0:00:02 > 0:00:04If I were to ask you, "What did the Romans ever do for us?"
0:00:04 > 0:00:08You may say, "Well, Jules, they gave us roads, amongst other things."
0:00:08 > 0:00:11But the inhabitants of this county would probably disagree,
0:00:11 > 0:00:15because hidden beneath my feet here in this glorious park
0:00:15 > 0:00:18are the remains of the world's oldest man-made causeway.
0:00:18 > 0:00:21So stick around as we take a very well-trodden path for today's
0:00:21 > 0:00:23Escape To The Country.
0:00:35 > 0:00:40On today's show, I'll be helping a couple with big natural ambitions
0:00:40 > 0:00:43find their very own land of plenty in the country.
0:00:43 > 0:00:47Must-haves in terms of land are 10-30 acres.
0:00:47 > 0:00:50And they've high hopes of making big bucks.
0:00:50 > 0:00:53We want to create a business that can turn over £100,000 plus.
0:00:53 > 0:00:57But can they see the wood for the trees with our mystery house?
0:00:58 > 0:01:03Today we're in Somerset and these extensive reed beds behind me
0:01:03 > 0:01:08are part of the Shapwick Heath Nature Reserve, and this causeway that I'm trying to negotiate
0:01:08 > 0:01:10is known as the Sweet Track.
0:01:10 > 0:01:13This is a reconstruction of many that have been found here,
0:01:13 > 0:01:16dating back to 3800 BC.
0:01:16 > 0:01:19But the good news is that for today's trawl through the West Country,
0:01:19 > 0:01:22we've got some bigger roads than that.
0:01:22 > 0:01:26Commanding an enviable position on the south-western arm of England,
0:01:26 > 0:01:29Somerset's ancient landscape varies hugely across the county.
0:01:29 > 0:01:30From Cheddar Gorge,
0:01:30 > 0:01:34with its spectacular limestone cliffs and caves,
0:01:34 > 0:01:37to the grass wetlands of the Somerset Levels,
0:01:37 > 0:01:38crowned by Glastonbury Tor,
0:01:38 > 0:01:41which as the reputed Avalon of Arthurian legend
0:01:41 > 0:01:44is an ever-popular place of pilgrimage.
0:01:44 > 0:01:47Despite over 16 million visits
0:01:47 > 0:01:50made by tourists to the county every year, Somerset's towns and villages
0:01:50 > 0:01:52keep their integrity intact,
0:01:52 > 0:01:55thanks to their distinctive local architecture,
0:01:55 > 0:01:58from the blue lias stone buildings of Somerton
0:01:58 > 0:01:59to Martock, built from ham stone.
0:01:59 > 0:02:03As a result, there are rich pickings when it comes to seeking out
0:02:03 > 0:02:07a perfect property in these rural pastures.
0:02:12 > 0:02:14Here in the West Country,
0:02:14 > 0:02:19property prices run around about 8% above the national average,
0:02:19 > 0:02:25which means your average detached will set you back a cool £177,000.
0:02:25 > 0:02:29Land? Well, that literally is like gold dust.
0:02:29 > 0:02:33Nationally, land is outperforming gold in both real and current terms,
0:02:33 > 0:02:36which means your average acre will set you back
0:02:36 > 0:02:39anything between £5,000 to £10,000.
0:02:39 > 0:02:43Add into the mix a gorgeous country house and you can see that you are
0:02:43 > 0:02:46going to have to come down here with some pretty deep pockets.
0:02:46 > 0:02:48But as ever, well, there's plenty on offer.
0:02:50 > 0:02:55Spend top whack and £1.5 million and you'll get this five-bedroom,
0:02:55 > 0:02:58Grade 2 listed manor house in Burrowbridge,
0:02:58 > 0:03:00which exudes Georgian grandeur
0:03:00 > 0:03:03and impeccable style throughout its interior.
0:03:03 > 0:03:07And it's two for one here, with an additional two-bedroom barn
0:03:07 > 0:03:10offering up a cool, contemporary space to chill out in.
0:03:10 > 0:03:13All this set in 15 acres of impressive grounds.
0:03:13 > 0:03:17On the market at just under £700,000 is this four-bedroom
0:03:17 > 0:03:19barn conversion in Wedmore.
0:03:19 > 0:03:24The high ceilings in the living room complement the exposed beams.
0:03:24 > 0:03:28The open-plan kitchen and breakfast room leads up to a mezzanine snug.
0:03:28 > 0:03:34Outside, the 1.5 acres of land look out on to open countryside.
0:03:34 > 0:03:39£425,000 will buy you this renovated two-bedroom roundhouse
0:03:39 > 0:03:44in Withiel Florey, originally built in the 1860s as two cottages.
0:03:44 > 0:03:47Its curved walls are a running theme throughout its light,
0:03:47 > 0:03:49bright bedrooms and living room,
0:03:49 > 0:03:55with a colourful kitchen adding to its individual charm.
0:03:55 > 0:04:00So if that lot has inspired you, well, you're in pretty good company,
0:04:00 > 0:04:04because that is exactly why today's buyers want to make the West Country
0:04:04 > 0:04:05their new home.
0:04:05 > 0:04:09Ben, a head-hunter with a degree in conservation,
0:04:09 > 0:04:13and Natasha, a company PA, along with six-month-old Troy,
0:04:13 > 0:04:15are ready to ditch city living
0:04:15 > 0:04:18and their flat in London and start a campsite business in Somerset.
0:04:18 > 0:04:22We'd like to establish a campsite in the country.
0:04:22 > 0:04:27I think a mixture of pre-erected tents, things like tepees,
0:04:27 > 0:04:29shepherd's huts.
0:04:29 > 0:04:32I quite like the idea of wood-burning hot tubs,
0:04:32 > 0:04:35ideally fed from spring water or something along those lines.
0:04:35 > 0:04:38So that's the tubs, but what about the house?
0:04:38 > 0:04:40Two reception rooms would be good,
0:04:40 > 0:04:43one for us and one for Troy and all of his toys.
0:04:43 > 0:04:46Large kitchen is quite important for me, because I like baking.
0:04:46 > 0:04:50You love cooking, too, don't you?
0:04:50 > 0:04:54Must-haves in terms of land are 10-30 acres.
0:04:54 > 0:04:57And the location has to be right.
0:04:57 > 0:05:01We're looking at two hours, maybe two and a half hours from London.
0:05:01 > 0:05:05Ideally on a holiday sort of route.
0:05:05 > 0:05:09Naturally, we have been looking towards Wiltshire, Somerset,
0:05:09 > 0:05:10that sort of area.
0:05:10 > 0:05:14So views and space are the driving factors with this one.
0:05:14 > 0:05:16The setting's really important for us.
0:05:16 > 0:05:20As idyllic as possible, ideally a mixture of woodland and water,
0:05:20 > 0:05:22maybe a stream or some lakes.
0:05:22 > 0:05:25And well-screened from the neighbours, something we don't get round here.
0:05:25 > 0:05:28Yeah, it's important that we're a walk away from a village.
0:05:28 > 0:05:30- Yeah, and a good pub. - And a decent pub.
0:05:30 > 0:05:35Now we've got Troy, at Christmas it would be great to have everyone over
0:05:35 > 0:05:37and if we had an annexe or something.
0:05:37 > 0:05:39But just having everyone under one roof,
0:05:39 > 0:05:42where we can all spend Christmas together, would be great.
0:05:42 > 0:05:45We are definitely hoping for a bit of a good life, try and grow
0:05:45 > 0:05:48as much fruit and veg as we can, maybe have a few chickens and some eggs.
0:05:48 > 0:05:52I'm actually a big fan of chillies, we've got about 12 different varieties now.
0:05:52 > 0:05:55Tash bought me some different seeds for Christmas last year.
0:05:55 > 0:05:59I'm not having a chance to grow them in our current garden,
0:05:59 > 0:06:02but with any luck we can do that out in the country.
0:06:02 > 0:06:04It seems that they have got it all planned out,
0:06:04 > 0:06:06along with the finances.
0:06:06 > 0:06:10The money from the sale of Natasha's flat will go towards the deposit
0:06:10 > 0:06:13and they'll be letting out their flat.
0:06:13 > 0:06:15So what's the budget for the move?
0:06:15 > 0:06:17The budget for our new property is £800,000.
0:06:21 > 0:06:25On the face of it, the kind of property that Ben and Natasha
0:06:25 > 0:06:27are looking for sounds fairly straightforward -
0:06:27 > 0:06:29three bedrooms, three reception rooms,
0:06:29 > 0:06:31and all for a pretty healthy budget.
0:06:31 > 0:06:35But throw into the mix this whole campsite idea,
0:06:35 > 0:06:38this whole lifestyle change they're trying to take on,
0:06:38 > 0:06:42and all of that within two and a half hours of London, that's going to be tricky.
0:06:42 > 0:06:46This campsite's going to take a lot of planning and preparation and money.
0:06:46 > 0:06:49I wonder... It's a tall order, this.
0:06:49 > 0:06:54As Ben and Natasha have such a demanding brief, we are casting
0:06:54 > 0:06:57our net wide to ensure we show them the best options on the market.
0:06:57 > 0:07:01So with North Somerset at the heart of our search, we'll not be deterred
0:07:01 > 0:07:04from looking across the borders to Wiltshire and East Devon.
0:07:04 > 0:07:06I'll be showing them some enticing properties,
0:07:06 > 0:07:10but as ever, I won't be revealing the price tag straight away.
0:07:10 > 0:07:12And finally, there's the mystery house,
0:07:12 > 0:07:16which will really test their passion for a project to the limit.
0:07:20 > 0:07:22- Hi, guys, nice to see you. - Hi, Jules.
0:07:22 > 0:07:27Welcome to sunny Somerset, albeit a bit chilly first thing in the morning, but it should get warmer.
0:07:27 > 0:07:29It's a great day to start looking at some houses.
0:07:29 > 0:07:33- Whose idea was it, camping? - It is something we've been looking at for some time.
0:07:33 > 0:07:36It's something we enjoy doing ourselves
0:07:36 > 0:07:39and I think the time's right for us as a family to make that change,
0:07:39 > 0:07:40step out of London.
0:07:40 > 0:07:43Well, let's have a think about the budget,
0:07:43 > 0:07:46because you are trying to bite off quite a big chunk
0:07:46 > 0:07:47of the West Country.
0:07:47 > 0:07:49What's the maximum, absolute maximum?
0:07:49 > 0:07:52Well, if there was an existing business in place,
0:07:52 > 0:07:55which I think in an ideal world that would be what we're looking for,
0:07:55 > 0:07:59we could probably stretch it to £950,000.
0:07:59 > 0:08:02If we are talking just land and house,
0:08:02 > 0:08:05then around up to £750 - £800,000.
0:08:05 > 0:08:08Above that would be a bit much.
0:08:08 > 0:08:09How practical are you?
0:08:09 > 0:08:13How much effort are you prepared to put in to actually create something
0:08:13 > 0:08:14and get your hands dirty?
0:08:14 > 0:08:17I think, ideally, that's what we'd like to do.
0:08:17 > 0:08:19For us, it's the setting that's important.
0:08:19 > 0:08:22So finding the right spot and then building on it from there.
0:08:22 > 0:08:24I do hope we can get you what you're looking for.
0:08:24 > 0:08:27It will be tough, we'll have to cover a fair few miles,
0:08:27 > 0:08:31- but we're used to that sort of thing so let's see what we can find you. - Excellent.
0:08:31 > 0:08:35Ben and Natasha's base budget comes at £800,000
0:08:35 > 0:08:40for just the house and land, topping out at £950,000 for a property
0:08:40 > 0:08:42with an established business.
0:08:42 > 0:08:47Essentially, they're after:
0:08:47 > 0:08:50on which to grow their campsite
0:08:50 > 0:08:53and in a setting to die for,
0:08:58 > 0:09:02The picture of this happy campsite with you two working from home
0:09:02 > 0:09:07and Troy growing up, running around and enjoying the constant change of people coming and going
0:09:07 > 0:09:10and the seasons, I mean, it's a very romantic idea.
0:09:10 > 0:09:14It is, I think it could be very idyllic.
0:09:14 > 0:09:16If we can make it work.
0:09:16 > 0:09:19It will be hard work, let's not forget that.
0:09:19 > 0:09:22It's going to be all hands on deck and a lot of work
0:09:22 > 0:09:24to get where we want it to be.
0:09:24 > 0:09:27Our first house is in a great location in the village
0:09:27 > 0:09:31of West Lydford, around two and a half hours' drive from London.
0:09:31 > 0:09:35Set in beautiful countryside and with the likes of Wells
0:09:35 > 0:09:39and Glastonbury close by, it's well located for their camping business,
0:09:39 > 0:09:41with practical amenities and local charm.
0:09:41 > 0:09:45Its church is surrounded by a cluster of attractive properties
0:09:45 > 0:09:48and the local stone is a feature of this one.
0:09:48 > 0:09:49What do you reckon?
0:09:49 > 0:09:52It's quite pretty, from the outside.
0:09:52 > 0:09:56The core of it, that's about 1725, and this is a feature of Somerset,
0:09:56 > 0:09:59blue lias, this stone that you've got.
0:09:59 > 0:10:03On the right there, those four windows are a new extension.
0:10:03 > 0:10:06In the last ten years, it's been doubled in size basically.
0:10:06 > 0:10:08Blends in quite nicely, doesn't it?
0:10:08 > 0:10:12The setting's not quite perhaps as I'd pictured it,
0:10:12 > 0:10:14proximity to the road and neighbours.
0:10:14 > 0:10:18One of the things you're interested in is a certain sense of isolation,
0:10:18 > 0:10:21but you also want a sense of community and a pub
0:10:21 > 0:10:24and you really want to get involved in the local community.
0:10:24 > 0:10:26So to a certain extent,
0:10:26 > 0:10:29neighbours and so forth are sort of part of the territory,
0:10:29 > 0:10:32certainly with this property anyway. Come on, let's have a look.
0:10:32 > 0:10:35Let's see if they like the feel of the interior
0:10:35 > 0:10:38as we go straight into the old part of the house.
0:10:40 > 0:10:43In you come, grab the door, Ben.
0:10:43 > 0:10:47There, what do you think on the inside?
0:10:47 > 0:10:49- It's quite cosy.- It is. - It's really cosy.
0:10:49 > 0:10:51What about you, Natasha?
0:10:51 > 0:10:53It's a bit small and it's a bit dark,
0:10:53 > 0:10:57but it's the first room we've seen.
0:10:57 > 0:11:00- Let's see how it goes. - The fireplace is nice.- Yeah.
0:11:00 > 0:11:03But if you want light and space, the dining room's through there.
0:11:03 > 0:11:05Off you go, after you.
0:11:07 > 0:11:10We're still in the old part of the property.
0:11:10 > 0:11:13Do you get the sense, Natasha, that it gets a bit lighter as we go through?
0:11:13 > 0:11:14Yeah, definitely.
0:11:14 > 0:11:16Let's continue through here.
0:11:16 > 0:11:18Downstairs is deceptively large
0:11:18 > 0:11:21and, as we'll see, is a perfect blank canvas.
0:11:21 > 0:11:24I think in this third reception room,
0:11:24 > 0:11:26things get a lot more contemporary.
0:11:26 > 0:11:28And this is the new extension.
0:11:28 > 0:11:31Not only a whole new reception room here, but above us,
0:11:31 > 0:11:33a purpose-built study for two.
0:11:33 > 0:11:35- OK.- Yeah?
0:11:35 > 0:11:38Which I'm going to let you two explore on your own, later on.
0:11:38 > 0:11:41Is this the sort of layout that would appeal?
0:11:41 > 0:11:43A think so.
0:11:43 > 0:11:47Obviously, it's not necessarily all to our taste.
0:11:47 > 0:11:50It'll only take a lick of paint. It's in good condition, really well made.
0:11:50 > 0:11:54Who's the real interior designer here?
0:11:54 > 0:11:58Yeah, let's not talk about that.
0:11:58 > 0:12:01- OK!- It's a team effort.
0:12:01 > 0:12:04OK, one team, one dream, brilliant.
0:12:04 > 0:12:07I'm glad they're starting to appreciate the space on offer
0:12:07 > 0:12:09in the three reception rooms.
0:12:09 > 0:12:12And the kitchen definitely builds on that.
0:12:12 > 0:12:14OK, Natasha, come on in.
0:12:16 > 0:12:18How about this?
0:12:18 > 0:12:21It's nice, it's very new.
0:12:21 > 0:12:23It's another addition to this property.
0:12:23 > 0:12:26We've got one over there and this one as well.
0:12:26 > 0:12:28It gives you loads of light and space.
0:12:28 > 0:12:31I think as kitchen-diners go,
0:12:31 > 0:12:34it's one of the lightest that one would see.
0:12:34 > 0:12:36- I like this a lot.- It is lovely.
0:12:36 > 0:12:40Very generous utility room through that door as well, with a downstairs loo in it.
0:12:40 > 0:12:42It's a nice space, isn't it?
0:12:42 > 0:12:47I mean it's all finished to a really high spec.
0:12:47 > 0:12:50Time to head upstairs and check out the four potential bedrooms,
0:12:50 > 0:12:52which include a large, light double
0:12:52 > 0:12:56with a bright, modern family bathroom next door.
0:12:56 > 0:12:58There's also a quiet space to retreat to in the attic
0:12:58 > 0:13:00with views over the garden.
0:13:00 > 0:13:03But will they like the master bedroom?
0:13:03 > 0:13:04Wow, look at all this.
0:13:04 > 0:13:08There's all this. Oh, look, you see, Natasha's come to life.
0:13:08 > 0:13:11Loads of storage. And then this is your master.
0:13:11 > 0:13:13Very nice, it's a perfect size.
0:13:13 > 0:13:17And a really cool en suite. Have a look in there, Ben, open that door.
0:13:17 > 0:13:20His and hers, there you go.
0:13:20 > 0:13:21Have a look.
0:13:21 > 0:13:25Yeah, that is really nice, nice having an en suite.
0:13:25 > 0:13:27- Yeah.- Pretty cool, huh? - Lovely big shower.
0:13:27 > 0:13:32And there's even more cupboard space in the room next door.
0:13:33 > 0:13:37Now then, it's not often you get a master bedroom with its own
0:13:37 > 0:13:40very generous dressing room. How much clobber have you got?
0:13:40 > 0:13:42- Don't ask. - Enough to fill a dressing room.
0:13:42 > 0:13:44Enough to fill a dressing room!
0:13:44 > 0:13:47- Whatever you want it to be, but it's here.- This could be Troy's room.
0:13:47 > 0:13:52- Could be, actually, great nursery, attached to you. - It would be a nice dressing room!
0:13:52 > 0:13:55Finally, this house is winning them over,
0:13:55 > 0:13:58with plenty of space to accommodate their family
0:13:58 > 0:14:02and fulfil Natasha's dream of Christmases spent together.
0:14:02 > 0:14:04With the house covered, let's step outside
0:14:04 > 0:14:06to take a closer look at the land.
0:14:06 > 0:14:10"At last," you're thinking, the great outdoors.
0:14:10 > 0:14:13The more formal gardens and lawn wrap around the house
0:14:13 > 0:14:15so Troy can run around to his heart's content
0:14:15 > 0:14:17while they take five on the patio.
0:14:17 > 0:14:21Set away from the house is a double garage and a large hay shed,
0:14:21 > 0:14:23definitely useful storage space
0:14:23 > 0:14:26for tents and other components for their business.
0:14:26 > 0:14:28Down to the field now
0:14:28 > 0:14:31to check out the land and meet some new furry friends.
0:14:31 > 0:14:32Look at these fellows.
0:14:32 > 0:14:36- They're great, aren't they? - They're so curious. I love alpacas.
0:14:36 > 0:14:37Beautiful.
0:14:37 > 0:14:39Amazing, aren't they?
0:14:39 > 0:14:41All in all, it's about four acres.
0:14:41 > 0:14:45- Right.- So it's not the 10 or the 30 that I know you have thought about.
0:14:45 > 0:14:48But it gives you a sense to get an idea of what four acres looks like.
0:14:48 > 0:14:52What are your thoughts on setting, as such?
0:14:52 > 0:14:55My gut feel is that this is not going to work, I don't think.
0:14:55 > 0:14:58There's not enough features. It would take too long to put in lakes.
0:14:58 > 0:15:00And by the time they mature...
0:15:00 > 0:15:03I mean, how much do you think you need to turn over to make this work?
0:15:03 > 0:15:05Ultimately, we want to create a business
0:15:05 > 0:15:07that could turn over £100,000 plus.
0:15:07 > 0:15:10And it'll take a little bit more than four acres.
0:15:10 > 0:15:13Let's have a think about what we are up against in terms of the market.
0:15:13 > 0:15:16Because the price of this I think will be quite an interesting factor
0:15:16 > 0:15:21in determining how you progress through what else we can show you.
0:15:21 > 0:15:23Make me an offer, Natasha.
0:15:23 > 0:15:24695?
0:15:24 > 0:15:28Oh, crikey. Yep, it's a very cheeky guess. Go on.
0:15:28 > 0:15:31Yeah, I think that is a little on the cheeky side.
0:15:31 > 0:15:36But I would say it's probably closer to 765.
0:15:36 > 0:15:42765. OK, it's actually on the market for 835.
0:15:42 > 0:15:45It probably says a lot about the area as well, I would imagine.
0:15:45 > 0:15:49This part of Somerset is much sought-after. There is a nice geography to it.
0:15:49 > 0:15:54Go and have a good look around, go and get sense of what we're against financially, I'll see you later.
0:15:54 > 0:15:56- OK.- Off you got.- Great, thanks.
0:15:56 > 0:15:58I'm going to go and talk to these alpacas in a minute(!)
0:15:58 > 0:16:00Brilliant. Well, there we are,
0:16:00 > 0:16:03it is all about location, as we like to say in the game,
0:16:03 > 0:16:08but this one is really tricky because their requirements are so specific.
0:16:08 > 0:16:10Finding this other world,
0:16:10 > 0:16:14this other life within a beautiful corner of Somerset
0:16:14 > 0:16:19is going to be pretty tricky, despite a pretty healthy budget.
0:16:19 > 0:16:25This house is all about location and on the market at £835,000,
0:16:25 > 0:16:28would give them quality over quantity.
0:16:28 > 0:16:31And, as they've never run a business like this, it's a manageable size
0:16:31 > 0:16:33offering them:
0:16:40 > 0:16:43It's also got four acres of land for a potential campsite,
0:16:43 > 0:16:45subject to planning permission,
0:16:45 > 0:16:47which depends on the neighbours,
0:16:47 > 0:16:49the landscape and highway safety.
0:16:49 > 0:16:54So will the quality of the setting outweigh the quantity of the land?
0:16:54 > 0:16:58I was a bit surprised by the price. It was a bit of a shock to me.
0:16:58 > 0:17:02But, it's a lovely area as well so you have to take that into consideration.
0:17:02 > 0:17:06It's nice and light up here, lots of storage space.
0:17:06 > 0:17:07A smart desk. It's nice view out.
0:17:07 > 0:17:09The window's lovely.
0:17:09 > 0:17:11Yeah, I can see us using this.
0:17:11 > 0:17:14I think it's a beautiful house, very well presented.
0:17:14 > 0:17:19It clearly has been done up to a very high spec but without the land,
0:17:19 > 0:17:22without the correct size of acreage, we're not going to be able
0:17:22 > 0:17:25to develop a business big enough to be able to pay for it.
0:17:25 > 0:17:27Beautiful.
0:17:27 > 0:17:32- While I've been thinking about this house, you two are sat here enjoying yourselves.- It is a nice day.
0:17:32 > 0:17:34Isn't it a nice day? Plenty more to do, mate.
0:17:34 > 0:17:36Let's go and see some more.
0:17:45 > 0:17:48As Ben has a degree in conservation
0:17:48 > 0:17:51and both are passionate about nature, they could not have picked
0:17:51 > 0:17:53a better area for their campsite
0:17:53 > 0:17:57but the Somerset Levels are not just a nature reserve.
0:17:57 > 0:18:00It was through their rivers that the county's wealth grew.
0:18:00 > 0:18:03They're meeting council officer Alex Sherman in Langport
0:18:03 > 0:18:07to find out more about the symbiotic relationship between this town
0:18:07 > 0:18:09and the River Parrett.
0:18:09 > 0:18:14This river really is central to the success of Langport growing as a town.
0:18:14 > 0:18:17Originally it was known as a cloth producing town in medieval times
0:18:17 > 0:18:22but more recently it was successful in its trade for corn, salt and timber.
0:18:22 > 0:18:25"Langport" means "long market place"
0:18:25 > 0:18:29and by the 18th century, the town was indeed a thriving commercial hub.
0:18:29 > 0:18:33So much so that the local Stuckey family founded Stuckey's Bank
0:18:33 > 0:18:37in 1770, becoming the country's second largest
0:18:37 > 0:18:39after the Bank of England.
0:18:39 > 0:18:43Somerset people had a saying that they'd trust the Somerset bank
0:18:43 > 0:18:45as much as they'd trust storing money in their old sock
0:18:45 > 0:18:48and maybe that is something we could teach bankers today.
0:18:48 > 0:18:53Another historic sign wealth lies a couple of miles outside the town
0:18:53 > 0:18:56at the medieval remains of Muchelney Abbey.
0:18:56 > 0:18:59Along with educating the locals on farming practices,
0:18:59 > 0:19:02Benedictine monks were very commercially savvy
0:19:02 > 0:19:06with location being key when it came to building their monasteries.
0:19:06 > 0:19:09Some intriguing features remain, despite its unfortunate demise.
0:19:09 > 0:19:14Well, the abbey was destroyed in the dissolution of the monasteries in 1538 that was led by Henry VIII.
0:19:14 > 0:19:17But you can see the care and attention that has been spent
0:19:17 > 0:19:20on the site, with the richly decorated cloister walk
0:19:20 > 0:19:25and the thatched lavatories for the monks are the only example
0:19:25 > 0:19:27of its kind in England.
0:19:27 > 0:19:30So just as in medieval times, it's all about location
0:19:30 > 0:19:32and as far as Ben and Natasha go,
0:19:32 > 0:19:36they couldn't have picked a better area to start their business.
0:19:44 > 0:19:47Our search for the perfect place continues
0:19:47 > 0:19:50just over the Wiltshire border in the hamlet of Brokerswood,
0:19:50 > 0:19:54a 2½ drive from London, so still within limits.
0:19:54 > 0:19:57As well as a welcoming pub close by,
0:19:57 > 0:20:00their happy campers could feel at one with nature in the 120 acres
0:20:00 > 0:20:03of woodland within its country park
0:20:03 > 0:20:05and I've got high hopes that the acreage
0:20:05 > 0:20:10on offer with our next property could give them the business turnover they're looking for.
0:20:10 > 0:20:14OK, our second port of call.
0:20:14 > 0:20:18Come on in, guys, here we are.
0:20:18 > 0:20:21- Very nice.- What do you think? - It's pretty.
0:20:21 > 0:20:23The only issue from your point of view probably
0:20:23 > 0:20:26is the neighbours right there.
0:20:26 > 0:20:28In terms of what we're trying to find you,
0:20:28 > 0:20:31the market is really tough at the moment
0:20:31 > 0:20:34but I think the land this offers is quite interesting
0:20:34 > 0:20:37which is why we're starting this house tour differently.
0:20:37 > 0:20:38We'll start outside.
0:20:38 > 0:20:43Let's walk the turf, passing through a wonderful orchard with apple trees,
0:20:43 > 0:20:46which could act as a natural screen from the neighbours.
0:20:46 > 0:20:50But the land earmarked for the campsite lies beyond.
0:20:50 > 0:20:51There.
0:20:51 > 0:20:55This is a really, really useful paddock.
0:20:55 > 0:20:58In terms of your casual campers, you know.
0:20:58 > 0:21:02It is fairly flat. It's good.
0:21:02 > 0:21:04There is access from the lane up there, too.
0:21:04 > 0:21:08Right, let's go and have a look at that house.
0:21:08 > 0:21:10Let's go and get creative
0:21:10 > 0:21:13and see what kind of project you want to take on.
0:21:13 > 0:21:14Come and have a look at this.
0:21:14 > 0:21:17Now there is even more land to tempt them with later
0:21:17 > 0:21:20but now I've whet their appetite with what's on offer,
0:21:20 > 0:21:21let's head back to the house and see
0:21:21 > 0:21:24whether they feel they could put their mark on the interior.
0:21:24 > 0:21:27All right, come on in, we'll start in here.
0:21:27 > 0:21:31The main living room, I suppose, one would say.
0:21:31 > 0:21:35- 1970s.- Lots of this pine cladding everywhere.
0:21:35 > 0:21:39I think really what we're looking at is updating more than anything
0:21:39 > 0:21:42but the key thing to think about is the space.
0:21:42 > 0:21:43Yeah, the size.
0:21:43 > 0:21:47Time to cross the hallway and see if the kitchen measures up.
0:21:49 > 0:21:52- There, what do you reckon? - Well, it's nice and big.
0:21:52 > 0:21:56Yes, I think this is one of the rooms that really sells this house,
0:21:56 > 0:21:58actually, to be fair.
0:21:58 > 0:22:02That through their is the extension, about 40 years old or so.
0:22:02 > 0:22:05- But in terms of the size and space? - Yeah, it's a lovely size, isn't it?
0:22:05 > 0:22:11- It's not bad, actually. - I am waiting to see what other land there is but so far, so good.
0:22:11 > 0:22:12Yeah, OK, good.
0:22:12 > 0:22:15Well, there is the upstairs to come and a bit more land.
0:22:15 > 0:22:19They do seem eager to press on so let's head upstairs to check out
0:22:19 > 0:22:24the four bedrooms, one large enough to be a double for guests,
0:22:24 > 0:22:26a single room, possibly for Troy and a small room
0:22:26 > 0:22:29currently set up as a study.
0:22:29 > 0:22:32There is also a bright family bathroom with another
0:22:32 > 0:22:35a bit more public in our next room.
0:22:35 > 0:22:37And then, this is the master.
0:22:37 > 0:22:40It's a nice size.
0:22:40 > 0:22:41It's a good size.
0:22:41 > 0:22:47This is interesting, though, this is the en suite.
0:22:47 > 0:22:49The only thing is, of course,
0:22:49 > 0:22:53it's something to share, this one, clearly!
0:22:53 > 0:22:57I'm not sure how you feel about the open-plan en suite?
0:22:57 > 0:23:02I suspect Natasha would rip it out and make it into a clothes room.
0:23:02 > 0:23:05- A dressing room.- A dressing room!
0:23:05 > 0:23:07Last but not least, a bit more land.
0:23:07 > 0:23:10We've already seen, what? Six acres or so.
0:23:10 > 0:23:13How much more have we got, I wonder.
0:23:13 > 0:23:15Come with me, plenty more.
0:23:17 > 0:23:20They do seem geared up to the idea of putting their own mark
0:23:20 > 0:23:24on this place but it's clear that what they really want is land.
0:23:24 > 0:23:27A short stroll up the lane, there's another plot
0:23:27 > 0:23:28that could be used for camping
0:23:28 > 0:23:31or to put up some more permanent structures in the future.
0:23:31 > 0:23:34So last, but not least, is this bit.
0:23:38 > 0:23:43Well, I say bit, there, let's go in. Come and have a look.
0:23:45 > 0:23:50This is about 13 acres. So all in, it's 19 acres.
0:23:50 > 0:23:55With a bit of planting, a bit of management, etc, etc,
0:23:55 > 0:24:00in terms of the long-term plan in developing something from nothing,
0:24:00 > 0:24:04this is quite a nice piece of land, actually.
0:24:04 > 0:24:07It could be good. It could be quite interesting.
0:24:07 > 0:24:09So, let's have a think about the money.
0:24:09 > 0:24:12Are you going to go first this time?
0:24:12 > 0:24:15It's a lot of land but the house needs a bit of work.
0:24:15 > 0:24:19I would guess somewhere in the region of £760,000.
0:24:19 > 0:24:22Interesting, yeah.
0:24:22 > 0:24:28- 725.- 725... Well, it does begin with a 7, it does begin with a 7, OK.
0:24:28 > 0:24:33£785,000.
0:24:35 > 0:24:37So actually, you weren't far off.
0:24:37 > 0:24:40Off you go, go and explore. I will catch up with you later.
0:24:40 > 0:24:43Well, it has to be said, as house searches go,
0:24:43 > 0:24:47this one is proving particularly difficult and here's the reason.
0:24:47 > 0:24:50We're not actually looking for a house, we're looking for a landscape,
0:24:50 > 0:24:52and that is the real trick here.
0:24:52 > 0:24:56Finding this ideal enchanted campsite with a house thrown in
0:24:56 > 0:24:58is a real mission.
0:24:58 > 0:25:01Under budget at £785,000,
0:25:01 > 0:25:04this property, in their words,
0:25:04 > 0:25:06certainly has potential,
0:25:06 > 0:25:09offering them -
0:25:13 > 0:25:17and 19 acres providing a diverse setting for their camping business
0:25:17 > 0:25:19subject to planning permission.
0:25:19 > 0:25:24But could the proximity of the neighbours be a stumbling block?
0:25:24 > 0:25:28The house is nice, the gardens are lovely and I really like the orchard
0:25:28 > 0:25:32but it's just the plot of land I don't think is quite right for us.
0:25:32 > 0:25:35What do you think? I'm sure we could do something with it.
0:25:35 > 0:25:38I was kind of expecting a lake, not a pond!
0:25:38 > 0:25:40That's true, but we could perhaps extend it,
0:25:40 > 0:25:42we'd certainly need to dig it out.
0:25:42 > 0:25:44The house itself, once you come inside,
0:25:44 > 0:25:47there's a lot of potential here.
0:25:47 > 0:25:50I think if the land had a mixture of woodland and a bit more water,
0:25:50 > 0:25:52then it would be pretty much on the money.
0:25:52 > 0:25:55Well, that's it. The second property done and dusted.
0:25:55 > 0:25:57Tired?
0:25:57 > 0:25:59A little bit weary.
0:25:59 > 0:26:02Time for a glass of wine and some supper, I think.
0:26:02 > 0:26:03Make a wish!
0:26:11 > 0:26:14As the sun sets over the South West,
0:26:14 > 0:26:18the first day of our house search draws to a close.
0:26:21 > 0:26:25With a top budget of £950,000, we're on a quest to find Ben,
0:26:25 > 0:26:29Natasha and baby Troy enough land in Somerset to fulfil
0:26:29 > 0:26:32their ambitious campsite dream.
0:26:32 > 0:26:35They've seen two properties but coming up, our mystery house
0:26:35 > 0:26:37- could bring on cabin fever. - Can we stay there?
0:26:41 > 0:26:44Well, as you can see, the sun is still with us
0:26:44 > 0:26:48on this, the final day of our house hunt here with Ben and Natasha.
0:26:48 > 0:26:51Now to be honest, I think yesterday was a little bit frustrating.
0:26:51 > 0:26:54We talked a lot about trying to find a lifestyle but in truth,
0:26:54 > 0:26:57we are really trying to find something of a dream.
0:26:57 > 0:26:59The idea of this magical and enchanted campsite
0:26:59 > 0:27:02within two and a half hours of London.
0:27:02 > 0:27:05Well, our final property is upon us, it is of course the mystery house.
0:27:05 > 0:27:07As ever, it's designed to challenge our buyers.
0:27:07 > 0:27:11And this one goes to the very heart of what I think this search is all about.
0:27:11 > 0:27:15Just how far are they prepared to go to make their dream a reality?
0:27:19 > 0:27:22So Jules, where are we off to today?
0:27:22 > 0:27:24Well, today, it's mystery house time.
0:27:24 > 0:27:26We are going a little way out of the window
0:27:26 > 0:27:31that you were perhaps thinking of to try and get you something
0:27:31 > 0:27:36which, I hope, will fit the bill a little more.
0:27:36 > 0:27:38In order to show them something different,
0:27:38 > 0:27:41we're crossing over the Somerset border for our mystery house
0:27:41 > 0:27:43to the village of Bampton in Devon,
0:27:43 > 0:27:45somewhere they would never have considered.
0:27:45 > 0:27:48Although it's a three and a half hour drive from London,
0:27:48 > 0:27:54it still has holiday appeal, set on the edge of Exmoor National Park
0:27:54 > 0:27:58with the independent shops in Dulverton making it a great place to stock up on supplies.
0:27:58 > 0:28:01Our mystery house is a one-off opportunity
0:28:01 > 0:28:04which comes with its very own spectacular landscape
0:28:04 > 0:28:07set in a conservation area.
0:28:07 > 0:28:11OK, the mystery house, Natasha, what do you think?
0:28:11 > 0:28:13Not bad, not bad so far. Nice size.
0:28:13 > 0:28:15It's brand new, pretty much.
0:28:15 > 0:28:18It is, to some extent, work in progress.
0:28:18 > 0:28:21As you can probably tell from the outside,
0:28:21 > 0:28:24it really is a blank canvas in the true sense of the word.
0:28:24 > 0:28:25Let's have a think about context,
0:28:25 > 0:28:30this dreamy, Narnian world of camping that you're planning on.
0:28:30 > 0:28:33One thing we haven't seen in any of the other properties
0:28:33 > 0:28:36is a sense of geography, OK.
0:28:36 > 0:28:40What we've got here is a house slap-bang in the middle
0:28:40 > 0:28:41of a 50-acre quarry.
0:28:41 > 0:28:42Fantastic.
0:28:42 > 0:28:46So if you were thinking of clients, and holidaymakers and so forth,
0:28:46 > 0:28:52you can squirrel them away without them being on top of you.
0:28:52 > 0:28:53Yeah.
0:28:53 > 0:28:57So let's dive inside and see if they can use their imagination
0:28:57 > 0:28:59to put the finishing touches to the interior.
0:28:59 > 0:29:04Right, in you come.
0:29:04 > 0:29:06- Hallway, yeah?- Very nice.
0:29:06 > 0:29:09I say it is a work in progress, some bits are completely finished.
0:29:09 > 0:29:11The staircase, as you can see.
0:29:11 > 0:29:15It's a timber-framed building just clad on the outside.
0:29:15 > 0:29:17And then this, as you can see,
0:29:17 > 0:29:20the bare bones of a great big kitchen/diner.
0:29:20 > 0:29:24- Perfect and by the looks of things, rather attractive views. - Can I check out the view?
0:29:24 > 0:29:28- We'll get to the view in a minute. - You're holding us back!
0:29:28 > 0:29:30Don't you worry, there are plenty of views to be had!
0:29:30 > 0:29:34But, come on, Natasha, are you excited?
0:29:34 > 0:29:36I'm very excited, yes.
0:29:36 > 0:29:38- Can you see this working? - Yeah, completely.
0:29:38 > 0:29:40Come on, let's continue.
0:29:40 > 0:29:43Leading off the kitchen is a separate dining room
0:29:43 > 0:29:46which flows through to another reception room.
0:29:47 > 0:29:50So off of the dining room from the kitchen, we have got
0:29:50 > 0:29:56this huge living room which I think is really, really useful as a space.
0:29:56 > 0:29:59It is a very nice size. It continues the views.
0:29:59 > 0:30:02Well, it is gorgeous, isn't it?
0:30:02 > 0:30:06And through here, purpose-built conservatory etc,
0:30:06 > 0:30:08so you can make the best of it whatever the weather.
0:30:08 > 0:30:09A smiley face, Natasha?
0:30:09 > 0:30:11Yes.
0:30:12 > 0:30:13What wheels are turning?
0:30:13 > 0:30:19I just want to see more, I can't wait to see the rest of it, so come on!
0:30:19 > 0:30:21They are champing at the bit, these two,
0:30:21 > 0:30:24so let's put them out of their misery and explore
0:30:24 > 0:30:26the three bedrooms upstairs.
0:30:26 > 0:30:29Now, upstairs is a little more finished than downstairs,
0:30:29 > 0:30:32I guess you want it a bit more comfortable.
0:30:32 > 0:30:34So there's carpet and so on and so forth.
0:30:34 > 0:30:36This is the master.
0:30:36 > 0:30:40Wow. Look at the view.
0:30:40 > 0:30:42Yeah? Little junior balcony there,
0:30:42 > 0:30:45offering you views right across east Devon.
0:30:45 > 0:30:49In has got the alpine chalet feel about it, hasn't it, really?
0:30:49 > 0:30:51Could you imagine waking up to that?
0:30:51 > 0:30:53Not sure I'd want to get out of bed.
0:30:53 > 0:30:56Well, you could lie in bed and just enjoy the view.
0:30:56 > 0:31:01And it's also got a very generous en suite. Just poke your heads in there, have a quick look.
0:31:01 > 0:31:02That is a good size.
0:31:02 > 0:31:03That's really nice.
0:31:03 > 0:31:04And another view.
0:31:04 > 0:31:07Another amazing view.
0:31:07 > 0:31:11Also off the landing is a similar bright, modern family bathroom,
0:31:11 > 0:31:13along with a second large bedroom for Troy.
0:31:13 > 0:31:17And there's a surprise in store next door.
0:31:17 > 0:31:22So, this is bedroom three. Although it's got all this.
0:31:22 > 0:31:25Something of a sort of holiday let, if you like.
0:31:25 > 0:31:30In the short term, it could be useful for additional income whilst we get up and running.
0:31:30 > 0:31:33You could use it while you're tricking up the kitchen.
0:31:33 > 0:31:35That looks like a nice little spot out there.
0:31:35 > 0:31:38It might be a travesty to give it away to somebody else.
0:31:38 > 0:31:43Well, that's a great spot, you know, it really gives this house another layer outside.
0:31:43 > 0:31:47But it's something for you to ponder, this particular room,
0:31:47 > 0:31:50but it is technically a bedroom, but it leads onto this.
0:31:50 > 0:31:52I think this is really interesting.
0:31:52 > 0:31:57There, what a day as well. Great day to enjoy this place.
0:31:57 > 0:32:00As you say, that alpine feel comes through here, doesn't it?
0:32:00 > 0:32:03- That's a stunning view. - Isn't it? It is great.
0:32:03 > 0:32:08And it's a great spot actually to get some sense of this 50-odd acres.
0:32:08 > 0:32:11You can see the top of the quarry, there's a track above that.
0:32:11 > 0:32:14And it goes off to, you see that deciduous woodland up there?
0:32:14 > 0:32:15That's all yours.
0:32:15 > 0:32:19It comes right down, can you see that green clump of woodland?
0:32:19 > 0:32:21That's your boundary that way.
0:32:21 > 0:32:23And then the bulk of everything is over there,
0:32:23 > 0:32:26the best part of 30-odd acres that way.
0:32:26 > 0:32:29Managing this stuff is an important part of taking on this property.
0:32:29 > 0:32:33The other thing to point out at this stage is the level of conservation
0:32:33 > 0:32:37that the current owner has been able to instil here.
0:32:37 > 0:32:39The trees are growing up, the plant life's coming,
0:32:39 > 0:32:44we've got badgers in here, foxes, deer. It is a really important site.
0:32:44 > 0:32:47I mean frankly, that's something we would be very keen to continue.
0:32:47 > 0:32:49I mean, I've got a conservation background.
0:32:49 > 0:32:52Not that I've had a chance to practise it in Central London.
0:32:52 > 0:32:55- Now is your chance! - Now's your chance, yeah.
0:32:55 > 0:32:58It's great that they are up for a grand conservation project,
0:32:58 > 0:33:00but if they are feeling lost in the wilderness
0:33:00 > 0:33:04when it comes to getting their business going, they needn't fear.
0:33:04 > 0:33:07This, I think you're going to find really interesting.
0:33:07 > 0:33:09Check this out.
0:33:09 > 0:33:11Look at that!
0:33:11 > 0:33:13A little log cabin.
0:33:13 > 0:33:16Very nice log cabin, actually.
0:33:16 > 0:33:20It is currently generating quite a decent income.
0:33:20 > 0:33:23OK, so they've got an existing holiday-let business?
0:33:23 > 0:33:26Yeah, in fact, there are two of these.
0:33:26 > 0:33:30One's down here, one is up there. You can explore that one on your own later.
0:33:30 > 0:33:34Currently, the two are operating about 60% of the year.
0:33:34 > 0:33:37They're not really pushing it,
0:33:37 > 0:33:40about 20 grand a year is coming in from these.
0:33:40 > 0:33:45- So the weekly cost is anything between £400 to £700.- Good base.
0:33:45 > 0:33:49- It's a great base, it's a really good base.- Come and have a look at it.
0:33:51 > 0:33:53It looks like a sturdy cabin.
0:33:53 > 0:33:57It's great, yeah, really is sturdy. Nicely appointed, as you will see.
0:33:57 > 0:34:00Look at this, imagine coming here on holiday.
0:34:00 > 0:34:04- That's great, isn't it? - Really nice.- That is really good. He has done a good job on this.
0:34:04 > 0:34:06Great quality, really nice.
0:34:06 > 0:34:09Kitchenette there, bathroom there, bedroom etc.
0:34:09 > 0:34:12You know, so, it is all here.
0:34:12 > 0:34:14- Can we have a look? - Yeah, go on, off you go.
0:34:14 > 0:34:17I'll leave you to it, I'll meet you outside.
0:34:21 > 0:34:23Well, I am absolutely delighted.
0:34:23 > 0:34:26I've left them in there enjoying this wonderful lodge.
0:34:26 > 0:34:28If nothing else, this entire 50-acre site,
0:34:28 > 0:34:32I hope, will have given Ben and Natasha the right sort of idea
0:34:32 > 0:34:36as to how their life down here may take shape if they're able to pull it off.
0:34:36 > 0:34:38But this is a really, really interesting spot.
0:34:38 > 0:34:42- A second bedroom, it's a really nice size.- It's good, isn't it?
0:34:42 > 0:34:46- It was a complete surprise, I wasn't expecting this at all.- No.
0:34:46 > 0:34:49- Out you come, did you enjoy that? - That's great. Can we stay there?!
0:34:49 > 0:34:53Take your pick! You've got this one and of course the other one at the top of the hill
0:34:53 > 0:34:57- which I'll get you to look at. - That was a real surprise. - That's fantastic.
0:34:57 > 0:34:59It's building a picture as to what life may entail.
0:34:59 > 0:35:02Yeah, and it's a stunning spot, it really is.
0:35:02 > 0:35:05Well, we have really only touched the surface.
0:35:05 > 0:35:10But notwithstanding that, I will get you to guess the price. It's going to be quite a challenge,
0:35:10 > 0:35:13because you have only seen a bit of it, but take it from me,
0:35:13 > 0:35:15there's a lot more to this place than meets the eye.
0:35:15 > 0:35:17How much do you want it?
0:35:17 > 0:35:19It's got to be at the top of our budget.
0:35:19 > 0:35:25I'm going to stick my neck out and say around 950...965.
0:35:25 > 0:35:30- 965?- I'll put it out there. - 965, top end. Natasha?
0:35:30 > 0:35:33Well, I was going to go a lot lower, 875?
0:35:33 > 0:35:37875. If it was 875, that would be brilliant, wouldn't it?
0:35:37 > 0:35:42- That would be amazing. - That would be good. - If it were 775, it would be perfect.
0:35:42 > 0:35:45- That would be very interesting. - 775?- 775.
0:35:45 > 0:35:48- Wow!- Wow!
0:35:48 > 0:35:52The only obvious issue for you is how you take this forward
0:35:52 > 0:35:54with the local authorities and the planners.
0:35:54 > 0:35:56Where do we sign?!
0:35:56 > 0:35:59Well, listen, you have got a lot of research to do on this one.
0:35:59 > 0:36:01We have to speak to the authorities.
0:36:01 > 0:36:04Yeah, but I think it's one that should definitely be
0:36:04 > 0:36:05at the top of your list.
0:36:05 > 0:36:08And there's promising news,
0:36:08 > 0:36:11as the current owner has already cleared a one-acre site
0:36:11 > 0:36:16and is seeking planning approval to put up yurts in the future.
0:36:16 > 0:36:18So have we hit the jackpot?
0:36:18 > 0:36:22Under budget at 775, our mystery property would give them
0:36:29 > 0:36:34views in every direction and an incredible 50 acres of woodland
0:36:34 > 0:36:35set in a conservation area
0:36:35 > 0:36:37with existing holiday lets,
0:36:37 > 0:36:42giving them a stable income of around £20,000 a year.
0:36:42 > 0:36:46I like the house a lot. The situation is fantastic. It is a very fair price.
0:36:46 > 0:36:50There are a few issues that I need to overcome or address with the planners.
0:36:50 > 0:36:53This I can really see potentially as the property for us.
0:36:53 > 0:36:56The location is great and it's beautiful. The views are amazing.
0:36:56 > 0:37:00It's three and a half hours out of London, so it's further than we've been looking.
0:37:00 > 0:37:04But when you get here, it's well worth the extra journey.
0:37:04 > 0:37:05I mean it's beautiful.
0:37:05 > 0:37:06Eleven out of ten, I think.
0:37:06 > 0:37:09- Can you imagine bringing Troy up here?- Yeah, definitely.
0:37:09 > 0:37:13We'd need to Troy-proof it, but as he gets older he's going to love it.
0:37:13 > 0:37:17Troy-proof it did I hear?! What a place, though, he's going to love growing up here.
0:37:17 > 0:37:20Imagine him wheeling around on his quad bike.
0:37:20 > 0:37:24Indeed, if this is the place, I wonder, we've shown you a lot,
0:37:24 > 0:37:25we've travelled a lot.
0:37:25 > 0:37:29Let's go and sit down and have a chat about the rest of your lives.
0:37:39 > 0:37:43I'm passionate about preserving our architectural landscape,
0:37:43 > 0:37:46and the West Country serves up some distinctive gems in its churches,
0:37:46 > 0:37:49many of which are in danger of perishing.
0:37:49 > 0:37:53These unusual squatting creatures are known locally as hunky punks.
0:37:53 > 0:37:57And during the week, the historian Peter Poyntz Wright took me
0:37:57 > 0:38:01to the church in the village of Isle Abbots to find out the story
0:38:01 > 0:38:03behind some of these decorative figures.
0:38:03 > 0:38:07- What are we looking at? That one on the left looks extraordinary. - That is a Nanking dragon.
0:38:07 > 0:38:10- What sort of date are we talking about? - 1520 or thereabouts.
0:38:10 > 0:38:15The Chinese silk route had been set up for 200 years by then
0:38:15 > 0:38:19and silks and porcelain were coming in with those designs on them.
0:38:19 > 0:38:21They do look very fragile, Peter.
0:38:21 > 0:38:27- They are. There's a limited time left for them, 20/30 years. - Really? That quickly.
0:38:27 > 0:38:30But if we can find the money, help could be at hand,
0:38:30 > 0:38:32and hunky punks may have a future.
0:38:32 > 0:38:35Because the restoration skills are alive and well
0:38:35 > 0:38:39at places like the Wells Cathedral Stonemasons works in Cheddar.
0:38:39 > 0:38:44Ryan Brunt is one of its directors, and he's showing me around.
0:38:44 > 0:38:48This is terrific, Ryan, this is exactly what I expected a busy stonemason's yard to look like.
0:38:48 > 0:38:50You've got all kinds of stuff in here!
0:38:50 > 0:38:53Quite familiar from many a church.
0:38:53 > 0:38:55Are you restoring that or copying it?
0:38:55 > 0:38:58This one's being restored, but we're also making another four.
0:38:58 > 0:39:00So you really are investing
0:39:00 > 0:39:03in techniques that haven't changed much in hundreds of years.
0:39:03 > 0:39:07And the good news is that young people are taking up masonry apprenticeships,
0:39:07 > 0:39:11among whom is artist and apprentice of the year, Samantha Peacock.
0:39:11 > 0:39:14So what attracted her to stone in the first place?
0:39:14 > 0:39:17It's a dextrous material, it's dynamic, you can do a lot with it.
0:39:17 > 0:39:21You can carve, you can restore, you can do the banker masonry.
0:39:21 > 0:39:24It is a very creative trade, it's brilliant.
0:39:24 > 0:39:28And the finished article is living proof of the immense skill
0:39:28 > 0:39:31and artistry needed.
0:39:31 > 0:39:34This is gorgeous. This is presumably a new version of what we saw outside.
0:39:34 > 0:39:36It's what we saw outside, yeah.
0:39:36 > 0:39:38What do you call it?
0:39:38 > 0:39:40This is a pinnacle.
0:39:40 > 0:39:43Right, OK. This is a straight copy, but when you are restoring things,
0:39:43 > 0:39:47do you come across ancient marks, ancient masons' marks?
0:39:47 > 0:39:49Yeah, traditionally, a mason would put his mark
0:39:49 > 0:39:51after he had finished a stone.
0:39:51 > 0:39:54It's hidden, but when you come to replace it,
0:39:54 > 0:39:57you'll take the stone off of it and there your mark will be.
0:39:57 > 0:39:59So what's yours? You're a master mason, have you got a mark?
0:39:59 > 0:40:02- I got mine tattooed on my arm! - Where?!
0:40:02 > 0:40:05- An R. - Brilliant, R for Ryan, of course.
0:40:05 > 0:40:08- Yeah.- Well, it's been a really interesting insight, Ryan.
0:40:08 > 0:40:11Thanks very much for showing me round.
0:40:11 > 0:40:14Clearly, restoration is in good hands if we can find the money.
0:40:14 > 0:40:15Exactly, yeah.
0:40:19 > 0:40:23Ben and Natasha's epic property search is at an end.
0:40:23 > 0:40:28And I think we've given them a lot of different options to mull over.
0:40:30 > 0:40:32The show is very nearly over,
0:40:32 > 0:40:35but we have, of course, got decision time to come.
0:40:35 > 0:40:38Now, has this been agonising for Ben and Natasha?
0:40:38 > 0:40:39I don't think so.
0:40:43 > 0:40:47- How are we doing, guys? Relaxing? - Yep.
0:40:47 > 0:40:50I think a really interesting little trip, this one.
0:40:50 > 0:40:52Let's think about where it started.
0:40:52 > 0:40:58That much-extended farmhouse with the four acres and the alpacas, what did you make of that one, Ben?
0:40:58 > 0:41:01It was a beautiful house but we couldn't afford it.
0:41:01 > 0:41:04It didn't offer us the potential to grow a business on the property.
0:41:04 > 0:41:08Well, then we took you off to another converted farmhouse,
0:41:08 > 0:41:10but with a gorgeous orchard and a bit more land.
0:41:10 > 0:41:15I liked the house, I thought it was quite pretty. The orchard was very nice.
0:41:15 > 0:41:19I think what killed it for me was the fact that it was overlooked by the neighbours.
0:41:19 > 0:41:23I am not sure what they'd have thought about people camping on their doorstep.
0:41:23 > 0:41:27So then we took you to the mystery house, an old quarry.
0:41:27 > 0:41:30Many would say, "It's a bit industrial, I don't want that."
0:41:30 > 0:41:33But for you guys, a very interesting proposition.
0:41:33 > 0:41:36Well, I was amazed, really, I think it was a slice of heaven.
0:41:36 > 0:41:38Yeah, I think it could well be.
0:41:38 > 0:41:40- A slice of heaven?- Yes.
0:41:40 > 0:41:43Does it go to the heart of what you're looking for?
0:41:43 > 0:41:46Exactly along the sort of lines we were looking at.
0:41:46 > 0:41:49Every house has its buyer. Has that one found its buyer?
0:41:49 > 0:41:52We'll have to speak to the planners and find out a bit more,
0:41:52 > 0:41:56but it's got those holiday lets, so it's got some income coming in.
0:41:56 > 0:41:59So it's really going to take the pressure off, isn't it?
0:41:59 > 0:42:03That's right. There's a lot of work that needs to be to be done,
0:42:03 > 0:42:07but it can be done stage by stage over the coming years.
0:42:07 > 0:42:10Well, very best of luck. It's a really interesting proposition.
0:42:10 > 0:42:16Clearly, you've got more homework to do, some detailed discussions need to be had with the planners
0:42:16 > 0:42:19and the local authorities but touch wood, all things being equal,
0:42:19 > 0:42:23- I hope it's the one, let us know how you get on.- Thanks for the help.
0:42:23 > 0:42:25Here's to you, cheers!
0:42:30 > 0:42:32Well, what a house search this one has been.
0:42:32 > 0:42:36I have to confess, I wasn't entirely sure if we'd get there in the end.
0:42:36 > 0:42:39I'm pretty sure both Ben and Natasha felt the same way too.
0:42:39 > 0:42:42But we have had some really interesting surprises along the way
0:42:42 > 0:42:43and some real whoppers.
0:42:43 > 0:42:47They set out looking for a home in Somerset, it looks like they've ended up in Devon.
0:42:47 > 0:42:50They wanted a campsite, they've got a quarry,
0:42:50 > 0:42:53surrounded by 50 acres of glorious woodland.
0:42:53 > 0:42:58There are, of course, some very difficult and complicated negotiations still to come,
0:42:58 > 0:43:00but if they get it right and they move in,
0:43:00 > 0:43:02next time I'm in Devon, I know where I'll be staying!
0:43:02 > 0:43:04I'll see you next time.
0:43:07 > 0:43:11Ben and Natasha made an offer on the mystery house, which was accepted.
0:43:11 > 0:43:14And they're in the process of seeking planning permission.
0:43:14 > 0:43:19Hopefully they'll be moving to Devon soon to start their new adventure.
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0:43:21 > 0:43:25in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland or England and would like our help,
0:43:25 > 0:43:26then please apply online.
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