0:00:02 > 0:00:05Now, it has to be said that pretty little churches like this
0:00:05 > 0:00:07are familiar fare on Escape To The Country,
0:00:07 > 0:00:08but this one is unique
0:00:08 > 0:00:11because it's the final resting place of a man
0:00:11 > 0:00:13whose exploits at the end of the 19th century
0:00:13 > 0:00:16became the subject of one of the most iconic war films ever made.
0:00:16 > 0:00:19But who was he, and where are we?
0:00:19 > 0:00:22Well, join me in just a few moments and I'll tell you.
0:00:39 > 0:00:42On today's show we've got a wonderful selection of homes
0:00:42 > 0:00:44to entice our house-hunting couple,
0:00:44 > 0:00:48but they must meet that key three-letter word.
0:00:48 > 0:00:50- There isn't a wow yet.- Yet. No.
0:00:50 > 0:00:53It is all impressive, but it doesn't wow.
0:00:53 > 0:00:54- Whoa!- Very nice.
0:00:54 > 0:00:56That was a whoa, is that like a wow?
0:00:56 > 0:00:58That's a wow!
0:00:59 > 0:01:01Well, today we're in Somerset
0:01:01 > 0:01:05at the parish church of St John the Baptist in Hatch Beauchamp
0:01:05 > 0:01:08and this is the grave of one Colonel John Chard,
0:01:08 > 0:01:10holder of the Victoria Cross.
0:01:10 > 0:01:14Now, back in 1879 at the height of the British Empire,
0:01:14 > 0:01:16Chard found himself serving in South Africa
0:01:16 > 0:01:19during the turmoil of the Zulu Wars.
0:01:19 > 0:01:22He was given command of what was then a little-known outpost
0:01:22 > 0:01:25called Rorke's Drift. With only 150 men,
0:01:25 > 0:01:29he fought off repeated assaults by thousands of Zulu warriors.
0:01:29 > 0:01:33Since then his story has become the stuff of military legend.
0:01:33 > 0:01:38It was immortalised in the 1964 film Zulu, starring Stanley Baker
0:01:38 > 0:01:41and a very young Michael Caine.
0:01:41 > 0:01:44Now, Chard himself was born in Devon,
0:01:44 > 0:01:47but not surprisingly he is a man that the people of Somerset
0:01:47 > 0:01:49have always been extremely proud of.
0:01:53 > 0:01:55Lying in south-western England,
0:01:55 > 0:01:58Somerset is bounded by the Bristol Channel to the north
0:01:58 > 0:02:01and shares its borders with Devon, Dorset and Wiltshire.
0:02:01 > 0:02:04It's a county of great geographical contrasts,
0:02:04 > 0:02:07from the wild and tranquil landscape of the Quantock Hills,
0:02:07 > 0:02:11to the low-lying wetlands of the Levels and Moors.
0:02:11 > 0:02:13Wearing its colourful geology on its sleeve,
0:02:13 > 0:02:17Somerset has its fair share of attractive market towns,
0:02:17 > 0:02:20such as Ilminster, whose streets are warmly lined with
0:02:20 > 0:02:24golden hamstone buildings, seemingly unchanged for centuries.
0:02:24 > 0:02:29This divine and diverse landscape has long made the county a favourite for homebuyers,
0:02:29 > 0:02:32with the added draw of the northern coast,
0:02:32 > 0:02:36whose spectacular headlands look out over the Bristol Channel.
0:02:37 > 0:02:41Now, when it comes to house prices Somerset is a little bit cheaper
0:02:41 > 0:02:43than neighbouring Devon and Dorset
0:02:43 > 0:02:46but at £263,000, your average property here
0:02:46 > 0:02:49is pretty much on a par with the national figure,
0:02:49 > 0:02:52but broadly speaking this is a county of two halves.
0:02:52 > 0:02:55The further north you go, the cheaper it gets,
0:02:55 > 0:02:59but head further south towards those pretty little hamstone villages
0:02:59 > 0:03:03such as East Coker or Montacute, and you will have to pay a premium,
0:03:03 > 0:03:06perhaps as much as 10% or 15%.
0:03:06 > 0:03:09But as property hunting goes, this place is a real gem.
0:03:09 > 0:03:12There are some beautiful houses on offer.
0:03:12 > 0:03:16Of course the question is, will any of them meet today's buyers' expectations.
0:03:16 > 0:03:19Well, let's meet them and find out what they're after.
0:03:20 > 0:03:23For the past 14 years, Derek and Alison have lived in
0:03:23 > 0:03:26this five bedroom semi-detached house in Tonbridge, Kent.
0:03:26 > 0:03:29But, with retirement on the cards and now their kids are grown up,
0:03:29 > 0:03:32they, too, have decided to flee the nest.
0:03:32 > 0:03:34I was born in Fulham in London.
0:03:34 > 0:03:38I have lived in the south-east all my life and we are at last free
0:03:38 > 0:03:44to fulfil our almost lifelong dream of moving out into the country.
0:03:44 > 0:03:48We are looking forward to open spaces, scenery, views,
0:03:48 > 0:03:55the Mendips, you know, the hills, the Somerset Levels.
0:03:55 > 0:03:59We're looking forward to all of that and we can't wait.
0:04:00 > 0:04:03Derek has worked locally as a Baptist minister for four decades
0:04:03 > 0:04:06and wants to free up his weekends at last
0:04:06 > 0:04:08to spend more quality time with his wife,
0:04:08 > 0:04:11when she's not in the thick of things, that is.
0:04:11 > 0:04:15I work for a charity that has built an orphanage in Kisumu in Kenya
0:04:15 > 0:04:18and I'm the promotions officer
0:04:18 > 0:04:21so a lot of the time I spend organising fundraising
0:04:21 > 0:04:27and last year I decided that I would do something specifically
0:04:27 > 0:04:31myself that would raise money and so I booked up to do a skydive.
0:04:33 > 0:04:35It was a brilliant experience
0:04:35 > 0:04:40and we managed to raise about £4,500 for the children.
0:04:45 > 0:04:47I've done craft activities all my life
0:04:47 > 0:04:50and so at the moment I'm specialising in making
0:04:50 > 0:04:55bead jewellery, which I can sell and, again, help raise money.
0:04:56 > 0:04:59Both husband and wife crave the time and the space
0:04:59 > 0:05:02to indulge in their very hands-on interests.
0:05:02 > 0:05:04I like to swim, I like to play golf.
0:05:04 > 0:05:09I love wood, I love the smell of wood, I love working with wood.
0:05:09 > 0:05:11I have got a lathe down the garden in the shed,
0:05:11 > 0:05:14but I don't have room to use it down there
0:05:14 > 0:05:18so I'm hoping that I'll have considerably more room when we move.
0:05:18 > 0:05:22Creatives at heart, they're also looking forward to developing the grounds.
0:05:22 > 0:05:24We've got a big garden here.
0:05:24 > 0:05:27We've got a central section, which is what the grandchildren call
0:05:27 > 0:05:30the woods, as there are a number of trees there,
0:05:30 > 0:05:33and beyond that is my vegetable patch.
0:05:33 > 0:05:36We would like to have a garden when we move.
0:05:38 > 0:05:41All that's left is to find out how much money they've got to spend.
0:05:41 > 0:05:44The budget for this move is £500,000.
0:05:48 > 0:05:52Derek and Alison are particularly attracted by the beautiful villages
0:05:52 > 0:05:53in the southern portion of Somerset
0:05:53 > 0:05:57so we'll be stretching our property search between Taunton in the west
0:05:57 > 0:05:59and Yeovil towards the east.
0:06:00 > 0:06:03Time for me to meet up with our couple
0:06:03 > 0:06:06to finalise the details of their West Country relocation.
0:06:06 > 0:06:10So, officially I can say now, Alison and Derek, welcome to Somerset.
0:06:10 > 0:06:15- Thank you.- Derek, why Somerset, and in particular South Somerset?
0:06:15 > 0:06:19We were looking for a change and we love the Somerset countryside
0:06:19 > 0:06:22and you get more for your money down here.
0:06:22 > 0:06:24Well, you certainly do.
0:06:24 > 0:06:28And not just in terms of property, I think lifestyle as well, which
0:06:28 > 0:06:32obviously is what you are hoping to kind of buy into at every level.
0:06:32 > 0:06:35What, actually, are you looking for?
0:06:35 > 0:06:37- Characterful.- Yep.
0:06:38 > 0:06:44I think we want this property to be a bit of fun, a bit more interesting.
0:06:44 > 0:06:47We love hamstone, we love the local yellow stone.
0:06:47 > 0:06:50Three to four bedrooms
0:06:50 > 0:06:53and we're hoping to have family and grandchildren coming to stay.
0:06:53 > 0:06:57I personally do like a kitchen/diner,
0:06:57 > 0:07:00- rather than two separate rooms.- Yes.
0:07:00 > 0:07:02We also have a lot of activities
0:07:02 > 0:07:07so we could do with a study each or an area of working each.
0:07:07 > 0:07:11I'd like a house that plays with light and space
0:07:11 > 0:07:14in such a way as to make possible all the things that we've not
0:07:14 > 0:07:17been able to do and have been looking forward to doing.
0:07:17 > 0:07:20How do you feel about listed buildings?
0:07:20 > 0:07:25We don't really know what limitations that imposes upon you
0:07:25 > 0:07:28but we're certainly not closed to the possibility of a listed property.
0:07:28 > 0:07:32Let's just remind ourselves of the budget. How much have we got to spend?
0:07:32 > 0:07:33Maximum 500,000.
0:07:33 > 0:07:37So with half a million quid we've got three properties
0:07:37 > 0:07:40- to go and have a look at. Let's see if we can go spend it.- Brilliant.
0:07:40 > 0:07:41- Follow me.- Fantastic.- Come on.
0:07:44 > 0:07:48For a maximum budget of £500,000, Derek and Alison are looking for
0:07:48 > 0:07:52a light and spacious characterful home, ideally made of local stone.
0:07:52 > 0:07:55This has to include three to four bedrooms,
0:07:55 > 0:07:59a large kitchen/diner, the potential for a study each,
0:07:59 > 0:08:02as well as a workshop and lastly, they want a decent-sized garden.
0:08:04 > 0:08:07We've selected three superb vintage properties to view,
0:08:07 > 0:08:10each offering a variety of opportunities.
0:08:10 > 0:08:14As usual I'll be asking our buyers to get the price before I reveal it.
0:08:14 > 0:08:16Then the final option is the mystery house,
0:08:16 > 0:08:19which was once fit for a queen.
0:08:22 > 0:08:24Well, for so many years, Derek,
0:08:24 > 0:08:28the church has been a huge part of your daily life but,
0:08:28 > 0:08:31in many ways, I guess that's going to change now that you've retired.
0:08:31 > 0:08:33It certainly is.
0:08:33 > 0:08:35I've been a leader in the church for 42 years.
0:08:35 > 0:08:39I've been up front and Alison has been sitting on her own in the pew
0:08:39 > 0:08:43and from now on in I expect we shall be sitting together
0:08:43 > 0:08:48and I won't have a leadership role, which will be a change and a rest.
0:08:48 > 0:08:51I was going to say, you'll probably quite enjoy it, won't you,
0:08:51 > 0:08:53putting your feet up and being on the backbenches, as it were?
0:08:53 > 0:08:55Absolutely.
0:08:59 > 0:09:02We're seeing just one property today,
0:09:02 > 0:09:05which is in the hamlet of Curload, about ten miles east of Taunton.
0:09:07 > 0:09:10The nearest amenities can be found nearby in North Curry,
0:09:10 > 0:09:14a fairly large village which has a post office and convenience store,
0:09:14 > 0:09:17a traditional pub that was first licensed in the 1760s,
0:09:17 > 0:09:22and a shop run by local volunteers, whose proceeds go to charity.
0:09:22 > 0:09:25But just a five-minute drive away in the quiet countryside of Curload,
0:09:25 > 0:09:27we come to our first offering.
0:09:29 > 0:09:33There we are. Property number one for you. A converted barn.
0:09:33 > 0:09:37- Brilliant.- Hard to see it all from here, to be fair.
0:09:37 > 0:09:40This is a property that I think really works from the inside.
0:09:40 > 0:09:43The nice thing about it is that it's all been done.
0:09:43 > 0:09:45It was converted about 2000,
0:09:45 > 0:09:48it's had a fair bit of work done since then as well.
0:09:48 > 0:09:50I love the stonework
0:09:50 > 0:09:52and the contrast with the brick as well, that's lovely.
0:09:52 > 0:09:55- Right then, let's have a look inside.- Let's go.
0:09:55 > 0:09:59Built of local blue Lias stone, this split-level converted barn
0:09:59 > 0:10:01had a history that dates back over two centuries,
0:10:01 > 0:10:04but a very contemporary feel inside.
0:10:04 > 0:10:08So, let's find out if this combination will work for Derek and Alison.
0:10:09 > 0:10:13Right, Derek, if you can grab the door. Come on in, Alison.
0:10:14 > 0:10:16- Oh, my word.- What do you reckon?
0:10:16 > 0:10:19- Goodness me.- It is an amazing space, isn't it?
0:10:20 > 0:10:22Very impressive.
0:10:22 > 0:10:24It's kind of zoned, in a way.
0:10:24 > 0:10:26Obviously you've got the kind of kitchen area here,
0:10:26 > 0:10:30but I really like the way it all kind of flows through.
0:10:30 > 0:10:33- It's nice with the double doors there so...- There's plenty of light.
0:10:33 > 0:10:35- Yes.- Which is good.
0:10:35 > 0:10:40Yes, now then, let's get into our arty, light and space, thoughts.
0:10:40 > 0:10:43- You know, I think this touches a few buttons, doesn't it?- Yes, it does.
0:10:43 > 0:10:47- It is a unique sort of property, isn't it?- It is one you remember.
0:10:47 > 0:10:49- Yes.- Certainly.
0:10:49 > 0:10:52And I think, you know, with family around and new friends
0:10:52 > 0:10:56- and all the rest of it, it's a great social space.- Yes, yes.
0:10:56 > 0:10:57I am keen to see the rest of it.
0:10:57 > 0:10:59Yes, well let's have a look at it over here.
0:11:00 > 0:11:04Again the zone theme is what it's all about. So, living zone here.
0:11:04 > 0:11:06There's a lovely wood burner in there too
0:11:06 > 0:11:09- so you've got a sort of cosy end as well.- Yes.
0:11:09 > 0:11:13- There isn't a wow yet, though, is there?- There isn't a wow yet.- Yet.
0:11:13 > 0:11:17- We haven't seen it all yet.- Well, let's keep our fingers crossed then!
0:11:17 > 0:11:21Come up here. This is where all the bedrooms are.
0:11:21 > 0:11:25But one of them has been given over to a study,
0:11:25 > 0:11:29- which is, I think, pretty generous actually in a house this big.- Yes.
0:11:29 > 0:11:33- Is this one that you could share, dare I say?- No.- Probably not.
0:11:33 > 0:11:36THEY LAUGH
0:11:36 > 0:11:39- You see, Derek's a "probably" and you're a "no".- Yes, well...
0:11:39 > 0:11:42- So, this would be yours? - Yes, I think so.
0:11:42 > 0:11:46- Alison would need all of this for all of her charitable stuff.- Yes.
0:11:46 > 0:11:48Right then, well, I'm glad we've got that cleared up!
0:11:48 > 0:11:49THEY LAUGH
0:11:49 > 0:11:52Including this study, there are four bedrooms in total,
0:11:52 > 0:11:54as well as a family bathroom,
0:11:54 > 0:11:57that lie at the back of the property on the upper level.
0:11:58 > 0:12:01The fully-tiled bathroom serves two of the bedrooms.
0:12:01 > 0:12:04One small double is presented with a single bed
0:12:04 > 0:12:06and features a vaulted ceiling.
0:12:06 > 0:12:09And another double again has exposed timbers
0:12:09 > 0:12:13and its own ensuite shower room. That just leaves the master suite.
0:12:13 > 0:12:14And here it is.
0:12:14 > 0:12:18- Again, vaulted ceiling, which is rather nice.- Yes.
0:12:18 > 0:12:20There is a family bathroom across the corridor,
0:12:20 > 0:12:22which is very nicely appointed
0:12:22 > 0:12:25but you also get your own ensuite, which is through there.
0:12:25 > 0:12:28- What are your thoughts so far? - I think it's interesting.
0:12:28 > 0:12:33Interesting design, if not that many interesting features.
0:12:33 > 0:12:36It's all impressive but it doesn't wow.
0:12:36 > 0:12:38Ooh! That's interesting.
0:12:38 > 0:12:42Let's see if wows from the outside in the garden, because you're absolutely right,
0:12:42 > 0:12:45- it belies its real integrity, this place.- Yeah.
0:12:45 > 0:12:49- And I think from the garden, you really get a sense of what it looks like.- Yeah, yeah.
0:12:49 > 0:12:52Here is for a wow. Right, come this way.
0:12:52 > 0:12:56'As we weave our way back through the house, I'm hoping it gives
0:12:56 > 0:13:00'Derek and Alison another chance to take in the impressive open plan kitchen,
0:13:00 > 0:13:03'that comes complete with a good-sized utility room.
0:13:03 > 0:13:07'Outside across the back of the property there's a large, paved patio
0:13:07 > 0:13:12'that overlooks the garden, which is mainly laid to lawn and has a timber workshop in one corner.'
0:13:12 > 0:13:16- So, that's it. That's property number one.- OK.
0:13:16 > 0:13:20- You know what comes next, you've watched the show.- I know, I know.
0:13:20 > 0:13:23It's our favourite bit, it's guessing the price time.
0:13:23 > 0:13:27- So, who's going to go first, Derek? - It sounds like I am.
0:13:27 > 0:13:30I would say...475.
0:13:30 > 0:13:33475? Yeah. OK.
0:13:33 > 0:13:38- Erm, 480.- 480. Not bad.
0:13:38 > 0:13:42But you could have done a bit better. It's 435,000...
0:13:42 > 0:13:43Oh, my word!
0:13:43 > 0:13:46You see! Ha-ha-ha!
0:13:46 > 0:13:49- Yes, that might put a different twist on it...- Yeah.
0:13:49 > 0:13:51..maybe?
0:13:51 > 0:13:55Value for money and space wise, I think this is a really, really interesting building.
0:13:55 > 0:13:57Yeah, it is, it is.
0:13:57 > 0:13:59- Beautifully done.- Yeah.
0:13:59 > 0:14:02There's nothing for you to do.
0:14:02 > 0:14:06It's all sorted, which would give you BAGS of cash left over to do something
0:14:06 > 0:14:10more with the workshop. If you don't need garage space, all of that could be workshop
0:14:10 > 0:14:14and office for you, sir, cos at the moment, you haven't got one because your wife's got it.
0:14:14 > 0:14:17THEY LAUGH
0:14:17 > 0:14:20Good. Right then, now you know how much it's on the market for,
0:14:20 > 0:14:23go and have another look around and I'll catch up with you later. Off you go.
0:14:23 > 0:14:26- Thanks very much.- Thank you. - Take your time.
0:14:26 > 0:14:29There you go, sometimes money talks.
0:14:30 > 0:14:35'Considerably under budget with a guide price of £435,000,
0:14:35 > 0:14:39'our first property is an impressive conversion that combines
0:14:39 > 0:14:42'a traditional stone barn with modern living.
0:14:42 > 0:14:48'It has open plan kitchen, dining and living areas and four bedrooms, two of which are ensuite.
0:14:48 > 0:14:53'Then outside in the walled garden, there's a timber outbuilding for Derek's workshop.'
0:14:53 > 0:14:56That could be a study for me, couldn't it?
0:14:56 > 0:14:59Well, workshop, certainly.
0:14:59 > 0:15:03The way the place plays with light and space, I find very impressive indeed.
0:15:03 > 0:15:09But it doesn't quite do it for me, it doesn't have that wow factor that would blow me away.
0:15:09 > 0:15:11It was a lovely property.
0:15:11 > 0:15:14But I think if I was going to be picky,
0:15:14 > 0:15:17I would prefer a few more period features.
0:15:17 > 0:15:19- Right, all done?- All done.
0:15:19 > 0:15:22- Yes, all done, thank you. - Good, that's property number one.
0:15:22 > 0:15:25- Two more to come, including the mystery house.- Right.
0:15:25 > 0:15:27Oh, yes. Come on.
0:15:35 > 0:15:41Somerset's many attractive market towns and villages are a key feature of its rural landscape
0:15:41 > 0:15:45and showcase the county's kaleidoscope of natural building materials.
0:15:45 > 0:15:48Martock, to the south-west of the county, is one such place
0:15:48 > 0:15:52whose buildings date back as early as the 16th century.
0:15:52 > 0:15:56Given Derek and Alison's desire for a Somerset stone property,
0:15:56 > 0:16:00and their shared passion for traditional craft skills, we arrange for them
0:16:00 > 0:16:05to meet resident and stonemason, Tom Clarke, to explore the benefits of living and working
0:16:05 > 0:16:08with locally quarried stone.
0:16:08 > 0:16:11Tom restored this 16th century hamstone property, which features
0:16:11 > 0:16:15a gallery of his sculptures that range from large figures
0:16:15 > 0:16:18to small plaques in a variety of West Country stone.
0:16:19 > 0:16:24There's an impressive variety of different sculptures here, some of them ecclesiastical.
0:16:24 > 0:16:26You obviously work in churches as well?
0:16:26 > 0:16:30I have done, yeah, lots of work in church, that's where I started out, churches.
0:16:30 > 0:16:35Do you have one sort of inspiration for your work, or does it come from a variety of places?
0:16:35 > 0:16:38Erm, all over, really, from...sort of travels, India and Egypt.
0:16:38 > 0:16:40Oh, right. >
0:16:40 > 0:16:45Simple little carvings on temples to church work, really.
0:16:45 > 0:16:48'The stonemason's craft has been around for thousands of years,
0:16:48 > 0:16:53'so to ensure the tradition continues, Tom runs workshops with local schools
0:16:53 > 0:16:57'as well as training courses for any aspiring stone carvers.
0:16:57 > 0:16:59'And with our buyers' love of the creative arts,
0:16:59 > 0:17:03'a hands-on tutorial from the expert is a chance not to be missed.'
0:17:03 > 0:17:08If you can just use the point of the chisel there, to dig in.
0:17:08 > 0:17:12Just tap it quite likely, you don't want to be going too hard.
0:17:12 > 0:17:16'So after a demo from Tom, it's time for Derek and Alison to unleash
0:17:16 > 0:17:20'their creativity with goggles firmly in place and steady hands.'
0:17:20 > 0:17:23What's your favourite stone to work with?
0:17:23 > 0:17:26Favourite one would probably be something like Portland.
0:17:26 > 0:17:31Where you haven't got this juddering effect, you can cut through quite smoothly.
0:17:31 > 0:17:34'Today it's a piece of hamstone under the chisel.
0:17:34 > 0:17:38'It's a 170 million-year-old limestone of crushed shells
0:17:38 > 0:17:41'and fossils that dates to the Jurassic period.
0:17:41 > 0:17:46'It's the iron compounds within the rock that create this distinctive golden colour.
0:17:46 > 0:17:51'To keep up with demand during the mediaeval period, there were up to 24 quarries on Ham Hill,
0:17:51 > 0:17:55'but now just two quarried areas remain.'
0:17:55 > 0:17:56That's fantastic, Tom.
0:17:56 > 0:18:00You've done a brilliant job of it, both of you, that's fantastic there, look.
0:18:00 > 0:18:06By the time that's mortared onto your wall at home in your new house, it's going to look fantastic.
0:18:06 > 0:18:07- Brilliant.- Thank you ever so much.
0:18:07 > 0:18:11Thank you, Derek, than you, Alison, thank you very much.
0:18:11 > 0:18:14'With a hand-crafted memento from their time in the county,
0:18:14 > 0:18:19'the next challenge is to find our buyers a home to carve its way into their hearts.
0:18:19 > 0:18:23'But with the day drawing to a close, for now it's time for Derek and Alison
0:18:23 > 0:18:26'to take time out and reflect on the property search so far.
0:18:30 > 0:18:33'It's day two of our property hunt here in Somerset,
0:18:33 > 0:18:37'and our mission is to help Kent-based husband and wife, Derek and Alison,
0:18:37 > 0:18:41'find a more rural retirement on a budget of £500,000.
0:18:41 > 0:18:44'Still to come, we have two properties to unveil,
0:18:44 > 0:18:47'including some divine inspiration in the mystery house.'
0:18:47 > 0:18:51Would you be happy pottering around out here on a Saturday afternoon?
0:18:52 > 0:18:54I think I'd be in heaven.
0:18:54 > 0:18:58And I keep my ear to the ground for a highlight of Somerset's wetlands.
0:18:58 > 0:19:01They really are...quite elusive, aren't they?
0:19:06 > 0:19:10Well, as we start our final day of property hunting here in Somerset,
0:19:10 > 0:19:13unusually we have not one more house to see, but two.
0:19:13 > 0:19:16So how do we make sense of the show so far?
0:19:16 > 0:19:20If I'm honest, property number one certainly drew fairly muted reactions
0:19:20 > 0:19:24from Derek and Alison, so can we find that all-important
0:19:24 > 0:19:27and somewhat elusive wow factor with our final two offerings?
0:19:27 > 0:19:30Well, fingers crossed we can.
0:19:32 > 0:19:37We're beginning the day further north in the mid-Somerset village of Butleigh.
0:19:37 > 0:19:40This small and peaceful place is full of old stone
0:19:40 > 0:19:44and thatched buildings, but there's an active community here
0:19:44 > 0:19:49with a listed 14th century church, a shop and post office, as well as a pub.
0:19:49 > 0:19:55And, in the heart of the village down a private road, we come to our second house.
0:19:55 > 0:20:00So, come round the willow. There we are, property number two.
0:20:00 > 0:20:04- What a lovely-looking property. - Beautiful.- Isn't it? - Really pretty.
0:20:04 > 0:20:07- It's very handsome.- It is, it is.
0:20:07 > 0:20:13Yesterday, it was a lovely building, it was also comprised of this blue Lias stone.
0:20:13 > 0:20:17- But you did say you thought it lacked a little bit of character.- Yes.
0:20:17 > 0:20:21A few features and so on. This one has got tons of them.
0:20:21 > 0:20:24- It's about 1690.- Wow!- Is it?!
0:20:24 > 0:20:26- Yeah, late 17th century.- Listed?
0:20:26 > 0:20:30It's not listed. It is, however, in a conservation area.
0:20:30 > 0:20:36But it's a really interesting building. It's got a couple of inglenooks, stone staircase...
0:20:36 > 0:20:38- And a walled garden. - And a walled garden.
0:20:38 > 0:20:40I've always dream of a walled garden.
0:20:40 > 0:20:44Let's see what you think of the inside. Come on then.
0:20:44 > 0:20:49Well, a very positive kickoff to proceedings, as first impressions
0:20:49 > 0:20:53of this detached, 17th-century cottage are really drawing our buyers in.
0:20:53 > 0:20:59- Come on in. Right, look at this. Picture builds?- Yeah.
0:20:59 > 0:21:04Pretty little study area, come hallway. But let's start in here.
0:21:04 > 0:21:08- In the living room.- Whoa!- Very nice.
0:21:08 > 0:21:12- That was a "whoa", is that like a wow?- That's a wow.- Good!
0:21:12 > 0:21:14A Kentish wow.
0:21:16 > 0:21:20- That's lovely. Beautiful fireplace. - Fire's lit, it sets the scene.
0:21:20 > 0:21:22Yeah, very nice. It's a nice size.
0:21:22 > 0:21:25Yeah, it really well proportioned. And height wise...
0:21:25 > 0:21:27You're all right.
0:21:27 > 0:21:30- ..I think where OK, aren't we? - Yes, we are.
0:21:30 > 0:21:33I did promise you a spiral, stone staircase, it's over here.
0:21:33 > 0:21:38We won't use it just yet, but just to give you a taster...there it is.
0:21:38 > 0:21:43- Isn't that lovely?- Goodness. That's really nice.
0:21:43 > 0:21:47Right, let's have a look at the dining room across the hallway.
0:21:50 > 0:21:54There, as you can see, a kind of mirror image almost, of the living room.
0:21:54 > 0:21:58- Yeah. Another lovely fireplace.- Yes.
0:21:58 > 0:22:01And I love exposed stone as well, within the house.
0:22:01 > 0:22:04Got a nice oak table that would just go there nicely.
0:22:04 > 0:22:08- Ah! You see, you're rubbing your hands and painting the picture. - Moving in.
0:22:08 > 0:22:10I can see our furniture in this place already.
0:22:10 > 0:22:14- Can you do that, Derek?- Oh yes. - Oh yes! OK. All right, good.
0:22:14 > 0:22:19- So we finally...got a bit warmer on our house hunt?- Absolutely.
0:22:19 > 0:22:23Good, right. Come through here, this is the kitchen.
0:22:23 > 0:22:25See what you think of this, Alison.
0:22:28 > 0:22:30- Oh!- Yes!
0:22:30 > 0:22:34- A red range.- How about that? - That's awesome, isn't it?
0:22:34 > 0:22:37It's not a huge kitchen, diner, Derek that you had alluded to
0:22:37 > 0:22:41when we first met, but because it leads on to the dining room there...
0:22:41 > 0:22:44- Yes.- Right, let's have a look upstairs, come with me.
0:22:47 > 0:22:50There are two ways to access the first floor.
0:22:50 > 0:22:54And next to a downstairs shower room is a more straightforward wooden staircase.
0:22:54 > 0:22:58Upstairs, a large family bathroom serves all the bedrooms,
0:22:58 > 0:23:00and there are four up here to choose from.
0:23:00 > 0:23:04Two are similar sized doubles, and then there's a cosy single,
0:23:04 > 0:23:07but none are specifically dedicated as the master.
0:23:07 > 0:23:11- This is the one with the stone spiral staircase coming up... - Oh yes.
0:23:11 > 0:23:13..from the living room.
0:23:13 > 0:23:15So, I don't know really, which one would you pick?
0:23:15 > 0:23:17- Probably the end one.- Yes?
0:23:17 > 0:23:20The other one, because it's got the built in wardrobe.
0:23:20 > 0:23:25The other thing to point out is that downstairs there's an additional sort of granny annexe, as it were.
0:23:25 > 0:23:30I'm going to call it a granny ensuite, because effectively it's a big double bedroom
0:23:30 > 0:23:36- with an ensuite attached to it. Which again, for those aged relatives, might be useful too.- Yes.
0:23:36 > 0:23:39- Good.- So it's five, really?- Yes.
0:23:39 > 0:23:42The bonus fifth bedroom is back down on the ground floor
0:23:42 > 0:23:44and comes with an ensuite shower room.
0:23:44 > 0:23:47This annexe is attached to one side of the main house,
0:23:47 > 0:23:50but has its own separate entrance.
0:23:50 > 0:23:54Outside, the majority of the lawned garden lies to the front of the property
0:23:54 > 0:23:57with mature trees and an established vegetable plot.
0:23:57 > 0:24:02But, on a large, gravel driveway the former double garage has been converted
0:24:02 > 0:24:05into somewhere ideal for Derek and Alison's creative aspirations,
0:24:05 > 0:24:09and, dare I say it, it could be big enough for them to go halves.
0:24:09 > 0:24:12Ta-da! You wanted some space?
0:24:12 > 0:24:14- My word.- It's excellent.
0:24:14 > 0:24:17- I think we could share this.- I think you could.
0:24:17 > 0:24:22Yeah, we might need a little screen between us...no, there's a lot of room here.
0:24:22 > 0:24:25- It's really good, isn't it?- Yeah.
0:24:25 > 0:24:28And behind that curtain is a little wooden ladder, which gets you
0:24:28 > 0:24:31up to the loft space above here, so you've got bags of storage.
0:24:31 > 0:24:34Oh, which is excellent, yeah.
0:24:34 > 0:24:38- So?- Excellent.- How much is it worth?- Oh.
0:24:38 > 0:24:42- I sprung it upon you, you thought we were going out to the garden. - I did.
0:24:42 > 0:24:46No, let's do it while the iron is hot. Go on, Alison.
0:24:46 > 0:24:51- I'm going to go with 520.- 520. Derek?
0:24:51 > 0:24:56- I hope it's a little nearer half a million.- You may well hope so.
0:24:57 > 0:25:01It is closer to Alison, I'm afraid. It is 525.
0:25:01 > 0:25:04525. Right.
0:25:04 > 0:25:07We have, you know, teased you a bit, with something that's
0:25:07 > 0:25:11technically over budget, but you know, it's on the market to be sold.
0:25:11 > 0:25:15- Mm-hmm.- Oh, look at the grin! - It's very exciting, isn't it?
0:25:15 > 0:25:16Yes, really exciting.
0:25:16 > 0:25:20Come on, let's get you to have another look around. Through there.
0:25:23 > 0:25:29Above budget at £525,000, property number two is a 17th century
0:25:29 > 0:25:33detached village cottage built of beautiful blue Lias stone.
0:25:33 > 0:25:34It has...
0:25:37 > 0:25:41It also comes with a huge workshop, big enough for two.
0:25:42 > 0:25:45That's a nice size, isn't it?
0:25:45 > 0:25:50That would be a lovely guest bedroom, wouldn't it? Or it could be a study.
0:25:50 > 0:25:55- A bonus, really.- Double aspect.- Yeah. - It's good.- Yeah. It's lovely.
0:25:55 > 0:25:59Walking up to the house, I just thought, oh, this is so pretty,
0:25:59 > 0:26:00and what a lovely setting.
0:26:00 > 0:26:02I love the look of the house.
0:26:02 > 0:26:06It's got the character, it's got the ambience that we're looking for.
0:26:06 > 0:26:10I was really very excited as I came into the property.
0:26:10 > 0:26:12It hasn't disappointed.
0:26:12 > 0:26:17This house is packed with character. I love the stone staircase.
0:26:17 > 0:26:21The grandchildren will have great fun going through that "secret door".
0:26:21 > 0:26:23I think the house has the wow factor.
0:26:23 > 0:26:27I'm certainly very, very impressed and can see us living here.
0:26:27 > 0:26:31Personally, I would definitely say this as a contender.
0:26:31 > 0:26:34I can imagine myself living here.
0:26:34 > 0:26:35Yeah, watch this space.
0:26:37 > 0:26:41Out you come. How did I know you'd be in there?
0:26:41 > 0:26:47- What do you reckon, Derek? Useful space?- Yes, very much so.- Good. We've got a lot to pack in today.
0:26:47 > 0:26:50- One more property to come, it's mystery house time.- Mystery house.
0:26:50 > 0:26:54- I wonder what that's going to be!- I wonder. Let's see what you think.
0:26:54 > 0:26:57We've got one last property to see today,
0:26:57 > 0:26:58and that of course is our mystery house,
0:26:58 > 0:27:02which should really test our buyers' commitment to historic features.
0:27:02 > 0:27:04It's in the village of Shepton Beauchamp,
0:27:04 > 0:27:06our most southerly destination.
0:27:06 > 0:27:09Highlights of the village are its Grade I listed church,
0:27:09 > 0:27:12which has origins in the 13th century,
0:27:12 > 0:27:15and a choice range of traditional and independent shops.
0:27:15 > 0:27:18Much of the historic architecture is constructed of Alison's
0:27:18 > 0:27:21favourite honey-coloured hamstone, making Shepton Beauchamp
0:27:21 > 0:27:25a particularly pretty and desirable location in which to set up home.
0:27:25 > 0:27:29So we're taking a stroll through the village to soak up more of the setting.
0:27:29 > 0:27:31Now, as a little place, it's quite interesting, actually.
0:27:31 > 0:27:35A lot of villages suffer with things closing down, but not here.
0:27:35 > 0:27:38They've got a deli, they've got a post office, which is up there.
0:27:38 > 0:27:44- A really good pub just behind us. It even has a watchmaker.- Oh!
0:27:44 > 0:27:46There's even a baker, which is great.
0:27:46 > 0:27:48It's had some quite notable people living here.
0:27:48 > 0:27:53Perhaps the most famous, I suppose, is Jane Seymour, back in the day.
0:27:53 > 0:27:55- Third wife of Henry VIII.- Yeah.
0:27:55 > 0:28:01So if this was a village that was of interest to you, you'd be joining some fairly noble company.
0:28:02 > 0:28:07And past records of occupation that date way back to 1636 reveal
0:28:07 > 0:28:11that our mystery property was once owned by the Seymour family.
0:28:11 > 0:28:13And it lies right in the centre of the village.
0:28:15 > 0:28:18There it is, our final property now bathed in some rare sunshine.
0:28:18 > 0:28:22- That's it.- Wow.- That is a wow. - That is stunning.- Definite wow.
0:28:22 > 0:28:25It's listed. It has lots of features in it, as you'd expect.
0:28:25 > 0:28:28- And a key to match. - THEY LAUGH
0:28:28 > 0:28:31- How about that?- Look at that, my word!- Isn't it a beauty?
0:28:31 > 0:28:33Come on, let's see if it works.
0:28:35 > 0:28:38Whilst this 17th-century thatched cottage is
0:28:38 > 0:28:41the smallest of our three houses and the traditional layout doesn't offer
0:28:41 > 0:28:45the light and spacious living areas that Alison and Derek were after,
0:28:45 > 0:28:49it has hit the mark at face value and reveals many historic gems inside.
0:28:51 > 0:28:53Come through then...
0:28:53 > 0:28:55to our mystery house living room.
0:28:57 > 0:29:02- Yes, you see the wood burner. - I like.- Wonderful.- It's lit again.
0:29:02 > 0:29:06- It's charming, isn't it?- This would be your main living room, as such. - Right, yeah.- Right.
0:29:06 > 0:29:11- Is it you?- Yes.- Oh, I think so, yes. - Yes, a big booming yes there!- Yes.
0:29:11 > 0:29:16I tell you what is a nice little point, actually. In some renovation work, they found two coins,
0:29:16 > 0:29:20- one of which is a William III 1696 halfpenny.- Ah!
0:29:20 > 0:29:24- Does that come with the property? - It does. They will stay with it. - Oh, really?- Yeah.- Wow.
0:29:24 > 0:29:26- Yeah, it's a nice touch, isn't it? - Nice bit of history, yeah.
0:29:26 > 0:29:29- I'm excited to see more. - Right, let's do that.
0:29:33 > 0:29:35So this is your dining and kitchen.
0:29:37 > 0:29:40That's nice, isn't it? I like the granite worktop.
0:29:40 > 0:29:43- Great worktops.- Wasn't expecting that.- Another lovely fireplace.
0:29:43 > 0:29:47- The depth of the wood is just amazing, isn't it?- Yeah.
0:29:47 > 0:29:48This is fascinating.
0:29:48 > 0:29:52How is this comparing with property two?
0:29:52 > 0:29:57- Thus far, it excites me more than property two.- Does it?- Yes.
0:29:57 > 0:29:59That's interesting. Yeah. What about the boss?
0:30:04 > 0:30:05Erm...
0:30:05 > 0:30:08Yes, I think so. I think I'd agree.
0:30:08 > 0:30:12The ground floor also features a good-size study overlooking
0:30:12 > 0:30:13the front of the property.
0:30:13 > 0:30:16There's also a downstairs shower room as well as a small room
0:30:16 > 0:30:19currently being used as a workshop.
0:30:19 > 0:30:21So that ties up the ground floor accommodation.
0:30:21 > 0:30:24Upstairs, there are three bedrooms in total
0:30:24 > 0:30:26and a five-piece family bathroom.
0:30:26 > 0:30:28One double room lies at the front of the property
0:30:28 > 0:30:32and another double at the back with views over the rear garden.
0:30:32 > 0:30:37And finally, your bit. There's a little en suite in there.
0:30:37 > 0:30:38And this is the master bedroom.
0:30:38 > 0:30:40ALISON LAUGHS
0:30:40 > 0:30:42- That is huge, isn't it?!- Whoa!
0:30:43 > 0:30:47This is the biggest and best we've been able to show you this week.
0:30:47 > 0:30:50Surprisingly big. Yeah.
0:30:50 > 0:30:54- It has certainly got some pedigree, hasn't it?- Absolutely, yeah.
0:30:54 > 0:30:57Right, the sun is shining, let's get out there into the garden.
0:30:57 > 0:31:00- You'll like this bit, Alison. - SHE CHUCKLES
0:31:01 > 0:31:04'The internal tour of this mystery property has been a success,
0:31:04 > 0:31:07'and I have no doubt that the garden will continue to
0:31:07 > 0:31:09'enlighten our buyers.'
0:31:09 > 0:31:13Extending to a third of an acre and set over two levels,
0:31:13 > 0:31:17the lower area has a paved patio, and the large lawn to the top
0:31:17 > 0:31:20features a well-tended vegetable plot.
0:31:20 > 0:31:24I love these layers. Everything is very tidy and manageable.
0:31:24 > 0:31:29Would you be happy pottering around out here on a Saturday afternoon?
0:31:29 > 0:31:34- I think I would be in heaven.- Really? - I would enjoy it too. Very much.
0:31:34 > 0:31:37So, it brings us to our final moment.
0:31:37 > 0:31:41Arguably the most difficult bit of this particular house tour...
0:31:41 > 0:31:43its value.
0:31:43 > 0:31:46I fear it's way over budget.
0:31:46 > 0:31:48I would guess...550.
0:31:48 > 0:31:51550, yeah. Alison?
0:31:51 > 0:31:56- I'll be a little more hopeful and say 540.- 540.
0:31:56 > 0:31:59Well, you're both wrong.
0:31:59 > 0:32:02This could be yours for 499.
0:32:02 > 0:32:06Goodness me! Goodness!
0:32:06 > 0:32:10- Has that made your day?- You could say that. That's astonishing!
0:32:10 > 0:32:14- Excellent, good! - Got the chequebook?- Yeah, I have.
0:32:14 > 0:32:18- Go on, explore till your heart's content.- Thank you.- Thank you.
0:32:18 > 0:32:20I'll catch up with you a little bit later.
0:32:23 > 0:32:28A fraction under budget at £499,000, the mystery house is
0:32:28 > 0:32:32a 17th-century listed cottage that's packed with history.
0:32:32 > 0:32:35It has our buyers' requested kitchen/diner,
0:32:35 > 0:32:37a large characterful drawing room,
0:32:37 > 0:32:40and three bedrooms, including a grand master en suite.
0:32:40 > 0:32:42The garden sits in a third of an acre,
0:32:42 > 0:32:46and the property is located in the heart of an atmospheric village.
0:32:46 > 0:32:48Are you going to mow all this grass?
0:32:48 > 0:32:52Well, I'll have to...have a sit-on.
0:32:52 > 0:32:54I don't think you need a sit-on!
0:32:56 > 0:32:58When I first saw it, I thought, whoa!
0:32:58 > 0:33:01What a privilege it would be to live in a house like that.
0:33:01 > 0:33:04Absolutely packed full of character inside.
0:33:04 > 0:33:07Everywhere you looked, there were things that drew your eye
0:33:07 > 0:33:10to them or things that had a bit of history about them.
0:33:10 > 0:33:11The price, I couldn't believe.
0:33:11 > 0:33:14I was convinced it was going to be way over budget.
0:33:14 > 0:33:16It was a wonderful surprise to discover
0:33:16 > 0:33:19that we could afford to buy this property.
0:33:19 > 0:33:23I'm left with really positive thoughts,
0:33:23 > 0:33:25but quite a lot to think about.
0:33:25 > 0:33:28I'm really very, very impressed with the property.
0:33:28 > 0:33:30I think it's wonderful.
0:33:34 > 0:33:38Right, that's it. Out you come.
0:33:38 > 0:33:41Well, that was all very interesting, wasn't it, eh?
0:33:41 > 0:33:44Mm, you've got lots to think about, you two.
0:33:44 > 0:33:47Is this going to be your new home?
0:33:47 > 0:33:50Is this the key to it? Who knows, eh?
0:33:50 > 0:33:53- Right, let's go and think. Off you go.- OK.- Lead on.
0:33:58 > 0:34:02Well, that may mark the end of our property search for Derek
0:34:02 > 0:34:06and Alison, but if you've got your heart set on moving to Somerset,
0:34:06 > 0:34:08there are many other homes to choose from.
0:34:08 > 0:34:11On the market for £675,000,
0:34:11 > 0:34:15this commanding three-bedroom renovated farmhouse in Langport
0:34:15 > 0:34:17is set in two thirds of an acre with
0:34:17 > 0:34:20extensive views of the surrounding countryside.
0:34:20 > 0:34:22The high-spec interior makes the most of the setting,
0:34:22 > 0:34:25with designer folding doors onto a sun terrace
0:34:25 > 0:34:29as well as a quality contemporary kitchen/diner.
0:34:29 > 0:34:32At the other end of the price scale, this two-bedroom hamstone cottage
0:34:32 > 0:34:39in the heritage village of Hinton St George has a price tag of £225,000.
0:34:39 > 0:34:42It comes with a cosy sitting room and the attic has been converted
0:34:42 > 0:34:46into a double bedroom featuring characterful exposed woodwork.
0:34:49 > 0:34:53Hidden in the wetlands of the Somerset levels is
0:34:53 > 0:34:56an endangered species of heron called the bittern.
0:34:56 > 0:34:58It's so rare that in 2012,
0:34:58 > 0:35:02just over 100 males were recorded in the whole of the UK.
0:35:02 > 0:35:07A third of those nest in the specially created reed beds at Ham Wall Reserve, which is
0:35:07 > 0:35:10where I have joined the dawn chorus to meet warden, Ray Summers.
0:35:10 > 0:35:15Well, Ray, this has to be the earliest start I've ever had on Escape To The Country.
0:35:15 > 0:35:19It's about 5.30 in the morning, and we're looking for the bittern.
0:35:19 > 0:35:23What is it about the Somerset levels that brings them here?
0:35:23 > 0:35:27What we've got, in what we call the Avalon Marshes here, near Glastonbury,
0:35:27 > 0:35:31is an extensive area of wetlands which includes a lot of reed bed.
0:35:31 > 0:35:34As I understand it, they have quite a distinctive call.
0:35:34 > 0:35:35What are we actually listening for?
0:35:35 > 0:35:40The sound of someone blowing across a huge milk bottle top, really.
0:35:40 > 0:35:44- You don't want me to imitate that, do you?- I do!- Oh!- Go on, go on, go on!
0:35:44 > 0:35:46OK, so it's like a...
0:35:46 > 0:35:50HE IMITATES BITTERN CALL ..whoo, whoo, whoo.
0:35:50 > 0:35:53Agricultural practices in the 19th century,
0:35:53 > 0:35:56as well as climate change, have seen the loss of many natural
0:35:56 > 0:36:00habitats, driving species like the bittern to the brink of extinction.
0:36:00 > 0:36:05But over the last 20 years, volunteers have planted over 600,000
0:36:05 > 0:36:09reed seedlings and developed this 450 acre reserve into a mixed
0:36:09 > 0:36:14wetland paradise for many vulnerable birds and a variety of wildlife.
0:36:14 > 0:36:16- This is amazing, isn't it?- Yeah.
0:36:16 > 0:36:19The light really is beginning to take over, thank goodness.
0:36:19 > 0:36:22- We can see a bit more of the reserve.- Absolutely.
0:36:22 > 0:36:25Just out there, actually, there's a bird called a great white egret.
0:36:25 > 0:36:29Actually, for the first time in the UK, it bred last year,
0:36:29 > 0:36:31which was quite exciting.
0:36:31 > 0:36:36Actually, the Avalon Marshes are a real hotbed of conservation success.
0:36:36 > 0:36:38Definitely, definitely.
0:36:38 > 0:36:39Can we hear any bitterns?
0:36:39 > 0:36:43At the moment, they are just pausing for breath, I think.
0:36:44 > 0:36:47Maybe they are still in bed. You couldn't blame them.
0:36:48 > 0:36:50- BITTERN CALLS - Ah, there!
0:36:56 > 0:37:00The reed beds provide sanctuary for the bittern while it hunts
0:37:00 > 0:37:04for fish, but this cover can make the secretive bird difficult to see.
0:37:04 > 0:37:08So with ears pinned firmly back, we continue with our twitch hunt.
0:37:08 > 0:37:11- So are we going to be in luck? - Well...
0:37:11 > 0:37:14I'm hoping so.
0:37:16 > 0:37:18- BITTERN CALLS FAINTLY - (There.)
0:37:20 > 0:37:22CALLING REPEATS
0:37:25 > 0:37:27(There.)
0:37:27 > 0:37:29So there you had two territories.
0:37:29 > 0:37:34Got one there, he called, and then a few seconds later, this one called.
0:37:34 > 0:37:37They are just kind of rubbing up against each other, just saying,
0:37:37 > 0:37:39"All right, mate, this is my area.
0:37:39 > 0:37:42"This is my area. You stay over there. "You stay over there."
0:37:42 > 0:37:45I suppose the thing to take away from this, Ray,
0:37:45 > 0:37:49- is that the bittern recovery is a good news story.- Absolutely.
0:37:49 > 0:37:52I mean, all reed bed species, marsh harriers as well, and then
0:37:52 > 0:37:55you've got all your dragonflies and butterflies, and all the other
0:37:55 > 0:37:58bird species that are associated with this kind of environment.
0:37:58 > 0:38:01- Nice place to work? - Fantastic place to work.
0:38:02 > 0:38:05'I fear this morning we may have bitten off more than we can chew,
0:38:05 > 0:38:10'but it seems this is one elusive bird that can be heard but not seen.'
0:38:13 > 0:38:16Now, somewhere in here, Derek and Alison are sitting down having
0:38:16 > 0:38:19a conversation about what their next move is.
0:38:19 > 0:38:21So let's go and break up the party and see
0:38:21 > 0:38:23if they've made their minds up yet.
0:38:30 > 0:38:32Ah, look at you two,
0:38:32 > 0:38:36enjoying the English tradition of a cup of tea on the terrace.
0:38:36 > 0:38:39- Very civilised.- Very civilised. How are we doing?
0:38:39 > 0:38:43- Fine.- Good.- Thinking hard? - Absolutely.- Yeah.
0:38:43 > 0:38:48We've made a list of the pros and cons of each property and given them ticks,
0:38:48 > 0:38:53and we're still talking through which one of the three we prefer.
0:38:53 > 0:38:56Right, let's see if we can narrow it down for you then.
0:38:56 > 0:38:58Property number one.
0:38:58 > 0:39:01Lovely Lias stone, big open-plan space as we went through that door
0:39:01 > 0:39:03and down into the kitchen area.
0:39:03 > 0:39:05What are your thoughts on that one?
0:39:05 > 0:39:08It was an interesting design, interesting layout.
0:39:08 > 0:39:11For us, there probably wasn't enough character
0:39:11 > 0:39:13- and it was a little too small. - Mm-hmm.
0:39:13 > 0:39:19I suppose the main thing I took away from property number one was your desire for character.
0:39:19 > 0:39:23Then we went to property number two, and that had it in spades.
0:39:23 > 0:39:24It was beautiful.
0:39:24 > 0:39:28The house was lovely, it provided all the space we wanted, really.
0:39:28 > 0:39:32It certainly seemed a struggle upstairs, Derek?
0:39:32 > 0:39:34We would need to make some alterations upstairs,
0:39:34 > 0:39:37and that would obviously cost money, so it would come down to
0:39:37 > 0:39:40whether or not the owners would accept an offer.
0:39:40 > 0:39:44Well, finally of course, it was time to reveal our mystery house to you.
0:39:44 > 0:39:47And you really did seem to fall for that one.
0:39:47 > 0:39:51Fell for it hook line and sinker.
0:39:51 > 0:39:54My heart says that is the property for us.
0:39:54 > 0:39:59Since we've come away, we've realised we'd need study space that
0:39:59 > 0:40:04that property doesn't have to offer, while the second one does.
0:40:04 > 0:40:08- So head and heart are in conflict at the moment.- OK.
0:40:08 > 0:40:12If I had to force you to make a decision...
0:40:14 > 0:40:19..right now, a snap decision between property two and our mystery house,
0:40:19 > 0:40:23using your emotional instincts, where would you go, Alison?
0:40:23 > 0:40:27- Butleigh, the second one. - The second one. Derek?
0:40:27 > 0:40:31- When you say emotional instincts, do you mean heart over head?- Yes.
0:40:31 > 0:40:33- The third one. - THEY LAUGH
0:40:33 > 0:40:36You see, this is what I was aiming towards.
0:40:36 > 0:40:38This is what I suspected might happen.
0:40:38 > 0:40:42- So we have a bit of a division in the camp, don't we?- Absolutely.
0:40:42 > 0:40:46Now, traditionally speaking - you've been married for a long time -
0:40:46 > 0:40:50who tends to win these debates?
0:40:51 > 0:40:54I will let you answer that!
0:40:56 > 0:40:59I think... No, on a big decision like this,
0:40:59 > 0:41:04there's no way that either of us would, you know,
0:41:04 > 0:41:07make the other one live somewhere that they weren't really happy with.
0:41:07 > 0:41:12It's a big decision and we would discuss it further.
0:41:12 > 0:41:16- I think we need a little bit more time, possibly a return visit.- Yeah.
0:41:16 > 0:41:18- To both of them? - To both of them.- Yes.
0:41:18 > 0:41:22- Well, I can see this debate has got some...- Mileage.- Mileage.
0:41:22 > 0:41:24..mileage in it yet.
0:41:24 > 0:41:28I do look forward to hearing about its successful conclusion.
0:41:28 > 0:41:31And in particular to hearing, and learning,
0:41:31 > 0:41:34that you have perhaps put an offer in on one of our properties.
0:41:34 > 0:41:37If it's not number two, maybe it's number three.
0:41:37 > 0:41:39- Yeah.- Our mystery. But it's been a real pleasure.
0:41:39 > 0:41:40It's been so helpful.
0:41:40 > 0:41:44I hope we have managed to help you distil down what it is
0:41:44 > 0:41:47you're looking for and to tempt you and reveal in all
0:41:47 > 0:41:50its glory some of the properties that Somerset has to offer.
0:41:50 > 0:41:53- Best of luck to both of you. - Thank you very much, thank you.
0:41:58 > 0:42:03It's been said, of course, many times before that every house hunt
0:42:03 > 0:42:08is different, but of course, there's one thing they all have in common.
0:42:08 > 0:42:10And that is the element of choice.
0:42:10 > 0:42:13Here in Britain, as house hunters, we are spoiled for it.
0:42:13 > 0:42:16Somerset, of course, being a prime example.
0:42:16 > 0:42:20And I think trying to make sense of that choice is part of the problem.
0:42:20 > 0:42:22Maybe we have too much of it.
0:42:22 > 0:42:25That certainly seems to be where Derek and Alison are right now.
0:42:25 > 0:42:29Their debate is going to go on for some time to come.
0:42:29 > 0:42:33But if I were a betting man, what would I do in their position?
0:42:33 > 0:42:38If I'm really honest, I hope Derek wins.
0:42:38 > 0:42:41And it turns out that I lost the bet as,
0:42:41 > 0:42:44after a second viewing on property number two, I am delighted
0:42:44 > 0:42:48to report that Derek and Alison put in an offer that was accepted.
0:42:48 > 0:42:52So we wish them all the best for a sunny future in Somerset.
0:42:52 > 0:42:55If you would like to escape to the country in Wales, Northern Ireland,
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