0:00:02 > 0:00:05"I found brick and left marble" - so said the playboy heir responsible
0:00:05 > 0:00:09for giving this magnificent building the makeover of all makeovers.
0:00:09 > 0:00:13Back in 1835, the same fella commissioned the eminent architect
0:00:13 > 0:00:16best known for rebuilding the Houses of Parliament
0:00:16 > 0:00:20to redesign this place into a Venetian Renaissance palazzo.
0:00:20 > 0:00:24Who was the playboy and in what county did he live? Find out in a while.
0:00:52 > 0:00:56'On today's show, I'm helping a soon-to-be retired couple
0:00:56 > 0:01:00'seek out a country retreat within easy reach of the coast,'
0:01:00 > 0:01:03and they're simply blown away by one of our properties.
0:01:03 > 0:01:06- Wow. That's priceless, isn't it? - It is stunning.
0:01:06 > 0:01:09But then the mystery house causes a stir.
0:01:09 > 0:01:12- Wow. I think I'm moving in.- Ooh!
0:01:15 > 0:01:19Today, I'm in Dorset, and behind me is the Kingston Lacy.
0:01:19 > 0:01:22It was built by the Bankes family back in 1663.
0:01:22 > 0:01:24Now, the original house was a simple
0:01:24 > 0:01:27rectangular brick affair, neither fussy nor grand.
0:01:27 > 0:01:32But that wasn't to the taste of one illustrious family member and playboy, William John Bankes.
0:01:32 > 0:01:36Artistic, adventurous, charming, William John was a close friend
0:01:36 > 0:01:40of Lord Byron, who summed Bankes up as "the father of all mischief".
0:01:40 > 0:01:42That's something, coming from Byron.
0:01:42 > 0:01:46He was a pioneering explorer, and I'm sure that his extensive travels
0:01:46 > 0:01:49really did help redesign the family home.
0:01:49 > 0:01:52Rather like what he did with the place.
0:01:52 > 0:01:55Located in the south-west of England,
0:01:55 > 0:01:58Dorset's southern border sits on the English Channel,
0:01:58 > 0:02:04while inland, it's surrounded by four counties including Hampshire, Wiltshire and Somerset.
0:02:04 > 0:02:07The county's 95-mile coastline has many attractions.
0:02:07 > 0:02:10There's the picturesque harbour at Weymouth,
0:02:10 > 0:02:15the 18-mile stretch of shingle and stone beach at Chesil,
0:02:15 > 0:02:20and amazing monoliths like the limestone arch of Durdle Door near Lulworth.
0:02:20 > 0:02:24Dorset is also a county that has captured the imagination
0:02:24 > 0:02:27of some of Britain's most famous authors.
0:02:27 > 0:02:30The county town of Dorchester on the banks of the River Frome was
0:02:30 > 0:02:33the inspiration for Thomas Hardy's fictional town of Casterbridge,
0:02:33 > 0:02:36whilst the Blackmore Vale, a large expanse of lush,
0:02:36 > 0:02:40low-lying land predominantly used for dairy farming,
0:02:40 > 0:02:45is the opening backdrop for his novel Tess Of The d'Urbervilles.
0:02:45 > 0:02:49Dorset is one of the few counties in England that doesn't have a single motorway.
0:02:49 > 0:02:54Now, usually, I'd be telling you that the lack of good road links equates to cheaper housing stock,
0:02:54 > 0:02:57but, you know, to every rule there is an exception,
0:02:57 > 0:02:59and in this case the exception is Dorset.
0:02:59 > 0:03:02Despite or because of the lack of motorways,
0:03:02 > 0:03:04I can tell you that an average detached property here
0:03:04 > 0:03:08costs you just over £314,000.
0:03:08 > 0:03:13That's almost 25% above national average in England and Wales.
0:03:13 > 0:03:15But if you ask those who choose to live here,
0:03:15 > 0:03:18surrounded by these gorgeous views and lovely properties,
0:03:18 > 0:03:20they'll tell you it's priceless.
0:03:20 > 0:03:25Here's what's currently on the market in and around the area.
0:03:25 > 0:03:29This three-bedroom rendered and thatched cottage in Milton Abbas
0:03:29 > 0:03:32could be yours for £330,000.
0:03:32 > 0:03:35With traditional features such as a brick fireplace
0:03:35 > 0:03:38and exposed timbers in the sitting room,
0:03:38 > 0:03:43it also has a smart modern kitchen and a secluded terrace garden.
0:03:44 > 0:03:48For just a shade under £460,000,
0:03:48 > 0:03:53there is this three-bedroom 16th century thatched cottage in Whitechurch.
0:03:53 > 0:03:56Full of charm and character, it has a wealth of exposed beams
0:03:56 > 0:04:00and an inglenook fireplace in the sitting room.
0:04:00 > 0:04:04And if you can stretch to the heights of almost £900,000,
0:04:04 > 0:04:07you could buy this five-bedroom house in Cosmore.
0:04:07 > 0:04:10Dating back to the 19th century and originally two cottages,
0:04:10 > 0:04:16it comes with five acres of land and stunning countryside views.
0:04:16 > 0:04:21Time to meet today's buyers, who are eager to make the move here to Dorset.
0:04:21 > 0:04:26Sales manager Pete and office manager Maz met on a blind date
0:04:26 > 0:04:29and got married in New York just over four years ago.
0:04:29 > 0:04:34They currently live in a four-bedroom house in the busy Buckinghamshire town of Amersham,
0:04:34 > 0:04:37but yearn for the quiet life in the countryside.
0:04:37 > 0:04:40We've been considering moving for a couple of years now.
0:04:40 > 0:04:43We think it would be great, really, now, to get out into the countryside.
0:04:43 > 0:04:46We're looking towards the next phase of our lives,
0:04:46 > 0:04:48looking at retirement, and it'd be nice to plan ahead.
0:04:48 > 0:04:52I work from home, so I can work anywhere in the UK.
0:04:52 > 0:04:54So, it doesn't have to be so close to London,
0:04:54 > 0:04:59doesn't have to be so close to the motorway network, so it's a good time for us both.
0:04:59 > 0:05:04Pete and Maz have a definite idea about where they'd like to spend their leisure years.
0:05:04 > 0:05:06They've decided to head for the south-west coast.
0:05:06 > 0:05:10The location we're looking for is based on our beach hut down in Mudeford in Dorset.
0:05:10 > 0:05:14At the moment, we're two-and-a-half hours away and it takes forever to get there,
0:05:14 > 0:05:15so it'd be lovely to be a lot closer.
0:05:15 > 0:05:18And they have plenty of plans on how to make use
0:05:18 > 0:05:21of all the extra time they'll have on their hands.
0:05:21 > 0:05:23We love fishing when we're down at the hut.
0:05:23 > 0:05:27We both enjoy that, we go out, we're quite competitive about it as well.
0:05:27 > 0:05:29We are, yes, we have a competition all through the summer.
0:05:29 > 0:05:32We have to see who can catch the most sea bass
0:05:32 > 0:05:35and the loser has to take the other one out to a nice fish restaurant.
0:05:35 > 0:05:38And we barbecue them fresh on the beach.
0:05:38 > 0:05:40I fancy getting a slightly bigger boat,
0:05:40 > 0:05:43a small yacht, and getting into deep-sea fishing. That's the plan.
0:05:43 > 0:05:47We're keen on golf, that's one of our hobbies, so we're looking for somewhere
0:05:47 > 0:05:49that's got reasonable access to a good golf course.
0:05:49 > 0:05:53I'd like to go back to learning the piano,
0:05:53 > 0:05:58and also start to grow vegetables in the garden. That would be great.
0:05:58 > 0:06:01Well, that's the hobbies taken care of,
0:06:01 > 0:06:05but of course the real prize is picking the right type of property.
0:06:05 > 0:06:08We're looking for a house, three-four bedrooms, detached house,
0:06:08 > 0:06:13open-plan living downstairs, ensuite bathroom or two,
0:06:13 > 0:06:16decent-size garden...
0:06:16 > 0:06:20I would like a large cooker, not necessarily a range,
0:06:20 > 0:06:23as long as it's, you know, quite a big cooker.
0:06:23 > 0:06:26- Cos cooking's one of your hobbies... - It is. I love cooking.
0:06:26 > 0:06:29That's why we want a nice kitchen, open-plan, so that you can indulge.
0:06:29 > 0:06:34- More sociable.- And eating is one of my hobbies, so... - Perfect pair, aren't we?
0:06:34 > 0:06:37Sounds like Pete is a man after my own heart.
0:06:37 > 0:06:40Only one thing left - that's the finances.
0:06:40 > 0:06:45I think our top end for the next property is in the region of £550,000.
0:06:53 > 0:06:57Pete and Maz would like to be within 45 minutes of their beach hut
0:06:57 > 0:07:01at Mudeford, situated at the entrance to Christchurch Harbour.
0:07:01 > 0:07:04We've got a superb selection of properties to show them,
0:07:04 > 0:07:08but I won't reveal the price of each until they've had a guess first.
0:07:08 > 0:07:10And then of course, there's our mystery house,
0:07:10 > 0:07:15which will force them to consider sharing their future with more than just each other.
0:07:15 > 0:07:20- Pete, how are you? Nice to see you. - Delighted you to meet you.- Maz. - Hello, nice to meet you.
0:07:20 > 0:07:24I feel a bit odd saying welcome to Dorset, cos you're here all the time, aren't you?
0:07:24 > 0:07:26- Yes, pretty much. - Yeah, we come here a lot.
0:07:26 > 0:07:29We've got a beach hut and we're here every other weekend in the summer.
0:07:29 > 0:07:31So the beach hut is the focus of our search?
0:07:31 > 0:07:34It's quite important. We want to be much nearer to the hut.
0:07:34 > 0:07:36How close to the hut do you want to be?
0:07:36 > 0:07:41Well, ideally, about half-an-hour to 45 minutes away.
0:07:41 > 0:07:44Let's have a top budget. What's it going to be?
0:07:44 > 0:07:48For the right property, we could go a bit higher, we might stretch as far as £600,000.
0:07:48 > 0:07:52- So Maz persuaded you, then?- Yes.- For the right property, dig a bit deeper.
0:07:52 > 0:07:55If it ticks all the boxes, then we would go to our maximum.
0:07:55 > 0:07:57Well, as is the norm, we've got two houses to show you
0:07:57 > 0:08:00and then the mystery house, which, who knows what will happen!
0:08:00 > 0:08:02Come on, follow me. Let's go.
0:08:04 > 0:08:11So, Pete and Maz's budget has gone up to a maximum of £600,000 for their ideal house.
0:08:11 > 0:08:12For that, they'd like...
0:08:19 > 0:08:23..office space for Pete to work from home, room for Maz's piano,
0:08:23 > 0:08:26and a big garden to grow veg and store a boat.
0:08:31 > 0:08:33We've travelled 10 miles north to Poole Harbour,
0:08:33 > 0:08:36which is close to the market town of Wimborne Minster,
0:08:36 > 0:08:40the nearest place for amenities such as pubs and supermarkets.
0:08:40 > 0:08:44It's also home to a Norman church from which the town gets its name.
0:08:44 > 0:08:48Our first property is situated in the hamlet of Ashington,
0:08:48 > 0:08:52around a 14-mile drive from Pete and Maz's beach hut in Mudeford.
0:08:52 > 0:08:55This was basically built in 1938.
0:08:55 > 0:08:59Lots of space, it was extended in the '80s, and again in the '90s.
0:08:59 > 0:09:02- It's lovely. Really beautiful. - It looks lovely from the outside.
0:09:02 > 0:09:06- It does.- Lovely part of the world. - Really like it.- Beautiful road outside, nice quiet road.
0:09:06 > 0:09:08- So it's not too rural? - No, it's perfect.- Beautiful.
0:09:08 > 0:09:12So, we've hit the mark with their first impressions of this property.
0:09:12 > 0:09:16Time to go inside and see if we can keep up the momentum.
0:09:16 > 0:09:21You get two doors for the price of one. Come on in, close the door.
0:09:21 > 0:09:25So this is your hallway. You've got oak floor throughout, downstairs.
0:09:25 > 0:09:28- Really lovely.- You'll love that. - I do.- You love your wooden floors. - I do, yeah.
0:09:28 > 0:09:31- Why are your eyes drawn to that room?- There's a piano.
0:09:31 > 0:09:33- There is a piano. It's a music room! Already.- I know.
0:09:33 > 0:09:37They've got a baby grand in there, drums, so, you know, plenty of room for your instruments.
0:09:37 > 0:09:39- Great.- I like that a lot.- Fantastic.
0:09:39 > 0:09:43Let's go to the living room. You probably spend more time there. You can't hold her back!
0:09:44 > 0:09:49- Oh, this is nice.- Very bright. - It is, isn't it?- It's a good size.
0:09:49 > 0:09:51- I really like it.- Again, the floors, lovely.- Fantastic.
0:09:51 > 0:09:54- I like the fireplace. Is that a real fire?- It is, working fireplace.
0:09:54 > 0:09:58- Yeah, we like a real fire, that's good.- That's good. - Lovely views onto the garden.
0:09:58 > 0:10:00- It's great.- I like that a lot, yes. - Fantastic.
0:10:00 > 0:10:02Well, they seem happy with this room,
0:10:02 > 0:10:05but Maz's priority is having a sociable kitchen-diner,
0:10:05 > 0:10:09so we'll head that way now to see what this house has to offer.
0:10:09 > 0:10:12- I like the continuation of the floor, don't you?- It's lovely.
0:10:12 > 0:10:16Dining room they've got here, at the moment. Leading to the kitchen.
0:10:18 > 0:10:20- I like.- Do you?- It's a nice size.
0:10:20 > 0:10:23- You were panicked about the kitchen, weren't you?- I was, I was.
0:10:23 > 0:10:25- No, that is a good size, isn't it? - It is.- I like the units.
0:10:25 > 0:10:27It all follows through beautifully.
0:10:27 > 0:10:30- And if you want to pop your head in there.- OK.
0:10:30 > 0:10:31Just pull it.
0:10:33 > 0:10:35- Oh, wow. - PETE LAUGHS
0:10:35 > 0:10:36Yes, you like that, don't you?
0:10:36 > 0:10:38You always talked about having something like that.
0:10:38 > 0:10:41- That's brilliant.- Isn't it just? - Really fantastic.
0:10:41 > 0:10:44So, guys, you've seen downstairs, more or less. What do you reckon?
0:10:44 > 0:10:46- Yeah, I like it.- Can you imagine yourself living here?- Hmm.
0:10:46 > 0:10:49I always think you get an impression very quickly with a house
0:10:49 > 0:10:51and it feels quite good, it feels quite warm.
0:10:51 > 0:10:56'Great responses so far, but can the upstairs impress as much?
0:10:56 > 0:10:59'Well, let's see. Off the light landing area
0:10:59 > 0:11:01'there are three very good-sized double bedrooms,
0:11:01 > 0:11:04'one with more of that lovely wooden flooring.
0:11:04 > 0:11:07'There's also a wonderfully bright and spacious family bathroom,
0:11:07 > 0:11:11'but we're heading for the fourth and largest of the bedrooms.'
0:11:11 > 0:11:14And this is the master currently.
0:11:14 > 0:11:17- This is a good size. - Good size, nice, light windows.
0:11:17 > 0:11:20- Is it big enough for you? - Yeah, I think it could be.- Um...
0:11:20 > 0:11:23"Um"! That "um" was...
0:11:23 > 0:11:24I'm not seeing an ensuite.
0:11:25 > 0:11:28Oh, no, you're not. You wanted an ensuite.
0:11:28 > 0:11:30Well, you've got loads of storage. Come with me.
0:11:30 > 0:11:32You've got, you know, big storage here,
0:11:32 > 0:11:35- and then you've got this interesting storage here.- Oh, wow.
0:11:35 > 0:11:37- Oh, that's fantastic.- You wanted an ensuite, we give you an ensuite.
0:11:37 > 0:11:40That's good. That's well-hidden, isn't it?
0:11:40 > 0:11:43- I must admit, you had me fooled, there.- That's good, isn't it?- Yeah.
0:11:43 > 0:11:46- It is good.- Well, come on out.
0:11:46 > 0:11:48That's made me happy.
0:11:48 > 0:11:51That's made you happy? I like that, Maz.
0:11:51 > 0:11:53Would I not like it if you're not happy?
0:11:53 > 0:11:56Mm, probably not. So, that works.
0:11:56 > 0:11:58That works, yeah.
0:11:58 > 0:12:01And talking of work, we haven't forgotten
0:12:01 > 0:12:02that Pete was after a study.
0:12:02 > 0:12:05Up on the second floor there's a dual-aspect office room
0:12:05 > 0:12:08that should suit him, along with another bedroom,
0:12:08 > 0:12:10making five in total.
0:12:10 > 0:12:13Outside, there's enough parking space for a boat or two,
0:12:13 > 0:12:16and if they prefer to use that upstairs office space
0:12:16 > 0:12:18for additional guests,
0:12:18 > 0:12:20there's an alternative study area in the garage.
0:12:22 > 0:12:24Garden-wise, there's an expansive, beautifully maintained lawn,
0:12:24 > 0:12:26a greenhouse and a large,
0:12:26 > 0:12:29timber-built and fully insulated summerhouse.
0:12:29 > 0:12:33All in all, it's a huge amount of space for work and play.
0:12:33 > 0:12:35You get the basic layout now, don't you?
0:12:35 > 0:12:39Those were the doors that opened into your living room and kitchen.
0:12:39 > 0:12:41Yeah. This lawn looks good enough to pass on as well.
0:12:41 > 0:12:44That's well looked-after. A little sun house, yeah.
0:12:44 > 0:12:46We love to dine outside
0:12:46 > 0:12:49and so this garden faces exactly the right way, and that's beautiful.
0:12:49 > 0:12:51- It's good for that. - You get the sun, probably,
0:12:51 > 0:12:53- through the trees there. - And the greenhouse as well
0:12:53 > 0:12:55if you wanted to grow your own veg or whatever.
0:12:55 > 0:12:58- That's one of your targets, isn't it? - Yes, yes, vegetable plot.
0:12:58 > 0:13:01Not quite sure where I'd put that, but I'm sure there's enough space.
0:13:01 > 0:13:04OK, all this comes at a price, of course.
0:13:04 > 0:13:09- So, shall we talk money? - OK. I think this is about...
0:13:09 > 0:13:12525,000.
0:13:12 > 0:13:16£525,000, OK. How about you?
0:13:16 > 0:13:20- I'd go a bit higher, I must admit. I'd go 550, 560, I think.- OK.
0:13:20 > 0:13:22560,000. You're closer.
0:13:22 > 0:13:25- Ah.- It's the top end of your budget.
0:13:25 > 0:13:29- This is 595 - £595,000.- Wow.
0:13:29 > 0:13:30But, you know, you're in a great area.
0:13:30 > 0:13:34- You're getting a lot.- It is a lovely area.- It's basically five bedrooms
0:13:34 > 0:13:37- with an office outside as well and some outbuildings.- That's true.
0:13:37 > 0:13:38Well, go and have a look round.
0:13:38 > 0:13:41Have a look at the outhouses and I'll be in the music room.
0:13:41 > 0:13:44- OK. We'll see you there. - Yeah, what a cliche.
0:13:46 > 0:13:47That went well, didn't it?
0:13:47 > 0:13:49They seems to be saying all the right things.
0:13:49 > 0:13:52As they said, it's ticking, well, all of their boxes.
0:13:52 > 0:13:53Have they moved in already?
0:13:53 > 0:13:55Have the couple who met on a blind date
0:13:55 > 0:13:58just had their eyes opened to this lovely little gem?
0:13:58 > 0:14:00We'll find out.
0:14:00 > 0:14:04So, near their maximum budget at £595,000,
0:14:04 > 0:14:08this property more than delivers on the list of demands.
0:14:08 > 0:14:12It has five bedrooms, one with a discreet little ensuite bathroom,
0:14:12 > 0:14:17a choice of office space for Pete, a kitchen-diner with range cooker,
0:14:17 > 0:14:21a music room for Maz's piano and outside there's room to park a boat
0:14:21 > 0:14:24and there's a garden with potential for a vegetable plot.
0:14:24 > 0:14:30When I first arrived at this house, I thought the outside looked lovely,
0:14:30 > 0:14:33and inside the kitchen is very nice
0:14:33 > 0:14:37and the open plan into the dining area works well,
0:14:37 > 0:14:40and the biggest surprise was the ensuite bathroom
0:14:40 > 0:14:42to the master bedroom.
0:14:42 > 0:14:45I really wasn't expecting that - I didn't think there was one,
0:14:45 > 0:14:48so that's great. I think it's a contender.
0:14:48 > 0:14:51I really do like this house, it's got a lovely feel about it.
0:14:51 > 0:14:54We have a list of criteria we're looking for
0:14:54 > 0:14:57and this house fulfils an awful lot of those criteria.
0:14:57 > 0:15:00We wanted enough bedrooms for all our family to come and stay,
0:15:00 > 0:15:03it has that. We wanted somewhere where I could work from home,
0:15:03 > 0:15:04it certainly has that.
0:15:04 > 0:15:08We wanted ample parking and perhaps somewhere to keep a boat or two,
0:15:08 > 0:15:11and it certainly has that, so, yes, there's an awful lot going for it.
0:15:20 > 0:15:24On the Dorset coast, sandwiched between the River Avon
0:15:24 > 0:15:27and the River Stour sits the town of Christchurch,
0:15:27 > 0:15:31just two miles from Mudeford and our buyers' beach hut.
0:15:31 > 0:15:34It's packed with more than 200 listed buildings,
0:15:34 > 0:15:37including the grade one-listed Christchurch Priory
0:15:37 > 0:15:40and the ruins of Christchurch Castle,
0:15:40 > 0:15:43which include the stone-built constable's house.
0:15:43 > 0:15:46On the outskirts of the town sits another grade one-listed building -
0:15:46 > 0:15:49Highcliffe Castle, built in Gothic revival style
0:15:49 > 0:15:52in the 19th century for the Stuart family.
0:15:52 > 0:15:54The design by William Donthorne,
0:15:54 > 0:15:58a founder member of the Royal Institute of British Architects,
0:15:58 > 0:16:01incorporates large quantities of carved, medieval stonework
0:16:01 > 0:16:05salvaged from a Norman Benedictine abbey in northern France.
0:16:05 > 0:16:08Pete and Maz are here to meet Ian Stevenson,
0:16:08 > 0:16:11a local historian, to find out more.
0:16:11 > 0:16:14- Hello, Maz.- Hello. - Hello, Pete.- Hello.
0:16:14 > 0:16:17I'm Ian Stevenson, I'm the volunteer historian at the castle,
0:16:17 > 0:16:21and welcome to this amazing place, which I hope might be
0:16:21 > 0:16:25somewhere that you'll come again if you move into our area.
0:16:25 > 0:16:27What you're looking at here -
0:16:27 > 0:16:29and this is a wonderful model of it -
0:16:29 > 0:16:33is probably the most important surviving example
0:16:33 > 0:16:37of the Renaissance picturesque style of architecture.
0:16:37 > 0:16:42The castle looks very old, but in fact it was built in 1835.
0:16:42 > 0:16:45The man who built it, Lord Stuart de Rothesay,
0:16:45 > 0:16:48had been ambassador in Paris.
0:16:48 > 0:16:51Now, the reason he built here was that his grandfather,
0:16:51 > 0:16:53the Earl of Bute,
0:16:53 > 0:16:55who'd been Prime Minister under George III very briefly,
0:16:55 > 0:17:01had had a house here, and that, eventually, was demolished
0:17:01 > 0:17:03and he'd determined as a young boy
0:17:03 > 0:17:07that one day he'd build on the cliff top like his grandfather,
0:17:07 > 0:17:09and that's indeed what he did.
0:17:09 > 0:17:13The castle stayed in the Stuart family until 1950
0:17:13 > 0:17:16before going through the hands of a number of owners.
0:17:16 > 0:17:20In the '60s, disaster struck when it was ravaged by two fires,
0:17:20 > 0:17:24but in 1977, pressure from local campaigners
0:17:24 > 0:17:26helped turn its fortunes around
0:17:26 > 0:17:29and the castle was eventually bought by Christchurch Council.
0:17:29 > 0:17:33Since then, with some much-needed support from English Heritage
0:17:33 > 0:17:37and the lottery fund, it's been restored to its former glory.
0:17:37 > 0:17:40One of the attractions that actually survived the fire
0:17:40 > 0:17:43is this 30ft-high window in the great hall.
0:17:43 > 0:17:45Fortuitously, it had been taken away
0:17:45 > 0:17:48by stained-glass specialists for repair.
0:17:48 > 0:17:50With the assistance of tour guide Joan Stones,
0:17:50 > 0:17:53Pete and Maz are about to take a look
0:17:53 > 0:17:56at what was once the hub of the house - the Victorian kitchen.
0:17:56 > 0:17:59- Here we are.- Oh, wow.
0:17:59 > 0:18:02This kitchen was a double-height room,
0:18:02 > 0:18:06so the ceiling was up there where those girders are
0:18:06 > 0:18:08and there would have been bedrooms above that.
0:18:08 > 0:18:12One famous visitor that came here was the Kaiser - Kaiser Wilhelm -
0:18:12 > 0:18:15and he didn't like the food that the local cook was cooking for him
0:18:15 > 0:18:17and he wouldn't eat it,
0:18:17 > 0:18:21so his cousin, Edward VII, promised that he would send
0:18:21 > 0:18:25one of his favourite chefs down from London.
0:18:25 > 0:18:27Her name was Rosa Lewis.
0:18:27 > 0:18:29When she was here, it was suggested to her
0:18:29 > 0:18:34that she was not only one of the king's favourite chefs,
0:18:34 > 0:18:37she was also one of his mistresses
0:18:37 > 0:18:42and she never denied this, so we can presume that she probably was.
0:18:42 > 0:18:45The appearance of the castle is testimony to the remarkable skills
0:18:45 > 0:18:48of craftsmen and women who have carried out
0:18:48 > 0:18:51a huge repair and conservation programme,
0:18:51 > 0:18:54turning it into a top local tourist attraction
0:18:54 > 0:18:57as well as Dorset's most popular wedding venue,
0:18:57 > 0:19:00but for now, we are returning back to our house hunt to see if we find
0:19:00 > 0:19:04a slightly smaller, but equally glorious home for our buyers.
0:19:09 > 0:19:12We've travelled 28 miles from Mudeford,
0:19:12 > 0:19:14close to the picturesque village of Corfe.
0:19:14 > 0:19:17With the majority of its buildings
0:19:17 > 0:19:19constructed from the local Purbeck limestone,
0:19:19 > 0:19:22it's best known for its 11th-century castle.
0:19:22 > 0:19:25Around a mile south of here is our second property,
0:19:25 > 0:19:27which is in the small village of Kingston.
0:19:27 > 0:19:30It's one of two adjoining buildings on this plot,
0:19:30 > 0:19:33the other being a chapel conversion.
0:19:33 > 0:19:35Basically, the chapel bit's 19th century,
0:19:35 > 0:19:38but the bit that you would own would be 16th century.
0:19:38 > 0:19:41It blends so well, you wouldn't know they were 300 years apart.
0:19:41 > 0:19:42You wouldn't, would you?
0:19:42 > 0:19:45Everything inside is done absolutely beautifully as well.
0:19:45 > 0:19:48How do you feel about being semi-detached?
0:19:48 > 0:19:51It wasn't part of our ideal, I must admit,
0:19:51 > 0:19:53but it's not TOO semi-detached really, is it?
0:19:53 > 0:19:55Really just linked together.
0:19:55 > 0:19:59Well, the current owners, basically, they're moving...here, next door.
0:19:59 > 0:20:02At the moment it's a holiday let, but that finishes in November,
0:20:02 > 0:20:04so if you didn't want to be semi-detached,
0:20:04 > 0:20:07this little porch bit you've got in between there -
0:20:07 > 0:20:09they'd just knock it down, so you would be detached.
0:20:09 > 0:20:14- OK.- That's better. I'm very keen to go inside.- Come on, let's go.
0:20:14 > 0:20:18So, with that semi-detached potential stumbling block
0:20:18 > 0:20:20out of the way, I'm hoping they'll be impressed
0:20:20 > 0:20:22by the wonderful period features
0:20:22 > 0:20:25and open-plan living inside this property.
0:20:25 > 0:20:27Come on in. Don't be shy.
0:20:27 > 0:20:31- Ooh. This is lovely. - "Ooh, this is lovely?" OK.
0:20:31 > 0:20:33- It's very cosy.- It is.
0:20:33 > 0:20:36I can imagine both of these rooms in the winter.
0:20:36 > 0:20:38- I bet they are lovely. - Look at that fireplace.
0:20:38 > 0:20:40- That's magnificent, isn't it?- I know.
0:20:40 > 0:20:42That's a log burner and you've got a multi-fuel burner as well.
0:20:42 > 0:20:46- Wow.- A fire each. - You wanted open-plan as well.
0:20:46 > 0:20:48It certainly is open-plan, I'll give you that.
0:20:48 > 0:20:49I think it's done beautifully,
0:20:49 > 0:20:53and one thing that hits you straightaway is the floor -
0:20:53 > 0:20:54- there's wood everywhere.- Yes.
0:20:54 > 0:20:58It's all oak and the local craftsman has done it.
0:20:58 > 0:21:01It's a really lovely. It's gorgeous, so far.
0:21:01 > 0:21:03Gorgeous is a massive word.
0:21:03 > 0:21:06- Yes, it is.- I don't think you used gorgeous in the first property.
0:21:06 > 0:21:08No, I don't think I did.
0:21:08 > 0:21:10This has got a lot more "wow" factor.
0:21:10 > 0:21:14The living space is working wonders on Pete and Maz.
0:21:14 > 0:21:17Time to check out the very characterful kitchen
0:21:17 > 0:21:20and see if that holds the same appeal.
0:21:20 > 0:21:22Local flagstone flooring again.
0:21:22 > 0:21:24- Oh, lovely floor, isn't it? - Very nice.
0:21:24 > 0:21:26It almost looks like a very old-fashioned type of kitchen,
0:21:26 > 0:21:28yet modern conveniences are there.
0:21:28 > 0:21:32- I love the slate.- Yes, that's nice. - And, again, you've got the oak.
0:21:32 > 0:21:34- A lot of character. - It's very nice. It is.
0:21:34 > 0:21:36But, as you say, it's also that modern twist again.
0:21:36 > 0:21:39So is this a kitchen that you could, sort of, work in?
0:21:39 > 0:21:42I think so, but I'm not sure
0:21:42 > 0:21:45if it's open-plan enough with the lounge area.
0:21:45 > 0:21:48I mean, I like it so much
0:21:48 > 0:21:50from what I've seen of the house so far
0:21:50 > 0:21:53- and I think I'm wanting it to work. - Right.
0:21:53 > 0:21:56While it's not the absolute ideal setup for Maz,
0:21:56 > 0:22:00at least she's thinking about how this property might work as a home.
0:22:00 > 0:22:02A bit of compromise could be all it takes,
0:22:02 > 0:22:05but she'll have to remember that as we head upstairs.
0:22:05 > 0:22:08So you can go left and right. We'll go this way.
0:22:09 > 0:22:11Come in here.
0:22:11 > 0:22:14Basically, you've got two doubles and a single upstairs
0:22:14 > 0:22:17and a family bathroom and I'll tell you now, there isn't an ensuite.
0:22:17 > 0:22:20- OK.- But this is currently the master,
0:22:20 > 0:22:22and a blank canvas, really.
0:22:22 > 0:22:25- It certainly is.- It is, yeah.
0:22:25 > 0:22:28- What do you think?- Um...- Quirky.
0:22:28 > 0:22:31Yes, and the fact that it doesn't have an ensuite
0:22:31 > 0:22:35is a bit disappointing.
0:22:35 > 0:22:36We really do want that.
0:22:36 > 0:22:40You got a lovely family bathroom, again, beautifully done,
0:22:40 > 0:22:42and another bedroom a similar size to this -
0:22:42 > 0:22:47not as quirky, more of a square - and then you've got a single room,
0:22:47 > 0:22:49again, a good-sized single.
0:22:49 > 0:22:52And they're all bright, all with great views.
0:22:52 > 0:22:54- So, shall we head outside, then?- Yes, please.
0:22:54 > 0:22:57And I'll show you the garden. I think you'll like the garden.
0:22:57 > 0:22:59- Good.- It hasn't got an ensuite though.
0:22:59 > 0:23:02- SHE LAUGHS - No? Oh, dear.- It's got a few bushes.
0:23:02 > 0:23:06I'm hoping the lack of an ensuite isn't a deal-breaker for Maz,
0:23:06 > 0:23:08as this house has lots going for it.
0:23:08 > 0:23:11Outside, there's more than enough garden space for entertaining
0:23:11 > 0:23:13along with two outbuildings for storage and logs.
0:23:13 > 0:23:18I almost forgot - we've thrown in some spectacular scenery as well.
0:23:18 > 0:23:21Oh, fantastic view.
0:23:21 > 0:23:23- Isn't it just?- Gorgeous.
0:23:23 > 0:23:27If you like eating out, or even just sitting out looking at that view.
0:23:27 > 0:23:28- That's lovely.- And, as you can see,
0:23:28 > 0:23:30they've got a few tomatoes growing there -
0:23:30 > 0:23:32I know you wanted to grow your vegetables.
0:23:32 > 0:23:37But if you're thinking that's not big enough, come with me.
0:23:37 > 0:23:39Oh, right.
0:23:40 > 0:23:43For all Maz's vegetable-growing requirements,
0:23:43 > 0:23:46there's a whole separate patch of garden for her to get stuck into
0:23:46 > 0:23:49and it comes with yet more fantastic views
0:23:49 > 0:23:50of the surrounding countryside.
0:23:52 > 0:23:54- Oh, that's stunning. - That's magnificent.
0:23:54 > 0:23:56- Isn't it just?- It is.- What a view.
0:23:56 > 0:23:58See, this is the vegetable plot that's already there.
0:23:58 > 0:24:01- Yes, very nice. - You've come alive in the garden.
0:24:01 > 0:24:06I like the garden. I do. Well, look at that. How can you not like that?
0:24:06 > 0:24:09- That's priceless, isn't it? - Well, actually it costs some money
0:24:09 > 0:24:11so we should talk about money, shouldn't we, really?
0:24:11 > 0:24:14- I think it's the top of our budget. - I would agree with you.
0:24:14 > 0:24:16It's quite a special house.
0:24:16 > 0:24:20It certainly is, yes, I would imagine it's the top end. I would say 575.
0:24:20 > 0:24:25- I'd say 599. - Well, actually it costs £595,000.
0:24:25 > 0:24:27- I'm not surprised.- I'm not surprised. - It's a unique property.
0:24:27 > 0:24:32The million-dollar question is do you reckon it could be yours?
0:24:32 > 0:24:34- There's one...- One or two.
0:24:34 > 0:24:36One or two areas that are not quite right for us.
0:24:36 > 0:24:38Yeah, I think you're right.
0:24:38 > 0:24:41What you need to do, maybe - go back in, evaluate the positives
0:24:41 > 0:24:44against the negatives and see which one comes out on top, I suppose.
0:24:44 > 0:24:46- OK.- OK, good, yeah. - I'll be out front.
0:24:49 > 0:24:54So, also costing £595,000, it's a fraction under their top budget,
0:24:54 > 0:24:57and for that they get three bedrooms,
0:24:57 > 0:24:59open-plan living downstairs
0:24:59 > 0:25:02and a large garden with a vegetable plot.
0:25:02 > 0:25:05When we arrived at this house,
0:25:05 > 0:25:09the outside was absolutely beautiful and when we got inside
0:25:09 > 0:25:14the open-plan living is really lovely on the downstairs,
0:25:14 > 0:25:17but the kitchen area - I think I would have preferred it
0:25:17 > 0:25:22had it been a little more integral with the living area as well,
0:25:22 > 0:25:25but it could work for us. It could work.
0:25:25 > 0:25:28The house itself is absolutely amazing.
0:25:28 > 0:25:31For a 16th-century house, I never thought that you'd have
0:25:31 > 0:25:34so much height in the rooms, so much light in the rooms,
0:25:34 > 0:25:36and it looks so modern, it looks so clean.
0:25:36 > 0:25:39It's a beautiful property and - my goodness -
0:25:39 > 0:25:42the views from outside are priceless.
0:25:43 > 0:25:47- Hey. You took your time.- I know. - You seen enough?
0:25:47 > 0:25:50- Yes, thank you.- You still like it? - It's very nice. It's lovely.
0:25:50 > 0:25:52Well, listen - you've seen two very different properties,
0:25:52 > 0:25:57so the plan is we retire and we start afresh tomorrow morning
0:25:57 > 0:25:59and you can spend the whole night talking about properties.
0:25:59 > 0:26:03- Oh, and I'm sure we will do.- Really? - I'm sure we will.- Don't keep me up.
0:26:03 > 0:26:05Come on, let's get into the car.
0:26:11 > 0:26:16So, as evening falls over Dorset's stunning countryside,
0:26:16 > 0:26:19it marks the end of the first day of our property search.
0:26:23 > 0:26:26'Pete and Maz are looking forward to a life of leisure
0:26:26 > 0:26:28'and are seeking a rural hideaway
0:26:28 > 0:26:31'to complement their seaside hut in Dorset.
0:26:31 > 0:26:35'So far, we've seen two properties that have come close to the mark, but coming up,
0:26:35 > 0:26:37'our mystery house is verging on perfection...'
0:26:37 > 0:26:43- So far, Pete, Marks out of 10? - Yeah, I'd say...getting on 9/10.
0:26:43 > 0:26:45Not quite a 10, but it's getting there.
0:26:45 > 0:26:47'..and I get hot under the collar
0:26:47 > 0:26:50'as I discover the craft of becoming a blacksmith.'
0:26:50 > 0:26:51Just hammer away.
0:26:54 > 0:26:55Day two in Dorset.
0:26:55 > 0:26:59I'm with Maz and Pete looking for their ideal country residence.
0:26:59 > 0:27:00I'm wondering whether anything
0:27:00 > 0:27:03we showed them yesterday really hit the mark.
0:27:03 > 0:27:05They were positive about aspects of both properties,
0:27:05 > 0:27:07but with all this talk of "open-plan",
0:27:07 > 0:27:10I get the impression that it's space they're after,
0:27:10 > 0:27:12so bring on the mystery property.
0:27:12 > 0:27:14It may not be exactly what they want,
0:27:14 > 0:27:18but it's got loads of internal space - maybe even too much.
0:27:18 > 0:27:20I wonder what they'll think of it?
0:27:20 > 0:27:23We're travelling across the border into Hampshire
0:27:23 > 0:27:26to find our mystery property. We're close to the new Forest
0:27:26 > 0:27:28and the historic market town of Ringwood,
0:27:28 > 0:27:31which is the nearest place for pubs and shopping,
0:27:31 > 0:27:35and although we've moved counties, we're still only a 30-minute drive
0:27:35 > 0:27:37from Pete and Maz's beach hut in Mudeford.
0:27:37 > 0:27:41The mystery house is just outside the village of Alderholt
0:27:41 > 0:27:45and is a Grade II-listed barn conversion dating back to 1760.
0:27:45 > 0:27:49But there is a twist, as it's one of nine properties
0:27:49 > 0:27:51in a shared, freehold development.
0:27:51 > 0:27:53So I forgot to ask you earlier on if you had a good night's sleep,
0:27:53 > 0:27:56because you're going to have to be on form today.
0:27:56 > 0:27:59There is so much to take in - don't go any further, this is it.
0:27:59 > 0:28:03- Oh, wow.- Oh, wow. - That's... That's amazing.
0:28:03 > 0:28:07Basically, it's up to half that white door - this part is yours.
0:28:07 > 0:28:11Also the garage and the little office through there as well.
0:28:11 > 0:28:13Again, half of this communal area
0:28:13 > 0:28:15is shared with the other half of the barn.
0:28:15 > 0:28:18- What do you reckon? - It's very different.
0:28:18 > 0:28:20You've pulled the stops out for the mystery house.
0:28:20 > 0:28:24- It doesn't look like a barn, though, does it? - No. No, it doesn't at all.
0:28:24 > 0:28:28- Shall we get in?- Please. - Come on, let's go. Loads to see.
0:28:28 > 0:28:32So, first impressions are very favourable indeed,
0:28:32 > 0:28:34and I know that as soon as they've stepped through the door,
0:28:34 > 0:28:37they're going to be completely blown away by this property.
0:28:37 > 0:28:39So you're straight through to the kitchen.
0:28:39 > 0:28:43Oh! That's amazing.
0:28:43 > 0:28:46- You like it?- Incredible. Absolutely amazing.
0:28:46 > 0:28:50- And this was a barn, you say? - Well, I think I'm moving in.
0:28:50 > 0:28:53Oh, really? Cor, blimey! It's not open-plan though.
0:28:53 > 0:28:57No, that's... This is fine. This is absolutely gorgeous.
0:28:57 > 0:29:00- You've got a little utility through there.- Good.
0:29:00 > 0:29:03And I think even if you were cooking on one of your ovens - there's two -
0:29:03 > 0:29:06I think everyone would be with you anyway, wouldn't they?
0:29:06 > 0:29:08I think they would. Why would you not want to be in here?
0:29:08 > 0:29:11- It's so lovely. I can't wait to see the rest.- OK.
0:29:11 > 0:29:14You're saying all the right things. Come on then. Follow me.
0:29:14 > 0:29:17'Despite the lack of open-plan living,
0:29:17 > 0:29:20'it seems that Maz has fallen for this house already.'
0:29:20 > 0:29:22So this would be your dining room, I suppose.
0:29:22 > 0:29:23Oh, this is lovely.
0:29:23 > 0:29:25- Oh, it's a good-sized room, isn't it?- Really lovely.
0:29:25 > 0:29:27- Look at that ceiling.- Brilliant.
0:29:27 > 0:29:29The space, the light - it's brilliant, isn't it?
0:29:29 > 0:29:32You really like it, don't you? I do. I love it.
0:29:32 > 0:29:35- And it's not that far to the kitchen, is it, really?- No, no.
0:29:35 > 0:29:37- OK.- It's absolutely lovely.
0:29:37 > 0:29:39Well, if you like this room - I'm not a betting man,
0:29:39 > 0:29:41but if I was I'd probably put a lot of money on the fact
0:29:41 > 0:29:43- that you'd like the next one. Come on.- OK.
0:29:46 > 0:29:48- Oh.- Good room to lounge around in.
0:29:48 > 0:29:51- It is. It's a good size. - Absolutely lovely.
0:29:51 > 0:29:53You love rooms that are big enough
0:29:53 > 0:29:56not to have furniture pushed against the walls.
0:29:56 > 0:30:00- Great room.- And the little doors opening out to your private garden.
0:30:00 > 0:30:04There's not much that makes me speechless, but so far...
0:30:04 > 0:30:06So far, Pete, marks out of ten?
0:30:06 > 0:30:10Yeah, I'd say...getting on 9/10.
0:30:10 > 0:30:12It's not quite a ten, but it's getting there.
0:30:12 > 0:30:15- What about you? - Oh, off the scale, but I'll say nine
0:30:15 > 0:30:18- because we have to see the rest of the house.- Absolutely.
0:30:18 > 0:30:21Well, can the sleeping quarters in this home
0:30:21 > 0:30:23bring that nine up to a ten?
0:30:23 > 0:30:27Off the hallway there are two very generously sized double bedrooms
0:30:27 > 0:30:30for their guests, one of which has an ensuite
0:30:30 > 0:30:33and the other adjoins the family bathroom, so no sharing here.
0:30:33 > 0:30:38But we're having a look at the exceptionally large third bedroom,
0:30:38 > 0:30:41which Pete and Maz could be calling their own.
0:30:42 > 0:30:45- This is the master. - Oh, this is lovely.
0:30:45 > 0:30:47- With ensuite as well.- Good.
0:30:47 > 0:30:49- Just to keep madam happy.- Thank you.
0:30:49 > 0:30:53- The other room was good, but this one is even better.- Yeah, this is lovely.
0:30:53 > 0:30:54- Nice and bright.- Yes.
0:30:54 > 0:30:57It's a lovely room.
0:30:57 > 0:30:59So you've seen, more or less, the inside of the house.
0:30:59 > 0:31:01Is it still a nine?
0:31:01 > 0:31:03Yeah, still pretty good.
0:31:03 > 0:31:06Certainly not fallen away at all, that's for sure.
0:31:06 > 0:31:09- No, no. Nine and three quarters. - Whoa!
0:31:09 > 0:31:11'We're nearly at full marks
0:31:11 > 0:31:14'and I've got something up my sleeve that they really won't be expecting.
0:31:14 > 0:31:18'I'm about to show them the most spectacular of outbuildings.'
0:31:18 > 0:31:20It's amazing.
0:31:20 > 0:31:22So if you've got a few gardening tools, you know...
0:31:22 > 0:31:24Your very own barn. Literally.
0:31:24 > 0:31:28Yeah, um...half of it. This belongs to next door.
0:31:28 > 0:31:31- OK.- And this is yours. This was originally a hay-loft
0:31:31 > 0:31:34but, interestingly, you also notice what next door has done.
0:31:34 > 0:31:36- Cos you can't touch the walls. - No.- So he's actually got
0:31:36 > 0:31:38this wooden structure which is going to be
0:31:38 > 0:31:42another bedroom, ensuite, an office and also some storage down there.
0:31:42 > 0:31:44So you could do whatever you wanted with this part.
0:31:44 > 0:31:46Wow, I see what you mean.
0:31:46 > 0:31:50And right at the end, there's the door to your utility room, you see.
0:31:50 > 0:31:52Oh, it's a real bonus, this bit.
0:31:52 > 0:31:55This massive barn area isn't the only outside space.
0:31:55 > 0:31:59There is also a private garden with a patio for entertaining,
0:31:59 > 0:32:01and this property comes complete with space
0:32:01 > 0:32:04for a couple of raised beds or even a greenhouse.
0:32:04 > 0:32:06However, it doesn't end there.
0:32:06 > 0:32:09Pete and Maz could also enjoy the communal garden area,
0:32:09 > 0:32:12which is shared with the other eight properties.
0:32:12 > 0:32:17- And this is your very own sunken garden.- Oh, dear.
0:32:17 > 0:32:20While we wanted a bit bigger garden, possibly, I think this is...
0:32:20 > 0:32:23- It's huge, isn't it? - It is. It's lovely.
0:32:23 > 0:32:25- Shall we talk money?- Yes.- OK.
0:32:25 > 0:32:28- What do you reckon it's currently on the market for?- Oh, dear. - PETE LAUGHS
0:32:28 > 0:32:31- Why are you laughing? - That's impossible. Impossible to say.
0:32:31 > 0:32:33It's got to be top end of our budget.
0:32:33 > 0:32:36The fact that you're showing us makes you think, you know,
0:32:36 > 0:32:38it's in our price range, but I would go with Maz -
0:32:38 > 0:32:43right at the top end. I'd say something like 580, 590.
0:32:43 > 0:32:46I think, probably, 610,000.
0:32:46 > 0:32:48610,000, right.
0:32:48 > 0:32:51It's currently on the market for £635,000,
0:32:51 > 0:32:54but we've been reliably informed
0:32:54 > 0:32:57- that the owner will take offers of £600,000.- Right.
0:32:57 > 0:33:01I assumed it would be. I mean, you get an awful lot for your money.
0:33:01 > 0:33:02There is a lot of options.
0:33:02 > 0:33:04We've had you up to nine and three quarters, haven't we?
0:33:04 > 0:33:06- What is it now?- About 15.
0:33:06 > 0:33:08THEY LAUGH
0:33:08 > 0:33:11- You're in trouble, Pete. - I know. I know. Where do we unpack?
0:33:11 > 0:33:12Go and have a look around. OK.
0:33:12 > 0:33:16Take it all in and I'll catch up with you in a bit.
0:33:18 > 0:33:22So priced at £635,000,
0:33:22 > 0:33:26but with offers accepted at the top end of their budget of £600,000,
0:33:26 > 0:33:29this stunning property has a great deal to offer.
0:33:29 > 0:33:32There's three large bedrooms with two ensuites,
0:33:32 > 0:33:36the kitchen of Maz's dreams, loads of entertaining space,
0:33:36 > 0:33:40an office for Pete, private and communal gardens
0:33:40 > 0:33:44and a massive outbuilding for storage or conversion.
0:33:44 > 0:33:46Ooh, this is a good area.
0:33:46 > 0:33:48PETE LAUGHS
0:33:48 > 0:33:50Did we have a hay-loft on our list of priorities?
0:33:50 > 0:33:53- Not really, but why not? It's huge.- That's amazing.
0:33:53 > 0:33:55When we arrived at the mystery house,
0:33:55 > 0:33:57the approach was very impressive.
0:33:57 > 0:34:02The entrance goes into the kitchen, which is absolutely incredible.
0:34:02 > 0:34:05The kitchen is just my dream kitchen,
0:34:05 > 0:34:09even though it doesn't lead in to the living area -
0:34:09 > 0:34:11which was something I really wanted,
0:34:11 > 0:34:16but I think it's something that I could live with in this house.
0:34:16 > 0:34:18Well, I think you've excelled yourself as the mystery house
0:34:18 > 0:34:20is a strong contender.
0:34:20 > 0:34:22It's a wonderful location on the edge of a forest,
0:34:22 > 0:34:25it's a beautiful property, it's really quirky.
0:34:25 > 0:34:27There are communal gardens, which is fine,
0:34:27 > 0:34:30but the area at the front of the house is communal as well
0:34:30 > 0:34:32and I just need to understand that a little bit more,
0:34:32 > 0:34:36as well as that barn - I mean, that barn was a fantastic bonus,
0:34:36 > 0:34:38but, again it's a shared barn and I just need to find out
0:34:38 > 0:34:40a little bit more about how that works.
0:34:40 > 0:34:41They've had enough time.
0:34:41 > 0:34:43BELL CHIMES
0:34:43 > 0:34:46Quite satisfying. Come on, you two.
0:34:47 > 0:34:50- You rang?- Yes. My Lord. - THEY LAUGH
0:34:50 > 0:34:53I'm not even going to ask if you've seen enough - you have, OK?
0:34:53 > 0:34:54Three very different properties,
0:34:54 > 0:34:56I think I know which one you'd prefer,
0:34:56 > 0:34:58but let's go have a chat about all of them.
0:34:58 > 0:35:00- OK.- Yeah?- Great.- OK, yeah.
0:35:07 > 0:35:11In the 19th century, farming was central to the economy of Dorset.
0:35:11 > 0:35:14In 1832, the county saw the birth of the trade union movement
0:35:14 > 0:35:17when the Tolpuddle Martyrs
0:35:17 > 0:35:20formed the Friendly Society Of Agricultural Labourers
0:35:20 > 0:35:24in protest at the lowering of wages due to mechanisation.
0:35:24 > 0:35:28Today, just outside the market town of Wimborne Minster,
0:35:28 > 0:35:32a craft that has successfully fought the advent of machinery
0:35:32 > 0:35:34remains alive and well and it comes in the shape
0:35:34 > 0:35:37of this 170-year-old Dorset forge.
0:35:37 > 0:35:39Prior to the Industrial Revolution,
0:35:39 > 0:35:43a smithy was a staple of every town and village, mending carts
0:35:43 > 0:35:46and making everything from metal tyres to armour.
0:35:46 > 0:35:50But by the end of the 19th century, factories were producing metalwork
0:35:50 > 0:35:54in a larger quantities and more economically than local blacksmiths.
0:35:54 > 0:35:58However, in the 1960s, there was a revival in the art of blacksmithing
0:35:58 > 0:36:01with an increased demand for artistic ironwork
0:36:01 > 0:36:05and today it's estimated that there are some 250 working in Britain.
0:36:05 > 0:36:09Giles Stuart is the man who's brought the tradition back
0:36:09 > 0:36:12to this corner of Dorset and I've come to the forge to find out more
0:36:12 > 0:36:16about the 21st-century use of this venerable craft.
0:36:16 > 0:36:20- Tell us what a blacksmith does. - Basically, I do ornamental ironwork.
0:36:20 > 0:36:23I've got a set of gates which I'm working on,
0:36:23 > 0:36:26which are outside the forge, and various other bits and pieces.
0:36:26 > 0:36:30Lots of pokers, curtain poles...
0:36:30 > 0:36:34- I've got about 20 jobs on my board at the moment.- Wow.
0:36:34 > 0:36:37I can hear the crackle of a fire in the, so can we go in?
0:36:37 > 0:36:39Yes, let's go on. I'll show you in.
0:36:39 > 0:36:42Giles has been working the forge since 1997.
0:36:42 > 0:36:44He still uses traditional tools and techniques
0:36:44 > 0:36:46that haven't changed in generations.
0:36:47 > 0:36:50Wow. This is amazing. It reminds me so much of North Wales,
0:36:50 > 0:36:53where I lived, you used to drive up the hill
0:36:53 > 0:36:55and at the top there used to be this old forge,
0:36:55 > 0:36:56and this is some of your work, then?
0:36:56 > 0:36:59Yes, some of my smaller work, which I take to shows and things,
0:36:59 > 0:37:02but it really, sort of, demonstrates the different techniques
0:37:02 > 0:37:05in blacksmithing skills, using traditional methods.
0:37:05 > 0:37:08- That's amazing - you've even got a Welsh dragon.- Yes, yes.
0:37:08 > 0:37:11How long would it take you to do something like that?
0:37:11 > 0:37:13Something like a dragon would take about a week,
0:37:13 > 0:37:17depending on how big it is and how much detail is involved.
0:37:17 > 0:37:19And what about something like a poker?
0:37:19 > 0:37:22A poker can take an hour, maybe slightly less, it depends, again,
0:37:22 > 0:37:24on the amount of detail involved.
0:37:24 > 0:37:27- Any chance I could have a go? You CAN have a go, yes.- Oh, really?
0:37:27 > 0:37:30Yes, the fire's all running ready to go, so let's go for it.
0:37:31 > 0:37:34Blacksmithing in some form dates back to the Iron Age.
0:37:34 > 0:37:37The term "smith" originates from the word "smite" which means to hit,
0:37:37 > 0:37:42while "black" refers to the colour that iron turns when it's heated.
0:37:42 > 0:37:45A blacksmith's fire is obviously very hot,
0:37:45 > 0:37:47but if there are bellows blowing air through the fire,
0:37:47 > 0:37:52it can actually reach temperatures of around 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
0:37:52 > 0:37:54Basically, I'm making a dragon poker,
0:37:54 > 0:37:56but I'd like you to, sort of, finish it off
0:37:56 > 0:37:59and put the point on it for me and then a couple of twists.
0:37:59 > 0:38:01So the first job is to heat the metal up in the fire
0:38:01 > 0:38:04and get it up to a nice yellow temperature,
0:38:04 > 0:38:06which basically softens the metal.
0:38:06 > 0:38:08How long does it take to heat up?
0:38:08 > 0:38:10- This will probably take about a minute.- Is that all?
0:38:10 > 0:38:13- Sometimes less than that.- OK.
0:38:13 > 0:38:16I should think we're nearly at temperature there - it's pretty good.
0:38:16 > 0:38:18- I'll get my hammer ready.- Right, so you're ready to go for this?
0:38:18 > 0:38:21There we go, that's a nice temperature.
0:38:21 > 0:38:24You've got a bit of time to work on this. There you go.
0:38:24 > 0:38:28So hold it in that hand and then just hammer away.
0:38:28 > 0:38:29A bit harder than that.
0:38:29 > 0:38:33- Turn it over, that's right. - It's hard work, isn't it?
0:38:33 > 0:38:36You can feel the anvil is, sort of, actually working with you.
0:38:36 > 0:38:40It's causing the hammer to bounce back.
0:38:40 > 0:38:43I'm very impressed. For someone who's never done it before,
0:38:43 > 0:38:45you're drawing it down very well.
0:38:46 > 0:38:48Right, let's heat it up again.
0:38:51 > 0:38:53- It really is a labour of love, isn't it?- It is, yes.
0:38:53 > 0:38:55Then we're going to, basically,
0:38:55 > 0:38:59put a twist in and were going to go round a couple of turns that way
0:38:59 > 0:39:03and then twist it back round, two turns the other way.
0:39:05 > 0:39:08With Giles's help getting the poker into the vice,
0:39:08 > 0:39:11I'm going to have a stab at adding my own unique twist
0:39:11 > 0:39:13to this piece of ironwork.
0:39:13 > 0:39:15Good, keep going round.
0:39:18 > 0:39:21Two. That's it. Lovely.
0:39:21 > 0:39:24And then you brush it off?
0:39:24 > 0:39:27Might brush it off a little bit, there you go, that's brilliant.
0:39:27 > 0:39:30- That looks very good.- It looks nice, actually, doesn't it?- Yeah.
0:39:30 > 0:39:32- I'm rather proud.- Good.
0:39:33 > 0:39:36- Those twists are so effective, aren't they?- They are.
0:39:36 > 0:39:38Those are excellent, the two twists you put in there.
0:39:38 > 0:39:39- I've really enjoyed it.- Good.
0:39:39 > 0:39:42And, you know, good on you for keeping this tradition alive.
0:39:42 > 0:39:45- It's fantastic seeing what you're doing here.- Thank you.
0:39:50 > 0:39:53There. I've realised another ambition in my life.
0:39:53 > 0:39:57Jones The Blacksmith. Sounds good, doesn't it?
0:39:57 > 0:39:59I'll stick to the day job. Have Maz and Pete fallen in love
0:39:59 > 0:40:01with any of the properties that we've shown them?
0:40:01 > 0:40:05Let's go and do some "poking" around to find out.
0:40:09 > 0:40:12Oh, I don't know about you but this is a welcome coffee. I'm tired.
0:40:12 > 0:40:14- It certainly is.- We've done a lot of walking.- We have.
0:40:14 > 0:40:16There was a lot of standing around as well.
0:40:16 > 0:40:18But let's talk about everything is seen.
0:40:18 > 0:40:20- The first property - you really liked it.- I did, yes.
0:40:20 > 0:40:22It's very pretty from the outside.
0:40:22 > 0:40:24It ticked a lot of boxes, that first place,
0:40:24 > 0:40:26and there was just the issue
0:40:26 > 0:40:29with the lack of a through kitchen/living area.
0:40:29 > 0:40:31It was the open-plan living that didn't work.
0:40:31 > 0:40:33But other than that, that place was nice.
0:40:33 > 0:40:36And if that was at the end of our search,
0:40:36 > 0:40:38then I think it could be a possibility,
0:40:38 > 0:40:41but we're still holding out for the open plan, I think.
0:40:41 > 0:40:43OK. Let's talk about the second property.
0:40:43 > 0:40:46That was a very special property.
0:40:46 > 0:40:48The garden was lovely, the views were fantastic.
0:40:48 > 0:40:51I mean the garden - the garden was the best bit for me.
0:40:51 > 0:40:54- It was gorgeous. - It'll make someone a wonderful home,
0:40:54 > 0:40:55- but not for us, I don't think. - Why not?
0:40:55 > 0:40:58It didn't have a study, it didn't have an ensuite,
0:40:58 > 0:41:01it didn't have the through living area that we were looking for either.
0:41:01 > 0:41:02The location wasn't...
0:41:02 > 0:41:05I mean, beautiful location, but not right for us.
0:41:05 > 0:41:07Maybe we need to relocate the beach hut.
0:41:07 > 0:41:09Yes, that's the problem, clearly.
0:41:09 > 0:41:12Let's talk about the mystery property.
0:41:12 > 0:41:15There's a lot going for that place. An awful lot going for it.
0:41:15 > 0:41:18I reckon you like it more than you like it.
0:41:18 > 0:41:19I think you're probably right.
0:41:19 > 0:41:22I mean, Maz was ready to start measuring for curtains.
0:41:22 > 0:41:24Yeah, I caught her doing a little bit of that.
0:41:25 > 0:41:27She was also asking the neighbour,
0:41:27 > 0:41:30you know, if you could park your boat in certain places as well.
0:41:30 > 0:41:31I was, I was.
0:41:31 > 0:41:35Well, I'd just need to find out more, but it ticks so many boxes.
0:41:35 > 0:41:37- Yes.- The rooms are fantastic.
0:41:37 > 0:41:43And even though the kitchen, again, wasn't part of the living area,
0:41:43 > 0:41:47I think the house flowed beautifully from the kitchen to the dining room
0:41:47 > 0:41:50to the lounge to the sitting room area.
0:41:50 > 0:41:54- And, OK, it's the top of your budget, but it's doable.- Yes.
0:41:54 > 0:41:56- It is.- We always said for the right property,
0:41:56 > 0:41:59that could be reachable and so we're not discounting it,
0:41:59 > 0:42:02we're going to go and have another look on the way home.
0:42:02 > 0:42:06- Yeah, we need to see it again. - How much do you want to live there?
0:42:06 > 0:42:08I'm very excited about the house.
0:42:08 > 0:42:10Marks out of ten on the possibility of you
0:42:10 > 0:42:14living in the mystery property any time soon.
0:42:14 > 0:42:17Knowing Pete's reservations, I would say an eight.
0:42:17 > 0:42:19I was more of a six.
0:42:19 > 0:42:22- But more than halfway, right? - Yes, more than halfway.
0:42:22 > 0:42:24Because I think Maz can be persuasive, so...
0:42:24 > 0:42:26You'll have to be persuasive, I think.
0:42:26 > 0:42:27I can be a great negotiator, if need be.
0:42:27 > 0:42:30I think you should go back and have a look at it
0:42:30 > 0:42:31and I really hope you do get it,
0:42:31 > 0:42:33because I think you'd both be really happy there.
0:42:33 > 0:42:36And it's been fantastic meeting you, you've been really brilliant.
0:42:36 > 0:42:39- You've been really positive as well. - Thank you so much.
0:42:44 > 0:42:47So, Maz and Pete are off viewing the mystery property
0:42:47 > 0:42:49for a second time - that's what we like to see.
0:42:49 > 0:42:52Will it be their dream home here in Dorset?
0:42:52 > 0:42:54Well, if it was down to Maz, yes, most definitely,
0:42:54 > 0:42:58but I fear Pete may take a little bit of convincing.
0:42:58 > 0:43:00But I could be wrong. Even as I speak,
0:43:00 > 0:43:03he could be enjoying the communal areas of the old farm,
0:43:03 > 0:43:06and if not, well, I know a lovely open-plan beach hut
0:43:06 > 0:43:08that's got them written all over it.
0:43:08 > 0:43:10I wish them well, and I'll see you next time
0:43:10 > 0:43:12on Escape From The Country.
0:43:12 > 0:43:15If you'd like to escape to the country in Scotland, Wales,
0:43:15 > 0:43:19Northern Ireland or England and need our help, please apply online at...
0:43:28 > 0:43:33Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd