen, that's strong words from you.
0:31:45 > 0:31:50- You've really come up with it on this one.- You're amazed, aren't you?
0:31:50 > 0:31:54At last, an enthusiastic Karen, and who can blame her?
0:31:54 > 0:31:56The kitchen is stunning.
0:31:56 > 0:31:57There's plenty of storage,
0:31:57 > 0:32:01and ample room for the whole family to dine together
0:32:01 > 0:32:03when their three sons come to visit.
0:32:03 > 0:32:07Down on the ground floor, even the cloakroom has a majestic ambience.
0:32:07 > 0:32:09Time to go upstairs to find out
0:32:09 > 0:32:12what else this beautiful mystery property has to reveal.
0:32:12 > 0:32:16First thing I'm going to show you is here. It's four bedrooms here.
0:32:16 > 0:32:19And one of them, actually, is being used as an office.
0:32:19 > 0:32:21It's a good-sized space
0:32:21 > 0:32:24so you don't get a separate downstairs reception,
0:32:24 > 0:32:27but you could have a space up here, Barry.
0:32:27 > 0:32:28Yeah, that's right.
0:32:28 > 0:32:31And it's next to the family bathroom. Very convenient.
0:32:31 > 0:32:33OK. No, looks good.
0:32:33 > 0:32:35- You'd be happy up here? - I would, yeah.
0:32:35 > 0:32:39Across the hallway there are two more large bedrooms,
0:32:39 > 0:32:41both with breathtaking views over the river,
0:32:41 > 0:32:44and one of them has an en-suite shower room,
0:32:44 > 0:32:46ideal for their visiting sons.
0:32:46 > 0:32:48But they may have to be coaxed into leaving
0:32:48 > 0:32:51once they've sampled this house's delights.
0:32:51 > 0:32:53At the opposite end of the hall,
0:32:53 > 0:32:55we've got one more bedroom to see.
0:32:55 > 0:32:57Welcome to the master suite.
0:32:57 > 0:32:59Oh, my goodness.
0:32:59 > 0:33:00Oh, yes.
0:33:00 > 0:33:02This is lovely, isn't it?
0:33:02 > 0:33:03It's incredible.
0:33:03 > 0:33:06Always looking over to the river.
0:33:06 > 0:33:07It's just lovely.
0:33:07 > 0:33:10- There's only one more thing this room needs.- A bathroom?
0:33:10 > 0:33:12An en-suite.
0:33:12 > 0:33:13Oh, this way.
0:33:16 > 0:33:19- Prepare to be surprised again.- Oh!
0:33:19 > 0:33:20Look at this!
0:33:20 > 0:33:22Look!
0:33:22 > 0:33:25- This is unbelievable.- Amazing.
0:33:25 > 0:33:27- There's a shower.- Nice shower.- Yeah.
0:33:27 > 0:33:31This was a separate room that they converted into a bathroom
0:33:31 > 0:33:34- that you could access from the landing before.- Unbelievable.
0:33:34 > 0:33:40This mystery property is giving them that mystery element they thought wasn't achievable,
0:33:40 > 0:33:44in that we're managing to downsize without compromising on space.
0:33:44 > 0:33:45There isn't a double garage,
0:33:45 > 0:33:48but the property comes with two residents' parking permits
0:33:48 > 0:33:51at a yearly cost of around £100 each.
0:33:51 > 0:33:53Landscaped gardens lie to the rear
0:33:53 > 0:33:55with steps leading down to the river.
0:33:55 > 0:34:00Bathed in the scent of that beautiful wisteria, it's time to talk money.
0:34:00 > 0:34:01You've seen it all now.
0:34:01 > 0:34:04We're back out here where it all began,
0:34:04 > 0:34:07peaceful, quiet, the river flowing by.
0:34:07 > 0:34:11- It's a lovely spot. - You've opened our eyes to something we'd never seen.
0:34:11 > 0:34:13We're delighted that we've seen it.
0:34:13 > 0:34:16Will you be delighted once we've talked about the price?
0:34:16 > 0:34:18That may be the problem.
0:34:18 > 0:34:19That is the question.
0:34:19 > 0:34:22It's time to deal with that one. Karen?
0:34:22 > 0:34:25I think it would be at the top end of our budget.
0:34:25 > 0:34:30So I suspect it would be probably £795,000 at least.
0:34:30 > 0:34:35Yes, I'd say it's the absolute top of our budget, £800,000.
0:34:35 > 0:34:38It's on the market at £850,000.
0:34:38 > 0:34:40Right, OK.
0:34:40 > 0:34:42A lot to think about, isn't there?
0:34:42 > 0:34:45I think so, cos it is a beautiful house.
0:34:45 > 0:34:47It is absolutely beautiful. I agree.
0:34:47 > 0:34:49I could even forego it being semi-detached.
0:34:49 > 0:34:52But there's no noise, anyway.
0:34:52 > 0:34:53Because it's peaceful.
0:34:53 > 0:34:55Stop the press!
0:34:55 > 0:34:57On that note...
0:34:57 > 0:34:58- I know.- Aren't you surprised?
0:34:58 > 0:35:01Go away and start to talk about how this could happen.
0:35:01 > 0:35:04Have another wander round that kitchen, go on.
0:35:04 > 0:35:07I will see you later on, and we'll talk decisions.
0:35:07 > 0:35:09- Thanks very much.- Thank you.
0:35:09 > 0:35:10Yes!
0:35:10 > 0:35:12That is the result I wanted.
0:35:12 > 0:35:16Yesterday, so disappointing, saw their faces,
0:35:16 > 0:35:18not quite the right location,
0:35:18 > 0:35:20not quite the right house.
0:35:20 > 0:35:24The mystery house, wouldn't have been on their list, has wowed them.
0:35:25 > 0:35:26For £850,000,
0:35:26 > 0:35:32this incredible waterfront period property is, not surprisingly, over budget.
0:35:32 > 0:35:34But it's awash with historic treasures.
0:35:34 > 0:35:38On the ground floor there's an impressive, oak-panelled drawing room
0:35:38 > 0:35:40and an enormous kitchen-dining room.
0:35:40 > 0:35:43Upstairs, there's a family bathroom,
0:35:43 > 0:35:44three guest bedrooms,
0:35:44 > 0:35:48and, of course, the sumptuous master bedroom with en-suite.
0:35:48 > 0:35:50And let's not forget that location,
0:35:50 > 0:35:54right on the banks of the Thames with mooring and fishing rights.
0:35:54 > 0:35:56This house doesn't tick many boxes.
0:35:56 > 0:35:59It isn't detached, doesn't have two reception rooms,
0:35:59 > 0:36:01nor a double garage.
0:36:01 > 0:36:04But perhaps it's ticked that indefinable box.
0:36:04 > 0:36:06The one that stirs your heart.
0:36:06 > 0:36:08The mystery property was amazing.
0:36:08 > 0:36:12It is a serious contender. It's something we could think about.
0:36:12 > 0:36:15We could have a barge like that for you.
0:36:15 > 0:36:17What would I do with it?
0:36:17 > 0:36:21We could have your television in there, and a Sky dish on there.
0:36:21 > 0:36:22Oh, yeah, that's true.
0:36:22 > 0:36:24You can sail up and down to the pubs.
0:36:24 > 0:36:26I'm very excited about the property
0:36:26 > 0:36:30and I just hope that Karen has that same feeling as I have.
0:36:30 > 0:36:31I'm sold on it.
0:36:31 > 0:36:34Here they come, the lord and lady of the manor.
0:36:34 > 0:36:36But not quite yet.
0:36:36 > 0:36:39You've got some serious decisions to make now, haven't you?
0:36:39 > 0:36:43Let's find you somewhere special to sit and think about them.
0:36:43 > 0:36:44OK, thank you.
0:36:48 > 0:36:51Being keen to immerse themselves in the community,
0:36:51 > 0:36:56a village shop and a pub are often at the top of our buyers' wishlists.
0:36:56 > 0:37:00But over the last two years, 1,200 rural shops have closed,
0:37:00 > 0:37:04and it's expected that another 400 will shut by the end of 2010,
0:37:04 > 0:37:08forcing people to travel into the towns for their shopping needs.
0:37:08 > 0:37:11The village of Stanton Harcourt in rural Oxfordshire
0:37:11 > 0:37:13lost its shop in 2009.
0:37:13 > 0:37:17Fortunately the residents didn't have to wait too long for their groceries
0:37:17 > 0:37:21because local landlord Derek Wilby took matters into his own hands,
0:37:21 > 0:37:23and opened a shop in part of his pub.
0:37:23 > 0:37:25You've been landlord a long while.
0:37:25 > 0:37:30You must know the community well. How was it when they knew the shop was shutting?
0:37:30 > 0:37:32A lot of people were really upset
0:37:32 > 0:37:36because for the most part, if you haven't got a car or transport,
0:37:36 > 0:37:38you can't get to the next village,
0:37:38 > 0:37:40which is about three and a half miles away.
0:37:40 > 0:37:45So it's pretty much a lifeline for most elderly residents, if you like.
0:37:45 > 0:37:48And if you've just got home from work, for instance,
0:37:48 > 0:37:49forgotten a pint of milk,
0:37:49 > 0:37:52nip down to the local shop, there's your pint of milk,
0:37:52 > 0:37:56chocolate, sweets, emergency buys, if you like, last-minute items.
0:37:56 > 0:37:58As well as village shops,
0:37:58 > 0:38:01country pubs are also facing an uncertain future.
0:38:01 > 0:38:05It's estimated that more than 50 pubs close every week.
0:38:05 > 0:38:08So diversifying to meet the needs of the community
0:38:08 > 0:38:12is becoming a popular way of protecting their future.
0:38:12 > 0:38:16In 2001, Prince Charles set up a scheme called The Pub Is The Hub,
0:38:16 > 0:38:20which helps villages facing the same issues as those in Stanton Harcourt.
0:38:20 > 0:38:25Since then, 350 pubs in England have sought advice from the organisation,
0:38:25 > 0:38:28and they've gone on to diversify in ingenious ways,
0:38:28 > 0:38:33ranging from shops to church services, and even keep-fit classes.
0:38:33 > 0:38:38Recent reports state that only one pound in every five is spent on groceries from smaller stores
0:38:38 > 0:38:41rather than larger supermarket chains,
0:38:41 > 0:38:44which is further proof of the need to support local shops.
0:38:44 > 0:38:48The shop in Derek's pub is open daily and stocks dairy products,
0:38:48 > 0:38:52fresh fruit and vegetables, tinned items, and household essentials.
0:38:52 > 0:38:55And in terms of fresh produce, do you source locally?
0:38:55 > 0:38:58We try and buy locally from our regular suppliers,
0:38:58 > 0:39:01but we also have people in the village with allotments,
0:39:01 > 0:39:03growing their own fruit and veg,
0:39:03 > 0:39:06that they'd like to push through the shop.
0:39:06 > 0:39:08You couldn't get much more local.
0:39:08 > 0:39:11There's even a chap with bees, wants to sell honey through us.
0:39:11 > 0:39:13Very local honey.
0:39:13 > 0:39:16It's just such a simple idea, yet it works so well.
0:39:16 > 0:39:19And environmentally, overall,
0:39:19 > 0:39:23the impact on the village, and your carbon footprint, so to speak,
0:39:23 > 0:39:24must be much reduced.
0:39:24 > 0:39:27Well, it is. And as well, with the locals coming here,
0:39:27 > 0:39:29they can buy things in the shop,
0:39:29 > 0:39:33so rather than having to go into town, to the next village,
0:39:33 > 0:39:35their carbon footprint is reduced.
0:39:35 > 0:39:39They're not travelling everywhere, they can walk, there's no driving.
0:39:39 > 0:39:41No buses, no delivery vans.
0:39:41 > 0:39:42- It's all local.- All local.
0:39:42 > 0:39:46In difficult economic times, it's this type of initiative
0:39:46 > 0:39:50that's vital for safeguarding the future of village businesses
0:39:50 > 0:39:54and maintaining the community spirit of rural life.
0:39:54 > 0:39:57It's so beautiful, who wouldn't want to live here?
0:39:57 > 0:40:01And after yesterday's disappointment, today was so much better.
0:40:01 > 0:40:04What I want to know now is whether Barry and Karen
0:40:04 > 0:40:08are ready to put themselves first for a change, instead of their sons.
0:40:10 > 0:40:13We've almost reached the end of our great escape.
0:40:13 > 0:40:16You weren't just escaping to the country, were you?
0:40:16 > 0:40:19You were trying to help the boys move out of the nest,
0:40:19 > 0:40:21and find a home for you.
0:40:21 > 0:40:22We started with, well,
0:40:22 > 0:40:25let's be frank, we'll call it the roadside property.
0:40:25 > 0:40:27It was on that lovely village lane.
0:40:27 > 0:40:32It was a nice property. The kitchen was absolutely beautiful.
0:40:32 > 0:40:34And also the lounge was nice.
0:40:34 > 0:40:38So I think the rooms downstairs were very, very nice indeed.
0:40:38 > 0:40:42The property itself looked very pretty, but it was that road.
0:40:42 > 0:40:45I just could not have come to terms with that road.
0:40:45 > 0:40:49Well, we went from there to a new-build property.
0:40:49 > 0:40:52- Yeah.- So not as much history. It was made in 1995.
0:40:52 > 0:40:57Location was lovely. You could walk to the river in minutes.
0:40:57 > 0:40:59The kitchen was much too small.
0:40:59 > 0:41:02There was nothing I felt I could do with the kitchen.
0:41:02 > 0:41:03There was two reception rooms,
0:41:03 > 0:41:07but I still couldn't have settled there.
0:41:07 > 0:41:09Barry, what about you? We got you a double garage.
0:41:09 > 0:41:11Yeah, the garage was nice.
0:41:11 > 0:41:16Um, but the property didn't have any character as far as I was concerned.
0:41:16 > 0:41:19I think it was clear that neither of those properties were for you.
0:41:19 > 0:41:21But today, the sun came out,
0:41:21 > 0:41:24we hit the river, and saw the mystery property.
0:41:24 > 0:41:27- It was a surprise.- I thought it was a marvellous property.
0:41:27 > 0:41:31The history of the property, the size of the rooms,
0:41:31 > 0:41:33then being on the river.
0:41:33 > 0:41:36I mean, that made it very, very special.
0:41:36 > 0:41:40The feeling of feeling comfortable and the history of the place.
0:41:40 > 0:41:42It seemed like the place of my dreams.
0:41:42 > 0:41:44The place of your dreams,
0:41:44 > 0:41:48but it was quite a lot more in price than the other two.
0:41:48 > 0:41:50Are you interested in our mystery house?
0:41:50 > 0:41:52I think it's a serious contender.
0:41:52 > 0:41:54We would seriously think about.
0:41:54 > 0:41:58I'm more positive than Karen, and as far as I'm concerned,
0:41:58 > 0:42:03I'd like to get hold of the people and see if we could come to a deal.
0:42:03 > 0:42:07Now, that's some strong talk there, Barry.
0:42:07 > 0:42:09- It is, isn't it?- That's what I feel.
0:42:09 > 0:42:13Well, this is fantastic news, particularly after day one,
0:42:13 > 0:42:17to find a house so dramatic and so fitting for the two of you,
0:42:17 > 0:42:20and I think you really deserve it, and it's just made my day.
0:42:20 > 0:42:22It's something different for us.
0:42:22 > 0:42:25The only thing that will really put the cherry on top
0:42:25 > 0:42:28is if you put an offer in, and it's yours,
0:42:28 > 0:42:31and I can sail down and have a cup of tea.
0:42:31 > 0:42:35Thank you both for letting me share this part of the journey with you.
0:42:35 > 0:42:37And let me know when you move in.
0:42:37 > 0:42:39- Thanks very much.- We will.
0:42:43 > 0:42:47We have had a laugh with Barry and Karen over the last few days,
0:42:47 > 0:42:50and it ended on a high, with us finding a palace big enough
0:42:50 > 0:42:53to fit the requirements of our downsizing couple.
0:42:53 > 0:42:55And it seems as though finally,
0:42:55 > 0:42:58their sons are going to have to find a new place to live.
0:42:59 > 0:43:02I'll see you next time on Escape To The Country.
0:43:02 > 0:43:05Barry and Karen really fell for our mystery house,
0:43:05 > 0:43:09so much so that they made an offer £30,000 over the asking price.
0:43:09 > 0:43:12But sadly, they were still outbid.
0:43:12 > 0:43:16So the search continues, and we hope they find their dream property soon.
0:43:16 > 0:43:19If you'd like to escape to the country in Scotland, Wales,
0:43:19 > 0:43:21Northern Ireland or England,
0:43:21 > 0:43:27and need our help, please apply online at bbc.co.uk/beonashow
0:43:46 > 0:43:49Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd
0:43:49 > 0:43:52Email subtitling@bbc.co.uk