0:00:02 > 0:00:05In 1933, one of the world's greatest scientists, Albert Einstein,
0:00:05 > 0:00:09came to England to escape persecution from Germany
0:00:09 > 0:00:12and Hitler's newly formed Third Reich.
0:00:12 > 0:00:16But to which English county did he come and why?
0:00:16 > 0:00:18Find out in just a moment.
0:00:48 > 0:00:51In today's show, I'll be helping a couple of newlywed journalists
0:00:51 > 0:00:55start the next chapter of their lives together in the country.
0:00:55 > 0:00:59And we pull out all the stops with our early properties.
0:00:59 > 0:01:04- I think this property has loads of character.- It certainly does.
0:01:04 > 0:01:06- We are quite excited at the moment. - Are you?- Yeah.
0:01:06 > 0:01:10Then, our mystery home takes things to a new level.
0:01:11 > 0:01:15- And this is your mystery house. - Is it?- Yep.
0:01:18 > 0:01:23Today, I'm in Norfolk, in the seaside town of Cromer.
0:01:23 > 0:01:28Now, in the early '30s, Albert Einstein was subject to death threats by the Nazis
0:01:28 > 0:01:31and took refuge here after being helped across
0:01:31 > 0:01:32the Channel by the MP
0:01:32 > 0:01:36and anti-fascist campaigner Oliver Locker-Lampson.
0:01:36 > 0:01:39With a bounty of 1,000 guineas on his head,
0:01:39 > 0:01:43he sought sanctuary in a heavily guarded hut in nearby
0:01:43 > 0:01:46Roughton Heath, just outside Cromer,
0:01:46 > 0:01:48where he continued his scientific work
0:01:48 > 0:01:52that was later used on the first nuclear bomb.
0:01:52 > 0:01:56Now, just some weeks later, Einstein left Norfolk
0:01:56 > 0:02:00for exile in America, never to return to Europe again.
0:02:00 > 0:02:04As the fifth largest county in England, Norfolk makes up
0:02:04 > 0:02:07the lion's share of the East Anglian region.
0:02:07 > 0:02:10Much of its 90-mile coastline falls within designated
0:02:10 > 0:02:13Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty,
0:02:13 > 0:02:18a prime example being Holkham Beach, celebrated for its pine woods
0:02:18 > 0:02:20and swathes of sand dunes.
0:02:20 > 0:02:25Along the coast, the independent shops and fine Georgian buildings
0:02:25 > 0:02:27of Burnham Market make it
0:02:27 > 0:02:31a popular choice with holidaymakers and homebuyers alike.
0:02:31 > 0:02:36With 96% of Norfolk given over to farming, woodland, forestry
0:02:36 > 0:02:39and protected sites, it's the perfect landscape
0:02:39 > 0:02:41in which to seek out a rural bolthole.
0:02:46 > 0:02:52The average price of a detached home in Norfolk is £214,000,
0:02:52 > 0:02:57that's some £40,000 below the national average.
0:02:57 > 0:02:59But move toward the North Norfolk coast
0:02:59 > 0:03:02and the picture changes dramatically,
0:03:02 > 0:03:06particularly in property hotspots like Blakeney and Burnham Market.
0:03:06 > 0:03:08In these areas,
0:03:08 > 0:03:11you can expect to pay at least double the county average.
0:03:11 > 0:03:14Worth bearing in mind, as we take a look at what is
0:03:14 > 0:03:15currently on the market.
0:03:16 > 0:03:20Priced at £329,000,
0:03:20 > 0:03:24this four-bedroom cottage in Thorpe Market combines light,
0:03:24 > 0:03:29airy reception rooms with rustic beams and a wood burner.
0:03:29 > 0:03:32The well-planned kitchen has a welcome farmhouse feel,
0:03:32 > 0:03:36and outside, the grounds extend to just over half an acre.
0:03:37 > 0:03:41£450,000 could buy you this beautiful
0:03:41 > 0:03:46five-bedroom barn conversion in a rural setting just outside Dereham.
0:03:46 > 0:03:49The sitting room features an inglenook fireplace
0:03:49 > 0:03:50with exposed beam.
0:03:50 > 0:03:53And the central island provides a great focal point
0:03:53 > 0:03:54of the stunning bespoke kitchen.
0:03:56 > 0:04:02All for a budget-topping £775,000, this barn conversion
0:04:02 > 0:04:05in Burnham Overy serves up a very generous kitchen.
0:04:05 > 0:04:08Along with a quirky snug on the mezzanine,
0:04:08 > 0:04:12the four bedrooms also feature high-vaulted ceilings.
0:04:12 > 0:04:15Outside, the private terrace leads
0:04:15 > 0:04:18onto three acres of communal grounds.
0:04:20 > 0:04:24Some stunning Norfolk properties there.
0:04:24 > 0:04:25Let's meet today's buyers
0:04:25 > 0:04:29and find out why they are ready to escape to the country.
0:04:29 > 0:04:32Newlyweds Justine and Neil currently
0:04:32 > 0:04:35live together in his house on the outskirts of Peterborough
0:04:35 > 0:04:39with Justine's daughter and their two dogs.
0:04:39 > 0:04:44Both journalists, they've always had a passion for all things rural.
0:04:44 > 0:04:47So now, they've decided to take the plunge and find a country home
0:04:47 > 0:04:51that gives them the lifestyle they've always dreamt of.
0:04:51 > 0:04:54I think really, we both love the countryside, we've both been
0:04:54 > 0:04:58involved in all sorts of aspects of things to do with the countryside.
0:04:58 > 0:05:00Neil has worked on magazines to do with angling and golf
0:05:00 > 0:05:02and I've worked on gardening magazines
0:05:02 > 0:05:04and an equestrian magazine,
0:05:04 > 0:05:06and our hearts really are in the countryside.
0:05:06 > 0:05:10They've set their sights on North Norfolk,
0:05:10 > 0:05:11having recently holidayed there,
0:05:11 > 0:05:15and it gives Neil the chance to pursue a sport he loves.
0:05:15 > 0:05:17I particularly like golf.
0:05:17 > 0:05:20There are some great courses around Norfolk,
0:05:20 > 0:05:21which is where we would like to go.
0:05:21 > 0:05:24Yes, that's right. We both like gardens as well.
0:05:24 > 0:05:27We like visiting gardens and we would quite like
0:05:27 > 0:05:29to be in the countryside and have a nice country garden.
0:05:29 > 0:05:32This may be the first home they are buying together,
0:05:32 > 0:05:35but they are both united in what they're looking for.
0:05:35 > 0:05:38In our new property, we'd like to have at least three bedrooms
0:05:38 > 0:05:43and two bathrooms, a good-sized kitchen, maybe a kitchen-diner,
0:05:43 > 0:05:46and we'd like a nice, sort of airy, open living space.
0:05:46 > 0:05:49We both work from home,
0:05:49 > 0:05:52so we'd like an office space if it's not a dedicated room.
0:05:52 > 0:05:55I suppose, ideally, a utility area for the dogs going in and out
0:05:55 > 0:05:57as well, because they get a bit muddy.
0:05:57 > 0:06:01Although they are looking for character features like beams
0:06:01 > 0:06:04and a wood burner, Neil has an aversion to thatch.
0:06:04 > 0:06:06But outside space is important.
0:06:06 > 0:06:09In respect to the garden, I would like a south-facing garden
0:06:09 > 0:06:14so we could possibly grow vegetables and have flower borders as well.
0:06:14 > 0:06:17And we can sit outside in the evening, yeah.
0:06:17 > 0:06:19Sounds idyllic.
0:06:19 > 0:06:21Only one more thing to nail down,
0:06:21 > 0:06:23and that's how much they have to spend.
0:06:23 > 0:06:30For our new property, we are looking to spend up to £425,000.
0:06:33 > 0:06:36Having been to North Norfolk on holiday
0:06:36 > 0:06:41and fallen head over heels in love with the place, Neil and Justine
0:06:41 > 0:06:44are hoping to start a new life away from the urban sprawl
0:06:44 > 0:06:46of Peterborough.
0:06:46 > 0:06:49Now, many of us have probably considered the romantic idea
0:06:49 > 0:06:52of moving somewhere we've been on holiday,
0:06:52 > 0:06:55but how many of us have actually done it?
0:06:55 > 0:06:57I just hope I can find a property for Neil
0:06:57 > 0:07:00and Justine that matches up to that dream.
0:07:00 > 0:07:02At our buyers' request,
0:07:02 > 0:07:04we'll be focusing our house search
0:07:04 > 0:07:06around the market town of Holt,
0:07:06 > 0:07:08which is a part of North Norfolk
0:07:08 > 0:07:09we know they love.
0:07:09 > 0:07:11However, we may stray out of
0:07:11 > 0:07:12this area in order to get them
0:07:12 > 0:07:15the most we can for their budget.
0:07:15 > 0:07:16We've lined up three gorgeous
0:07:16 > 0:07:18properties to show them,
0:07:18 > 0:07:19but as always,
0:07:19 > 0:07:22I won't be revealing the price of each until they've had
0:07:22 > 0:07:24a guess first.
0:07:24 > 0:07:27The final option is, of course, our mystery house,
0:07:27 > 0:07:30and I think it could be the last place they'd expect to find
0:07:30 > 0:07:31their new home.
0:07:34 > 0:07:38- Well, welcome to Norfolk. - Thanks.- Thank you, Nicki.
0:07:38 > 0:07:41It's a little bit damp this morning, but it's not going to put us off.
0:07:41 > 0:07:43- No.- No.- Hope not.
0:07:43 > 0:07:46So, why is it you want to move to this part of the world?
0:07:46 > 0:07:50Well, normally, it's not raining quite like this, I think.
0:07:50 > 0:07:52We love the beautiful countryside, there is so much to see
0:07:52 > 0:07:53and do around here.
0:07:53 > 0:07:56And it's also within easy access of Norfolk, Norwich.
0:07:56 > 0:07:58You can get to London, we can get to Peterborough,
0:07:58 > 0:08:01where we're from. So, lots of good things about it.
0:08:01 > 0:08:06Now, I know you're both very keen on North Norfolk,
0:08:06 > 0:08:09but how wide are you prepared to go for this search?
0:08:09 > 0:08:10Well, we do like...
0:08:10 > 0:08:12As Justine said, we do like the coastline,
0:08:12 > 0:08:16but we've found a few places around here
0:08:16 > 0:08:20which we like as well, in terms of villages and towns.
0:08:20 > 0:08:23- So, yeah, we could move a bit. - A bit more inland, yes.
0:08:23 > 0:08:27More towards Fakenham, or perhaps out towards King's Lynn.
0:08:27 > 0:08:30There's no time like the present to find you the perfect property.
0:08:30 > 0:08:32And, of course, we can't forget your lovely daughter and the dogs
0:08:32 > 0:08:34as well that are coming too.
0:08:34 > 0:08:39We're going to get you an amazing house, all for what price?
0:08:39 > 0:08:41Remind me of our budget again.
0:08:41 > 0:08:44- 425.- OK. Your house is on the market.- Yes.
0:08:44 > 0:08:47- You've accepted an offer? - We've accepted an offer...- Yes.
0:08:47 > 0:08:52- ..only in the last week.- So we're in a great place, aren't we? Right.
0:08:52 > 0:08:56Well, let's see what we can find you. Let's get started. Come on.
0:08:56 > 0:08:59With their budget of £425,000,
0:08:59 > 0:09:02Neil and Justine want a character home,
0:09:02 > 0:09:05which features light, airy reception rooms,
0:09:05 > 0:09:07a spacious kitchen-diner
0:09:07 > 0:09:10with utility room and three bedrooms,
0:09:10 > 0:09:12preferably with an en suite.
0:09:12 > 0:09:14Crucially, they both need a home office,
0:09:14 > 0:09:17which ideally would be self-contained.
0:09:17 > 0:09:20Outside, they'd like a generous garden for the dogs
0:09:20 > 0:09:22and space to grow veg.
0:09:22 > 0:09:24And it all needs to be located
0:09:24 > 0:09:25on the edge of a village.
0:09:29 > 0:09:31We're getting our property search
0:09:31 > 0:09:34started seven miles from the market town of Swaffham,
0:09:34 > 0:09:36which is dotted with elegant Georgian buildings
0:09:36 > 0:09:40and has, at its centre, a domed butter cross,
0:09:40 > 0:09:42which is topped with a statue of the goddess Ceres,
0:09:42 > 0:09:46particularly fitting for an area rooted in its farming heritage.
0:09:46 > 0:09:51In the outlying hamlet of Pentney, our first property is also
0:09:51 > 0:09:54a reminder of this area's agricultural past.
0:09:54 > 0:09:57So, here is your first property.
0:09:57 > 0:10:01- Wow.- Gosh.- It's very pretty, isn't it?- It is, yes.
0:10:01 > 0:10:04- Quite big as well. - It is quite big, actually.
0:10:04 > 0:10:05Bigger than I was expecting.
0:10:05 > 0:10:09It's actually an old farmhouse. It dates back about 200 years.
0:10:09 > 0:10:12So, as a setting, does this appeal?
0:10:12 > 0:10:15Yeah, I like the garden. I think it's wonderful, isn't it?
0:10:15 > 0:10:18There's plenty of room and there's a gate there to keep the dogs in.
0:10:18 > 0:10:21- They'd love it around here. - Yeah, they would.- Good.
0:10:21 > 0:10:25- All right, how keen are you to get started?- Oh, yes, please.- Come on.
0:10:25 > 0:10:29'Let's hope we can build on their great first reactions
0:10:29 > 0:10:30'as we explore inside.'
0:10:32 > 0:10:34So, come on through.
0:10:35 > 0:10:37Come on in, Justine.
0:10:37 > 0:10:41So, this is like a little anti-room, if you like.
0:10:41 > 0:10:42There's nothing little about it.
0:10:42 > 0:10:48But through that door, you have a huge utility-cum-boot room.
0:10:48 > 0:10:52- Brilliant.- Which would be perfect for the dogs, with access as well.
0:10:52 > 0:10:55- If ever you didn't want them in the main house...- Great.
0:10:55 > 0:10:57..you've got a huge space.
0:10:57 > 0:11:00Although they tend to have their own ideas of not being
0:11:00 > 0:11:01in the main house!
0:11:01 > 0:11:05With the dogs sorted, we'll turn our attention to their living areas.
0:11:05 > 0:11:10- It's certainly a spacious house. - Gosh, this is lovely, isn't it?
0:11:10 > 0:11:13- Yeah.- Look at the beautiful wood everywhere.
0:11:13 > 0:11:18I like the stonework as well, which goes well with the wood.
0:11:18 > 0:11:20Yeah. This is all cast stone, it's a local stone.
0:11:20 > 0:11:23Some of it's exposed through the hallway when we came through.
0:11:23 > 0:11:26- Oh, yes. - Just past the downstairs cloakroom.
0:11:26 > 0:11:28I think this property has loads of character.
0:11:28 > 0:11:31It certainly does. We're quite excited.
0:11:31 > 0:11:33- Are you?- Yeah, yeah.
0:11:33 > 0:11:37Those proportions and character feel continue in the kitchen.
0:11:37 > 0:11:39Gosh!
0:11:39 > 0:11:43- I like gosh.- Good.- It's beautiful, isn't it?- It is.- Yes, yes.
0:11:43 > 0:11:47I don't think a kitchen can ever be too big, in all honesty.
0:11:47 > 0:11:49- No, it's a good size. - It's a fantastic size.
0:11:49 > 0:11:54- And, ideally, you wanted somewhere where you could dine as well.- Yes.
0:11:54 > 0:11:56You can certainly fit a table in here, can't you?
0:11:56 > 0:11:58Look at the views. They are wonderful, aren't they?
0:11:58 > 0:12:00Now, I have to tell you this.
0:12:00 > 0:12:05The owner has spotted 120 different varieties of birds
0:12:05 > 0:12:07from the kitchen window.
0:12:07 > 0:12:10- Oh, my goodness!- So much so, he tends to hover in here.
0:12:10 > 0:12:12And look out the window all the time.
0:12:12 > 0:12:16Tucked away off the kitchen, there's also a fantastic walk-in
0:12:16 > 0:12:21pantry, as well as another grand reception room for entertaining.
0:12:21 > 0:12:24- Fancy some formal dining?- Wow, that is formal dining, isn't it?
0:12:24 > 0:12:27- It's beautiful.- And a wood-burning stove, look at that.
0:12:27 > 0:12:32Multi-fuel, so wood... If you've had enough of wood, you can have coal.
0:12:32 > 0:12:36- Right.- The biggest beam you've ever seen.
0:12:36 > 0:12:39- I mean, just look at that flint wall.- That is stunning, isn't it?
0:12:39 > 0:12:41It looks like a Norman wall there, doesn't it?
0:12:41 > 0:12:44- You could be in Norman times. - You could be in a castle.- Yeah.
0:12:44 > 0:12:47But it is done in a modern way, I think, as well.
0:12:47 > 0:12:50It seems to be totally natural, doesn't it?
0:12:50 > 0:12:53- It feels like a home, doesn't it? - Yes.- That's what I think.
0:12:53 > 0:12:55It's charming, it's got lots of character,
0:12:55 > 0:12:57but it also feels like a home.
0:12:57 > 0:12:59It also gives them plenty of space to work,
0:12:59 > 0:13:01as behind the dining room,
0:13:01 > 0:13:04there's a large dedicated office and separate studio.
0:13:04 > 0:13:07Our period farmhouse seems to have wowed them
0:13:07 > 0:13:10with its downstairs living areas and character,
0:13:10 > 0:13:12but can upstairs match up?
0:13:12 > 0:13:15Well, we're about to find out, as off the landing
0:13:15 > 0:13:19are all four bedrooms, with the first stop being the master.
0:13:19 > 0:13:21- It's beautiful in light, isn't it?- It is.
0:13:21 > 0:13:24- I don't think I have shown you a small room.- No, it is huge!
0:13:24 > 0:13:26- It's huge.- It's a lovely size, isn't it?
0:13:26 > 0:13:29You get all your wardrobes and things in here.
0:13:29 > 0:13:33So, plenty of space. However, if you have got lots of clothes
0:13:33 > 0:13:36- and possessions...- Yes! - I love your honesty.
0:13:36 > 0:13:40- ..there's a huge dressing room just through that door.- Wow.
0:13:40 > 0:13:43However, the family bathroom is only next-door.
0:13:43 > 0:13:47If you wanted to convert that and make it an en suite,
0:13:47 > 0:13:49all the plumbing is on that side of the house.
0:13:49 > 0:13:51- Good.- It would be quite easily done. - Yeah.
0:13:52 > 0:13:55The other three bedrooms are all large enough to be doubles
0:13:55 > 0:13:58and make use of the light, spacious family bathroom.
0:13:58 > 0:14:03Overall, the house definitely seems to have worked its magic.
0:14:03 > 0:14:05But we know these two are very keen gardeners,
0:14:05 > 0:14:09so I am hoping what's on offer outside won't disappoint.
0:14:09 > 0:14:12You've got about two thirds of an acre.
0:14:12 > 0:14:16You've got a double garage or carport with storage at the side
0:14:16 > 0:14:20and you've got a greenhouse and an additional outbuilding at the back.
0:14:20 > 0:14:21Gosh, that's huge!
0:14:21 > 0:14:24Which, you might have to look at planning permission,
0:14:24 > 0:14:27but you could actually have an office at the end of the garden.
0:14:27 > 0:14:30- Brilliant.- Overlooking these fields.
0:14:30 > 0:14:32We couldn't get more into the country than this.
0:14:32 > 0:14:34No, it is the country dream, isn't it?
0:14:34 > 0:14:38It is the country dream. Let's hope we continue on that high note,
0:14:38 > 0:14:41because we are going to have to talk about money.
0:14:41 > 0:14:45- Who wants to guess the price first? - You want to go first?- OK.
0:14:45 > 0:14:50Our budget is 425, so I'm really hoping it is 425 and not above that,
0:14:50 > 0:14:53although, I mean, it's a brilliant house, so it might well be.
0:14:53 > 0:14:56- What do you think? - I would have to go higher than that.
0:14:56 > 0:15:00I think I would go...£450,000.
0:15:00 > 0:15:07The current asking price... Neil, you're on the money - £450,000.
0:15:07 > 0:15:11I've spoken to the owner, they would be happy to negotiate.
0:15:11 > 0:15:14- That's exciting. - That is exciting, yes.
0:15:14 > 0:15:15Who wants to have another look around?
0:15:15 > 0:15:19- Oh, yes, please.- Go on, then. Explore, take your time.
0:15:19 > 0:15:21Mind the chickens.
0:15:22 > 0:15:27Well, what can I say? Such a fantastic start,
0:15:27 > 0:15:30but it really is the most splendid property.
0:15:30 > 0:15:32Priced at £450,000,
0:15:32 > 0:15:36but with properties currently selling
0:15:36 > 0:15:40an average of 8% below the asking price across England,
0:15:40 > 0:15:43this home would definitely be within reach for Neil and Justine's
0:15:43 > 0:15:48top budget of £425,000.
0:15:48 > 0:15:52It has two large reception rooms with character fireplaces,
0:15:52 > 0:15:55four bedrooms with the option to create a master en suite,
0:15:55 > 0:15:57a home office for him and her
0:15:57 > 0:16:00and it's all wrapped up in a generous
0:16:00 > 0:16:02two thirds of an acre of garden
0:16:02 > 0:16:05set in open countryside.
0:16:05 > 0:16:08I was quite impressed with the land that it had in front
0:16:08 > 0:16:11and the size of the property.
0:16:11 > 0:16:15I thought all the rooms were of a really good size.
0:16:15 > 0:16:18And the quality of the finishes, I think it's fantastic.
0:16:18 > 0:16:21I was actually blown away by the whole thing.
0:16:21 > 0:16:23I just really liked it.
0:16:23 > 0:16:26When we opened the door, I thought, "Wow, this could be really amazing."
0:16:26 > 0:16:29Then, as we went through the house, it was really amazing, actually.
0:16:29 > 0:16:30We're very excited,
0:16:30 > 0:16:33we're just trying to figure out if we could actually buy it.
0:16:33 > 0:16:36So, you know, let's see. Let's see what the other properties are like.
0:16:36 > 0:16:40What a great start. They loved it.
0:16:40 > 0:16:43- Happy, you two?- Yes, very.- Good.
0:16:43 > 0:16:47Guess what? That's only the first property we've got to show you.
0:16:47 > 0:16:48- Great.- Come on.
0:16:58 > 0:17:00The North Norfolk remote coastline of salt marshes
0:17:00 > 0:17:03and award-winning beaches have been a popular destination
0:17:03 > 0:17:07for tourists since the 19th century.
0:17:07 > 0:17:10From 1887 to 1924,
0:17:10 > 0:17:12passengers and freight were transported
0:17:12 > 0:17:14by the North Norfolk railway.
0:17:14 > 0:17:17And these days, you can still travel by steam train
0:17:17 > 0:17:21and make a ten mile round-trip between Sheringham and Holt.
0:17:21 > 0:17:23Lying four miles inland,
0:17:23 > 0:17:27the Georgian market town of Holt is a particular favourite of Justine
0:17:27 > 0:17:30and Neil, who have also spent many a happy holiday here.
0:17:31 > 0:17:34A 20-minute drive further down the Norfolk coast
0:17:34 > 0:17:38are the private gardens of East Ruston Old Vicarage,
0:17:38 > 0:17:40which Justine, as a green-fingered enthusiast,
0:17:40 > 0:17:43visited several years ago.
0:17:43 > 0:17:45She was keen to see how they'd changed,
0:17:45 > 0:17:48so we arranged for them to meet the owner, Alan Gray,
0:17:48 > 0:17:53who has torn up the rulebook on how to create an English country garden.
0:17:53 > 0:17:56Welcome to my garden on the windy but wonderful coast of Norfolk.
0:17:56 > 0:17:58Now, this is a desert.
0:17:58 > 0:18:01You can do this if you are really mad.
0:18:01 > 0:18:04- What do you think?- It's amazing.
0:18:04 > 0:18:07How did you manage to find the place and come here?
0:18:07 > 0:18:08It must be a long story.
0:18:08 > 0:18:10Well, I think gardening was in my genes.
0:18:10 > 0:18:13Graham, my partner, and I bought this house in 1973.
0:18:13 > 0:18:17This particular area we're standing on we didn't buy until 22 years ago.
0:18:17 > 0:18:18This is part of the...
0:18:18 > 0:18:20It's one of the first pieces of garden
0:18:20 > 0:18:22we developed when we acquired an extra parcel of land.
0:18:22 > 0:18:25The first thing we did is, we got into JCB.
0:18:25 > 0:18:28The thing about a desert is it's not really a garden, it's a landscape.
0:18:28 > 0:18:29You can manipulate.
0:18:29 > 0:18:31I think that's my favourite word, manipulation,
0:18:31 > 0:18:33because you manipulate the landscape,
0:18:33 > 0:18:35you manipulate the garden to do what you want it to do.
0:18:35 > 0:18:38You have visited this garden before, I believe.
0:18:38 > 0:18:40- Yes, that's right. - You remember the exotic garden?
0:18:40 > 0:18:44I'd love to see it again, certainly. I'm sure I will when I get there.
0:18:44 > 0:18:47- It's moved on a bit since you last saw it, so let's have a look.- OK.
0:18:50 > 0:18:53Ten years after his spade first went in the ground,
0:18:53 > 0:18:57Alan's exotic garden is now a mature and lush oasis.
0:18:57 > 0:19:01Have you got any particular favourite plants in this garden?
0:19:01 > 0:19:04One of the plants I like particularly is behind the fountain.
0:19:04 > 0:19:08- It's called Tetrapanax papyrifera rex.- I'm glad you said that!
0:19:08 > 0:19:10Don't worry if you can't remember,
0:19:10 > 0:19:13because all you need to remember are two simple words, T Rex.
0:19:13 > 0:19:15Would it be difficult to achieve an exotic look
0:19:15 > 0:19:17like this in my own garden at home?
0:19:17 > 0:19:20Well, I think the thing to do is to start with foliage.
0:19:20 > 0:19:24You need big leaves. Palms, for instance, Trachycarpus fortunei.
0:19:24 > 0:19:27- Bamboos for that wonderful, sort of, movement.- Beautiful, wispy.- Yes.
0:19:27 > 0:19:30Absolutely. All those things add up to an exotic feeling.
0:19:30 > 0:19:33- Put them all together and what have you got?- An exotic garden.
0:19:34 > 0:19:38Alan's constant drive for new projects has led him
0:19:38 > 0:19:41to start work on his Diamond Jubilee Walled Garden,
0:19:41 > 0:19:44which he plans to fill with fruit trees.
0:19:44 > 0:19:47The late maverick garden writer Christopher Lloyd
0:19:47 > 0:19:50coined the term "unstoppable gardeners,"
0:19:50 > 0:19:52and it's clear to see that Alan is one of them.
0:19:52 > 0:19:55Armed with inspiration for their own garden,
0:19:55 > 0:19:58hopefully, our newlyweds will soon be able to enjoy
0:19:58 > 0:20:02the fruits of their house hunting labours here in Norfolk.
0:20:06 > 0:20:09As our property search continues,
0:20:09 > 0:20:12we get to grips with the question of who wants what.
0:20:12 > 0:20:15My question to you is, are we going to have perfect harmony
0:20:15 > 0:20:17with this search?
0:20:17 > 0:20:20Slightly different opinions of what you both like, because, Neil,
0:20:20 > 0:20:21you don't like thatch, do you?
0:20:21 > 0:20:25No, I don't, and I don't really know the reason why.
0:20:25 > 0:20:27There's something about a thatch cottage.
0:20:27 > 0:20:32Although they look picture postcard, I think it's something I don't like.
0:20:32 > 0:20:35- But, Justine, you like them, don't you?- Well, I quite like them.
0:20:35 > 0:20:36They can be a bit dark inside maybe,
0:20:36 > 0:20:38but they look beautiful on the outside
0:20:38 > 0:20:41- and it is the quintessential English countryside, isn't it?- Yeah.
0:20:41 > 0:20:45- We do tend to agree on most things, though, don't we?- We do.
0:20:45 > 0:20:49But if it comes down to it, I'm the boss. So we know who wins.
0:20:49 > 0:20:50Yes, we do.
0:20:52 > 0:20:54Well, that's told Neil,
0:20:54 > 0:20:57as we head near to the market town of East Dereham.
0:20:57 > 0:20:58Today, Georgian and Victorian
0:20:58 > 0:21:02architecture defines its centre,
0:21:02 > 0:21:05as the town's older buildings were destroyed by fires in the 16th
0:21:05 > 0:21:09and 17th centuries, although its church survived.
0:21:09 > 0:21:14Our second property, in the outlying village of Brisley,
0:21:14 > 0:21:16has a thatched roof made of local Norfolk reed
0:21:16 > 0:21:20which, despite the rain, hopefully won't prove a turn-off for Neil.
0:21:20 > 0:21:26So, you two, to our second property.
0:21:26 > 0:21:29I know you didn't want a thatch, ideally.
0:21:29 > 0:21:31Justine, you were quite up for a thatch, though.
0:21:31 > 0:21:32Yes, I don't mind so much,
0:21:32 > 0:21:35but I know Neil is looking at the roof going, "Oh."
0:21:35 > 0:21:38- I'm intrigued to see what's inside. - Good. Come on then.
0:21:38 > 0:21:40On that note, let's go in the dry.
0:21:43 > 0:21:47Well, fingers crossed we can make Neil happy inside.
0:21:53 > 0:21:55So, this property flows round
0:21:55 > 0:21:58and we're actually going to start in the sitting room.
0:21:58 > 0:22:03- OK. Gorgeous fireplace, isn't it? Really stunning focal point.- Yeah.
0:22:03 > 0:22:06- The actual fireplace, the surround is Georgian.- Right.
0:22:06 > 0:22:10- Yeah, they got that from a local hotel.- Oh, did they?- Yeah.
0:22:10 > 0:22:13- So, it doesn't feel like a thatch inside, does it?- No, no.
0:22:13 > 0:22:16- No, it doesn't. No, it definitely doesn't.- I've been won over.
0:22:16 > 0:22:19That's good. It's only the first room.
0:22:19 > 0:22:21That didn't take long, did it?
0:22:23 > 0:22:27And the second reception room builds on that Georgian style grandeur.
0:22:28 > 0:22:30So, here is your dining area.
0:22:30 > 0:22:33Again, the way that it has been laid out is very formal,
0:22:33 > 0:22:36beautifully done.
0:22:36 > 0:22:40- Stunning, isn't it?- Yeah.- Good size. - Classical.- It is a good size.
0:22:40 > 0:22:42- Look at the room itself.- Yes.
0:22:42 > 0:22:45And two windows either side, which brings in lots of light.
0:22:45 > 0:22:49- Check out that view.- Oh, look, there is a little bridge, how lovely.
0:22:49 > 0:22:52- Your own bridge. - Yes, that's gorgeous.
0:22:52 > 0:22:54- That's a lovely aspect. - It's a gorgeous aspect, yes.
0:22:54 > 0:22:57Although there is no separate study,
0:22:57 > 0:23:00they could think about converting this room into an office snug.
0:23:00 > 0:23:03But let's see what they make of the kitchen.
0:23:06 > 0:23:09The kitchen is such an important room, and this
0:23:09 > 0:23:12is very different from the rest of the house we've seen so far.
0:23:12 > 0:23:16- It is, actually, isn't it?- It looks modern.- Yeah.- More modern.- It is.
0:23:16 > 0:23:18- The kitchen has been redone.- Right.
0:23:18 > 0:23:20They had an extension done next door,
0:23:20 > 0:23:22so you've got a very generous utility room.
0:23:22 > 0:23:24That's lovely in there, isn't it? Lots of space.
0:23:24 > 0:23:28- And I get thinking, the practicalities, the dogs.- Yep.
0:23:28 > 0:23:30You know, you've got a beautiful home.
0:23:30 > 0:23:35Here, the dogs can roam free, you've got a boot room, perfect.
0:23:35 > 0:23:39'The light, airy rooms downstairs seem to have measured up, so we'll
0:23:39 > 0:23:40'head to the first floor,
0:23:40 > 0:23:43'where there are three double bedrooms in total,'
0:23:43 > 0:23:47with enough space for Justine's daughter and visiting guests.
0:23:47 > 0:23:52There is also a good-sized bathroom that has light streaming in.
0:23:52 > 0:23:55Time to check out where they would sleep.
0:23:57 > 0:24:01So, good landing that leads you through, into the master.
0:24:01 > 0:24:04Oh, this is a good size, isn't it?
0:24:04 > 0:24:07Lots of cupboard space, which is always very useful.
0:24:07 > 0:24:09Loads of cupboard space.
0:24:09 > 0:24:13Two windows again, so the through light. That's really nice.
0:24:13 > 0:24:16I'm amazed at the amount of light that's being thrown
0:24:16 > 0:24:18into the house on a really dark and dismal day.
0:24:18 > 0:24:21I am pleasantly surprised by it,
0:24:21 > 0:24:24whereas I don't think you're as excited about it.
0:24:24 > 0:24:26No, for me, it hasn't quite got the character
0:24:26 > 0:24:29of the other place already.
0:24:29 > 0:24:33So, despite the clean lines and great proportions
0:24:33 > 0:24:35inside our modern cottage, Justine isn't
0:24:35 > 0:24:37completely won over.
0:24:37 > 0:24:39Maybe she'll warm to the lovely setting
0:24:39 > 0:24:42and space on offer outside.
0:24:43 > 0:24:47So, again, another substantial wraparound garden
0:24:47 > 0:24:51- and then...- Fields.- We're definitely in the country, aren't we?
0:24:51 > 0:24:53We are, there are some gorgeous views.
0:24:53 > 0:24:55The bridge is really sweet.
0:24:55 > 0:24:58- It is gorgeous and then you've got a little bit more garden there.- Yes.
0:24:58 > 0:25:01Well, you like the thatch, you're not giving too much away.
0:25:01 > 0:25:04There are certainly points about this house that appeal.
0:25:04 > 0:25:07Let's see if the price does. Who wants to go first?
0:25:07 > 0:25:11- Shall I go first this time?- Go on, then.- I think it is on budget.
0:25:11 > 0:25:14I would say £425,000.
0:25:14 > 0:25:18I was going to say £430,000.
0:25:18 > 0:25:20It's above that. You're the closest,
0:25:20 > 0:25:26- but it is on the market for £445,000.- Right.
0:25:26 > 0:25:31- However, they are happy to negotiate.- Right.
0:25:31 > 0:25:35- OK.- Thank you. - See you in a little while.
0:25:35 > 0:25:40It is the most magnificent cottage, pristine inside,
0:25:40 > 0:25:45a fantastic garden, but is it their country retreat?
0:25:45 > 0:25:47I'm not so sure.
0:25:49 > 0:25:53Although over budget at £445,000,
0:25:53 > 0:25:55they could make an offer that reflects the fact
0:25:55 > 0:25:57they can move quickly.
0:25:57 > 0:26:01Our cottage with a modern twist offers them
0:26:01 > 0:26:03two good-sized reception rooms
0:26:03 > 0:26:04with space for an office,
0:26:04 > 0:26:06a kitchen-diner
0:26:06 > 0:26:09with that handy utility room for the dogs.
0:26:09 > 0:26:12Upstairs, they get the three bedrooms they asked for
0:26:12 > 0:26:14and, along with a double garage,
0:26:14 > 0:26:16the lovely gardens
0:26:16 > 0:26:17reach to half an acre.
0:26:17 > 0:26:19When we walked up to the door, I was shocked
0:26:19 > 0:26:22it was a thatched house, cos I thought Neil was going to hate it.
0:26:22 > 0:26:25When we got through the door and went into the living room,
0:26:25 > 0:26:28it had a real wow factor. It was lovely and light and bright.
0:26:28 > 0:26:30It's beautiful. It's such a beautiful house,
0:26:30 > 0:26:32you have to give it some serious thought.
0:26:32 > 0:26:35When I first saw the thatch roof, I thought, "Oh, my goodness,
0:26:35 > 0:26:36"what have they brought me to?"
0:26:36 > 0:26:40But once inside the property, I thought it was very,
0:26:40 > 0:26:42very well decorated.
0:26:42 > 0:26:46My main concern, I think, would be, could we put our own stamp on it?
0:26:48 > 0:26:52- All right, you two, have you seen enough?- Yes, thank you.- Good.
0:26:52 > 0:26:55- But have you enjoyed today? - We've had a great day, haven't we?
0:26:55 > 0:26:58I think we've seen two stunning houses and two different...
0:26:58 > 0:27:01Two different houses. We've got a lot to think about tonight.
0:27:01 > 0:27:03Good. All right, then, let's go.
0:27:16 > 0:27:18As evening falls over the Norfolk skyline,
0:27:18 > 0:27:22the first day of our house hunt draws to a close.
0:27:28 > 0:27:31With £425,000 in their pocket,
0:27:31 > 0:27:35newlywed journalists Neil and Justine want to escape
0:27:35 > 0:27:38Peterborough to seek out a more leisurely lifestyle
0:27:38 > 0:27:40in the North Norfolk countryside.
0:27:40 > 0:27:45We've gone on a charm offensive with our properties so far,
0:27:45 > 0:27:47and the farmhouse really seemed to light their fire.
0:27:47 > 0:27:52But coming up, our mystery property confounds their expectations.
0:27:52 > 0:27:55- We wouldn't probably have looked inside this place.- No.
0:27:55 > 0:27:58We'd think, "It looks amazing," but we wouldn't consider it for us.
0:27:58 > 0:28:00And I take to the waves
0:28:00 > 0:28:03and get close-up to Norfolk's native wildlife.
0:28:08 > 0:28:12Yesterday, I thought, went rather well.
0:28:12 > 0:28:14Now, the first house we showed Neil and Justine
0:28:14 > 0:28:16got an amazing reaction.
0:28:16 > 0:28:19So much so, I thought our search could be over.
0:28:19 > 0:28:23The second property they saw, well, Neil has always had
0:28:23 > 0:28:27reservations about thatch, but this house changed his mind.
0:28:27 > 0:28:31In fact, I think he liked it more than Justine did.
0:28:31 > 0:28:33Which leads us to our mystery house.
0:28:33 > 0:28:38Now, after the success of yesterday, this house has a lot to deliver,
0:28:38 > 0:28:41but it does give them character, quirkiness
0:28:41 > 0:28:46and it's in a location they may not have considered for themselves.
0:28:52 > 0:28:55Anything you're dying to see that you're really hoping
0:28:55 > 0:28:56I'm taking you to?
0:28:56 > 0:28:58- I'm not really...- Sure.
0:28:58 > 0:29:00..sure, really, what to expect,
0:29:00 > 0:29:06but one of my other pet hates is a converted chapel or church.
0:29:06 > 0:29:08So I probably think you might be
0:29:08 > 0:29:11sneaking another one in there as well.
0:29:13 > 0:29:16Well, Neil will have to wait and see.
0:29:16 > 0:29:18However, there is good news for both of them
0:29:18 > 0:29:19in that their favourite town
0:29:19 > 0:29:22of Holt is just five miles from our mystery house,
0:29:22 > 0:29:26which is situated in the village of Little Walsingham.
0:29:26 > 0:29:30Along with the necessary amenities, it's stunning 16th
0:29:30 > 0:29:33and 17th-century architecture harks back to the days
0:29:33 > 0:29:38when this was a place of pilgrimage and housed a monastery and friary.
0:29:38 > 0:29:41We know our house buyers love the countryside,
0:29:41 > 0:29:44but with our mystery property, we are taking a gamble, putting them
0:29:44 > 0:29:48right in the middle of the village, but I think it's well worth it.
0:29:48 > 0:29:53And this is your mystery house.
0:29:53 > 0:29:55- Is it?- Yep. The whole thing.
0:29:55 > 0:29:59- The whole thing? It's huge!- Yep. - It is huge, isn't it?- My gosh!
0:29:59 > 0:30:01- Late 16th century.- Right.
0:30:01 > 0:30:05- It is Grade-II listed.- Is it?- Yep. - I'm not surprised.
0:30:05 > 0:30:07Although it's got two front doors,
0:30:07 > 0:30:11- it is actually...- Oh, yes! - ..one property.
0:30:11 > 0:30:14I quite like the beams at the top of the building.
0:30:14 > 0:30:18- Tudor-looking, aren't they?- Yeah, exposed. It gives it character.
0:30:18 > 0:30:22'Well, they seem very taken with the exterior.
0:30:22 > 0:30:24'Let's see what they make of the inside.'
0:30:29 > 0:30:33Step inside a little piece of history.
0:30:33 > 0:30:36- What a beautiful entrance hall.- Have you noticed how high the beams are?
0:30:36 > 0:30:38Yes.
0:30:38 > 0:30:42So, it's thought that this was actually used for the public,
0:30:42 > 0:30:44this house, it wasn't a private residence.
0:30:44 > 0:30:46Normally, the beams would be a lot lower.
0:30:46 > 0:30:49They don't know what it was used for, it could have been a shop
0:30:49 > 0:30:51- or something like that around this time.- OK, yes.
0:30:51 > 0:30:54'And those high beams continue next door.'
0:30:54 > 0:30:58If we come through into the drawing room... From the road,
0:30:58 > 0:31:02this looks like a separate cottage, but this was one house.
0:31:02 > 0:31:06In the Victorian times, they separated it into two.
0:31:06 > 0:31:09And then it has been put back into its former glory.
0:31:09 > 0:31:12I like the fireplace, again. Again, another wood-burning stove.
0:31:12 > 0:31:14It's an inglenook. Yes, isn't it gorgeous?
0:31:14 > 0:31:17Look, there is a little alcove there for your sofa
0:31:17 > 0:31:20and lovely beams, again, in the ceiling.
0:31:20 > 0:31:23'Let's see if they love the kitchen as much.'
0:31:23 > 0:31:26And here is, I won't call it the modern extension, but it was done...
0:31:26 > 0:31:30- Oh, I see. - ..in the Victorian times.- Right.
0:31:30 > 0:31:32So you've got a nice big kitchen here.
0:31:32 > 0:31:36Just across the hallway is a utility room
0:31:36 > 0:31:39- and you've got a downstairs shower room.- Oh, good.- That is good.
0:31:39 > 0:31:41Before we move on, I've got to ask you,
0:31:41 > 0:31:44have you ever considered living in a house this old?
0:31:44 > 0:31:48- No. We wouldn't probably have looked inside this place.- No.
0:31:48 > 0:31:51We'd think, "It looks amazing," but we wouldn't have considered it.
0:31:51 > 0:31:53- But now, we sort of are.- Mmm.- Yeah.
0:31:53 > 0:31:57'Next door, a garden room gives them a third reception area.'
0:32:00 > 0:32:04- I particularly love this room. - It's beautiful, isn't it?
0:32:04 > 0:32:08- Look how light it is. - So, is it south-facing?- Yep.
0:32:08 > 0:32:12- That's south-facing. That's all your garden there.- Wow!
0:32:12 > 0:32:15- I'd love to use this as an office. - Yes, that's an idea!
0:32:15 > 0:32:17Work in here with the light.
0:32:17 > 0:32:19I hadn't thought of the office, but it'd be lovely.
0:32:19 > 0:32:23- Although it is really nice with a dining table in it as well.- True.
0:32:23 > 0:32:25Negotiations already.
0:32:25 > 0:32:29The downstairs of our mystery house has lots of living areas
0:32:29 > 0:32:30to play around with.
0:32:30 > 0:32:35Upstairs, they won't need to scrimp on bedrooms either.
0:32:39 > 0:32:41Come on through.
0:32:41 > 0:32:46So, you've got four double bedrooms in total, this being the master.
0:32:46 > 0:32:48Gosh, it's amazing, it's got little areas to it.
0:32:48 > 0:32:50It's fantastic, isn't it?
0:32:50 > 0:32:54- This one has the en suite. - Brilliant.- That's good, isn't it?
0:32:54 > 0:32:58- Yeah.- Oh, I like this feature here. - Yes, it's lovely, isn't it?
0:32:58 > 0:33:02- It sort of separates off a space. This could be a dressing area.- Yeah.
0:33:02 > 0:33:04It's these beams which I absolutely love.
0:33:04 > 0:33:06They do make the room, don't they?
0:33:06 > 0:33:09With three other double bedrooms,
0:33:09 > 0:33:13our mystery property gives one more than they asked for.
0:33:13 > 0:33:16And down a few steps is a huge family bathroom.
0:33:16 > 0:33:19Outside also gives them a range of outbuildings,
0:33:19 > 0:33:22one of which houses a ready-made office.
0:33:22 > 0:33:26The historic stonework used in the region is also an eye-catching
0:33:26 > 0:33:28feature of the garden.
0:33:28 > 0:33:32So, I can offer you your own walled garden.
0:33:32 > 0:33:34That's beautiful, isn't it?
0:33:34 > 0:33:36It's something I've always wanted because it's better,
0:33:36 > 0:33:38more substantial than a rickety old fence.
0:33:38 > 0:33:41- It is.- For the dogs especially, to keep them in.
0:33:41 > 0:33:44Yes. But it is also great for growing plants against.
0:33:44 > 0:33:46It's very sheltered. You can grow fruit trees,
0:33:46 > 0:33:47which we'd love to do.
0:33:47 > 0:33:53But how much is our mystery house on the market for?
0:33:53 > 0:33:54- Shall I go first?- Yes.
0:33:54 > 0:33:57But it's going to be a shot in the dark cos I've got no idea,
0:33:57 > 0:34:02but I think it's above our budget. So I would say £460,000.
0:34:02 > 0:34:07I'm going to say 445.
0:34:07 > 0:34:12Oh! I was going to say you're the closest, but you are very close.
0:34:12 > 0:34:16- The asking price is £450,000.- Right.
0:34:16 > 0:34:20I've spoken to the owner, they understand your budget is 425
0:34:20 > 0:34:24and they are happy to have a conversation with you.
0:34:24 > 0:34:27Right, excellent, OK. That's great.
0:34:27 > 0:34:29- Do you want another look at it? - Yes, we do.- Brilliant, off you go.
0:34:29 > 0:34:31- Thank you.- See you later.
0:34:32 > 0:34:36Although our mystery property
0:34:36 > 0:34:38is over budget at £450,000,
0:34:38 > 0:34:42the vendor is happy to discuss sensible offers.
0:34:42 > 0:34:45It's a beautifully preserved local gem,
0:34:45 > 0:34:47providing them with three reception rooms
0:34:47 > 0:34:50and four bedrooms with a master en suite.
0:34:50 > 0:34:52Outside, the outbuildings give them
0:34:52 > 0:34:54that all-important office,
0:34:54 > 0:34:56but it does throw down the gauntlet
0:34:56 > 0:34:58of living right in the heart of
0:34:58 > 0:34:59this historic village.
0:34:59 > 0:35:03I was pleasantly surprised when we came up to the building.
0:35:03 > 0:35:06It was an old property. I wasn't sure what to expect.
0:35:06 > 0:35:11I was very surprised at how I reacted to this type of house
0:35:11 > 0:35:13once I was inside.
0:35:13 > 0:35:16And then going into the garden, very pleasantly surprised.
0:35:16 > 0:35:19It certainly made me think about whether I could live
0:35:19 > 0:35:21in a property like this.
0:35:21 > 0:35:23I wasn't expecting to have a Tudor building.
0:35:23 > 0:35:25It's not something we ever would have considered before.
0:35:25 > 0:35:30Lots of room, lots of little nooks and crannies, lovely kitchen,
0:35:30 > 0:35:32probably a room to put our own stamp on it.
0:35:32 > 0:35:35I'm really confused now, because there's a couple
0:35:35 > 0:35:39of properties that I've really loved and it needs quite a lot of thought,
0:35:39 > 0:35:41I think, about what we're going to do next.
0:35:41 > 0:35:45Well, that's given you something to think about, hasn't it?
0:35:45 > 0:35:47- It certainly has. - A pleasant surprise?
0:35:47 > 0:35:49Yes, I think so, but it has got our minds whirring a bit.
0:35:49 > 0:35:51Let's take you somewhere quiet,
0:35:51 > 0:35:54you can gather your thoughts and then we'll have a chat.
0:35:54 > 0:35:55- OK, thanks.- Brilliant.
0:36:03 > 0:36:08The North Norfolk coast is home to a scattering of quiet seaside
0:36:08 > 0:36:12towns and historic little harbours, a fine example being Blakeney.
0:36:12 > 0:36:16Beyond the salt marshes and mud creeks that lead out to sea
0:36:16 > 0:36:19are the shores of Blakeney Point,
0:36:19 > 0:36:22now a nature reserve famed for its vast seal colony.
0:36:22 > 0:36:24Earlier in the week, I met up with Edward Stubbings
0:36:24 > 0:36:27from the National Trust to take a closer look
0:36:27 > 0:36:29at these fantastic creatures
0:36:29 > 0:36:32and find out a little bit more about what draws them
0:36:32 > 0:36:34to this protected part of Britain's coastline.
0:36:34 > 0:36:37What am I going to see today?
0:36:37 > 0:36:41There is the common seal and then there is the grey seal.
0:36:41 > 0:36:44And you get them in this area all year round, or just certain times
0:36:44 > 0:36:45of the year?
0:36:45 > 0:36:47Yeah, generally speaking, all year round.
0:36:47 > 0:36:50In the summer, you tend to get more common seals,
0:36:50 > 0:36:51when they're breeding.
0:36:51 > 0:36:54In the winter, you tend to get more grey seals, when they're breeding.
0:36:54 > 0:36:56Why is that?
0:36:56 > 0:37:00Um, well, the grey seals are a northern species
0:37:00 > 0:37:04and common seals came up from the south.
0:37:04 > 0:37:07So, there is something in that which gives them
0:37:07 > 0:37:10completely different breeding biologies.
0:37:11 > 0:37:14Taking one of the organised boat trips is the best way to ensure that
0:37:14 > 0:37:19wildlife isn't disturbed, and also to see the seals right up close.
0:37:21 > 0:37:25So, we've got a mixture up there of common and grey seals.
0:37:25 > 0:37:28When you said I was going to be lucky and see some seals,
0:37:28 > 0:37:32I didn't quite appreciate we'd see so many. Look at them!
0:37:32 > 0:37:34Yeah, and so close-up as well.
0:37:34 > 0:37:37- I mean...- They're coming towards us.
0:37:37 > 0:37:38We're not scaring them,
0:37:38 > 0:37:40it seems, in any way.
0:37:40 > 0:37:43They're inquisitive of the boat and the grey seals,
0:37:43 > 0:37:46the young grey seals in particular, will come up close to the boat.
0:37:46 > 0:37:48Look, he's coming over.
0:37:48 > 0:37:51I can't contain my excitement, this is amazing.
0:37:51 > 0:37:54You can see a couple of bull grey seals here,
0:37:54 > 0:37:55the ones with the huge noses.
0:37:55 > 0:37:59So, what sort of weight would the bull seals get up to?
0:37:59 > 0:38:02I think they are over 300kg.
0:38:02 > 0:38:05To spot the difference, grey seals have a straighter nose
0:38:05 > 0:38:07and less rounded head than the common seal.
0:38:07 > 0:38:11The name is misleading too, as among the 500 seals who
0:38:11 > 0:38:16bask on these sandbanks, it is the grey seal that are more numerous.
0:38:16 > 0:38:19As the boat turns, we catch sight of some youngsters.
0:38:19 > 0:38:22Are they pups I can see?
0:38:22 > 0:38:23Yeah, there's about three...
0:38:23 > 0:38:26very small still common seal pups,
0:38:26 > 0:38:28which will have been born
0:38:28 > 0:38:30during the summer.
0:38:30 > 0:38:31They tend to give birth to
0:38:31 > 0:38:35their pups a little bit further out
0:38:35 > 0:38:36towards the Wash over there.
0:38:36 > 0:38:40The common seals can actually give birth into shallow water.
0:38:40 > 0:38:43They're a bit more water-based, if you like, then the grey seals,
0:38:43 > 0:38:46which need to come up onto dry land to give birth.
0:38:47 > 0:38:50Time to leave these glorious seals and the beautiful
0:38:50 > 0:38:55Norfolk coast behind, as we head inland to find out how we've got on.
0:38:59 > 0:39:02What a fantastic boat trip!
0:39:02 > 0:39:08To be able to get so close to those seals, a truly memorable experience.
0:39:08 > 0:39:13So that's it, our house hunt here in Norfolk is over.
0:39:13 > 0:39:17And by the sounds of it, our mystery property may have worked its magic
0:39:17 > 0:39:22once again. Certainly, Justine and Neil seemed rather taken with it.
0:39:22 > 0:39:26But how does that house compare to the two we showed them yesterday?
0:39:26 > 0:39:28Let's find out.
0:39:32 > 0:39:34Well, Neil and Justine,
0:39:34 > 0:39:38being expert journalists writing about country issues
0:39:38 > 0:39:41and lifestyles, do we get a good review?
0:39:41 > 0:39:44That's my question. Us here, in Norfolk.
0:39:44 > 0:39:47- Oh, I think you do. Definitely a bestseller.- Yeah?
0:39:47 > 0:39:49- Ten out of ten for me.- Fantastic!
0:39:49 > 0:39:53Let's start with our very first property.
0:39:53 > 0:39:58From the outside, it had an amazing curbside appeal, I thought.
0:39:58 > 0:40:00As soon as you walked through the gate,
0:40:00 > 0:40:03it was just an amazing property, wasn't it?
0:40:03 > 0:40:05Lots of character. Lots of character, wasn't there?
0:40:05 > 0:40:08As soon as you walked in the door, the entranceway, you go,
0:40:08 > 0:40:10"Oh, wow, this is amazing."
0:40:10 > 0:40:15Big utility, big living room, the fireplaces, and I loved the kitchen.
0:40:15 > 0:40:18- So, we really left that property on a high, didn't we?- Yes.
0:40:18 > 0:40:20All three of us were very excited about it.
0:40:20 > 0:40:24So our second property, that was the thatch.
0:40:24 > 0:40:26- It was cheeky. - It was very, very cheeky.
0:40:26 > 0:40:31So, yes, it was going to challenge me to like that from the outset,
0:40:31 > 0:40:35but it was very picture postcard and it looked very inviting.
0:40:35 > 0:40:39And the style really wasn't my own, and I hope that wasn't just
0:40:39 > 0:40:41because of the decor.
0:40:41 > 0:40:44I hope I could look past it, but I couldn't quite see myself there...
0:40:44 > 0:40:47- No.- ..or us making our own sort of mark on it.
0:40:47 > 0:40:49Although it is very beautiful,
0:40:49 > 0:40:52it didn't have the character that you both craved.
0:40:52 > 0:40:56- So we took you to our mystery house. - Yes.
0:40:56 > 0:40:58That was a bit of a shock, wasn't it?
0:40:58 > 0:41:04My concern was, before he went in, was that it's dark and cold,
0:41:04 > 0:41:07some things we don't want.
0:41:07 > 0:41:09But when we went inside,
0:41:09 > 0:41:12they disappeared straightaway, those fears.
0:41:12 > 0:41:15I think it's got a warm feeling to it, and it is light and airy
0:41:15 > 0:41:16in places, isn't it?
0:41:16 > 0:41:20- The living room is fantastic. It's so cosy and warm.- It was.
0:41:20 > 0:41:23- And it had a studio outside. - That was fantastic.
0:41:23 > 0:41:25Having the office outside, to be able to shut the door, go back in
0:41:25 > 0:41:28your house, just a few steps away, that's surely everybody's dream.
0:41:28 > 0:41:33- It is. So the first house you'll buy together is the next one.- Yes.
0:41:33 > 0:41:36Is it one of our three? That's what I want to find out.
0:41:36 > 0:41:39Well, we've got a bit of a surprise for you, actually.
0:41:39 > 0:41:43- We're going to see house number one on our way home tonight.- Fantastic!
0:41:43 > 0:41:45I think we're very excited
0:41:45 > 0:41:47and a little emotional about the whole thing.
0:41:47 > 0:41:50- Yes.- And that number one property just did it for us.
0:41:50 > 0:41:52- It blew us away.- Yes, it did.
0:41:52 > 0:41:56Thanks very much for finding it and taking us on this wonderful
0:41:56 > 0:41:59- journey. It's been a remarkable year for us, hasn't it?- Yes.
0:41:59 > 0:42:01Here I am getting emotional again.
0:42:01 > 0:42:05- Oh, that's nice, though. Emotional in a good way.- Yes.
0:42:05 > 0:42:07Oh, my goodness, I so hope you get it.
0:42:07 > 0:42:09Well, I won't say congratulations yet,
0:42:09 > 0:42:12but we will be keeping our fingers crossed.
0:42:12 > 0:42:14And if we have found you the house of your dreams, well,
0:42:14 > 0:42:15the best news ever.
0:42:15 > 0:42:18- Thank you.- Thank you. - Thank you, Nicki.
0:42:22 > 0:42:25Well, that sounds like success.
0:42:25 > 0:42:30Having decided to move to North Norfolk only a few months ago,
0:42:30 > 0:42:34after having an amazing holiday here, according to Neil and Justine,
0:42:34 > 0:42:39we may have found them their first future home together.
0:42:39 > 0:42:42Now, the property they fell in love with had the perfect blend
0:42:42 > 0:42:47of character and warmth, surrounded by beautiful countryside.
0:42:47 > 0:42:52Surely the perfect setting for two journalists working from home?
0:42:52 > 0:42:54We wish them both all the best.
0:42:54 > 0:42:56See you next time.
0:42:58 > 0:43:02Neil and Justine did make an offer on our first property,
0:43:02 > 0:43:03which happily was accepted.
0:43:03 > 0:43:07So, fingers crossed, they should be moving in the near future.
0:43:08 > 0:43:10If you'd like to escape to the country
0:43:10 > 0:43:14in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland or England and need our help,
0:43:14 > 0:43:16please apply online at...
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