0:00:02 > 0:00:06Locals here will tell you this temple, and stunning folly gardens,
0:00:06 > 0:00:08was built as the illicit love nest of a local reverend.
0:00:08 > 0:00:12In the 1700s and 1800s, follies were an important part
0:00:12 > 0:00:14of English garden design.
0:00:14 > 0:00:16But, in which county is this one?
0:00:47 > 0:00:51On today's show, I'm helping a professional couple
0:00:51 > 0:00:54find a convenient, commuter-friendly hideaway.
0:00:54 > 0:00:56There's an unexpected treat in one property.
0:00:56 > 0:01:02What a surprise! I didn't expect this to be up here, at all!
0:01:02 > 0:01:05Then, the mystery house leaves them lost for words.
0:01:05 > 0:01:08I'm speechless!
0:01:13 > 0:01:14Today, I'm in Gloucestershire.
0:01:14 > 0:01:19This is the rather quirky temple and folly gardens of Stancombe Park,
0:01:19 > 0:01:22designed by the Reverend David Purnell-Edwards
0:01:22 > 0:01:23in the 19th century.
0:01:23 > 0:01:26Local legend has it that, aided by his wife's large dowry,
0:01:26 > 0:01:30he built the temple for secret trysts with a beautiful gypsy girl.
0:01:30 > 0:01:32To ensure his wife didn't catch him,
0:01:32 > 0:01:36apparently he also built a series of tunnels and steep paths
0:01:36 > 0:01:40that were too narrow for his rather portly wife to squeeze through.
0:01:40 > 0:01:45Whether he was successful in this rather devious ploy is unknown.
0:01:45 > 0:01:48But, one thing's for sure. He certainly achieved his vision
0:01:48 > 0:01:51of creating a breathtaking landscape in this county,
0:01:51 > 0:01:54which has plenty more fantastic views on offer.
0:01:56 > 0:01:59Lying in the southwest of England,
0:01:59 > 0:02:03Gloucestershire shares a border with Wales, Worcestershire,
0:02:03 > 0:02:05Oxfordshire and Wiltshire.
0:02:05 > 0:02:07The region includes part of the flat, fertile valley
0:02:07 > 0:02:09of the River Severn,
0:02:09 > 0:02:12and the entire Forest of Dean.
0:02:12 > 0:02:17Gloucestershire is perhaps best known as the heart of the Cotswolds,
0:02:17 > 0:02:21with two-thirds of the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
0:02:21 > 0:02:22within its boundary.
0:02:22 > 0:02:25In the 18th century, after William Gilpin's book,
0:02:25 > 0:02:28"Observations On The River Wye",
0:02:28 > 0:02:31the county's Wye Valley region
0:02:31 > 0:02:34became a hotspot for British tourism.
0:02:34 > 0:02:37'Today, visitors from all over the world
0:02:37 > 0:02:41'still flock to this picture-postcard part of England.'
0:02:41 > 0:02:44All this beauty comes at a price.
0:02:44 > 0:02:47The average cost of a detached house in Gloucestershire
0:02:47 > 0:02:49is just under ?287,000.
0:02:49 > 0:02:53That's ?31,000 more than the national average.
0:02:53 > 0:02:56Searching in the villages around Stroud, to the south of the county,
0:02:56 > 0:03:01or the Forest of Dean out west, WILL make your money go a bit further.
0:03:01 > 0:03:04However, if it's the sought-after Cotswolds villages
0:03:04 > 0:03:06you'd like to call home,
0:03:06 > 0:03:08expect to pay up to 10 to 15 per cent more
0:03:08 > 0:03:10than in the rest of the county.
0:03:10 > 0:03:13So, let's see what's currently on the market.
0:03:13 > 0:03:16For ?345,000,
0:03:16 > 0:03:21you could own this four-bedroom. Grade II listed property
0:03:21 > 0:03:22in Slimbridge.
0:03:22 > 0:03:25This historic farmhouse, set in walled gardens,
0:03:25 > 0:03:27has a real rustic feel inside,
0:03:27 > 0:03:31and plenty of space to entertain.
0:03:31 > 0:03:34Offered for sale at ?595, 000,
0:03:34 > 0:03:38this four-bedroom timber-framed house in Upton St Leonards
0:03:38 > 0:03:41comes complete with a wealth of original features,
0:03:41 > 0:03:45such as thumb-latched doors and exposed timbers.
0:03:45 > 0:03:49Outside, there's around an acre of landscaped gardens.
0:03:49 > 0:03:54And, if you have deep pockets, you could buy this five-bedroom mill
0:03:54 > 0:03:59in Alvington, priced at a shade under ?800,000.
0:03:59 > 0:04:01Dating back to the 17th century,
0:04:01 > 0:04:06and set within 15 acres of land, it boasts huge reception rooms,
0:04:06 > 0:04:09as well as an adjoining four bedroom cottage.
0:04:11 > 0:04:13A lovely selection, there.
0:04:13 > 0:04:16Time to meet today's buyers, and find out why they're ready
0:04:16 > 0:04:19to escape to the country.
0:04:19 > 0:04:24IT project manager, Steve, and his head teacher wife, Sue,
0:04:24 > 0:04:27have lived in their five-bedroom house in Bristol
0:04:27 > 0:04:29for the past 24 years.
0:04:29 > 0:04:31But, now their two daughters have flown the nest,
0:04:31 > 0:04:35they're planning the move to the country Steve's been yearning for.
0:04:35 > 0:04:38For the last 20 years, I've been trying to convince Sue
0:04:38 > 0:04:41we should move to the country, and she's been stalling me.
0:04:41 > 0:04:46I was a country girl. I was born in Herefordshire, in a village.
0:04:46 > 0:04:50So, I moved into the city, and loved it.
0:04:50 > 0:04:54Steve's a city boy, and would love to go to the country.
0:04:54 > 0:04:57I've had my way, so it's his turn now. Now, it's my time.
0:04:57 > 0:04:59This house is not ideal for us any more,
0:04:59 > 0:05:01because our girls have grown up.
0:05:01 > 0:05:03So, it's too big for us.
0:05:03 > 0:05:06And, it's the middle of town, and we want to move.
0:05:06 > 0:05:09They're aiming for rural Gloucestershire,
0:05:09 > 0:05:12within 50 minutes' commuting distance of Bristol.
0:05:12 > 0:05:15They have definite ideas what they'll get up to
0:05:15 > 0:05:17when they find the right place.
0:05:17 > 0:05:18We both like animals.
0:05:18 > 0:05:22I want to keep chickens, maybe ducks.
0:05:22 > 0:05:25I want to keep goats. I want to have some land,
0:05:25 > 0:05:27where I can potter around
0:05:27 > 0:05:29in some outbuildings and sheds.
0:05:29 > 0:05:32That would be fantastic for me.
0:05:32 > 0:05:35I'm fine, just watching him do that.
0:05:35 > 0:05:38We'd like to get more horses,
0:05:38 > 0:05:42because we need to keep a companion horse for Reuben,
0:05:42 > 0:05:46the daughters' horse, when he's staying with us.
0:05:46 > 0:05:50So, the outside of a property will need land for our buyers.
0:05:50 > 0:05:53And they know what they want inside, too.
0:05:53 > 0:05:57We're looking for a house with three bedrooms.
0:05:57 > 0:05:59Or possibly two.
0:05:59 > 0:06:02At least one good-sized reception room.
0:06:02 > 0:06:04house that's light and airy.
0:06:04 > 0:06:06A kitchen/diner would be lovely.
0:06:07 > 0:06:12Doors from the kitchen, leading out to the garden, would be fantastic.
0:06:12 > 0:06:16Outside, we're looking for a minimum of half an acre.
0:06:16 > 0:06:18We fall in love with things very quickly.
0:06:18 > 0:06:22When we go into a house, we either love it or hate it straightaway.
0:06:22 > 0:06:25Probably not hate it. We always know if we love something.
0:06:25 > 0:06:27I know whether I hate things.
0:06:27 > 0:06:31I know as soon as I walk in. If I hate it, I hate it.
0:06:31 > 0:06:33Love it or hate it,
0:06:33 > 0:06:35one thing's for sure,
0:06:35 > 0:06:36and that's the finances.
0:06:36 > 0:06:41Our budget for this move is a maximum of ?500,000.
0:06:45 > 0:06:49Sue and Steve have lived in the same house in Bristol for 24 years.
0:06:49 > 0:06:51Having brought up their family there,
0:06:51 > 0:06:53the house has served its purpose
0:06:53 > 0:06:56and they're ready to start a new life in the country,
0:06:56 > 0:06:58a move Steve seems to have wanted to make for some time.
0:06:58 > 0:07:02They are self-confessed love-it-or-hate-it people,
0:07:02 > 0:07:05who will know in an instant whether a property is for them.
0:07:05 > 0:07:07That makes me a little bit nervous.
0:07:07 > 0:07:10I'm just hoping we can manage to get them through the front door
0:07:10 > 0:07:12of the properties we've found.
0:07:12 > 0:07:15Within our search area, in Gloucestershire,
0:07:15 > 0:07:20Steve and Sue need a location with a manageable commute to Bristol,
0:07:20 > 0:07:22for work and family reasons.
0:07:22 > 0:07:26We've found three intriguing properties for them to consider.
0:07:26 > 0:07:31I'll ask them to guess the price of each before I reveal it.
0:07:31 > 0:07:33'The last option is our mystery house,
0:07:33 > 0:07:37'which aims to take them somewhere completely unexpected.'
0:07:40 > 0:07:43Morning, Steve and Sue. Thanks for bringing me to Gloucestershire.
0:07:43 > 0:07:46We've not travelled very far, have we, for the two of you?
0:07:46 > 0:07:51No. We need to stay within commutable distance to Bristol.
0:07:51 > 0:07:53Why are you passionate about this move?
0:07:53 > 0:07:55I've always lived in Bristol,
0:07:55 > 0:07:58but I've always loved the countryside.
0:07:58 > 0:08:02I think it's time to move, get some chickens and goats, and some space.
0:08:02 > 0:08:03That's a big change?
0:08:03 > 0:08:06What are the top three things you have to have
0:08:06 > 0:08:09in the property to make you make this move?
0:08:09 > 0:08:13A house that's light and airy. I really like light and space.
0:08:13 > 0:08:15Location away from a really busy road.
0:08:15 > 0:08:19If I'm going to move out from the city, I want something quieter.
0:08:19 > 0:08:22For me, I've got to have some land,
0:08:22 > 0:08:25I've got to have some outbuildings, and some space.
0:08:25 > 0:08:28None of that sounds too difficult.
0:08:28 > 0:08:30It all sounds quite easy to do.
0:08:30 > 0:08:32I've got three lovely houses to show you.
0:08:32 > 0:08:35One of them's a mystery house. Great.
0:08:35 > 0:08:38'So, Steve and Sue's wish list for their ?500,000
0:08:38 > 0:08:42'is a relatively small one.
0:08:42 > 0:08:44'Three bedrooms, and a kitchen/diner.
0:08:44 > 0:08:47'But it's the outside that has to be big,
0:08:47 > 0:08:49'with a shed and outbuildings for Steve,
0:08:49 > 0:08:51'at least half an acre of garden,
0:08:51 > 0:08:54'with room for chickens, ducks or goats,
0:08:54 > 0:08:58'and a paddock, either in the grounds, or somewhere nearby.
0:09:00 > 0:09:03For our first property, we've crossed the old Severn Bridge,
0:09:03 > 0:09:06heading to the pretty village of Brockweir,
0:09:06 > 0:09:08close to the border with Monmouthshire.
0:09:08 > 0:09:10Nestled in the Wye Valley,
0:09:10 > 0:09:14Brockweir has many amenities that will appeal to our buyers,
0:09:14 > 0:09:17with a village store and a charming local pub.
0:09:17 > 0:09:21'House number one is a recently renovated country cottage,
0:09:21 > 0:09:25'which dates back to the 19th century.'
0:09:27 > 0:09:29Here we are. Our first property,
0:09:29 > 0:09:31and I'm pleased that you're smiling.
0:09:31 > 0:09:33What do YOU think of it?
0:09:33 > 0:09:35I think it's beautiful, too.
0:09:35 > 0:09:39I think the house looks very much all together,
0:09:39 > 0:09:41and the garden's big.
0:09:41 > 0:09:44Beautiful setting.
0:09:44 > 0:09:47The only thing that worries me is the slope.
0:09:47 > 0:09:50Having had a house built on a slope,
0:09:50 > 0:09:53that's the only thing at the moment worrying me.
0:09:53 > 0:09:57But I'm really looking forward to looking inside the house.
0:09:57 > 0:10:00Shall we have a look? Yes, please. Come on!
0:10:00 > 0:10:03'While Sue's not sure about the garden,
0:10:03 > 0:10:06'I think when she sees the kitchen/diner inside this house,
0:10:06 > 0:10:10'it could be a very different story.'
0:10:10 > 0:10:11So, come on through.
0:10:11 > 0:10:14What do you think? I love it.
0:10:14 > 0:10:18Yeah, I think it's a really lovely kitchen. Very new, very clean.
0:10:18 > 0:10:22Light. Yes, light. That magic word. I love it!
0:10:22 > 0:10:25The table, so that you can eat in here,
0:10:25 > 0:10:28and it's a very sociable place.
0:10:28 > 0:10:29And doors out to the garden.
0:10:29 > 0:10:32That was just what you asked for, wasn't it?
0:10:32 > 0:10:34First impressions, very nice.
0:10:34 > 0:10:37Down here, you also have
0:10:37 > 0:10:39a downstairs shower room, toilet,
0:10:39 > 0:10:42and, of course, there's a living room to settle in
0:10:42 > 0:10:45on cosy winter's evenings, or even summer's days, like today. Come on!
0:10:48 > 0:10:50'With the kitchen definitely a hit,
0:10:50 > 0:10:53'let's see how they rate the lounge area.'
0:10:53 > 0:10:56Right, so this
0:10:56 > 0:10:57would be your living room.
0:10:57 > 0:11:00Again, you have doors, slightly smaller,
0:11:00 > 0:11:01but leading out on to the garden.
0:11:01 > 0:11:03It's a nice bit of space.
0:11:03 > 0:11:06You also have the wood burner over there,
0:11:06 > 0:11:09bringing in a touch of the rustic. Yeah, we like the wood burner.
0:11:09 > 0:11:12It's funny, the ceiling feels lower.
0:11:12 > 0:11:14Well, we're now in the original cottages.
0:11:14 > 0:11:16But you have that big space, there.
0:11:16 > 0:11:20How do you guys live? Often people spend a lot of time in the kitchen.
0:11:20 > 0:11:23That's where you're sitting, having meals,
0:11:23 > 0:11:25and then you come for your snug time.
0:11:25 > 0:11:26It's cosier. Yeah.
0:11:26 > 0:11:28I think that's how we do live.
0:11:28 > 0:11:31If we're in the kitchen/diner at the moment,
0:11:31 > 0:11:33then into the front room, and the garden.
0:11:33 > 0:11:36I think it would be good to have another space.
0:11:36 > 0:11:38I'm not convinced we need another room.
0:11:38 > 0:11:40It's just the two of us now, basically.
0:11:40 > 0:11:43The younger daughter's away at college most of the time.
0:11:43 > 0:11:45I think two rooms is enough.
0:11:47 > 0:11:50'There may just be two main rooms downstairs,
0:11:50 > 0:11:51'but they ARE very large ones.
0:11:51 > 0:11:55'However, the upstairs is surprisingly spacious,
0:11:55 > 0:11:58'with a family bathroom, and four bedrooms,
0:11:58 > 0:12:00'which are all quite generous in size,
0:12:00 > 0:12:03'and are perfect space for the girls, when they stay.
0:12:03 > 0:12:06'But we're taking a look at the main bedroom.'
0:12:06 > 0:12:09I want to bring you down to this one, because..
0:12:09 > 0:12:10SHE KNOCKS
0:12:10 > 0:12:14Stud wall there, and another smaller room,
0:12:14 > 0:12:17which has two singles in it, behind.
0:12:17 > 0:12:21So, I was thinking, this could be one big master suite.
0:12:21 > 0:12:23I think that's a good idea.
0:12:23 > 0:12:26Take that down. Take that wall out...
0:12:26 > 0:12:28And you have a really big space.
0:12:28 > 0:12:30I don't think we need four bedrooms,
0:12:30 > 0:12:33so having a large master bedroom is much better.
0:12:33 > 0:12:35Let's look in that other space.
0:12:35 > 0:12:39Then we can talk more clearly about what you can do with it. OK.
0:12:42 > 0:12:45So, finally the smallest of the four bedrooms.
0:12:45 > 0:12:48As I said, they managed to fit two singles in,
0:12:48 > 0:12:52but not much else. What's important to you is the outside space.
0:12:52 > 0:12:54We touched on it at the start.
0:12:54 > 0:12:57Let's go back out there, and talk about how much land you get,
0:12:57 > 0:13:01and how much this would cost. Brilliant. After you. Thank you.
0:13:02 > 0:13:05'We know Steve loves his space,
0:13:05 > 0:13:08'so it's crucial this property
0:13:08 > 0:13:10'has enough room to build his shed,
0:13:10 > 0:13:12'and keep some animals.
0:13:12 > 0:13:14'Let's see if we can make his dreams come true.'
0:13:14 > 0:13:18It's so pretty out here, isn't it?
0:13:18 > 0:13:20Beautiful. Really gorgeous.
0:13:20 > 0:13:23All in all, you get half an acre here.
0:13:23 > 0:13:25OK.
0:13:25 > 0:13:28If you're looking for space for the horse, which I know you are,
0:13:28 > 0:13:31you'd have to rent some land nearby. There are fields nearby.
0:13:31 > 0:13:32You get half an acre.
0:13:32 > 0:13:34You get this beautiful house,
0:13:34 > 0:13:36but it all comes at a price. Ah!
0:13:36 > 0:13:37So, I'm going to start with...
0:13:37 > 0:13:40You, Sue.
0:13:40 > 0:13:43Right. We haven't been looking in this area of Gloucestershire,
0:13:43 > 0:13:45so I'm not quite sure,
0:13:45 > 0:13:46but I'll go for ?435,000?
0:13:46 > 0:13:48I'll go a bit higher.
0:13:48 > 0:13:52I'll go for ?465,000.
0:13:52 > 0:13:54Your guesses aren't too bad.
0:13:54 > 0:13:57Neither of you were right, of course.
0:13:57 > 0:14:00It's on the market at ?449,000. So, somewhere in-between.
0:14:00 > 0:14:02Plenty of food for thought.
0:14:02 > 0:14:04Go, think about it.
0:14:04 > 0:14:07Then tell me your thoughts later on, OK? OK.
0:14:07 > 0:14:10All right. See you later. Thank you.
0:14:10 > 0:14:13There you go. A good reaction to our first property.
0:14:13 > 0:14:16Sue clearly wants to focus on the house,
0:14:16 > 0:14:18and needs some more space.
0:14:18 > 0:14:21But I'm very pleased Steve was happy with the half acre of land,
0:14:21 > 0:14:24and they were looking at how they could make this their home.
0:14:24 > 0:14:30'So, well within their budget, at a shade under ?450,000,
0:14:30 > 0:14:35'this property has the large and airy kitchen/diner Sue wanted,
0:14:35 > 0:14:38'four bedrooms, so there's enough room for their daughters to stay,
0:14:38 > 0:14:41'garden access from the downstairs rooms,
0:14:41 > 0:14:44'and half an acre of land for Steve.'
0:14:44 > 0:14:48My first impressions of the property were very good.
0:14:48 > 0:14:50From the outside, it looks up-to-date.
0:14:50 > 0:14:53It looks clean and tidy.
0:14:53 > 0:14:55That was borne out when we went inside the property.
0:14:55 > 0:14:57They've done a lot of work on it.
0:14:57 > 0:15:01When we arrived, I was a bit alarmed
0:15:01 > 0:15:04at the steepness of the drive.
0:15:04 > 0:15:09I'm imagining myself in the winter,
0:15:09 > 0:15:11needing crampons to actually get to the house.
0:15:11 > 0:15:13But, the house is beautiful.
0:15:13 > 0:15:16It looks beautiful. It's very picturesque.
0:15:16 > 0:15:19It's set amongst woodland, and it's beautiful.
0:15:21 > 0:15:24Feeling good? Yeah. Had a good look around, thank you.
0:15:24 > 0:15:27Lovely. Are you happy with that start? A very good start.
0:15:27 > 0:15:28But it IS the just the start.
0:15:28 > 0:15:31We have another property to see, so let's hit the road. BOTH: OK!
0:15:43 > 0:15:46As Steve is interested in keeping chickens and ducks,
0:15:46 > 0:15:50and both our buyers are keen on wildlife, while in Gloucestershire,
0:15:50 > 0:15:53we've arranged for them to visit a special nature reserve.
0:15:53 > 0:15:56They're shown round by the reserve's manager,
0:15:56 > 0:15:58Dave Paynter.
0:15:58 > 0:16:00Welcome to Slimbridge.
0:16:00 > 0:16:02Slimbridge is the headquarters
0:16:02 > 0:16:05of the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust,
0:16:05 > 0:16:07founded in 1946 by Peter Scott,
0:16:07 > 0:16:10son of Scott of the Antarctic.
0:16:10 > 0:16:12That's the connection there.
0:16:12 > 0:16:16Peter's idea was to get people interested in conservation.
0:16:16 > 0:16:20What you'll see in the middle of the centre, the collection
0:16:20 > 0:16:22of captive birds from all over the world
0:16:22 > 0:16:25we used as a way to try and draw people to come in here.
0:16:25 > 0:16:28For that reason,
0:16:28 > 0:16:31he's been talked of as the father of modern conservation.
0:16:31 > 0:16:33I'll kit you out properly, first.
0:16:33 > 0:16:37If you want to take a pair of binoculars each... Thank you.
0:16:37 > 0:16:39If you want to join me,
0:16:39 > 0:16:42we'll head out and start exploring the wetlands. Lovely.
0:16:42 > 0:16:44Thank you.
0:16:48 > 0:16:51Encompassing 325 hectares,
0:16:51 > 0:16:55Slimbridge is the largest of the charity's nine wetland centres,
0:16:55 > 0:16:59and provides a safe home for the world's largest collection
0:16:59 > 0:17:01of swans, ducks, flamingos and geese.
0:17:01 > 0:17:04Around 70,000 in all.
0:17:04 > 0:17:08Many of the species here are rare or endangered.
0:17:08 > 0:17:11The centre is involved in research, breeding,
0:17:11 > 0:17:13and conservation programmes
0:17:13 > 0:17:16to protect these species and their habitats.
0:17:16 > 0:17:18Lots of hides scattered round here,
0:17:18 > 0:17:21and different wetlands. Some of them created,
0:17:21 > 0:17:24like this one, just flooded. We control the water levels here,
0:17:24 > 0:17:28to try and optimise the habitat for birds.
0:17:28 > 0:17:31A few things scattered around here at the moment.
0:17:31 > 0:17:34Flocks of black-tailed godwits feeding away out there.
0:17:34 > 0:17:37If you have a look with the binoculars,
0:17:37 > 0:17:39you can see them
0:17:39 > 0:17:42probing the mud with their bills, looking for food.
0:17:42 > 0:17:46Looking for tiny midge larvae in the mud, there.
0:17:46 > 0:17:48But the real special one...
0:17:48 > 0:17:50You see the big white bird,
0:17:50 > 0:17:54just sat there at the back. That's something quite special.
0:17:54 > 0:17:57That's actually a spoonbill.
0:17:57 > 0:18:00And that's a very rare visitor? That's quite a rare one.
0:18:00 > 0:18:03It's increasing. We're seeing a few these days.
0:18:03 > 0:18:07But it's still a special day when we see one.
0:18:07 > 0:18:11But hides aren't the only way to see the wildlife here.
0:18:11 > 0:18:15Four years ago, the centre opened one kilometre of water channels,
0:18:15 > 0:18:17that you can explore by canoe.
0:18:17 > 0:18:21With the chance to get closer to warblers, dragonflies, ducks
0:18:21 > 0:18:23and maybe even a water vole.
0:18:23 > 0:18:25The canoe trail is open to the public. It's great fun.
0:18:25 > 0:18:29It's also a great way of seeing some of the wildlife
0:18:29 > 0:18:33that's rather more difficult to see in other situations.
0:18:33 > 0:18:39Just look ahead. See the family of little, tiny baby moorhens there.
0:18:39 > 0:18:41Just getting close to stuff like that
0:18:41 > 0:18:43is absolutely fantastic.
0:18:43 > 0:18:46In the last century, over half of the world's wetlands
0:18:46 > 0:18:49have been lost through land drainage,
0:18:49 > 0:18:52mostly due to housing and business developments.
0:18:52 > 0:18:55The Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust aims to address that balance,
0:18:55 > 0:18:57by creating their own protected areas,
0:18:57 > 0:19:01while educating visitors about the importance
0:19:01 > 0:19:03of saving the ones we already have.
0:19:03 > 0:19:06But now, after all that bird-watching,
0:19:06 > 0:19:08it's time to resume our property search,
0:19:08 > 0:19:12and find Steve and Sue somewhere to make a nest of their very own.
0:19:15 > 0:19:18We've travelled to the edge of the Forest of Dean,
0:19:18 > 0:19:20close to the village of Blakeney,
0:19:20 > 0:19:22which has a large range of amenities.
0:19:22 > 0:19:25It's also still within commutable distance to Bristol.
0:19:25 > 0:19:27'Our second house is in the hamlet
0:19:27 > 0:19:30'of Brain's Green, and was built in the 1820s,
0:19:30 > 0:19:34'originally as a tabernacle church.
0:19:35 > 0:19:37Our second property of the day.
0:19:37 > 0:19:41You have fabulous views again into the valley. Beautiful.
0:19:41 > 0:19:45Pretty spectacular. And a gorgeous cottage.
0:19:45 > 0:19:48What do you think?
0:19:48 > 0:19:51Well, the setting is amazing, isn't it? The fields around it.
0:19:51 > 0:19:53I think the setting, the views are great.
0:19:53 > 0:19:56I love the look of the house from the outside.
0:19:56 > 0:19:59Yeah, it's interesting. Yeah, definitely.
0:19:59 > 0:20:02The first property we saw was very modern inside, in the interior.
0:20:02 > 0:20:04I would say this one is much more rustic,
0:20:04 > 0:20:06it's got a much more country feeling.
0:20:06 > 0:20:09Do you like those sort of properties?
0:20:09 > 0:20:10Yeah.
0:20:10 > 0:20:11Yeah, I do.
0:20:11 > 0:20:13And certainly if things need updating
0:20:13 > 0:20:15or anything then that's grand.
0:20:15 > 0:20:17That's grand! For Jackie to do it!
0:20:17 > 0:20:21'Well, that's the spirit, Steve, cos I think they'll find
0:20:21 > 0:20:25'there's plenty of potential inside this property.'
0:20:26 > 0:20:28Right.
0:20:29 > 0:20:32I said rustic. I think it delivers.
0:20:32 > 0:20:35You've got this as a feature fireplace although the flue isn't open
0:20:35 > 0:20:37so you won't actually be able to light that,
0:20:37 > 0:20:40but I think it adds character. And this is just the entrance.
0:20:40 > 0:20:42Certainly lovely floor.
0:20:42 > 0:20:44Yeah, it's characterful.
0:20:44 > 0:20:46If that's a word!
0:20:46 > 0:20:47Yeah!
0:20:47 > 0:20:50'With the large entrance hall passing the test,
0:20:50 > 0:20:54'I'm looking forward to seeing Sue's reaction to what's probably
0:20:54 > 0:20:55'the best room in the house.'
0:20:57 > 0:20:59Right. Oh, wow.
0:20:59 > 0:21:01First of all you come through here.
0:21:01 > 0:21:04I got a "wow" there. Yeah. That's good, a "wow" is good.
0:21:04 > 0:21:06ALL LAUGH
0:21:06 > 0:21:08No, it is. This is a lovely space.
0:21:08 > 0:21:12I like it, yeah. First impressions, it's very good.
0:21:12 > 0:21:14I like the fact that Sue likes it.
0:21:14 > 0:21:15That's a good start.
0:21:17 > 0:21:20The ceiling height is good.
0:21:20 > 0:21:24I like the beam and the fact there's a little burner.
0:21:24 > 0:21:29Now, that's electric, like the other side, not in use but again, a lovely little feature,
0:21:29 > 0:21:33and there's actually quite a lot of space in here, isn't there?
0:21:33 > 0:21:35You could open that flue up as well.
0:21:35 > 0:21:39You could look into opening that up, yeah. Make something of that. You'd have, to I think.
0:21:39 > 0:21:41Yeah, have a nice log burner in there.
0:21:41 > 0:21:43Yeah, it's a waste without it, isn't it?
0:21:43 > 0:21:45So get the mind whirring.
0:21:45 > 0:21:48But this leads through into what I really want to show you.
0:21:53 > 0:21:55Now, Sue, you wanted space.
0:21:55 > 0:21:57Oh, it's lovely.
0:21:57 > 0:21:59That is really nice.
0:21:59 > 0:22:03Yeah, I love the way it goes right the way through and you've got all the views.
0:22:03 > 0:22:07It's a great kitchen. It's big, it's interesting.
0:22:09 > 0:22:11It's again got character, a nice range.
0:22:11 > 0:22:15There's also a flow with the downstairs, it flows round. A bit of energy.
0:22:15 > 0:22:17Whereas the previous place didn't.
0:22:17 > 0:22:19You can feel the energy flowing through. Yeah.
0:22:19 > 0:22:23Well, let's keep flowing through cos there's more to show you.
0:22:24 > 0:22:29'They seem really impressed by the downstairs of this rustic property
0:22:29 > 0:22:33which also boasts a lovely, sunny conservatory,
0:22:33 > 0:22:35a useful utility room and a cloakroom.
0:22:35 > 0:22:39But we're heading to the first floor where I'm sure
0:22:39 > 0:22:42they'll appreciate the size and space of the three double bedrooms
0:22:42 > 0:22:47and single guestroom, as well as the family bathroom.
0:22:47 > 0:22:50Now, time to check out where they would sleep.
0:22:50 > 0:22:52This bedroom is the master. Oh! Oh, indeed.
0:22:52 > 0:22:54With an en-suite.
0:22:54 > 0:22:59Gosh, what a surprise! I didn't expect this to be up here at all.
0:22:59 > 0:23:01I'm not sure about not having a door on the bathroom.
0:23:01 > 0:23:04Me neither.
0:23:04 > 0:23:06You could always change that.
0:23:06 > 0:23:09But it is nice that the plumbing's all done and you have got the en-suite.
0:23:09 > 0:23:15Yeah, they've thought about it. And another project for you, Steve. Another project? That's fine.
0:23:15 > 0:23:19What are your thoughts and feelings overall?
0:23:19 > 0:23:22I like the feel of it.
0:23:22 > 0:23:25The deciding factor may well be the land, I guess. I think so. Yeah?
0:23:25 > 0:23:27OK, let me finally put you out of your misery
0:23:27 > 0:23:30and take you outside to talk about the land. Fabulous.
0:23:32 > 0:23:34With the inside passing the test,
0:23:34 > 0:23:37outside is where it all counts for Steve.
0:23:37 > 0:23:40And I think he's going to love what I'm about to show him.
0:23:40 > 0:23:43Well, we can start with half an acre of garden.
0:23:43 > 0:23:45OK. It's on a slope.
0:23:45 > 0:23:47Oh, yeah.
0:23:47 > 0:23:49But hopefully, you'll be cheered by the other two acres
0:23:49 > 0:23:52of land that come with this property.
0:23:52 > 0:23:57Oh...OK. So you get that sort of field, paddocky area just there.
0:23:57 > 0:23:59Oh, wow, perfect.
0:23:59 > 0:24:01Lots of space for a horse.
0:24:01 > 0:24:03Plus...outbuildings.
0:24:03 > 0:24:04Now, that sounds really good.
0:24:04 > 0:24:06Yeah, three good concrete structures,
0:24:06 > 0:24:11so you've got a workshop, garage, but really good solid spaces.
0:24:11 > 0:24:14Plus some wooden structures, three of those, stable...
0:24:14 > 0:24:16BOTH: Oh!
0:24:16 > 0:24:21I think that sounds perfect for you? It sounds absolutely perfect for me. So the all-important question.
0:24:21 > 0:24:24How much do you think this property is on the market for?
0:24:24 > 0:24:27And this time, I'm going to start with you, Steve.
0:24:27 > 0:24:32OK...I would say 450,000.
0:24:32 > 0:24:33OK.
0:24:34 > 0:24:37Erm, I'll go above him this time,
0:24:37 > 0:24:42cos of the acreage and the land I'm going to go 475.
0:24:42 > 0:24:44475.
0:24:44 > 0:24:47You are much closer, my dear. Yes!
0:24:47 > 0:24:50It's on the market at ?480,000. OK.
0:24:50 > 0:24:53So very close. But it has been on for nine months.
0:24:53 > 0:24:55Why don't you wander off that way?
0:24:55 > 0:24:58Have a look at the acreage, the outbuildings,
0:24:58 > 0:25:00tell me what you think later on. OK?
0:25:00 > 0:25:02OK, thanks.
0:25:05 > 0:25:07I think they quite like this one.
0:25:07 > 0:25:10They looked a bit lukewarm, there at the end, but Sue, we got a "wow"
0:25:10 > 0:25:13and she loves the size and I think she can really see the potential.
0:25:13 > 0:25:16And what more could Steve want? He gets his outbuildings.
0:25:20 > 0:25:22On the market at ?480,000,
0:25:23 > 0:25:26this property really seems to have hit the mark.
0:25:38 > 0:25:41All these outbuildings, you won't know what to do with them.
0:25:41 > 0:25:43I know, all these sheds and outbuildings.
0:25:43 > 0:25:46You'd be in seventh heaven, wouldn't you? I would. You've got a pen
0:25:46 > 0:25:50for, well, goats? Livestock, yeah.
0:25:50 > 0:25:51Leading onto the paddock
0:25:51 > 0:25:53which has really good grazing.
0:25:53 > 0:25:56Fantastic grazing, that paddock, for the horse. Fantastic.
0:25:56 > 0:25:59The house had lots of character,
0:25:59 > 0:26:05and huge potential, although it already had a really nice feel to it.
0:26:06 > 0:26:11Particularly the kitchen leading on to the extension, the sun extension,
0:26:11 > 0:26:13sun room, and that was lovely.
0:26:13 > 0:26:14Fantastic.
0:26:14 > 0:26:17I could live here.
0:26:17 > 0:26:21I like the situation, I like the house, I like the garden.
0:26:21 > 0:26:25I'm just concerned about the location generally,
0:26:25 > 0:26:28whether that would suit us having to commute back to Bristol.
0:26:28 > 0:26:30Hello. Made yourselves at home in there?
0:26:30 > 0:26:34Yeah, we have, very much so. Oh, what did you think of the outbuildings?
0:26:34 > 0:26:37I thought they were great - stables, sheds, a workshop, everything I wanted.
0:26:37 > 0:26:40Suitably impressed, but that was just day one.
0:26:40 > 0:26:42We have still got more to see.
0:26:59 > 0:27:02As the evening falls over Gloucestershire,
0:27:02 > 0:27:05it marks the end of day one of our property search.
0:27:10 > 0:27:14Steve has been trying to persuade his wife Sue to move
0:27:14 > 0:27:16to the country for nearly 20 years.
0:27:16 > 0:27:19Now their two daughters have grown up,
0:27:19 > 0:27:22she has finally given her blessing for a move to Gloucestershire.
0:27:22 > 0:27:26So far we've given them plenty to think about with our first two properties.
0:27:26 > 0:27:29But coming up, our mystery house could be the one
0:27:29 > 0:27:30they've been waiting for.
0:27:30 > 0:27:33Oh, what have you done?!
0:27:33 > 0:27:36Oh! We've atually really got you, haven't we?
0:27:36 > 0:27:38Yeah, beautiful.
0:27:38 > 0:27:41And I take my life in my hands and join the circus.
0:27:42 > 0:27:44Whatever you do, don't do that!
0:27:46 > 0:27:50After years of persuasion by Steve, it does seem that Sue is
0:27:50 > 0:27:52finally ready to move out of Bristol.
0:27:52 > 0:27:55But one thing's for sure after yesterday -
0:27:55 > 0:27:58whilst for Steve the outside land is the most important,
0:27:58 > 0:28:01for Sue we have got to get the house just right.
0:28:01 > 0:28:05Now, I do think the mystery property can deliver for both of them.
0:28:05 > 0:28:07The thing is to make them both happy
0:28:07 > 0:28:10we're going to have to push them just that little bit further.
0:28:13 > 0:28:17We've got a bit of journey to get to our mystery house - how are you feeling about that?
0:28:19 > 0:28:25Erm...interested again. We seem to be going across the bridge again.
0:28:25 > 0:28:27SHE LAUGHS
0:28:27 > 0:28:30Across the water. I feel I've got to come to terms with that.
0:28:30 > 0:28:32Are we going too far?
0:28:32 > 0:28:35As long as you've got good road access for commuting back,
0:28:35 > 0:28:38you know, every day, I think that's fine.
0:28:38 > 0:28:42I think it really surprised me yesterday how quick
0:28:42 > 0:28:45we got back from The Forest of Dean.
0:28:45 > 0:28:47We are making progress.
0:28:47 > 0:28:49ALL LAUGH
0:28:51 > 0:28:55We've crossed the Severn bridge and hopped over the border
0:28:55 > 0:28:58into Monmouthshire, pushing their commute to Bristol to the limit.
0:28:58 > 0:29:03We're close to the town of Usk, which was a thriving market town in the Victorian era.
0:29:03 > 0:29:08The mystery property is situated in the small hamlet of Coed-y-paen
0:29:08 > 0:29:10and is an converted barn.
0:29:12 > 0:29:15I think you were very brave letting me bring you over the border into Wales.
0:29:15 > 0:29:19But it was all so we could deliver this property to you.
0:29:19 > 0:29:23Oh, it's fabulous. It is beautiful, really, really nice. Gorgeous!
0:29:23 > 0:29:25Oh, what've you done?!
0:29:25 > 0:29:29Oh! We've actually really got you, haven't we?
0:29:29 > 0:29:31Yeah! Beautiful.
0:29:31 > 0:29:34Absolutely gorgeous and the setting is just amazing.
0:29:34 > 0:29:37It's taken your breath away.
0:29:37 > 0:29:40It has. It's made me quite emotional! Good!
0:29:40 > 0:29:45Well, we've had the perfect result on your initial reactions.
0:29:45 > 0:29:49I think it's time we looked inside and see how it delivers there. Yes, please. Come on.
0:29:49 > 0:29:54'If there was ever a response I want to a mystery property, that was it.
0:29:54 > 0:29:58'Let's see if they feel the same on the inside.'
0:29:58 > 0:29:59Step on in.
0:29:59 > 0:30:02Oh, wow.
0:30:02 > 0:30:05Another wow and big intake of breath!
0:30:05 > 0:30:07This is really, really nice.
0:30:07 > 0:30:08I can't speak. I'm speechless.
0:30:08 > 0:30:13Yay! Yeah, it's beautiful and the fireplace is such a centrepiece.
0:30:13 > 0:30:16What do you think about the structure?
0:30:17 > 0:30:20I think it's absolutely wonderful.
0:30:20 > 0:30:23They've kept the main beam structure of the old barn,
0:30:23 > 0:30:26it's really impressive. It's just grand to hold that.
0:30:27 > 0:30:30Well, they're still under the spell of this house and the next area
0:30:30 > 0:30:32should be just what Sue is looking for.
0:30:32 > 0:30:36It's actually quite a big kitchen up here.
0:30:36 > 0:30:38Well designed, I think.
0:30:38 > 0:30:41It's lovely. It's a lovely kitchen. I love the floor.
0:30:41 > 0:30:45Lots of work surfaces. And that lovely door out into the garden...
0:30:45 > 0:30:49Yeah. ..which is great. And they've even created a little breakfast bar.
0:30:49 > 0:30:54I think it's well designed so you can sit up here and get another aspect on your living area.
0:30:54 > 0:30:57Yeah, I know, it's beautiful. Lovely.
0:30:57 > 0:30:58You've done well. Yes!
0:30:58 > 0:31:02Very well. I know you've said quite a few times,
0:31:02 > 0:31:05"House...yeah. "It's more about the land." But this one...
0:31:05 > 0:31:08I love this, I love this. The barn conversion is just fantastic.
0:31:08 > 0:31:10It's really what I was looking for.
0:31:10 > 0:31:14Despite what we said about wanting to do work, it is nice that it is actually done.
0:31:14 > 0:31:16And you can just move in.
0:31:16 > 0:31:18You could just move in.
0:31:18 > 0:31:20I could move in tomorrow.
0:31:20 > 0:31:24Wow! Did you hear that? Did you though?! I did, yeah.
0:31:24 > 0:31:26You'd better sell that house quickly. I know!
0:31:28 > 0:31:32So Sue's definitely sold on the downstairs for this stunning conversion.
0:31:32 > 0:31:35But they'll find there's a lot less going on upstairs, which is
0:31:35 > 0:31:38where we're heading to have a look at the master bedroom.
0:31:39 > 0:31:42So this is the only bedroom on the upper level.
0:31:44 > 0:31:48And I'm guessing it would be yours. Yeah. With view like that to wake up to.
0:31:48 > 0:31:51Definitely. It's a good size as well.
0:31:51 > 0:31:54And again, it's retained the beams up here.
0:31:54 > 0:31:58You've got the beams, the ceiling height for the grandeur. Yeah.
0:31:58 > 0:32:01I can feel you relaxing.
0:32:01 > 0:32:04Gosh, to come home to this would just be fantastic, wouldn't it?
0:32:04 > 0:32:08At the end of the day, a busy day, to come home and just relax.
0:32:08 > 0:32:10Yeah, it's just gorgeous. And feed your chickens.
0:32:10 > 0:32:16Feed your chickens, the horse, and maybe have a relaxing bath.
0:32:16 > 0:32:19Oh, nice! Lovely!
0:32:22 > 0:32:26Have a look in there. It's a nice en-suite. It's lovely.
0:32:27 > 0:32:34There area further three good-sized rustic-style bedrooms on the ground floor of this property.
0:32:34 > 0:32:36It would be ideal for the girls' visits.
0:32:36 > 0:32:41And there's also a shower room, which doubles as a boot room with garden access.
0:32:41 > 0:32:44Great for cleaning up after feeding the livestock.
0:32:44 > 0:32:47But how much of that vital space is there outside for those goats,
0:32:47 > 0:32:49chickens and horses?
0:32:49 > 0:32:50We're about to find out.
0:32:52 > 0:32:55From back here you get another look at this house
0:32:55 > 0:32:57and I think it's just beautiful.
0:32:57 > 0:32:58Yes, it is.
0:32:58 > 0:33:01Now, this is about an acre that you've got here. Right.
0:33:01 > 0:33:05And you've of course got the outbuildings on the other side of the property, stables.
0:33:05 > 0:33:09How do you feel about this amount of land? Is that enough for you? Yeah, that's enough.
0:33:09 > 0:33:10An acre's just enough.
0:33:10 > 0:33:14Here's the deal, with this property you do just get the one acre,
0:33:14 > 0:33:18however, the owner also owns another nine acres just down there,
0:33:18 > 0:33:21a meadow, and that's up for negotiation.
0:33:21 > 0:33:25So you could buy another nine acres,
0:33:25 > 0:33:27at around about 6,000 an acre or you could rent.
0:33:27 > 0:33:30She's willing to rent so you could see how it goes, see how much you need.
0:33:30 > 0:33:34Yeah, sounds perfect. It's all meadow land at the moment, perfect for the horse.
0:33:34 > 0:33:36Good grazing.
0:33:36 > 0:33:41Now we have to consider how much it'll cost you to live this dream.
0:33:41 > 0:33:46OK, the house, an acre of land, I'd say 490.
0:33:46 > 0:33:50OK. 490. Do you know what?
0:33:50 > 0:33:53Because it's over here in Usk, it's a lovely place,
0:33:53 > 0:33:54I'm going to go lower, ?475.
0:33:56 > 0:33:57Oh, Steve.
0:33:57 > 0:34:00Nooo... You haven't got any better at this!
0:34:00 > 0:34:04You win again. Yeah!
0:34:04 > 0:34:07This is on the market at ?495,000 so you were very close.
0:34:07 > 0:34:11Well, I think you should enjoy this sunshine.
0:34:11 > 0:34:14Go indulge your senses wandering around this wonderful property
0:34:14 > 0:34:18and I'll see you later on when you've had some time to mull it all over.
0:34:18 > 0:34:19OK, thank you.
0:34:20 > 0:34:24Huh! What a cracking result. I've got to say I'm a bit shocked.
0:34:24 > 0:34:27It just goes to show the right house,
0:34:27 > 0:34:29despite the slightly further location,
0:34:29 > 0:34:31could help them to achieve their dream.
0:34:32 > 0:34:36Just within their budget at ?495,
0:34:36 > 0:34:39this property gives Steve and Sue
0:34:39 > 0:34:42everything they've ever dreamed of.
0:34:58 > 0:35:00So that's the land.
0:35:00 > 0:35:02That's the meadow that's on offer.
0:35:02 > 0:35:05Just knowing that you've got all that land, or some of it,
0:35:05 > 0:35:09that you can either rent or buy, is fantastic, perfect.
0:35:09 > 0:35:11The location really appeals.
0:35:11 > 0:35:15It's quite, it's peaceful, it's beautiful views, beautiful countryside.
0:35:15 > 0:35:17Inside is lovely.
0:35:17 > 0:35:20They've retained a lot of the character from the old barn,
0:35:20 > 0:35:25the large beams and the layout itself is really nice, I think it's brilliant.
0:35:25 > 0:35:29Absolutely brilliant. I think you've done really, really well, absolutely great.
0:35:29 > 0:35:33I think I was quite shocked when we came across the bridge
0:35:33 > 0:35:38and headed into Wales cos we'd never ever considered moving into Wales.
0:35:38 > 0:35:43But I must admit when I first saw the property I just felt
0:35:43 > 0:35:50the peace and tranquillity of the area, I was just blown away.
0:35:53 > 0:35:56It's beautiful here, absolutely gorgeous,
0:35:56 > 0:35:58surrounded by the lavender.
0:35:58 > 0:36:00I've fallen in love with it, what about you two?
0:36:00 > 0:36:02Yeah, it's fantastic, really lovely.
0:36:02 > 0:36:04Yeah, we both love it. Good, good.
0:36:04 > 0:36:08Well, you've certainly had an emotional journey over the last couple of days.
0:36:08 > 0:36:10Yeah, you've taken us out of our comfort zone.
0:36:10 > 0:36:14well, let's find somewhere for you to sit down and take it all in.
0:36:23 > 0:36:27We're back in Gloucestershire and it was here in the year 2000
0:36:27 > 0:36:34that local girl Mel Gifford set up a circus which has gone on to receive national acclaim.
0:36:34 > 0:36:38Her painted wagons regularly tour the southwest of England
0:36:38 > 0:36:41with a show which has played to over 250,000 people
0:36:41 > 0:36:44since it started and I'm here to find out more.
0:36:46 > 0:36:48Yes, I've joined the circus!
0:36:48 > 0:36:50OK, I've taken a few hours out to come
0:36:50 > 0:36:53and meet the founders of Giffords circus, created by
0:36:53 > 0:36:57a Gloucestershire family for the local rural community.
0:36:57 > 0:36:59Hello, Nell. Hi.
0:36:59 > 0:37:02Lovely to meet you and congratulations,
0:37:02 > 0:37:05this is very impressive putting together this whole circus.
0:37:05 > 0:37:07What inspired you?
0:37:07 > 0:37:10When I was 18 I joined a circus in America, only for a few months,
0:37:10 > 0:37:13but I fell in love with the travelling lifestyle,
0:37:13 > 0:37:17and the theatre, the animals and all the families that spoke different languages,
0:37:17 > 0:37:19and the circus performers.
0:37:19 > 0:37:23What our idea was, myself and my husband, when we started it,
0:37:23 > 0:37:26what we wanted to do was make a village-green circus,
0:37:26 > 0:37:28kind of a handmade show.
0:37:28 > 0:37:31Like everything you see, like the box office, it's all built by us.
0:37:31 > 0:37:35I can really feel that there's a real community spirit just wandering around.
0:37:35 > 0:37:38And locally people really do speak a lot about it.
0:37:38 > 0:37:41It's something they really enjoy. Is that what you had envisioned?
0:37:41 > 0:37:48For me this is like what I most like to see, dancers, live music, horses.
0:37:48 > 0:37:50It's my idea of heaven
0:37:50 > 0:37:53and I kind of thought everybody would love it, actually.
0:37:53 > 0:37:56Well, with a couple of hours until curtain-up,
0:37:56 > 0:37:59I'm off to meet some of the acts on the bill of this rural circus.
0:37:59 > 0:38:02And I'm getting involved with a bit of fire-juggling,
0:38:02 > 0:38:05with the help of Tweedy the clown.
0:38:05 > 0:38:09So this safe, isn't it, Tweedy? You'll be fine. But we shouldn't try it at home.
0:38:09 > 0:38:11No, you shouldn't try this at home!
0:38:11 > 0:38:15You probably shouldn't try it here either but never mind that. Never mind.
0:38:15 > 0:38:18It's the thing with the circus. It's all thrills, exciting.
0:38:18 > 0:38:21That's it, isn't it? You want to entertain the audience.
0:38:21 > 0:38:23Keep people on the edge of their seats.
0:38:23 > 0:38:27And you're a regular on the show, aren't you, year after year?
0:38:27 > 0:38:30I am and that's the thing, I have to come up with new gags.
0:38:30 > 0:38:33I can feel the heat already.
0:38:33 > 0:38:36It is hot. It'll be fine.
0:38:36 > 0:38:40So again we just need to stay absolutely still.
0:38:40 > 0:38:42And we'll all be fine.
0:38:42 > 0:38:46Whatever you do, don't do that. Don't do that.
0:38:46 > 0:38:47SHE LAUGHS
0:38:47 > 0:38:50Have you got hairspray in your hair? I have!
0:38:50 > 0:38:53Oh, I should've asked that earlier.
0:38:53 > 0:38:54Never mind, we'll be all right.
0:38:54 > 0:38:57We should've brought some marshmallows.
0:38:57 > 0:39:00Thank you! Weah!
0:39:00 > 0:39:05Well done, oh yeah! High five, don't leave me hanging. High five!
0:39:05 > 0:39:08Nell's troop has grown from 18 to over 50 performers
0:39:08 > 0:39:11in its 11-year history.
0:39:11 > 0:39:14This summer the troupe is playing up to 14 shows a week in fields,
0:39:14 > 0:39:17commons and village greens all over Gloucestershire
0:39:17 > 0:39:19and the southwest region.
0:39:19 > 0:39:23Each year they select different themes
0:39:23 > 0:39:26and this season's is based on the Tolstoy novel War And Peace
0:39:26 > 0:39:28brought to life for a family audience.
0:39:41 > 0:39:45It's been quite an amazing experience but now it's time
0:39:45 > 0:39:49to wave goodbye to life under the big top and see if Steve and Sue
0:39:49 > 0:39:53have made their own big decision about our three properties.
0:39:53 > 0:39:57Well, after over 20 years, we've had an emotional couple of days
0:39:57 > 0:40:01trying to get you two out into the countryside.
0:40:01 > 0:40:05So the first property, what were your first impressions?
0:40:05 > 0:40:09First impressions were that it was very nice.
0:40:09 > 0:40:11There wasn't enough room downstairs for Sue, I think
0:40:11 > 0:40:16and the entrance to the property was rather much of a slope.
0:40:16 > 0:40:18It was vertical actually, wasn't it?
0:40:18 > 0:40:21And then the garden continued down on the slope.
0:40:21 > 0:40:24Although there was a fair bit of land,
0:40:24 > 0:40:26I think that would have probably put us off.
0:40:26 > 0:40:29There was just something about the house that just didn't do it for me.
0:40:29 > 0:40:31With property number two, I have to say
0:40:31 > 0:40:34I was quite impressed with how you took to it.
0:40:34 > 0:40:37It was a bit of a project but you seemed to really like it.
0:40:37 > 0:40:38Yeah, we did.
0:40:38 > 0:40:42The land was perfect for you, wasn't it? Yes, it was.
0:40:42 > 0:40:45It had enough space, it had outbuildings, sheds, two acres,
0:40:45 > 0:40:51a pond, half an acre of garden, it was really, really good outside for me.
0:40:51 > 0:40:54And the house was interesting. It was full of character,
0:40:54 > 0:40:58and it was obvious the owner had done a lot of work on it already.
0:40:58 > 0:41:03One of the things I think with this journey has been taking you out of your comfort zone
0:41:03 > 0:41:07and getting you to take that leap and go, "I'm serious about this move."
0:41:07 > 0:41:08Yes.
0:41:08 > 0:41:13And the mystery house certainly tested you on that, didn't it? It was a beautiful property.
0:41:13 > 0:41:18It was absolutely fantastic, the real dream of rural living.
0:41:18 > 0:41:23It was brilliant, the conversion had been done really, really well.
0:41:23 > 0:41:27The beams, I loved those big heavy beams throughout the property.
0:41:27 > 0:41:28Fantastic property.
0:41:28 > 0:41:33So...three great properties, but I really need to know,
0:41:33 > 0:41:34cos I'm a bit unsure,
0:41:34 > 0:41:39as to whether we've done enough to actually get you to make this move, Sue.
0:41:39 > 0:41:41Twenty-odd years in the making.
0:41:41 > 0:41:43It's certainly challenged my thinking.
0:41:43 > 0:41:49I think that last property made me want to be extremely rural.
0:41:49 > 0:41:53I think you've done a great job to get Sue to this position.
0:41:53 > 0:41:55I think that's an easily commutable distance for both of us.
0:41:55 > 0:41:57No problem with that.
0:41:57 > 0:42:00Will you put an offer in on our mystery house?
0:42:00 > 0:42:04We still need to sell ours but we're going to really push to sell it
0:42:04 > 0:42:07cos we really need now to sell it and move on.
0:42:07 > 0:42:10It's ready, I'm ready.
0:42:10 > 0:42:14I think as soon as we sell our property I think we'll
0:42:14 > 0:42:18definitely be in a position to put an offer in on the mystery house.
0:42:18 > 0:42:21Well, Sue and Steve, it's been a real pleasure.
0:42:21 > 0:42:23I've so enjoyed spending time with you and helping you
0:42:23 > 0:42:27on this journey, step by step, into your dream home and I can see that
0:42:27 > 0:42:31you're both going to be very happy when you finally make that move. BOTH: Thank you very much.
0:42:34 > 0:42:38When you've lived in the same home for 24 years, it takes some courage
0:42:38 > 0:42:40to make a move and for Steve and Sue,
0:42:40 > 0:42:42I think they'd stalled in the process
0:42:42 > 0:42:45and needed our help to see things from a different perspective.
0:42:45 > 0:42:47But it goes to show that
0:42:47 > 0:42:50when you do, sometimes everything just falls into place.
0:42:50 > 0:42:53I'll see you next time on Escape To the Country.
0:42:54 > 0:42:57Steve and Sue did go back for a second look at the mystery property
0:42:57 > 0:43:01but decided it wasn't for them as the commute was too long.
0:43:01 > 0:43:04They've now bought a house just to the north of Bristol,
0:43:04 > 0:43:06nearer to where they currently work.
0:43:07 > 0:43:11If you'd like to escape to the country in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland or England,
0:43:11 > 0:43:16and need our help, please apply online at -
0:43:38 > 0:43:41Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd
0:43:57 > 0:43:58# Everybody hurts... #
0:43:58 > 0:44:02To break someone physically... Agh! ..is not a problem.
0:44:02 > 0:44:04Agh! But we will see