0:00:02 > 0:00:04As a keen archaeologist, I never take much persuading
0:00:04 > 0:00:08to find myself in the ruins of a beautiful 13th-century castle.
0:00:08 > 0:00:11But this wasn't built so much to keep invaders out
0:00:11 > 0:00:12as to keep a population in.
0:00:12 > 0:00:14But why and where?
0:00:14 > 0:00:19Join me in just a few moments for what promises to be a very historic Escape to the Country
0:00:19 > 0:00:21in more ways than one!
0:00:52 > 0:00:57On today's show, I'm helping a couple find a peaceful new life in the countryside.
0:00:57 > 0:01:01Outside, our houses certainly deliver on setting.
0:01:01 > 0:01:05- I love the view.- Yeah.- And the fact that all you can hear is birdsong. - Exactly.
0:01:05 > 0:01:10'And inside, the rooms prompt some excitement, too.'
0:01:10 > 0:01:12- That's a wowser moment. - A wowser moment?
0:01:12 > 0:01:14It is, actually.
0:01:17 > 0:01:19Today, we're in North Wales,
0:01:19 > 0:01:22and these are the beautiful remains of Conwy Castle.
0:01:22 > 0:01:26It was one of five enormous castles built up here by Edward I
0:01:26 > 0:01:30at the end of the 13th century following his successful conquest of Wales.
0:01:30 > 0:01:32Edward's plan was simple.
0:01:32 > 0:01:35Tired of continual dissent and rebellion,
0:01:35 > 0:01:38he wanted to contain Wales, to create an iron ring.
0:01:38 > 0:01:40And these certainly did the job.
0:01:40 > 0:01:46As you can see, they are a striking reminder of medieval authority and power.
0:01:46 > 0:01:51This one alone took four years to build at a cost then of some £20,000.
0:01:51 > 0:01:55But if that seems cheap for a fortified coastal retreat, don't be fooled.
0:01:55 > 0:01:58In today's money it's over 10 million.
0:01:58 > 0:02:03No surprise, then, that Conwy, along with its sister castles at Beaumaris, Harlech and Caernarfon
0:02:03 > 0:02:06have been designated as a World Heritage site.
0:02:06 > 0:02:09As you can probably tell in this glorious part of the world,
0:02:09 > 0:02:12there's a lot more to it than just striking architecture.
0:02:12 > 0:02:14The landscape is stunning.
0:02:16 > 0:02:19North Wales stretches from the Cheshire border in the east
0:02:19 > 0:02:20to the west coast
0:02:20 > 0:02:22and includes the Isle of Anglesey.
0:02:22 > 0:02:24The region then extends southwards
0:02:24 > 0:02:27to the borders of Ceredigion and Powys.
0:02:27 > 0:02:30It's an area that offers impressive coastline
0:02:30 > 0:02:36ranging from the rugged and unspoilt to the seaside resorts that became popular during the Victorian era
0:02:36 > 0:02:39such as Llandudno, whose elegant period architecture
0:02:39 > 0:02:42still lines its shores.
0:02:42 > 0:02:45Head inland, and that atmosphere changes as the landscape gives way
0:02:45 > 0:02:48to soaring mountains and green valleys.
0:02:48 > 0:02:51Set here are charming villages such as Betws-y-Coed,
0:02:51 > 0:02:55renowned for the cascades at Swallow Falls.
0:02:55 > 0:02:58Betws-y-Coed itself sits within Snowdonia,
0:02:58 > 0:03:00the largest national park in Wales,
0:03:00 > 0:03:04which encompasses 100 lakes and some 90 mountain peaks,
0:03:04 > 0:03:07including Mount Snowdon, which, at over 3,500 feet,
0:03:07 > 0:03:10is the highest point in England and Wales.
0:03:10 > 0:03:13Although the park spans over 800 square miles,
0:03:13 > 0:03:17it's home to just under 26,000 people,
0:03:17 > 0:03:20making it one of the most sparsely populated areas in Britain.
0:03:20 > 0:03:23And it's this perceived remoteness
0:03:23 > 0:03:26that makes it appealing to visitors and home-buyers alike.
0:03:30 > 0:03:32Perhaps it is no great surprise to learn
0:03:32 > 0:03:34that when it comes to house prices,
0:03:34 > 0:03:37North Wales does offer particularly good value for money.
0:03:37 > 0:03:39To put that in context,
0:03:39 > 0:03:42when you consider that the price of an average detached property
0:03:42 > 0:03:46in England and Wales is currently around £255,000,
0:03:46 > 0:03:50well, here, you could comfortably knock about a third off that figure.
0:03:50 > 0:03:53But as with anywhere, there are, of course, variations.
0:03:53 > 0:03:56Step within the borders of the Snowdonia National Park, for example,
0:03:56 > 0:03:59and you could find a premium of 15 to 20%,
0:03:59 > 0:04:03particularly around hot spots such as Betws-y-Coed.
0:04:03 > 0:04:07And the same is also true for coastal towns such as Conwy and Llandudno.
0:04:07 > 0:04:10But for me, North Wales really is a win-win.
0:04:10 > 0:04:13It mixes affordability in a beautiful landscape
0:04:13 > 0:04:17with some stunning properties to match.
0:04:17 > 0:04:19North Wales' rural character
0:04:19 > 0:04:22is evident from the scattering of traditional cottages
0:04:22 > 0:04:25found in its villages and throughout its farming landscape.
0:04:26 > 0:04:28Until the Industrial Revolution,
0:04:28 > 0:04:32large swathes of this countryside remained cut off from commercial activity,
0:04:32 > 0:04:36hence the reliance of building with locally-sourced materials.
0:04:36 > 0:04:39Quarried stone is particularly prevalent in this northern region.
0:04:39 > 0:04:44A prime example being this five-bedroomed farmhouse in Denbighshire
0:04:44 > 0:04:48which cost £550,000.
0:04:48 > 0:04:51North Wales' slate-mining heritage has certainly made its indelible mark here.
0:04:51 > 0:04:55The huge piles of loose scree that have built up alongside its mountains
0:04:55 > 0:04:59are also a reminder of how it defined the local architecture
0:04:59 > 0:05:01during the Victorian era.
0:05:01 > 0:05:06This five-bedroomed detached house in Carow is priced at £335,000.
0:05:09 > 0:05:12As you can see, North Wales really does have it all.
0:05:12 > 0:05:16It's one of my favourite parts of the country in which to come house-hunting,
0:05:16 > 0:05:20which is just as well, because this is where today's buyers want to call home.
0:05:20 > 0:05:23Dave, who works in IT for Essex police,
0:05:23 > 0:05:26and Kate, a police trainer for Norfolk Constabulary,
0:05:26 > 0:05:31live with their two student daughters in a modern property in the town of Attleborough, Norfolk.
0:05:31 > 0:05:36As Dave is set to retire and their children are approaching independence,
0:05:36 > 0:05:39they feel this is the perfect time to start a new life
0:05:39 > 0:05:41somewhere much quieter.
0:05:41 > 0:05:43I want cosy character.
0:05:43 > 0:05:48You sit in the garden and you can just hear the A11 behind you.
0:05:48 > 0:05:52It's just a constant noise.
0:05:52 > 0:05:54Their plan is to leave their town in Norfolk
0:05:54 > 0:05:56and head to the opposite side of the country
0:05:56 > 0:05:59in search of tranquillity in North Wales.
0:05:59 > 0:06:02I like the area around Conwy particularly.
0:06:02 > 0:06:04Either at the edge of a village
0:06:04 > 0:06:08or a little distance out of the village.
0:06:08 > 0:06:11But we don't want it too isolated.
0:06:11 > 0:06:13Their children may be fully grown,
0:06:13 > 0:06:16but Dave and Kate still have other dependants.
0:06:16 > 0:06:18Six cats and two dogs.
0:06:18 > 0:06:22They need to be factored into the wish list for their next property.
0:06:22 > 0:06:25An absolute dream property would be a big enough kitchen.
0:06:25 > 0:06:28It has to have a utility room with all the animals we've got.
0:06:28 > 0:06:31I think a utility room is a must.
0:06:31 > 0:06:35But it's not just the animals that will need their own room when they move!
0:06:35 > 0:06:37What would be ideal for Dave
0:06:37 > 0:06:40is either another bedroom
0:06:40 > 0:06:45or an outbuilding that's big enough so he could have a train room.
0:06:45 > 0:06:49It doesn't have to be a workshop per se,
0:06:49 > 0:06:50just a space, really.
0:06:51 > 0:06:54So whilst Dave needs space for his steam train,
0:06:54 > 0:06:57Kate would like a larger garden in which to grow vegetables.
0:06:57 > 0:06:59But that's just one of her pastimes.
0:06:59 > 0:07:04I actually do quite a lot of cross-stitch.
0:07:04 > 0:07:08But I also like to get involved with the community in some way.
0:07:08 > 0:07:11So having given this move lots of thought,
0:07:11 > 0:07:14they now have a clear idea of how much money they have to spend.
0:07:14 > 0:07:17The maximum budget would be £330,000.
0:07:23 > 0:07:25Dave and Kate's preferred location
0:07:25 > 0:07:27is in the Conwy area
0:07:27 > 0:07:29with easy access to Snowdonia.
0:07:29 > 0:07:32However, they'd consider looking as far south as Betws-y-Coed.
0:07:33 > 0:07:36I'm catching up with them at the start of our house hunt
0:07:36 > 0:07:39to find our more about their plans for their new rural home.
0:07:40 > 0:07:44Well, chaps, here we are, literally in the middle of North Wales.
0:07:44 > 0:07:46Getting your house search underway.
0:07:46 > 0:07:48- How does it feel?- Exciting.
0:07:48 > 0:07:51- Exciting.- It's exciting. And it's beautiful.
0:07:51 > 0:07:54For many people coming here, the classic image is of a stone building,
0:07:54 > 0:07:57slate roof, all that sort of thing, nestled in the landscape.
0:07:57 > 0:08:00Give us an idea of what you are dreaming of.
0:08:00 > 0:08:02Ideal is character.
0:08:02 > 0:08:06A cottage but with high ceilings, because obviously...
0:08:06 > 0:08:09- Dave's a bit tall! - Dave's a bit tall!
0:08:09 > 0:08:13- It's got to have an open fire or a log burner.- Yep.
0:08:13 > 0:08:15That is an absolute must.
0:08:15 > 0:08:18Something with character, high ceilings.
0:08:18 > 0:08:22It's got to have three bedrooms. Has to have a bedroom for the girls.
0:08:22 > 0:08:27- Everybody wants a nice kitchen. - Kitchen diner, yes, standard thing. - Standard thing.
0:08:27 > 0:08:31- And you would ideally like a study. - Or a workshop for the engine.
0:08:31 > 0:08:34- For your locomotive.- Yes. - Brilliant.
0:08:34 > 0:08:36How do you see this building sitting in the landscape?
0:08:36 > 0:08:38On the outskirts of a village.
0:08:38 > 0:08:42Further out, where you haven't got anybody around you for half a mile
0:08:42 > 0:08:43would be lovely.
0:08:43 > 0:08:47We've got three to show you, including of course, our mystery house.
0:08:47 > 0:08:50- Yes.- The weather here in North Wales is notoriously changeable.
0:08:50 > 0:08:53It's all right at the moment but I suggest we don't delay.
0:08:53 > 0:08:56- Let's get on.- OK. Thank you.
0:09:00 > 0:09:02With their £330,000 budget,
0:09:02 > 0:09:05Dave and Kate would like a Welsh cottage-style property
0:09:05 > 0:09:08that provides them with high ceilings
0:09:08 > 0:09:09and an open fire or log burner.
0:09:09 > 0:09:13A large kitchen with separate utility room for their pets.
0:09:13 > 0:09:16A minimum of three bedrooms for when their daughters visit,
0:09:16 > 0:09:18a space for Dave's train
0:09:18 > 0:09:21and finally, they'd like to be in the heart of the countryside.
0:09:22 > 0:09:24I'll be showing them three wonderful Welsh properties,
0:09:24 > 0:09:27but I won't give away the price until they've had a guess first.
0:09:27 > 0:09:30The last of these is, of course, our mystery house,
0:09:30 > 0:09:34which will challenge them to review at least one of their key priorities.
0:09:42 > 0:09:45We're getting our house hunt underway 28 miles from Conwy
0:09:45 > 0:09:47in the village of Saron.
0:09:47 > 0:09:50It offers them the peaceful location they're after
0:09:50 > 0:09:52with some spectacular scenery on their doorstep
0:09:52 > 0:09:56as it overlooks open countryside including the Clwydian hills.
0:09:56 > 0:09:59The property is situated on the outskirts of Saron
0:09:59 > 0:10:03and provides a pretty and secluded home dating back to the 1800s.
0:10:05 > 0:10:08So here we are, then. Property number one.
0:10:10 > 0:10:13We talked about the classic image of a stone-built cottage
0:10:13 > 0:10:14with a slate roof.
0:10:14 > 0:10:16- Yep!- What do you think?
0:10:16 > 0:10:20It looks interesting. I love the view.
0:10:20 > 0:10:23- Yeah.- And the fact that all you can hear is birdsong. It's beautiful.
0:10:23 > 0:10:25- You're soaking up the peace and quiet.- Yes.
0:10:25 > 0:10:28- No A11 here!- No A11. Just birdsong.
0:10:28 > 0:10:30- Let's get inside and see what you think.- OK.
0:10:32 > 0:10:35'The setting of this single-storey property
0:10:35 > 0:10:36'certainly seems to have scored highly.
0:10:36 > 0:10:39'Inside has been sympathetically refurbished
0:10:39 > 0:10:41'and retains many of its original features,
0:10:41 > 0:10:43'as our buyers will discover.'
0:10:43 > 0:10:45Now, how cosy is this?
0:10:46 > 0:10:48- That's got character.- Yeah.
0:10:48 > 0:10:50- Yeah.- Very nice.
0:10:50 > 0:10:51Yes.
0:10:51 > 0:10:53Is this the sort of thing you were kind of imagining?
0:10:53 > 0:10:56- I think so.- As a cosy Welsh retreat?
0:10:56 > 0:11:00Yes. I think I knew more of what I didn't imagine
0:11:00 > 0:11:02than what I did imagine, if that makes sense.
0:11:03 > 0:11:06And this is lovely.
0:11:06 > 0:11:08- Brilliant.- Lovely.
0:11:08 > 0:11:09Let's continue through here.
0:11:09 > 0:11:12You wanted a woodburner, Kate. There you are.
0:11:12 > 0:11:14- Gosh.- Multi-fuel, actually.
0:11:14 > 0:11:16- Yes.- That's lovely. Yes.
0:11:16 > 0:11:19- And again these lovely windows. - Picture window.
0:11:19 > 0:11:22I love the window seat and I love the panelling they've put in.
0:11:23 > 0:11:26Something slightly Georgian about it, actually.
0:11:26 > 0:11:30- Yes, it is.- But everything's geared up to make the best of that.
0:11:30 > 0:11:32Absolutely. You can imagine sitting there,
0:11:32 > 0:11:35just watching the seasons go by.
0:11:35 > 0:11:38Let's explore the rest of it. See if they like this.
0:11:39 > 0:11:43This corridor gives you access to everything else.
0:11:43 > 0:11:46All the accommodation. A little box room in there.
0:11:46 > 0:11:50Family bathroom there. Again, lovely oak doors.
0:11:50 > 0:11:56A really nice and quite generous guest double in here.
0:11:56 > 0:11:58And then this bit is yours.
0:11:58 > 0:12:02So in here, you get your own kind of wing, really,
0:12:02 > 0:12:04with a really generous en-suite.
0:12:04 > 0:12:07Whirlpool bath. All mod cons.
0:12:07 > 0:12:09- It's lovely.- Perfect.
0:12:09 > 0:12:13And then a master bedroom which really does make the best of these views.
0:12:13 > 0:12:15- Yes, does it just.- Isn't it light!
0:12:15 > 0:12:19- Mm.- Lying in bed, waiting for my cup of tea!
0:12:19 > 0:12:21Just looking out over the...
0:12:21 > 0:12:23Is she going to have to wait long?
0:12:23 > 0:12:25- Doesn't normally!- Doesn't normally? - No.
0:12:27 > 0:12:30This addition, which is the most recent addition, obviously,
0:12:30 > 0:12:32this kind of wing to the property
0:12:32 > 0:12:34is what really makes it work, I think.
0:12:34 > 0:12:37I just can't stop looking that way.
0:12:37 > 0:12:40The views are pretty captivating.
0:12:40 > 0:12:44- Shall we go outside and indulge ourselves with them? - That would be nice.
0:12:44 > 0:12:45Come on, then.
0:12:47 > 0:12:51'The generous grounds comprise two separate areas.
0:12:51 > 0:12:54'There's a landscaped garden to the front, featuring a pond,
0:12:54 > 0:12:58'but we're heading to the adjoining parcel of land to discuss their options.'
0:13:00 > 0:13:04It is lovely when a house is surrounded by such glorious views
0:13:04 > 0:13:08- that in a way you're completely distracted, aren't you?- You are.
0:13:08 > 0:13:13You just can't take your eyes off of the view and watch what's going on.
0:13:13 > 0:13:15In terms of outside space,
0:13:15 > 0:13:18we saw the more manicured garden as we came in.
0:13:18 > 0:13:21This area we're standing on now would also be yours.
0:13:21 > 0:13:23The great thing about it, Dave, is that it's flat.
0:13:23 > 0:13:26It really lends itself to all sorts of things.
0:13:26 > 0:13:31- A poly-tunnel, perhaps, vegetable beds, raised beds...- Chicken coop.
0:13:31 > 0:13:35- Chicken coop. And the engine shed. - Indeed.
0:13:35 > 0:13:37So, let's have a think about the price
0:13:37 > 0:13:40and see if we've started well there.
0:13:40 > 0:13:44OK. I'm thinking this is all your idea, so I'm going to get you to go first.
0:13:44 > 0:13:48- You've got £330,000 to spend.- Yes.
0:13:48 > 0:13:53- I think 299,950.- Yes.
0:13:53 > 0:13:56- Dave?- I was thinking 295.
0:13:56 > 0:13:57Cheat!
0:13:59 > 0:14:01I'm going to make this easy for both of you.
0:14:01 > 0:14:05- You are both saying just under 300,000, more or less.- Yes.
0:14:05 > 0:14:10- This will set you back £330,000. - Really?
0:14:10 > 0:14:12- Yeah.- OK.- Good. Right.
0:14:12 > 0:14:14- Now you know how much it's worth. - OK.
0:14:14 > 0:14:16Go and explore to your heart's content.
0:14:16 > 0:14:19- Right.- Take your time. Make the best of our time that is still available.
0:14:19 > 0:14:21- OK.- I'll catch up with you a bit later.
0:14:24 > 0:14:26Right on budget at 330,000,
0:14:26 > 0:14:29this traditional renovated cottage
0:14:29 > 0:14:32provides Dave and Kate with many of the elements they've asked for.
0:14:44 > 0:14:47When I first saw this house, I thought it was well-presented,
0:14:47 > 0:14:50nice aspect to it, and in a superb location.
0:14:50 > 0:14:54If I'm honest, one or two of the rooms are a bit smaller than we'd hoped for.
0:14:54 > 0:14:57I'd hoped for a utility,
0:14:57 > 0:14:59but you can't have everything!
0:14:59 > 0:15:01The first impression of the house was positive.
0:15:01 > 0:15:04The bedrooms are the one thing that concern me.
0:15:04 > 0:15:08I want to make sure that the girls have got somewhere they can come,
0:15:08 > 0:15:12a bolt-hole should they ever need it, that there's room for them.
0:15:13 > 0:15:16I think that was a really encouraging start.
0:15:16 > 0:15:17Yes, definitely.
0:15:17 > 0:15:20Lovely property, lovely views.
0:15:20 > 0:15:22I'm concerned we've set the bar too high!
0:15:22 > 0:15:24It's going to be challenging.
0:15:37 > 0:15:41In a bid to give them as much space as we can for their budget,
0:15:41 > 0:15:43our second house takes us further away from Conwy,
0:15:43 > 0:15:45deep into the countryside.
0:15:45 > 0:15:47The nearest village is Cerrigydrudion
0:15:47 > 0:15:51where there's a church, a local shop and a pub.
0:15:51 > 0:15:54But four miles away, set in rural seclusion,
0:15:54 > 0:15:57is this converted barn and coach house.
0:15:57 > 0:16:00OK. Here we are, then.
0:16:00 > 0:16:03Our final offering of day one,
0:16:03 > 0:16:05property number two.
0:16:05 > 0:16:06What do you think?
0:16:06 > 0:16:09- It looks interesting. - Very interesting.
0:16:09 > 0:16:10I think it's really interesting.
0:16:10 > 0:16:13It's pretty, it's in a lovely setting,
0:16:13 > 0:16:16but just looking at it, I'm kind of excited about it.
0:16:16 > 0:16:19I got the feeling, reading between the lines on the last one,
0:16:19 > 0:16:21that it did feel a bit of a holiday home.
0:16:21 > 0:16:26The whole idea of a family home is still really important even though they're off flying the nest.
0:16:26 > 0:16:30- It's still important to have that space.- This does that.
0:16:30 > 0:16:33- Because it's also got four bedrooms. - Wow.- Oh, wow.
0:16:33 > 0:16:36- Yes. Happy, Dave?- Yes.- Can we go in?
0:16:36 > 0:16:38Cos your wife says she's really excited.
0:16:38 > 0:16:41- In that case, I must be happy!- You must be excited! Come on, then.
0:16:43 > 0:16:46'The solid rustic bones and period feel here
0:16:46 > 0:16:48'are very different to those in our first house
0:16:48 > 0:16:50'as they'll see immediately on the inside.'
0:16:50 > 0:16:53Let's start with this one.
0:16:53 > 0:16:54Ooh.
0:16:54 > 0:16:56What do you think?
0:16:56 > 0:17:00- It's a dining room.- It is. It's a kind of dining hall, really.
0:17:00 > 0:17:04- Yes.- We don't normally loiter in hallways much on this show,
0:17:04 > 0:17:07but this is worth considering.
0:17:07 > 0:17:10Definitely. There's a downstairs cloakroom off of it over there.
0:17:10 > 0:17:13- Right.- Again, sort of sets the scene.
0:17:13 > 0:17:16- Yeah.- But space we are not short of.
0:17:16 > 0:17:19Lots of space. But this doesn't have to be the dining room.
0:17:19 > 0:17:21- OK.- There are other options.- Right.
0:17:21 > 0:17:25But have a look at this. This is really nice. You'll like this, Kate.
0:17:25 > 0:17:27Well, I think you will.
0:17:27 > 0:17:30You wanted a fireplace, a woodburner,
0:17:30 > 0:17:32stone, beams, cosy.
0:17:32 > 0:17:36High beams. It's lovely.
0:17:36 > 0:17:38There's also a conservatory through there.
0:17:38 > 0:17:42- Wow.- Milking all those views, which we'll have a closer look at later.
0:17:42 > 0:17:44A comfortable family house.
0:17:44 > 0:17:46It's very promising. Good.
0:17:46 > 0:17:50It's not as light and bright and airy as the previous property.
0:17:50 > 0:17:52But it's different.
0:17:52 > 0:17:54And it's got that character.
0:17:54 > 0:17:57- Excellent.- You're doing very well. - Hoorah!
0:17:57 > 0:18:00Let's see if we continue doing well. Follow me down here.
0:18:01 > 0:18:04Across from the dining/entrance hall,
0:18:04 > 0:18:08is this second reception room.
0:18:08 > 0:18:10- This is good.- Could be a snug.
0:18:10 > 0:18:12- This is useful.- Family room.- Yes.
0:18:12 > 0:18:15- Dining room.- Somewhere to put the kids out the way.- Snug.
0:18:15 > 0:18:17Snug? It's right next to the kitchen.
0:18:18 > 0:18:21One of the things I really love about this house
0:18:21 > 0:18:23is its geography.
0:18:23 > 0:18:26We've got this low level, which, of course, is the kitchen.
0:18:26 > 0:18:27It's lovely.
0:18:27 > 0:18:32I think you would spend a lot of your time here quite happily.
0:18:32 > 0:18:34- I think so.- You could even incorporate a sofa,
0:18:34 > 0:18:37do all sorts of other things with this as a kitchen diner.
0:18:37 > 0:18:39But you've got so much space up there.
0:18:39 > 0:18:42- The other reception room, the main living room.- Sofa's there.
0:18:42 > 0:18:44- There already, is it?- Sofa's there.
0:18:44 > 0:18:48That's always been my dream to have a kitchen big enough to have a sofa in it.
0:18:48 > 0:18:52We teased you outside with the four bedrooms that are on offer.
0:18:52 > 0:18:54There's a lot to see. Come and have a look.
0:18:59 > 0:19:02'Upstairs, two of the four bedrooms are good-sized doubles,
0:19:02 > 0:19:04'both light with sloping ceilings
0:19:04 > 0:19:07'and could be perfect for when their daughters come to stay.
0:19:07 > 0:19:10There's one other bedroom located at the bottom of a flight of stairs
0:19:10 > 0:19:13which could serve as Dave's den.
0:19:13 > 0:19:15But we're heading to the opposite end of the landing
0:19:15 > 0:19:17to the main event.
0:19:19 > 0:19:22At the other end of the house, up here, is your bit.
0:19:25 > 0:19:28- Wow!- Yeah?- It's huge!
0:19:28 > 0:19:30- It is, isn't it?- Yeah.
0:19:30 > 0:19:32- Gosh.- Dave!
0:19:32 > 0:19:36- It's big!- He's a bit taken aback! - I think he is.
0:19:36 > 0:19:38No, it's lovely.
0:19:38 > 0:19:39- My word.- It is big.
0:19:39 > 0:19:41- Bags of storage.- And the balcony.
0:19:41 > 0:19:44- You can see the balcony out there. - You've spotted it.- I have.
0:19:44 > 0:19:46Not much gets past me!
0:19:46 > 0:19:49- It's the policewoman in you! - Is it?- Yeah.
0:19:49 > 0:19:51It's also got this, which is nice.
0:19:51 > 0:19:53An en-suite shower room.
0:19:53 > 0:19:55- OK.- Yes.
0:19:55 > 0:19:57- Sorted.- So how much is it going to cost you?
0:19:57 > 0:19:59Oh. Don't go there!
0:19:59 > 0:20:02- I know you're going to go there. - I am,
0:20:02 > 0:20:04but first we'll all go into the garden and then talk about money.
0:20:04 > 0:20:06Come on.
0:20:07 > 0:20:10'The property sits in a substantial plot
0:20:10 > 0:20:12'and has the most fantastic outlook.'
0:20:13 > 0:20:16So, there's the view.
0:20:16 > 0:20:19- Yeah.- Not bad, is it? - It's spectacular.
0:20:19 > 0:20:22As views go, North Wales never really disappoints.
0:20:22 > 0:20:26The plot is mirrored by the garden you can see in front of us.
0:20:26 > 0:20:28The same sort of thing the other side.
0:20:28 > 0:20:32So all in all, I guess it's half an acre or so.
0:20:32 > 0:20:35- Big enough.- It's plenty big enough.
0:20:35 > 0:20:39But you've got everything you want. Veggie patch, plenty of room for chickens.
0:20:39 > 0:20:41So we like this one.
0:20:41 > 0:20:43- Yeah.- Now, then.
0:20:43 > 0:20:45Price, Dave.
0:20:45 > 0:20:48I was thinking 340.
0:20:48 > 0:20:50340. Interesting, yep.
0:20:50 > 0:20:52OK.
0:20:52 > 0:20:55I was going to go five more than you and say 345.
0:20:55 > 0:20:58- Yep. You're both wrong, I'm afraid. - Of course we are!
0:20:58 > 0:21:00Of course we are.
0:21:00 > 0:21:02This will cost you...
0:21:02 > 0:21:05£335,000.
0:21:05 > 0:21:08- We'd be happy with 335.- You should be. I think it's worth it.
0:21:08 > 0:21:09- Yeah.- I think so.
0:21:09 > 0:21:11We've got a bit of time left. Make the best of it.
0:21:11 > 0:21:14- I'll come and find you later. - Thank you.- Off you go.- Cheers.
0:21:14 > 0:21:19A touch over their budget at £335,000,
0:21:19 > 0:21:23this conversion would give them an extremely generous family home.
0:21:30 > 0:21:32..including a huge master.
0:21:32 > 0:21:35The garden amounts to half an acre
0:21:35 > 0:21:38and has the countryside views they were looking for.
0:21:38 > 0:21:41First impressions when I got here - good size.
0:21:41 > 0:21:45Pretty, a lot of character.
0:21:45 > 0:21:49A reasonable amount of land. I was quite impressed.
0:21:49 > 0:21:54The space that is available is perfect. It really is.
0:21:54 > 0:21:55The kitchen is superb.
0:21:55 > 0:22:01The size of the kitchen. I never thought I'd have a kitchen big enough for my sofa.
0:22:01 > 0:22:03Here you are, at long last.
0:22:03 > 0:22:07- Have you seen enough? - Yes.- For the moment.
0:22:07 > 0:22:10For the moment. There's obviously some thoughts going on
0:22:10 > 0:22:12- which is a good sign.- Yes.
0:22:12 > 0:22:15I think this marks a very good end to a very busy day.
0:22:15 > 0:22:18So as it's sort of getting dark,
0:22:18 > 0:22:22let's go and find a pint and a bite to eat, shall we?
0:22:22 > 0:22:24- OK.- Good plan!- Come on, then.
0:22:33 > 0:22:38So as dusk falls, it marks the end of an extremely positive first day of house-hunting.
0:22:43 > 0:22:47Welcome to our final day of property hunting.
0:22:47 > 0:22:49When you consider that Dave and Kate are moving from Norfolk,
0:22:49 > 0:22:52which, arguably, is one of the driest parts of the UK,
0:22:52 > 0:22:56and they want to come to Wales, which, as you see, is one of the wettest,
0:22:56 > 0:22:58it begs the question as to why.
0:22:58 > 0:23:02But to come to Wales and moan about the weather is to miss the point.
0:23:02 > 0:23:04It's the rain and the rivers that it fills
0:23:04 > 0:23:07that have scoured this landscape over thousands of years,
0:23:07 > 0:23:10that make it the dramatic backdrop that it now is.
0:23:10 > 0:23:14Yesterday, we had two, I thought, very thought-provoking properties,
0:23:14 > 0:23:16both quite similar with gorgeous views.
0:23:16 > 0:23:20So for our mystery house, as ever, we're going to try something different.
0:23:25 > 0:23:27And with that in mind, our final property
0:23:27 > 0:23:29is in the village of Llanrhaeadr.
0:23:30 > 0:23:32Our mystery house is just down the road.
0:23:32 > 0:23:36- We've shown you two very rural properties so far.- Yes.
0:23:36 > 0:23:39So on this occasion we're going to try something a bit different.
0:23:39 > 0:23:44- We're going to go for a heart of village location.- OK.
0:23:44 > 0:23:46And this particular village, Llanrhaeadr,
0:23:46 > 0:23:50has a really vibrant community and it's a very old village.
0:23:50 > 0:23:54Hopefully, this will give you something else to put into the mix.
0:23:54 > 0:23:56- Right.- Interesting.
0:23:56 > 0:23:59'Set in the Vale of Clwyd,
0:23:59 > 0:24:01'the village's well-preserved 16th-century church
0:24:01 > 0:24:03'is a source of great local pride.
0:24:03 > 0:24:05'It's where we're meeting Enid Brown,
0:24:05 > 0:24:08the president of the village's Women's Institute.
0:24:08 > 0:24:10Is it quite an active village?
0:24:10 > 0:24:13Yes, it is a very active village.
0:24:13 > 0:24:15We do have, we are fortunate,
0:24:15 > 0:24:18that we have a shop and a post office.
0:24:18 > 0:24:22And we have a garage and a restaurant.
0:24:22 > 0:24:26- Wow.- We have a school and a pottery
0:24:26 > 0:24:28and the church.
0:24:28 > 0:24:30That's an extraordinary list, actually.
0:24:30 > 0:24:34- So with my pidgin Welsh, I'm going to say...- (SPEAKS WELSH)
0:24:34 > 0:24:36- Croeso.- Croeso.
0:24:36 > 0:24:39I said, "Thank you very much." Enid said, "Welcome".
0:24:39 > 0:24:41And welcome you will be, I am sure.
0:24:41 > 0:24:45Thank you very much indeed. Let's go house-hunting. Come on.
0:24:49 > 0:24:50Time to reveal our mystery house.
0:24:50 > 0:24:53A stone property built in the 1870s
0:24:53 > 0:24:56which offers Dave and Kate plenty of space and character.
0:24:56 > 0:24:59However, they do have neighbours
0:24:59 > 0:25:01and it is right in the heart of the village.
0:25:02 > 0:25:06Here we are, as promised, a stone's throw from the church,
0:25:06 > 0:25:08our mystery house. There you go.
0:25:08 > 0:25:09Impressive-looking, isn't it?
0:25:09 > 0:25:13- Very symmetrical.- Very symmetrical. Classic late Victorian.
0:25:13 > 0:25:17- Mm.- It's thought it was built with leftovers from the school.- Right.
0:25:17 > 0:25:19I think it's well worth you considering this.
0:25:19 > 0:25:22- It does round off the options we've been able to offer you.- Yes.
0:25:22 > 0:25:25- OK.- Yes.- Good. Come on, let's have a look.
0:25:25 > 0:25:27Thank you.
0:25:27 > 0:25:31'Thankfully, the village setting doesn't have our buyers heading for the hills.
0:25:31 > 0:25:34'I think they'll be really drawn to what it offers inside.'
0:25:34 > 0:25:37Let's start in here, in the kitchen.
0:25:37 > 0:25:39Come on in, guys.
0:25:39 > 0:25:40What do you think?
0:25:40 > 0:25:43That's a wowser moment!
0:25:43 > 0:25:45Yeah? A wowser moment?
0:25:45 > 0:25:48- It is, actually.- Good!
0:25:48 > 0:25:51- Is that a stable door? - This is a stable door
0:25:51 > 0:25:53that goes out to a generous utility room.
0:25:53 > 0:25:56Dogs, boots, muddy shoes.
0:25:56 > 0:25:58Husband!
0:25:58 > 0:26:02- Don't be like that!- Poor old Dave! I'm on your side, mate!
0:26:02 > 0:26:05I've got something for you upstairs, so you can get your own back.
0:26:05 > 0:26:08- Poor old Dave.- We're liking it, aren't we?- We are, actually.- Good.
0:26:08 > 0:26:11Follow me. Let's continue our tour through here.
0:26:11 > 0:26:13'With warm reactions to the kitchen,
0:26:13 > 0:26:16'let's make our way to the front of the property
0:26:16 > 0:26:19'and explore the main reception areas.'
0:26:19 > 0:26:22How about this for somewhere to relax in?
0:26:24 > 0:26:28Yes. They've got the open fire. It's not a huge room.
0:26:28 > 0:26:32But there's enough room. You've got your woodburner.
0:26:32 > 0:26:35Also got an open fire next door in a really lovely room.
0:26:35 > 0:26:39- So the whole thing sort of flows around.- Looks good.
0:26:39 > 0:26:42- OK. Let's continue upstairs. Come this way.- OK.
0:26:45 > 0:26:48'The character feel of our mystery house seems to be holding their interest.
0:26:48 > 0:26:50'It's laid out over three levels
0:26:50 > 0:26:53'with three bedrooms up on the first floor.
0:26:53 > 0:26:54'One is currently used as a sitting room
0:26:54 > 0:26:56'and leads onto a decked terrace.
0:26:56 > 0:27:00'The other two doubles here have huge bay windows
0:27:00 > 0:27:02'which make these rooms wonderfully light.
0:27:02 > 0:27:04'There's also a large family bathroom
0:27:04 > 0:27:06'and a separate WC.
0:27:06 > 0:27:08'But we're heading up to the top floor
0:27:08 > 0:27:10'to what could be the master.'
0:27:12 > 0:27:16As you can see, there's a range of options on the middle floor.
0:27:16 > 0:27:20But this is currently the master on the top floor.
0:27:20 > 0:27:25- It's quite baffling, because there are so many different options... - There are.
0:27:25 > 0:27:27..that you could use them for.
0:27:27 > 0:27:29- Take your pick.- Decisions.
0:27:29 > 0:27:33It concerns me that what you've given here, the choices you've given us here
0:27:33 > 0:27:35are we can't afford it.
0:27:35 > 0:27:39I know that's coming later, but it's concerning me.
0:27:39 > 0:27:41- So long as you're liking it. That's the main thing.- We like it.
0:27:41 > 0:27:45- I think you need a kind of model room.- I need a man room, don't I?
0:27:45 > 0:27:48A man room. Somewhere for a little model railway, perhaps.
0:27:48 > 0:27:51- Yep.- Work room.- Yep.
0:27:51 > 0:27:52It's up here. Next door.
0:27:52 > 0:27:56Could be next to your bedroom. How about that? Come and look at this.
0:28:02 > 0:28:05Now, you can see what I was thinking about.
0:28:05 > 0:28:07Come on in.
0:28:07 > 0:28:11- Isn't this just a proper kind of attic?- Yes. Very much so.
0:28:11 > 0:28:14- I love it.- Yes.- I can just see you in here.
0:28:14 > 0:28:16Let's finish off outside
0:28:16 > 0:28:17and talk about the money.
0:28:17 > 0:28:22- Nothing to worry about. It's only money! It's only money!- He says!
0:28:25 > 0:28:27'Dave seems delighted with his den.
0:28:27 > 0:28:31'But Kate's got misgivings that the mystery house will be beyond their reach.
0:28:31 > 0:28:34'So time to pause for breath in the gardens.'
0:28:34 > 0:28:38The garden, as you see, is slightly terraced, cos we're on a hill.
0:28:38 > 0:28:43- It also includes quite a big area of woodland behind us.- Right.- Yes.
0:28:43 > 0:28:46And you also have access to that walled garden.
0:28:46 > 0:28:48- You can see the walls there.- Yes.
0:28:48 > 0:28:51It's open to you to use.
0:28:51 > 0:28:54Vegetable plots, et cetera, should you want to.
0:28:54 > 0:28:56All part of the deeds. You know what's coming now.
0:28:56 > 0:28:59- I do.- You've been agonising over this, haven't you?- Yes.
0:28:59 > 0:29:01Worrying about the price, the money?
0:29:01 > 0:29:04I've been getting more and more depressed as we walked round.
0:29:04 > 0:29:07- OK. That means you like it.- I like it and I don't think we can afford it.
0:29:07 > 0:29:10Let's have a go. See if you can afford it.
0:29:10 > 0:29:12Make me an offer.
0:29:12 > 0:29:16- It's got to be about 365.- 365, yeah.
0:29:16 > 0:29:18I was thinking 360-ish.
0:29:18 > 0:29:24360-ish. Well, it'll cost you £339,000.
0:29:26 > 0:29:33- Well...- Which I think puts it within range of your budget of £330,000.
0:29:33 > 0:29:35Yes. It's nice. It's lovely.
0:29:35 > 0:29:37- Off you go.- Thank you.- Go on.
0:29:37 > 0:29:39Indulge. Take your time.
0:29:40 > 0:29:42I'm absolutely delighted. Once again,
0:29:42 > 0:29:45our mystery house would seem to have done it.
0:29:45 > 0:29:47We almost had a sale right here, right now.
0:29:47 > 0:29:49There's still a lot to consider,
0:29:49 > 0:29:51but it's a gorgeous house in a gorgeous village
0:29:51 > 0:29:54with a vibrant community to match.
0:29:55 > 0:30:00Although our mystery house nudges over their budget at £339,000,
0:30:00 > 0:30:03they could see where a lower offer would get them.
0:30:03 > 0:30:07Although it challenges them to reconsider whether to opt for living in a village,
0:30:07 > 0:30:10the property itself does meet their demands.
0:30:29 > 0:30:34My initial thoughts when we walked up the street to be shown that this was the mystery house
0:30:34 > 0:30:37that it was right in the middle of the village.
0:30:37 > 0:30:42And did we want right in the middle of the village with cars going past?
0:30:42 > 0:30:48My feeling to the house changed immediately I walked through the front door.
0:30:48 > 0:30:51They've kept all the original features.
0:30:51 > 0:30:54And that all lends itself towards the character.
0:30:54 > 0:30:56It's an unusual place.
0:30:56 > 0:30:59It's full of options, full of character.
0:30:59 > 0:31:02I like it. I would fit in this house and this house would fit around me.
0:31:02 > 0:31:05- That was quite revealing, wasn't it? - Wasn't it just?
0:31:05 > 0:31:07- A bit of a surprise?- Very much so.
0:31:07 > 0:31:10- That's what the mystery house is all about.- Yes.
0:31:10 > 0:31:15I think, all in all, we have given you some interesting, viable options this week.
0:31:15 > 0:31:18- You have.- I think so. - Lots to think about.
0:31:18 > 0:31:21Let's go and settle you down somewhere where you can mull it all over.
0:31:21 > 0:31:24- I'll catch up with you later on. - OK.- Thank you.
0:31:35 > 0:31:40Over the years, we're often asked what happens to the buyers who appear on Escape to the Country.
0:31:40 > 0:31:44Three years ago, I was in just this part of North Wales
0:31:44 > 0:31:48giving another couple a sense of what a new life in the country might look like.
0:31:48 > 0:31:50We uncovered a dream property
0:31:50 > 0:31:53that went on to become their new rural home.
0:31:53 > 0:31:57I'm delighted to say they've invited me back to show me how they're getting on.
0:31:58 > 0:31:59Hope they're in!
0:31:59 > 0:32:01That would be typical, wouldn't it?
0:32:03 > 0:32:06- Hello!- Hiya! How are you doing?
0:32:06 > 0:32:10- I'm very well, mate. Good to see you. Hello, Carol!- Hiya! - How are you?
0:32:11 > 0:32:16- Good to see you. Look at you both! - You haven't changed much!
0:32:16 > 0:32:18- How are you two?- Great.- Fine, yes. - Absolutely fantastic.
0:32:18 > 0:32:22- You look very well.- Coffee's made. Are you coming in?- Come on, then, Carol!
0:32:22 > 0:32:25You did promise me a coffee many years ago!
0:32:26 > 0:32:29'When I first met Bernard and Carol Hudson,
0:32:29 > 0:32:33'they wanted to move from Leyland in Lancashire to North Wales.
0:32:33 > 0:32:37'Originally, they thought they were looking for a traditional Welsh cottage.
0:32:37 > 0:32:41'But when I showed them this modern refurbishment of a property built in 1900,
0:32:41 > 0:32:43'everything changed.'
0:32:43 > 0:32:45What do you think of that?
0:32:45 > 0:32:48- Good.- Yes. I like it as well.- Good.
0:32:48 > 0:32:51That's the main thing. Good start.
0:32:51 > 0:32:54'And it was the kitchen that really sold it to them.'
0:32:54 > 0:32:56OK, Carol.
0:32:56 > 0:32:58In you come.
0:32:59 > 0:33:03- This is definitely what I had in mind. Definitely.- OK.
0:33:06 > 0:33:10I do remember your reaction in this kitchen, particularly.
0:33:10 > 0:33:12I liked the house soon as I walked in.
0:33:12 > 0:33:15But as soon as I saw the kitchen, I was thinking,
0:33:15 > 0:33:17"I've got to have this house."
0:33:17 > 0:33:21How have you found the local community and your neighbours?
0:33:21 > 0:33:25Very good, yes. We have a good bartering system going on,
0:33:25 > 0:33:27where we give them vegetables
0:33:27 > 0:33:31and we get cakes. That's why we've got these Welsh cakes and bara brith.
0:33:31 > 0:33:35- I was going to ask if you made them, but you've swapped them for vegetables?- Yes.
0:33:35 > 0:33:38What about all the pickles and the rest? Is that you?
0:33:38 > 0:33:40I made them, yes. I can't bear waste,
0:33:40 > 0:33:43so everything we grow, I try and make something with.
0:33:43 > 0:33:47'Most of that fruit and veg has been grown in their garden.
0:33:47 > 0:33:50'Bernard was especially keen to have land
0:33:50 > 0:33:52'in order to become somewhat self-sufficient.
0:33:52 > 0:33:55'He wanted a vegetable plot, pigs and chickens.'
0:33:55 > 0:33:57- You're a little bit choked.- I am.
0:34:00 > 0:34:02Is this going to be your new dream home?
0:34:02 > 0:34:04- I think it is.- Oh, mate!
0:34:04 > 0:34:06Oh, brilliant.
0:34:06 > 0:34:08'And after three years' hard work,
0:34:08 > 0:34:10'that's exactly what they've got.'
0:34:10 > 0:34:12Wow.
0:34:12 > 0:34:14What a difference a few years makes!
0:34:14 > 0:34:17- Some transformation, isn't it? - Isn't it just.- Yep.
0:34:17 > 0:34:21Do you know what? I had my doubts.
0:34:21 > 0:34:24It wasn't the most promising bit of land, to be fair,
0:34:24 > 0:34:26but look what you've done with it.
0:34:26 > 0:34:28When I started, I had my doubts, too.
0:34:30 > 0:34:33But happily, a local farmer ploughed it for us initially
0:34:33 > 0:34:35and that was a huge help.
0:34:35 > 0:34:37The pigs look gorgeous. You've got the hens here, as well.
0:34:37 > 0:34:39A little hen house.
0:34:39 > 0:34:42Well, this gate is a bit famous, isn't it?
0:34:42 > 0:34:44- The blubbering gate! - The blubbering gate!
0:34:44 > 0:34:47But it was here that the penny finally dropped, wasn't it?
0:34:47 > 0:34:49- Yes.- Yep.- Definitely.
0:34:49 > 0:34:51- Are you going to cry again, Bernard? - No.
0:34:52 > 0:34:54Once is enough!
0:34:57 > 0:35:01'This has clearly been a genuine labour of love for Bernard and Carol,
0:35:01 > 0:35:04'to turn the paddock into exactly what they wanted.'
0:35:05 > 0:35:07It's really inspiring, actually.
0:35:07 > 0:35:10- Thank you very much.- I might have a little blub myself!
0:35:12 > 0:35:14We've never been happier, have we?
0:35:14 > 0:35:16- One of the best decisions we've made.- Brilliant.- Yes.
0:35:22 > 0:35:25Well, when it comes to house calls, take it from me.
0:35:25 > 0:35:28They don't get much more rewarding than that one.
0:35:28 > 0:35:31The chance to see Bernard and Carol clearly enjoying life to the full
0:35:31 > 0:35:34and making the very best of their time here in Wales,
0:35:34 > 0:35:37well, I, for one, am absolutely delighted.
0:35:37 > 0:35:39That's one set of happy customers.
0:35:39 > 0:35:42The question is, have we got some more?
0:35:42 > 0:35:44Time to catch up with Dave and Kate.
0:35:49 > 0:35:53Well, chaps. Here we are. At the end of our little house tour.
0:35:53 > 0:35:57Three very interesting properties which we're all agreed upon.
0:35:57 > 0:36:00Let's remind ourselves of them.
0:36:00 > 0:36:04We started with that really interesting white long house
0:36:04 > 0:36:06overlooking the Clwydian range.
0:36:06 > 0:36:12- All done.- I particularly liked the master bedroom within that property.
0:36:12 > 0:36:18You could lie in bed and just have that stunning view in front of you
0:36:18 > 0:36:21with patio doors opening out onto the outside.
0:36:21 > 0:36:25- That was absolutely stunning. - Very good indeed. Yeah.
0:36:25 > 0:36:29But the box room, third bedroom, box room, office, whatever,
0:36:29 > 0:36:31that wasn't quite enough room in that house.
0:36:31 > 0:36:34Bearing all that in mind, we then took you to property two.
0:36:34 > 0:36:37But we had the benefit of another floor.
0:36:37 > 0:36:40- Yes.- With that one, and four bedrooms to play with.
0:36:40 > 0:36:44From a logical point of view, using your head,
0:36:44 > 0:36:47you had everything you're looking for and it was also a bit quirky.
0:36:47 > 0:36:50Yes. The kitchen was lovely.
0:36:50 > 0:36:53It really was. I liked the stepping down into the kitchen.
0:36:53 > 0:36:57Upstairs, four brilliant sized bedrooms.
0:36:57 > 0:36:59But it didn't touch my heart.
0:36:59 > 0:37:02It's the imponderable, isn't it? It's very difficult to put your finger on
0:37:02 > 0:37:05- this magical thing that happens when a property feels right.- Yes.
0:37:05 > 0:37:11Then we finally took you to our mystery house in the lovely village of Llanrhaeadr.
0:37:11 > 0:37:15A very different proposition, very different style of building.
0:37:15 > 0:37:17What happened to your heart there?
0:37:17 > 0:37:19Yes, you see this has done the opposite.
0:37:19 > 0:37:22My head says, "You shouldn't like it."
0:37:22 > 0:37:27It's in a village, hasn't got that stunning view.
0:37:27 > 0:37:31- Yep.- It's on a road.- It's on a road.
0:37:31 > 0:37:33This is wrong.
0:37:33 > 0:37:37- My heart fell in love the moment we walked through the door.- Yeah.
0:37:37 > 0:37:41Oh, the kitchen. The dining room with the open fire...
0:37:41 > 0:37:46- And, come on, Dave.- It's got a man room!- You've got a man room at the top, yes!
0:37:46 > 0:37:48- The railway room.- Perfect, yes.
0:37:48 > 0:37:50It would be a perfect office, computer room,
0:37:50 > 0:37:54railway room, model room, you name it. It's a man room.
0:37:54 > 0:37:57So I might just hazard a guess
0:37:57 > 0:38:02that the mystery house is your favoured property of the lot.
0:38:02 > 0:38:03- Definitely.- Well, no.
0:38:03 > 0:38:06It is, actually, yes.
0:38:07 > 0:38:09- Yes, it is.- So what happens next?
0:38:09 > 0:38:13- First thing, get the girls to come and have a look.- Yes.
0:38:13 > 0:38:16It's still going to be a family home. We want it to be a family home.
0:38:16 > 0:38:18It's important to us that they like it.
0:38:18 > 0:38:21- So, yes. First thing.- Yep.
0:38:21 > 0:38:23What can I say? Best of luck.
0:38:23 > 0:38:25- Thank you.- Fingers crossed. Let's hope you do it.
0:38:25 > 0:38:28- Thanks for your help.- Thank you. - Pleasure.- Thank you.
0:38:32 > 0:38:34At the beginning of this episode,
0:38:34 > 0:38:36I promised you an historic Escape to the Country
0:38:36 > 0:38:38and so it has turned out.
0:38:38 > 0:38:41We started amidst the beautiful surroundings of Conwy Castle.
0:38:41 > 0:38:44We then had three wonderful period properties to look at,
0:38:44 > 0:38:48and I had the chance to catch up with lovely Bernard and Carol.
0:38:48 > 0:38:52Now, with any luck, Dave and Kate are going to follow in their footsteps.
0:38:52 > 0:38:57A life in Wales. Take it from one who knows - you can't knock it.
0:38:57 > 0:38:59See you next time.
0:38:59 > 0:39:02Dave and Kate are still interested in pursuing the mystery house
0:39:02 > 0:39:05when they find a buyer for their current property.
0:39:05 > 0:39:09Let's hope all goes well and they settle in the Welsh countryside soon.
0:39:10 > 0:39:12If you'd like to escape to the country
0:39:12 > 0:39:14in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland or England,
0:39:14 > 0:39:17and would like our help, please apply online: