North Norfolk

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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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