0:00:02 > 0:00:04One night, nearly 100 years ago,
0:00:04 > 0:00:07the residents of this now-deserted fishing village
0:00:07 > 0:00:08were forced to flee their homes
0:00:08 > 0:00:12as their houses quite literally collapsed into the sea.
0:00:12 > 0:00:14Find out why, and where I am, in just a moment.
0:00:33 > 0:00:37Today I am helping a couple searching for the quiet life
0:00:37 > 0:00:39find their perfect countryside residence.
0:00:39 > 0:00:43The house hunt requires total concentration.
0:00:43 > 0:00:46- I can see you're taking it in. - Yes, we are.- Very much so.- Yeah?
0:00:46 > 0:00:49It's about the only time I'm quiet.
0:00:49 > 0:00:53And one property takes them by surprise. Were you expecting this?
0:00:53 > 0:00:55- No.- Not at all.- Not in the slightest.
0:00:55 > 0:00:57That's stunning.
0:00:59 > 0:01:03Today, I'm in Devon, and this is all that remains from Hallsands village.
0:01:03 > 0:01:05Now, early in the 20th century,
0:01:05 > 0:01:09half a million tonnes of shingle were taken from this beach
0:01:09 > 0:01:13to help construct the naval boatyard in nearby Plymouth.
0:01:13 > 0:01:16As a result, the sea wall became unstable
0:01:16 > 0:01:20and during a particularly ferocious storm in January 1917,
0:01:20 > 0:01:24most of the village collapsed straight into the sea.
0:01:24 > 0:01:28It must have been a truly terrifying ordeal for the residents,
0:01:28 > 0:01:31as they had to clamber up the cliff to safety.
0:01:31 > 0:01:34But these ruins do have a somewhat dramatic beauty
0:01:34 > 0:01:37that you can see throughout this wonderful county.
0:01:43 > 0:01:46Devon sits in the very heart of southwest England.
0:01:46 > 0:01:51With Cornwall to the west, Somerset and a slice of Dorset to the east.
0:01:53 > 0:01:55The county is the only one in England
0:01:55 > 0:01:57to boast two separate coastlines.
0:01:57 > 0:02:01The Bristol and English Channels flow above and below it,
0:02:01 > 0:02:04with craggy cliffs and sandy shorelines found on both.
0:02:05 > 0:02:10In 1951, the UK declared Dartmoor its fourth national park.
0:02:10 > 0:02:13Its 368 square miles are a haven for wildlife
0:02:13 > 0:02:18and an additional draw for both dedicated and weekend walkers
0:02:18 > 0:02:22who come to enjoy the park's changing seasonal colours.
0:02:23 > 0:02:26Agriculture and tourism are the county's staple incomes.
0:02:26 > 0:02:31Countless herds of dairy cattle provide some of the raw ingredients
0:02:31 > 0:02:33for delicious Devonshire cream teas,
0:02:33 > 0:02:35many of which are eagerly consumed
0:02:35 > 0:02:38by the 5.5 million annual visitors to the county.
0:02:44 > 0:02:50It won't come as a surprise to learn the annual price tag of £286,000
0:02:50 > 0:02:55for a detached home here in Devon is above the national figure.
0:02:55 > 0:02:57That's 30,000 above, to be precise.
0:02:57 > 0:03:01But those official stats, well, they don't reflect the true story.
0:03:01 > 0:03:04Along the county's southern coastline,
0:03:04 > 0:03:07well, it's home to some of the most expensive seaside real estate
0:03:07 > 0:03:08in the whole of the UK,
0:03:08 > 0:03:13which obviously pushes up that average figure. My advice?
0:03:13 > 0:03:17Head inland to the market towns like Tavistock or Hatherleigh
0:03:17 > 0:03:19and you'll find you'll get more for your money
0:03:19 > 0:03:23and that's exactly what today's buyers want to do.
0:03:23 > 0:03:26For the past 12 years, company director John and teacher Lynn
0:03:26 > 0:03:30have lived in the town of Bromsgrove in the West Midlands.
0:03:32 > 0:03:35Their busy careers have led to a work/life imbalance,
0:03:35 > 0:03:38but with changes on the horizon, they've decided it's time
0:03:38 > 0:03:41to head off to the countryside for a quieter lifestyle.
0:03:42 > 0:03:45I've just hit the magic age of 63.
0:03:45 > 0:03:49Lynn got offered the chance to retire slightly early.
0:03:49 > 0:03:54We've been planning the move to the country for...ten years.
0:03:54 > 0:03:57One of the principal things we're really looking forward to
0:03:57 > 0:03:59is spending more time together.
0:03:59 > 0:04:04Over the last five months, since Lynn started winding down,
0:04:04 > 0:04:08and I'm desperately trying to wind down what I'm doing.
0:04:08 > 0:04:10Knowing I've done 39 years and 122 days,
0:04:10 > 0:04:14I feel it's time for me to have some "me" time
0:04:14 > 0:04:16and share some time with my husband!
0:04:16 > 0:04:18As a teacher, you do have to compromise
0:04:18 > 0:04:20over time you have together,
0:04:20 > 0:04:24so this is our time now and that's what we're going to do.
0:04:24 > 0:04:28And their choice of Devon is due to a family connection.
0:04:28 > 0:04:30One of the things we've always said we would do
0:04:30 > 0:04:33is go down to where our son is, towards Plymouth.
0:04:33 > 0:04:37Our son got married in February to a lovely girl from Tavistock.
0:04:37 > 0:04:40We're quite happy to be near him but not exactly on his doorstep.
0:04:40 > 0:04:43A spontaneous couple, the move will give them
0:04:43 > 0:04:47more options for exploring the glorious Devon countryside.
0:04:47 > 0:04:48I want to get another dog.
0:04:48 > 0:04:51I just want to get out there, I just want to enjoy it.
0:04:51 > 0:04:54The idea of just sort of loading a dog into the car,
0:04:54 > 0:04:57loading a picnic hamper and say, "OK, where are we going?"
0:04:57 > 0:05:00Yeah, and that's it. That says it, really.
0:05:00 > 0:05:03We've got the picnic hampers ready.
0:05:03 > 0:05:05They're hoping this change of pace
0:05:05 > 0:05:08will have a knock-on effect elsewhere.
0:05:08 > 0:05:10One of the things that's been neglected
0:05:10 > 0:05:13over the last five or six years is my gardening.
0:05:13 > 0:05:16I tend to be in the assisting gardener role,
0:05:16 > 0:05:21I get told what to do and where to go and what to lift and move.
0:05:21 > 0:05:23But my passion is growing plants
0:05:23 > 0:05:27and I've never had the time over the last few years to go and do it.
0:05:27 > 0:05:31And their list of requirements for the new home is very short.
0:05:31 > 0:05:34We don't really want an attached house.
0:05:34 > 0:05:36Apart from that...
0:05:36 > 0:05:39- We're open-minded. - We're pretty open-minded.
0:05:39 > 0:05:42I like gardening, but I want to do it on a compact style.
0:05:42 > 0:05:44I don't want two acres or five acres of ground
0:05:44 > 0:05:46that we can mess around in.
0:05:46 > 0:05:49But what we want to do is just go down and explore
0:05:49 > 0:05:50and be close to our family.
0:05:50 > 0:05:54So how much are they putting into their Devon move?
0:05:54 > 0:05:58The budget for the move is £350,000-£400,000.
0:05:58 > 0:05:59But we've packed up, ready to go.
0:05:59 > 0:06:04We just need somebody to come and buy the house. Small detail!
0:06:04 > 0:06:07I can't wait, I just want to go.
0:06:12 > 0:06:13John and Lynn have asked us
0:06:13 > 0:06:16to focus our search in the west of the county,
0:06:16 > 0:06:19to be within reasonable distance from their son in Plymouth.
0:06:19 > 0:06:21I met up with them in Devon
0:06:21 > 0:06:24to find out more about their proposed relocation.
0:06:24 > 0:06:27Well, John and Lynn, welcome to Devon.
0:06:27 > 0:06:29You looking forward to the next few days?
0:06:29 > 0:06:30- Yes, we are.- Yes, we are.
0:06:30 > 0:06:33So what are we looking for in this next house?
0:06:33 > 0:06:37Because you have given us quite a blank canvas, which is unusual.
0:06:37 > 0:06:40- Very flexible, are you? - As long as it's airy.
0:06:40 > 0:06:42Airy. OK, got to be airy. What else?
0:06:42 > 0:06:45- Big bedrooms. - How many bedrooms ideally?
0:06:45 > 0:06:46- Three minimum.- Yeah.
0:06:46 > 0:06:49- There's only the two of us, plus... - But we now have visitors.
0:06:49 > 0:06:52Obviously going to get inundated with people once we move down here.
0:06:52 > 0:06:57Apart from that, we bought our last house in four minutes, so...
0:06:57 > 0:07:00- I can feel the pressure. - No! None at all.
0:07:00 > 0:07:03If it feels right, it will be right.
0:07:03 > 0:07:05But that's good, if you know your minds, that's good.
0:07:05 > 0:07:08It's the atmosphere when you approach and walk into the building.
0:07:08 > 0:07:10What about a project? Interested in a project?
0:07:10 > 0:07:12No, thank you.
0:07:12 > 0:07:13I think those faces said it all, didn't it?
0:07:13 > 0:07:15"No thank you, Nicki. No projects.
0:07:15 > 0:07:17"We just want a lovely house we can move into."
0:07:17 > 0:07:19We're hoping to be busy doing things outside the house,
0:07:19 > 0:07:21not necessarily a project with the house.
0:07:21 > 0:07:23- If it needs painting, fine, that's OK.- We can organise that.
0:07:23 > 0:07:26- Yeah. Purely cosmetic.- Yes.- Great.
0:07:26 > 0:07:29Well, we have got the three, one of which is our mystery house,
0:07:29 > 0:07:32- so shall we get started? - Yes, please.- Look forward to it.
0:07:34 > 0:07:37Armed with a top budget of £400,000
0:07:37 > 0:07:41John and Lynn are looking for a bright and airy detached property
0:07:41 > 0:07:43with a minimum of three bedrooms,
0:07:43 > 0:07:47a manageable garden for John's plant-growing aspirations,
0:07:47 > 0:07:50reasonable distance from their son in Plymouth,
0:07:50 > 0:07:54and with glorious views of the West Devon countryside.
0:07:55 > 0:07:57Our three properties are very different
0:07:57 > 0:07:59and will give them a lot to think about.
0:07:59 > 0:08:01The third of which is the mystery house,
0:08:01 > 0:08:05guaranteed to test even the most visionary of house-hunters.
0:08:05 > 0:08:09But before all that, first on the agenda is house number one.
0:08:10 > 0:08:14So, do you think you two are going to be quite compatible
0:08:14 > 0:08:17when you're looking at properties, or will your opinions differ?
0:08:17 > 0:08:19When we bought the house we're in at the moment,
0:08:19 > 0:08:22we walked into this house, it was empty,
0:08:22 > 0:08:26it was a three-storey house and we got to the top floor,
0:08:26 > 0:08:28looked at each other and nodded.
0:08:28 > 0:08:31And I said to the sales agent, "OK, what do we do now?"
0:08:31 > 0:08:34And he said, "What you mean?" And I said, "Well, we'll buy it."
0:08:34 > 0:08:36And he said, "What do you mean you'll buy it?
0:08:36 > 0:08:38"You haven't even discussed it." I said, "Yes, we have.
0:08:38 > 0:08:40"We looked at each other and nodded. That was enough."
0:08:40 > 0:08:43You're both ready, I can tell. You're like coiled springs.
0:08:43 > 0:08:45Ready to make the move to Devon.
0:08:45 > 0:08:47My husband has his case packed.
0:08:47 > 0:08:49THEY LAUGH
0:08:50 > 0:08:54We begin our search in the village of Bratton Clovelly,
0:08:54 > 0:08:57a rural community not far from the Cornwall border
0:08:57 > 0:09:02around an hour away from their son in Plymouth on the south coast.
0:09:02 > 0:09:06Bratton Clovelly is a pretty village of traditional thatched cob cottages
0:09:06 > 0:09:10made from a clay, straw and stone mix.
0:09:10 > 0:09:11Focal points of the village
0:09:11 > 0:09:15are its Norman church and an authentic Devon inn
0:09:15 > 0:09:17dating back to the 18th century.
0:09:17 > 0:09:20On the fringes of the village is our first property,
0:09:20 > 0:09:23a period detached cottage full of character features.
0:09:25 > 0:09:28So, welcome to your first property.
0:09:29 > 0:09:31It's a rather large cottage.
0:09:31 > 0:09:35- That's really nice. - It looks very nice.
0:09:35 > 0:09:40Now, originally when it was built, around 1820, it was three cottages.
0:09:40 > 0:09:42So three families lived in here,
0:09:42 > 0:09:44but you'll be pleased to know it is just one now.
0:09:44 > 0:09:46- First impressions good?- Yes.- Very.
0:09:46 > 0:09:48- Yes, definitely.- Very good.
0:09:48 > 0:09:50You said you'd know pretty instantly, so, so far so good?
0:09:50 > 0:09:52- Oh, very much so.- Yeah.
0:09:52 > 0:09:55It does have that very cottagey country vibe, doesn't it?
0:09:55 > 0:09:57- Yes, it does, yes. Very much so.- Yeah?
0:09:57 > 0:10:00- Are you keen to get inside? - Very much so.- Good to go.
0:10:00 > 0:10:03A great first impression, which is all-important
0:10:03 > 0:10:06for John and Lynn who act on instinct.
0:10:06 > 0:10:09Let's hope the interior keeps the wow factor going
0:10:09 > 0:10:12with space enough for their visiting friends and family.
0:10:14 > 0:10:16So, welcome to our first property.
0:10:16 > 0:10:19As you step through the porch, you come straight in to...
0:10:19 > 0:10:22Well, at the moment, the way it's been set up, it's a dining room,
0:10:22 > 0:10:24but I would call it the first reception room.
0:10:24 > 0:10:26I like the fireplace.
0:10:26 > 0:10:29Well, the one thing you wanted was light and airy.
0:10:29 > 0:10:32Cottages normally aren't light and airy,
0:10:32 > 0:10:35although this one, it's pretty open, isn't it?
0:10:35 > 0:10:37- Yes, it is.- Yes.- Very much so.
0:10:37 > 0:10:40- I can see you're taking it in. - Yes, we are.
0:10:40 > 0:10:42- Very much so.- Yeah?
0:10:42 > 0:10:45It's about the only time I'm quiet, is when I'm taking something in.
0:10:45 > 0:10:47You've got a large study area next door to us here
0:10:47 > 0:10:51and then through here another reception room.
0:10:51 > 0:10:53This is the second reception room.
0:10:53 > 0:10:56I like the fact you go down some stairs.
0:10:56 > 0:10:58- I like the room, actually. - Yeah?- Yeah.- Oh, yeah.
0:10:58 > 0:11:02- This is an ideal-type living room.- Cosy?
0:11:02 > 0:11:04- Mmm.- Mmm.
0:11:04 > 0:11:08- And can you see yourselves in this room?- I can.
0:11:08 > 0:11:12- It is very big, considering it was three cottages.- Three cottages, yeah.
0:11:12 > 0:11:16- Amazing.- And they've actually blended into one quite well.- Yes.
0:11:16 > 0:11:18You don't tell, you can't tell it's three.
0:11:18 > 0:11:22So, back up the stairs, we turn through to the kitchen.
0:11:26 > 0:11:30So you've got a downstairs cloakroom there
0:11:30 > 0:11:31and then I would say a real...
0:11:31 > 0:11:34Well, I would say a cottagey kitchen, but would you?
0:11:34 > 0:11:37- Yes.- Yes, I would. Yes, definitely. Cottagey kitchen.
0:11:37 > 0:11:41Nice work surfaces over there. Got this area here.
0:11:41 > 0:11:45- Now, what did you use to teach? - Home economics.
0:11:45 > 0:11:48- I think you've come alive in here, haven't you?- Yes.
0:11:48 > 0:11:50- Yes.- Lovely range over there.
0:11:50 > 0:11:54It's good space for a table. That's important.
0:11:54 > 0:11:56The good news is we can open the patio doors
0:11:56 > 0:11:59- and you can tend to the garden, John.- Yes.
0:11:59 > 0:12:01It's difficult to do when you're cooking.
0:12:01 > 0:12:03- Do you do the cooking? Do you?- A lot of it, yes.
0:12:03 > 0:12:08How did you feel about this part of the cottage so far? The downstairs?
0:12:08 > 0:12:11- It's good.- We can live here. - It's got potential.- Yes?
0:12:11 > 0:12:13- So it's a good start so far. - Very much so, yeah.
0:12:13 > 0:12:16Super, OK. I'll take you and show you the bedrooms.
0:12:19 > 0:12:21So the downstairs gets the thumbs-up,
0:12:21 > 0:12:22which is all very encouraging.
0:12:22 > 0:12:26Hopefully we can continue the feel-good factor upstairs
0:12:26 > 0:12:27as we head for the bedrooms,
0:12:27 > 0:12:30all served by a traditional family bathroom.
0:12:30 > 0:12:34- Oh, look at this. I like this. - Yes, I like that landing.
0:12:35 > 0:12:37I'm hearing very positive comments about,
0:12:37 > 0:12:39"I'm liking this, I'm liking this landing."
0:12:39 > 0:12:43I haven't even shown you the master bedroom. What do you think?
0:12:43 > 0:12:45- Oh, this is nice and big, isn't it?- Yeah.
0:12:45 > 0:12:49- How many bedrooms did we want? - Three minimum, four probably.
0:12:49 > 0:12:51Don't care if it's got more.
0:12:51 > 0:12:52Four.
0:12:52 > 0:12:55- That's all right.- Four bedrooms, all actually of a good size.
0:12:55 > 0:12:58- And a family bathroom. - This is a lovely size, isn't it?
0:12:58 > 0:13:02All in all, this is a very nice, airy, good-sized room.
0:13:02 > 0:13:05And having that extra bedroom, having the fourth,
0:13:05 > 0:13:07does give you options, doesn't it?
0:13:07 > 0:13:10- If you want...- More catering, more people visiting.
0:13:10 > 0:13:12- Not disappointed at all.- That is a strong first start then, isn't it?
0:13:12 > 0:13:14Oh, very much so. Yeah.
0:13:14 > 0:13:16So we're going to head downstairs.
0:13:16 > 0:13:18We're going to take a look at the garden, what else is around,
0:13:18 > 0:13:21and also, I want you to start thinking about price.
0:13:21 > 0:13:24- So, John, you lead the way. - OK.- We'll head outside.
0:13:27 > 0:13:29Including the footprint of the house,
0:13:29 > 0:13:32the secluded lawned grounds bordered by trees and woodland
0:13:32 > 0:13:35total around an acre, including an apple and cherry orchard
0:13:35 > 0:13:37and its own stream.
0:13:39 > 0:13:41Well, you tell me. I'm not going to say what I think about this garden,
0:13:41 > 0:13:43but just walking up here, it's all terraced.
0:13:43 > 0:13:45What do you think?
0:13:45 > 0:13:48Beautifully cared for, thought-out, where the planting is.
0:13:48 > 0:13:51It's stunning. It must look beautiful through the seasons.
0:13:51 > 0:13:53Very nice.
0:13:53 > 0:13:55You've got that huge glasshouse there,
0:13:55 > 0:13:58is that going to be right for your ferns and all your potted plants?
0:13:58 > 0:14:01Alpines, woodland plants thrive.
0:14:01 > 0:14:04Alpines in there, woodland plants, any of the shady spots.
0:14:04 > 0:14:05You did say you don't mind
0:14:05 > 0:14:08if it doesn't have a lot of garden, just pots.
0:14:08 > 0:14:09But now I've showed you this...
0:14:11 > 0:14:13What can you say? It's a stunning environment.
0:14:13 > 0:14:15- Yeah, you'll feel at home here?- Yep.
0:14:15 > 0:14:19- Let's see if the price is ideal. - Yeah, that's a tricky one.
0:14:19 > 0:14:21I'm going to go to the top end
0:14:21 > 0:14:26and say £390,000-£395,000 maybe even just over £400,000.
0:14:26 > 0:14:29- So call it £405,000. - £405,000. OK, John. Lynn?
0:14:29 > 0:14:31I'm going to go £385,000.
0:14:31 > 0:14:33The current asking price...
0:14:33 > 0:14:37is £399,950.
0:14:37 > 0:14:41- Yeah, I can understand that. - So £50 change of your top budget.
0:14:41 > 0:14:45- Can't wait to see the other two now. - Yeah, this is only house number one.
0:14:45 > 0:14:47No, I can't wait to see the other two now.
0:14:47 > 0:14:50Why don't you go and have a tour of your own in private?
0:14:50 > 0:14:52Don't forget to check out the orchard -
0:14:52 > 0:14:54not often I can say that when I'm showing someone a property.
0:14:54 > 0:14:57Take your time and I'll find you when you're done.
0:14:57 > 0:14:59- Thanks very much. - Thank you.- Thank you.
0:15:02 > 0:15:08Coming in £50 short of their top budget at £399,950
0:15:08 > 0:15:10this period detached cottage
0:15:10 > 0:15:13gives them the bright and airy feel they're after,
0:15:13 > 0:15:17along with four good-sized bedrooms, a kitchen/breakfast room,
0:15:17 > 0:15:20extensive gardens, ideal for John's plant growing,
0:15:20 > 0:15:23set in an attractive village location
0:15:23 > 0:15:27and all within reasonable distance to their son in Plymouth.
0:15:29 > 0:15:31The wow factor for me would be the kitchen.
0:15:31 > 0:15:33I like the space in there so breakfast in there would be lovely,
0:15:33 > 0:15:36but the actual real icing on the cake for me
0:15:36 > 0:15:38would be the garden.
0:15:38 > 0:15:40I think it's a beautiful space.
0:15:40 > 0:15:42When I first saw the property, what I really liked
0:15:42 > 0:15:44was the cottagey look from the outside.
0:15:44 > 0:15:48And taking the overall impact of the house and the gardens into account,
0:15:48 > 0:15:53I would say this is a very serious contender for us to buy.
0:15:53 > 0:15:58Good living room, excellent kitchen, excellent size. Dining room was OK.
0:15:58 > 0:16:00Sounding rather positive, all this feedback.
0:16:00 > 0:16:03I like it when I leave you two on your own talking about our house.
0:16:03 > 0:16:06- We don't tend to be negative people.- That's good.
0:16:06 > 0:16:09- This is only number one.- Oh, I know. I can't wait!- So you ready?
0:16:09 > 0:16:12- Shall we hit the road?- I can't wait. - Going to drag you away.- Yeah, good.
0:16:12 > 0:16:13Thank you.
0:16:23 > 0:16:25Sitting on the banks of the River Tavy
0:16:25 > 0:16:28in the southwest of Devon is the market town of Tavistock.
0:16:28 > 0:16:32The town boasts a raft of independent high-street shops
0:16:32 > 0:16:34and a vibrant marketplace
0:16:34 > 0:16:37encouraging enterprise from local food producers.
0:16:37 > 0:16:39This ethos of growing local is no more evident
0:16:39 > 0:16:42than at the walled gardens of Maristow.
0:16:42 > 0:16:46Once a market garden for an 18th-century country house,
0:16:46 > 0:16:47it fell into disrepair.
0:16:47 > 0:16:51However, the site's fortunes have been turned around
0:16:51 > 0:16:55thanks to garden designer and tenant Jenny Tunley Price.
0:16:55 > 0:16:58And as Lynn and John have a horticultural passion,
0:16:58 > 0:17:02we sent them to meet Jenny to find out how the local community
0:17:02 > 0:17:05plays a role in breathing new life into this garden.
0:17:05 > 0:17:07OK, and what are you planning to do here?
0:17:07 > 0:17:10Well, I'm aiming to restore the garden to back to full productivity,
0:17:10 > 0:17:13but to use the restoration process as a vehicle
0:17:13 > 0:17:15for a number of community project.
0:17:15 > 0:17:17So we've been working with long-term unemployed young people,
0:17:17 > 0:17:19that project came to an end last year.
0:17:19 > 0:17:22We're now working with groups of offenders
0:17:22 > 0:17:24doing what they used to call community service.
0:17:24 > 0:17:26We're working with a charity
0:17:26 > 0:17:28helping people with post-traumatic stress disorder
0:17:28 > 0:17:31and we're about to start working with school groups as well.
0:17:31 > 0:17:34I can't let you leave without coming to get stuck in with us,
0:17:34 > 0:17:35so if you'd like to follow me,
0:17:35 > 0:17:37I'll take you down and you can give me a hand
0:17:37 > 0:17:38- doing a bit of weeding. - Certainly. Well done.
0:17:38 > 0:17:40- Come on, then.- Love to.
0:17:42 > 0:17:44Jenny leases the gardens from the owners,
0:17:44 > 0:17:47the Maristow Charitable Trust.
0:17:47 > 0:17:51Once totally overgrown, the gardens are now clear of undergrowth
0:17:51 > 0:17:54and Jenny hopes to restore many of its old Victorian features,
0:17:54 > 0:17:57including the vine house.
0:17:57 > 0:17:59OK, what are you actually going to grow in this patch?
0:17:59 > 0:18:01This patch will...
0:18:01 > 0:18:04I haven't quite decided, to be honest, but probably herbs.
0:18:04 > 0:18:06But the general rule of thumb that I'm using
0:18:06 > 0:18:09is that it's whatever you can't get in the supermarkets.
0:18:09 > 0:18:11- Good idea.- So, whilst yes, we are doing potatoes
0:18:11 > 0:18:13and yes, we're doing French beans,
0:18:13 > 0:18:15we are doing purple French beans, yellow ones,
0:18:15 > 0:18:20borlotti beans, cannellini beans. You know, those sorts of things.
0:18:20 > 0:18:22What are you going to do with all these vegetables
0:18:22 > 0:18:24when you've grown them?
0:18:24 > 0:18:26Some of them I'll sell here in a shop
0:18:26 > 0:18:29and there's a couple of local pubs who want to take what we've got.
0:18:29 > 0:18:31But most of it will go through Tamar Grow Local,
0:18:31 > 0:18:35which is a social enterprise that I'm involved with
0:18:35 > 0:18:37which does a number of things.
0:18:37 > 0:18:40It helps set up community growing projects,
0:18:40 > 0:18:44but it also acts as an honest broker for small producers like me.
0:18:44 > 0:18:47Tamar Grow Local is a non-profit organisation
0:18:47 > 0:18:49that supports local food-producers like Jenny
0:18:49 > 0:18:51with outlets for the produce.
0:18:51 > 0:18:56Jenny also plans for local students to learn about nutrition
0:18:56 > 0:18:59and for the produce to supply local schools.
0:18:59 > 0:19:02But a key element of this project are volunteers
0:19:02 > 0:19:05involved in helping it to grow into a community hub.
0:19:05 > 0:19:07So what do you think the volunteers get from this?
0:19:07 > 0:19:09There's a wide age range of volunteers
0:19:09 > 0:19:12and I think they each get something slightly different.
0:19:12 > 0:19:15So those who are, say, students at the university
0:19:15 > 0:19:17tend to be quite involved with green issues
0:19:17 > 0:19:20- and sustainability agendas and so on.- And the more mature ones?
0:19:20 > 0:19:23The more mature ones, I think for them it's more the social aspect
0:19:23 > 0:19:25and the feeling of giving something back to the community.
0:19:25 > 0:19:28That seems to be the thing that they really enjoy most of all.
0:19:28 > 0:19:30Making a difference in your own backyard
0:19:30 > 0:19:33seems to be something that really appeals to people.
0:19:34 > 0:19:37With the seed of inspiration sewn into our couple's minds,
0:19:37 > 0:19:40it's back to our hunt for the perfect property
0:19:40 > 0:19:42as our house search continues.
0:19:49 > 0:19:52For house number two we head south to the village of Chillaton,
0:19:52 > 0:19:56about a 40-minute drive from their son in Plymouth.
0:19:56 > 0:19:59Set in a valley to the west of Dartmoor National Park,
0:19:59 > 0:20:03Chillaton is surrounded by the stunning Devonshire landscape.
0:20:03 > 0:20:06Although mainly a mix of 19th-century stone cottages
0:20:06 > 0:20:07and more modern residences,
0:20:07 > 0:20:11there have been dwellings here since the 11th century,
0:20:11 > 0:20:15with some of its cottages boasting a mention in the Domesday Book.
0:20:15 > 0:20:18In the heart of the village is house number two -
0:20:18 > 0:20:22a converted property full of character, built in 1866.
0:20:25 > 0:20:28So this time I've brought you to the village of Chillaton -
0:20:28 > 0:20:32West Devon, Tavistock is about six miles away -
0:20:32 > 0:20:34to show you our second house.
0:20:34 > 0:20:36- What do you think?- It's different.
0:20:36 > 0:20:39Strangely, I can't wait to have a look inside it.
0:20:39 > 0:20:41Do you like the stone? The local stone?
0:20:41 > 0:20:42Yes, I like the stone.
0:20:42 > 0:20:45You were both raring to go with the first property to get inside,
0:20:45 > 0:20:48- how do you feel about this one? - The same. Raring to go!
0:20:48 > 0:20:49- Do you?- Yes.
0:20:49 > 0:20:50- Let's get inside it.- Right.
0:20:50 > 0:20:53The period charm of house number two
0:20:53 > 0:20:55has certainly aroused their interest.
0:20:55 > 0:20:58And as they are looking for a home with a spacious, open feel,
0:20:58 > 0:21:01I am hoping to cover that base as we walk through the front door.
0:21:03 > 0:21:06- So do come on in...- Wow.
0:21:06 > 0:21:08- ..to a very small kitchen. - SHE LAUGHS
0:21:09 > 0:21:11Wow.
0:21:11 > 0:21:13- I just said, "Wow." - Were you expecting this?
0:21:13 > 0:21:14- No.- Not at all.
0:21:14 > 0:21:17- Not in the slightest. - That's stunning.
0:21:17 > 0:21:20- Look at that gallery. - It's fabulous, isn't it?
0:21:20 > 0:21:21It's amazing.
0:21:21 > 0:21:24That's the last thing I expected when we stood outside.
0:21:24 > 0:21:26And it's fabulous that they've kept it so open,
0:21:26 > 0:21:28with the mezzanine floor
0:21:28 > 0:21:30looking out over the garden and the fields beyond,
0:21:30 > 0:21:34- which we'll see a little bit later. - The flooring is nice as well.
0:21:34 > 0:21:39Now, the range provides the hot water for this side of the property,
0:21:39 > 0:21:44- because this side can be used as a holiday let.- Oh, OK.
0:21:44 > 0:21:47You can look that door and use one side of the property.
0:21:47 > 0:21:52This side you can rent out - in the high season £600 to £700 a week.
0:21:52 > 0:21:54So if you wanted to, and I know you had asked for that,
0:21:54 > 0:21:57but with this property you do have that opportunity.
0:21:57 > 0:21:58- Bonus.- Yes.
0:21:58 > 0:22:02The open-plan living room/kitchen area has hit the spot,
0:22:02 > 0:22:04with a gallery study,
0:22:04 > 0:22:07it certainly gives them that bright and airy feel they're after.
0:22:07 > 0:22:11From here, we head to the two downstairs bedrooms and bathrooms.
0:22:11 > 0:22:13So, you have got a large double bedroom there
0:22:13 > 0:22:15and a shower and toilet.
0:22:15 > 0:22:17And then, in a way, you've got an en suite here
0:22:17 > 0:22:18with a freestanding bath,
0:22:18 > 0:22:21because I like to think of this as the master bedroom.
0:22:21 > 0:22:25It's on the ground floor, but just check out that view.
0:22:25 > 0:22:27That's lovely.
0:22:27 > 0:22:29We're not getting excited about it, though, are we?
0:22:31 > 0:22:33I don't tend to get excited over bedrooms,
0:22:33 > 0:22:35because they're either big enough or they're not.
0:22:35 > 0:22:37- Is it big enough?- Yeah.
0:22:37 > 0:22:40Great, because I have only shown you one half of the house.
0:22:40 > 0:22:43Let's go back through that huge kitchen/dining area.
0:22:43 > 0:22:46Let me show you the other half and see how it's laid out
0:22:46 > 0:22:49and then you can decide which bedroom might be right for you two.
0:22:49 > 0:22:50- Yes.- OK.
0:22:53 > 0:22:56So far we are getting a mixed reaction to the downstairs.
0:22:56 > 0:22:59And even though it's designed to have a holiday-let option,
0:22:59 > 0:23:03I hope they can also visualise this as one whole house.
0:23:03 > 0:23:06So, bring you to the other side of the house,
0:23:06 > 0:23:10where the family live when they are letting out that side.
0:23:10 > 0:23:11You've got your sitting room here,
0:23:11 > 0:23:15but you've got a second kitchen through there, which they use.
0:23:15 > 0:23:18- Ah.- Could make a fantastic utility room because it's huge,
0:23:18 > 0:23:22it's got the original flagstones, and that leads out onto the garden.
0:23:22 > 0:23:26Above us, you've got a further two bedrooms and a family shower room.
0:23:26 > 0:23:29- So you've got four in total. - Yes, we have.
0:23:29 > 0:23:33- My inclination is to keep it as one...- Yes.
0:23:33 > 0:23:35..having seen that big "wow" kitchen.
0:23:35 > 0:23:37- You wouldn't want to give that up, would you?- No.
0:23:37 > 0:23:39- No.- No.
0:23:39 > 0:23:43I'm not convinced the property IS totally wowing them,
0:23:43 > 0:23:46but maybe the garden can add that extra dimension.
0:23:47 > 0:23:49So, with our second property,
0:23:49 > 0:23:51very different second garden, really.
0:23:53 > 0:23:54What do you think?
0:23:54 > 0:23:56- This one's a bit like my back garden. - SHE CHUCKLES
0:23:56 > 0:24:00I like this garden. I like the way it has been set out.
0:24:00 > 0:24:02You've got the wild area here.
0:24:02 > 0:24:04Obviously, it's been laid to lawn
0:24:04 > 0:24:06and you've got the raised vegetable patches,
0:24:06 > 0:24:09but what I particularly like, if you look over the stone wall,
0:24:09 > 0:24:11you've got cows in the back.
0:24:11 > 0:24:14- Yes.- Beautiful view. You've got the local church up on the hill.
0:24:14 > 0:24:18So, we need to get on to money, don't we?
0:24:18 > 0:24:21Hmm. I'm going to go 390.
0:24:21 > 0:24:23I'm going to say 450.
0:24:25 > 0:24:29- John is closest. - SHE LAUGHS
0:24:29 > 0:24:32It's actually on the market for £425,000.
0:24:32 > 0:24:34Had a feeling it might be.
0:24:34 > 0:24:37The owner is aware of your budget
0:24:37 > 0:24:40and is happy to negotiate on a sensible offer.
0:24:40 > 0:24:41Mm-hm.
0:24:41 > 0:24:44Has that changed your opinion? Because I'm not quite sure.
0:24:44 > 0:24:47There's elements of this property that you love
0:24:47 > 0:24:48and then there's other parts that...
0:24:48 > 0:24:51- It's not quite working, is it?- Undecided. No.
0:24:51 > 0:24:53I think you two need to have another look around on your own
0:24:53 > 0:24:55with that price tag in your mind.
0:24:55 > 0:24:57- What do you think? - I think you're right.
0:24:57 > 0:24:59- Aw! Go on, then. Enjoy.- Yeah.
0:25:01 > 0:25:05This converted 19th-century stone house comes in over budget,
0:25:05 > 0:25:08on the market for £425,000,
0:25:08 > 0:25:11and gives them four bedrooms,
0:25:11 > 0:25:14a huge open-plan living room/kitchen area,
0:25:14 > 0:25:17a good-sized garden, an abundance of character,
0:25:17 > 0:25:19set in a pretty village location
0:25:19 > 0:25:22on the edge of the Dartmoor National Park.
0:25:23 > 0:25:27I liked the outside of the property. I thought it looked interesting.
0:25:27 > 0:25:29When you walked in, the kitchen,
0:25:29 > 0:25:31that definitely had the wow factor for me.
0:25:31 > 0:25:34As you go through the property, I think in some degrees
0:25:34 > 0:25:38it wasn't as exciting as I found the initial kitchen.
0:25:38 > 0:25:41I think this house is quite deceiving.
0:25:41 > 0:25:44When I walked in I was stunned by the kitchen
0:25:44 > 0:25:49and the general living area and the mezzanine of that area.
0:25:49 > 0:25:51Going through to the rest of the property
0:25:51 > 0:25:53didn't quite live up to the initial start.
0:25:53 > 0:25:56I felt that the first property we saw
0:25:56 > 0:25:59was a chocolate-box cottage in a lovely location,
0:25:59 > 0:26:03this one didn't quite live up to the same high expectations
0:26:03 > 0:26:05I think we got after seeing the first one.
0:26:05 > 0:26:08- You could live with that view. - I could live with that view.
0:26:08 > 0:26:11- You two have picked the best spot, haven't you?- Yes, we have.
0:26:11 > 0:26:13We like class. It's a classy view.
0:26:13 > 0:26:16It's fabulous, but that's it for today. Take you back now.
0:26:16 > 0:26:19You've got a lot to think about, haven't you? A lot to mull over.
0:26:19 > 0:26:20- OK.- Come on.
0:26:32 > 0:26:34It's day two of our property search in Devon
0:26:34 > 0:26:36with John and Lynn from Bromsgrove,
0:26:36 > 0:26:40who have £400,000 to spend on a new country residence.
0:26:40 > 0:26:44Coming up, the mystery house leaves John lost for words.
0:26:44 > 0:26:47- He's never speechless! - I don't know what.
0:26:47 > 0:26:49We've achieved it today with the mystery house.
0:26:49 > 0:26:50I just don't know what to say.
0:26:50 > 0:26:54And I learn the delicate art of shoemaking.
0:26:54 > 0:26:57- So if you've had a bad day... - Exactly. This is very good.
0:26:57 > 0:27:00- This is therapeutic. - It's very therapeutic.
0:27:03 > 0:27:06Well, I don't know about you, but I thought yesterday went rather well.
0:27:06 > 0:27:10John and Lynn were particularly taken with our first property
0:27:10 > 0:27:12with that enchanting garden.
0:27:12 > 0:27:14So let's see if we can go one better today.
0:27:14 > 0:27:18Now, remember, they said we could show them anything
0:27:18 > 0:27:19as long as it's detached.
0:27:19 > 0:27:22Well, mystery house, bring it on.
0:27:27 > 0:27:29For the mystery, we're heading south,
0:27:29 > 0:27:33but leaving Devon, stepping over the border into Cornwall
0:27:33 > 0:27:35to the village of Harrowbarrow.
0:27:35 > 0:27:37Set in the glorious Tamar Valley,
0:27:37 > 0:27:39it's around half an hour from Plymouth.
0:27:39 > 0:27:42Before we reach the mystery house, I'm taking John and Lynn
0:27:42 > 0:27:44for a stroll around the village.
0:27:46 > 0:27:48So, we are nearly at the mystery house,
0:27:48 > 0:27:50but I wanted to stop off here.
0:27:50 > 0:27:53We have crossed the border into Cornwall
0:27:53 > 0:27:56- but I think you two guessed that already, didn't you?- Yep.
0:27:56 > 0:27:57But the reason we chose
0:27:57 > 0:28:00not just the house but the village to show you
0:28:00 > 0:28:02was because of the community here.
0:28:02 > 0:28:04It used to be a mining village.
0:28:04 > 0:28:07I think the 1800s were the boom years, tin and copper.
0:28:07 > 0:28:09Obviously, it's changed over the years,
0:28:09 > 0:28:12but the locals have put a lot of effort in to keeping that spirit.
0:28:12 > 0:28:14We've got a post office, there's a shop,
0:28:14 > 0:28:15there's a school, garden centre.
0:28:15 > 0:28:17There's even a community orchard.
0:28:17 > 0:28:20I think that's the first time I've ever heard of that.
0:28:20 > 0:28:21So far, we're getting a thumbs-up, aren't we,
0:28:21 > 0:28:23for the location of the mystery house.
0:28:23 > 0:28:25- Yes, yes. Two thumbs.- Big time.
0:28:25 > 0:28:27- Let's see what you think of the property itself.- OK.
0:28:29 > 0:28:32The mystery house will stretch their ability to keep an open mind
0:28:32 > 0:28:35to see through its cosmetic quirkiness.
0:28:35 > 0:28:40A converted Victorian property, it once was the hub of this community.
0:28:40 > 0:28:44So, you have seen the village, now here is your mystery house.
0:28:44 > 0:28:48- Wow. Look at that.- Very nice.
0:28:48 > 0:28:51That looks very unusual. It's quirky enough for us as well.
0:28:51 > 0:28:54- SHE LAUGHS - It's definitely quirky. On a scale of one to ten.
0:28:54 > 0:28:56- Definitely a 10! - We like quirky.- Do you?
0:28:56 > 0:28:58- Yeah, we do.- Oh, we love quirky.
0:28:58 > 0:29:00If you love quirky, you are going to love this property.
0:29:00 > 0:29:02It's like stepping into another world.
0:29:02 > 0:29:04- Really?- Is it?- It's so is.
0:29:04 > 0:29:06It was a Methodist Church originally,
0:29:06 > 0:29:08when it was built around 1842,
0:29:08 > 0:29:12converted in the 1990s into a home.
0:29:12 > 0:29:14Unique is the word.
0:29:14 > 0:29:17- So, I know it was an open book with us...- Very much so.
0:29:17 > 0:29:19..you didn't mind what you saw as long as it was detached -
0:29:19 > 0:29:21with stunning views...
0:29:21 > 0:29:24This is detached with stunning views.
0:29:24 > 0:29:27- I know, excited now.- You're smirking!
0:29:27 > 0:29:30- Should we start the official tour? - Go on.- Yes, please.
0:29:32 > 0:29:34A great reaction to the pink palace
0:29:34 > 0:29:37and I can't wait to see their faces when we get inside.
0:29:37 > 0:29:39The main building was the chapel
0:29:39 > 0:29:42and attached on the right was the old Sunday school.
0:29:43 > 0:29:49- Oh.- I have to say, welcome to your mystery house!
0:29:49 > 0:29:51SHE LAUGHS
0:29:51 > 0:29:54Now this is different. Wow!
0:29:54 > 0:29:57Yes, it is like it's a scene out of a book.
0:29:57 > 0:29:59That's where the altar originally was.
0:29:59 > 0:30:03Obviously, it's been converted into the most amazing house.
0:30:03 > 0:30:07- Erm...I don't know what to say! - SHE LAUGHS
0:30:07 > 0:30:09- He's never speechless! - I don't know what...
0:30:09 > 0:30:11We've achieved it today with the mystery house.
0:30:11 > 0:30:14I just don't know what to say.
0:30:14 > 0:30:19It has huge possibilities with a very good imagination.
0:30:19 > 0:30:21I'm just blown away.
0:30:22 > 0:30:24- We like him speechless.- Yes.
0:30:24 > 0:30:27We left him speechless. Let me show you the kitchen.
0:30:28 > 0:30:33An amazing start and the mystery has left John lost for words.
0:30:33 > 0:30:35I'm hoping that's a good sign.
0:30:35 > 0:30:39So, I'm going to call this the doll's-house kitchen.
0:30:39 > 0:30:42- Mm-hm.- And it definitely is.
0:30:42 > 0:30:44- It would be a great place for little kids.- Yes.
0:30:44 > 0:30:47Once you get past what they've done with the house
0:30:47 > 0:30:48and why they have done the house,
0:30:48 > 0:30:51- you can see why it would give you a great space for a kitchen.- Yes.
0:30:51 > 0:30:52Give you everything you'd want.
0:30:52 > 0:30:55Through that door you've also got a utility room
0:30:55 > 0:30:57and a downstairs toilet.
0:30:57 > 0:30:58- Wow.- This is a big space.
0:30:58 > 0:31:01- Yeah.- The whole downstairs is a big space.
0:31:01 > 0:31:03You've come back to me now.
0:31:03 > 0:31:05I'm getting a bit more chat now, aren't I.
0:31:05 > 0:31:07- You were speechless at first, John. - Shocked.- Shocked, yeah.
0:31:07 > 0:31:10- But shocked in a good way? - Oh, yeah.- Excellent, excellent!
0:31:10 > 0:31:11Nothing negative there.
0:31:14 > 0:31:17The downstairs is completed a study
0:31:17 > 0:31:20and the old Sunday-school room, which we'll tackle shortly.
0:31:20 > 0:31:23But first, we head to the bedrooms,
0:31:23 > 0:31:25accessed via the raised dining-area staircase,
0:31:25 > 0:31:28leading onto a stunning galleried landing.
0:31:28 > 0:31:33With the owners having moved out, the house is only partly furnished,
0:31:33 > 0:31:35really putting their imagination to the test.
0:31:35 > 0:31:40As you can see, the upstairs doesn't disappoint either.
0:31:40 > 0:31:41No.
0:31:42 > 0:31:45- No!- Colourful.- Very. Yes, very.
0:31:45 > 0:31:47There's a theme going on through this house.
0:31:47 > 0:31:49So, this would be the master bedroom,
0:31:49 > 0:31:51although you've got four in total.
0:31:51 > 0:31:53And two bathrooms.
0:31:53 > 0:31:56So, four bedrooms. That's quite a lot. You asked for three.
0:31:56 > 0:31:57- Yes.- Yes.- You've got the option.
0:31:57 > 0:32:00And, obviously, you've got the fantastic view through the window.
0:32:00 > 0:32:03It is. I was just looking at that. Beautiful view.
0:32:03 > 0:32:05It's a bit of a decorative project.
0:32:06 > 0:32:09- Which is OK. I'm happy with that. - Which is nothing, really, is it?
0:32:09 > 0:32:13- I've still got more to show you. - Have you really?- Yes.- Let's go then.
0:32:14 > 0:32:17The landing leads us to another galleried staircase
0:32:17 > 0:32:19at the opposite end of the property,
0:32:19 > 0:32:22leading us back down to the adjoining Sunday-school room.
0:32:23 > 0:32:28Going through into the Sunday school.
0:32:28 > 0:32:29So when we looked at the chapel,
0:32:29 > 0:32:32the building to the right that was attached - this is it.
0:32:32 > 0:32:35- Oh, yes.- This is where the lessons would have been on a Sunday.
0:32:35 > 0:32:38- It's a big room as well, isn't it?- Yes.
0:32:38 > 0:32:39I feel like I'm on a film set.
0:32:39 > 0:32:42My brain is on a maelstrom at the moment,
0:32:42 > 0:32:44with thoughts about this one.
0:32:44 > 0:32:47How do you put a price on something like this though?
0:32:47 > 0:32:51Unfortunately, that's the question I'm going to be asking you
0:32:51 > 0:32:52in just a little while.
0:32:52 > 0:32:55- You can start thinking about that now, can't you?- Yes.
0:32:55 > 0:32:58I've thought of nothing else since we walked through the front door!
0:32:58 > 0:33:00- Come out to the Mediterranean area.- Oh, right.
0:33:00 > 0:33:05John and Lynn are blown away by the mystery house.
0:33:05 > 0:33:07But it remains to be seen if the work involved
0:33:07 > 0:33:09is more than just cosmetic.
0:33:09 > 0:33:10So how is this?
0:33:10 > 0:33:13- Beautiful.- Beautiful. - Absolutely stunning.
0:33:13 > 0:33:15You have a sun trap. An absolute sun trap.
0:33:15 > 0:33:19And you're going to get the sun all afternoon into the evening.
0:33:19 > 0:33:23- Just look at the Tamar Valley. - Beautiful. It's stunning actually.
0:33:23 > 0:33:25This is why we want to move to this part of the world.
0:33:25 > 0:33:30You don't have really a conventional garden, but I can give you a view.
0:33:30 > 0:33:33- And somebody else can mow that.- Absolutely.
0:33:33 > 0:33:35- But plenty of room for pots and plants.- Very true.
0:33:35 > 0:33:37- Perfect?- Perfect.- Yes.
0:33:37 > 0:33:40Perfect. Well, can you put a price on this property?
0:33:40 > 0:33:43That's a tough one. How do you value this?
0:33:43 > 0:33:45- Who wants to go first? - I'll go first.
0:33:45 > 0:33:48I'm going to put you on the spot. Give me a price, John.
0:33:48 > 0:33:50Probably 425.
0:33:50 > 0:33:53I'm going to go for 405.
0:33:53 > 0:33:56- Ooh, sneaky!- And Lynn is closest.
0:33:56 > 0:33:59- Ah!- 395.- OK.
0:33:59 > 0:34:04- £395,000.- It's probably worth every penny of it actually.
0:34:05 > 0:34:08- Have we given you something to think about with our mystery?- Big time.
0:34:08 > 0:34:10- Do you want to have another look around?- Ooh, yeah.
0:34:10 > 0:34:13- Yes, we would love to. Thank you.- How long do you need?
0:34:13 > 0:34:16- You'll probably need quite a few hours, won't you?- Go and have lunch!
0:34:16 > 0:34:18In all seriousness, go on your own, have a look around,
0:34:18 > 0:34:22have a really good think and look at it through your eyes,
0:34:22 > 0:34:24- what you would do to it if you lived here.- OK.
0:34:24 > 0:34:26- Yep.- We will do that. Thank you. - Thank you very much.
0:34:28 > 0:34:32Our quirky, mystery Victorian chapel
0:34:32 > 0:34:35comes in just under budget at £395,000
0:34:35 > 0:34:37and gives them four bedrooms,
0:34:37 > 0:34:41a massive open-plan living and dining space,
0:34:41 > 0:34:45a large kitchen/breakfast room, bags of unique character features,
0:34:45 > 0:34:48a delightful community village location,
0:34:48 > 0:34:49with stunning views
0:34:49 > 0:34:52of the glorious Tamar Valley.
0:34:52 > 0:34:55- Just look at that view. Would you ever tire of that?- No, never.
0:34:55 > 0:34:58What about the lack of a garden, because there is none?
0:34:58 > 0:34:59No, but you'd get all your pots in
0:34:59 > 0:35:02and you could grow some bigger plants because of the sun,
0:35:02 > 0:35:03the heat from the stone.
0:35:03 > 0:35:05Oh, certainly could.
0:35:05 > 0:35:08This property wouldn't have been one that we'd have considered at all.
0:35:08 > 0:35:10But having been brought here,
0:35:10 > 0:35:12it opened our eyes to other possibilities
0:35:12 > 0:35:15and all the time we walked round, it just makes you smile.
0:35:15 > 0:35:17At this moment in time
0:35:17 > 0:35:20I'm feeling a sense of wonderment of this mystery house
0:35:20 > 0:35:23that really started the moment we walked in the door.
0:35:23 > 0:35:29So what was the altar at the far end, it just got bigger and bolder.
0:35:29 > 0:35:33The mystery house to me has been absolutely superb.
0:35:33 > 0:35:34It's been brilliant.
0:35:38 > 0:35:41So, that's the tour of the mystery house over.
0:35:41 > 0:35:44- You've got some thinking to do, haven't you?- We have, yes.
0:35:44 > 0:35:46- certainly have.- Do you want to go and have a chat
0:35:46 > 0:35:47and I'll catch up with you in a little while?
0:35:47 > 0:35:50- That's a good idea.- Thank you. - See you in a minute.
0:35:51 > 0:35:54We've shown John and Lynn our three properties,
0:35:54 > 0:35:57but if you are looking in this beautiful part of the country,
0:35:57 > 0:36:01there's still plenty of other houses worth taking a look at.
0:36:02 > 0:36:05For the average budget, how about this Grade 2-listed
0:36:05 > 0:36:09semidetached two-bedroom cottage in East Ogwell?
0:36:09 > 0:36:12Thought to date back several hundred years,
0:36:12 > 0:36:14this cottage is full of period character
0:36:14 > 0:36:18and is on the market for £256,950.
0:36:18 > 0:36:22If your finances can go a little further
0:36:22 > 0:36:25than this four-bedroom barn conversion in East Allington
0:36:25 > 0:36:27might fit the bill.
0:36:27 > 0:36:30With vaulted ceilings, featured beams,
0:36:30 > 0:36:33and an open-plan kitchen/dining area,
0:36:33 > 0:36:35it's on sale for £350,000.
0:36:35 > 0:36:38And should you hanker after single-level living
0:36:38 > 0:36:42then his three-bedroom 1930s bungalow in the village of Hunston
0:36:42 > 0:36:44is a lovely example.
0:36:44 > 0:36:45Complete with its own pond
0:36:45 > 0:36:47and stunning views of the Dartmoor National Park,
0:36:47 > 0:36:53it has a price tag of £539,950.
0:37:00 > 0:37:03Devon has a reputation for its thriving cottage industries.
0:37:03 > 0:37:06Designers, jewellery-makers, wood and metal workers
0:37:06 > 0:37:10have formed a strong creative communities in the county.
0:37:10 > 0:37:13Today I have come to Moretonhampstead
0:37:13 > 0:37:16to meet Alison Hastie, who for over 30 years
0:37:16 > 0:37:20has used traditional methods to make leather footwear and fashion items.
0:37:23 > 0:37:27Must admit - handmade shoes, quite unusual, quite unique.
0:37:27 > 0:37:29Indeed, yes. I think there's only about
0:37:29 > 0:37:32four or five different companies in the country
0:37:32 > 0:37:33that make handmade shoes like this.
0:37:33 > 0:37:35- Is that all?- Yes, yes.
0:37:35 > 0:37:37Alison, is it possible to see the whole process,
0:37:37 > 0:37:40how you make a pair of boots, from start to finish?
0:37:40 > 0:37:41Absolutely, Nicki.
0:37:41 > 0:37:44You're going to help us and we're going to make you a pair.
0:37:44 > 0:37:46- For me?- Yeah, absolutely.- Fantastic.
0:37:46 > 0:37:49It takes between four to six hours to make a pair of shoes,
0:37:49 > 0:37:52so we'd better get cracking.
0:37:52 > 0:37:54Now you've got to choose what colour you want.
0:37:54 > 0:37:57I'm a women, that's going to be difficult.
0:37:57 > 0:37:58Some factory-made shoes
0:37:58 > 0:38:01are comprised of hundreds of small pieces,
0:38:01 > 0:38:03but I only need five per shoe.
0:38:03 > 0:38:06Using a clicking knife, I score around the pattern,
0:38:06 > 0:38:09starting with the vamp at the front of the shoe.
0:38:09 > 0:38:11Once I have the ten leather sections,
0:38:11 > 0:38:15those are glued onto a sheet of pigskin lining and cut out.
0:38:16 > 0:38:20Right, now we are starting to stitch the shoe together.
0:38:20 > 0:38:24This is the back strap and the two quarters for the side of the shoe.
0:38:24 > 0:38:27- Yes.- We're going to use this fearsome machine.
0:38:29 > 0:38:32shoemaking techniques have changed little
0:38:32 > 0:38:34since the Industrial Revolution,
0:38:34 > 0:38:37with one person making a pair from start to finish.
0:38:38 > 0:38:41Because years ago Devon was renowned, wasn't it,
0:38:41 > 0:38:43for its leather and for its shoemaking,
0:38:43 > 0:38:46but that's all changed in recent years, hasn't it?
0:38:46 > 0:38:48Yes, I suppose linked to the farming,
0:38:48 > 0:38:49you'd have a lot of leather.
0:38:49 > 0:38:55And there is one amazing tannery left in Colyton.
0:38:55 > 0:38:58But yes, every town of any size would have had a tannery
0:38:58 > 0:39:00and many shoemakers.
0:39:02 > 0:39:05Now to stick the uppers to the insole and sew them into place.
0:39:06 > 0:39:08The soles are cut from a sheet
0:39:08 > 0:39:11and attached with a rubber-solution glue.
0:39:13 > 0:39:15So, it goes one on top of the other.
0:39:18 > 0:39:20And this is the really technical bit.
0:39:26 > 0:39:27So if you have had a bad day...
0:39:27 > 0:39:29Exactly. This is very good.
0:39:29 > 0:39:31..this is therapeutic.
0:39:31 > 0:39:32It's very therapeutic.
0:39:34 > 0:39:38The sole is then trimmed and we are almost there.
0:39:38 > 0:39:41I'm thrilled. My first pair of handmade shoes,
0:39:41 > 0:39:44and may they serve me for many, many miles in comfort.
0:39:44 > 0:39:46I think they are going to make all the difference.
0:39:46 > 0:39:48- Thank you so much. - It's a pleasure. Thank you.
0:39:50 > 0:39:53It's amazing to see a centuries-old craft in action
0:39:53 > 0:39:57and I hope Alison continues to preserve this skill
0:39:57 > 0:39:58for years to come.
0:39:58 > 0:40:02I am delighted with my new footwear, but it's time to hit the road
0:40:02 > 0:40:04and see if our couple have come to a decision.
0:40:07 > 0:40:10Well, that's it for our house search with John and Lynn,
0:40:10 > 0:40:13and I think we have two possible contenders -
0:40:13 > 0:40:16the cottage, which they were very taken with,
0:40:16 > 0:40:19and then of course our mystery house, the chapel.
0:40:19 > 0:40:22So, I'm really excited to hear what they've got to say.
0:40:27 > 0:40:31Well, John and Lynn, you gave us quite an open brief.
0:40:31 > 0:40:32Did we surprise you?
0:40:32 > 0:40:35Yes, especially with the house number three.
0:40:35 > 0:40:38Let's start with house number three.
0:40:38 > 0:40:41Impactful, I think, is the term for the chapel.
0:40:41 > 0:40:44But did we get close? Because we walked around,
0:40:44 > 0:40:46got some fantastic responses from you,
0:40:46 > 0:40:49but I wasn't sure at the end whether it's a contender or not.
0:40:49 > 0:40:51So you tell me.
0:40:51 > 0:40:52Very much a contender.
0:40:52 > 0:40:54I don't think I've ever been in anything
0:40:54 > 0:40:57as remotely quirky as that in my life.
0:40:57 > 0:41:00Downstairs was certainly unique.
0:41:00 > 0:41:03The pink kitchen was a bit different.
0:41:03 > 0:41:06- I thought that caught your eye, John.- Oh, it did.
0:41:06 > 0:41:09The lack of a garden was compensated for
0:41:09 > 0:41:15by the Mediterranean sun terrace, which is just so multipurpose.
0:41:15 > 0:41:18And when you've got the whole of the Tamar Valley to look at,
0:41:18 > 0:41:19who needs a big garden?
0:41:19 > 0:41:23So, a big thumbs-up for the mystery house, which is fabulous news.
0:41:23 > 0:41:27- Second property, we discounted that one?- Yep.
0:41:27 > 0:41:29OK. But I have to ask you about the cottage,
0:41:29 > 0:41:33because we started off very well, and then the garden -
0:41:33 > 0:41:35I think we were all enchanted by that garden, weren't we?
0:41:35 > 0:41:37One thing we loved about that garden
0:41:37 > 0:41:39is the tiered effect the garden was put in.
0:41:39 > 0:41:42And no matter which aspect of the garden you looked at,
0:41:42 > 0:41:44there was always something more interesting to see
0:41:44 > 0:41:45in the other corner.
0:41:45 > 0:41:47And inside for me I found that the house itself
0:41:47 > 0:41:49was surprisingly large inside.
0:41:49 > 0:41:53With the dual-aspect windows, brought a lot of light into each room.
0:41:53 > 0:41:56Upstairs I thought was good but the kitchen for me,
0:41:56 > 0:41:59like a kitchen/dining room, was very, very nice.
0:41:59 > 0:42:00So where do we go next?
0:42:00 > 0:42:04We're probably going to have another look at the first one again.
0:42:04 > 0:42:08We'll probably have a look at the pink palace again.
0:42:08 > 0:42:12So we've got two to play with. Two second viewings on both.
0:42:12 > 0:42:13I wonder which one you might go with.
0:42:13 > 0:42:15- We'll let you know.- Please do.
0:42:15 > 0:42:18- Thank you both so much. - No, thank you.
0:42:23 > 0:42:27I've really enjoyed showing John and Lynn our three properties.
0:42:27 > 0:42:30Especially as their brief was to find them homes
0:42:30 > 0:42:33they wouldn't have dreamt of looking at themselves.
0:42:33 > 0:42:37The good news is, they are considering two out of the three,
0:42:37 > 0:42:38and, on a day like today,
0:42:38 > 0:42:41well, life doesn't get much better than this.
0:42:41 > 0:42:42See you next time.
0:42:43 > 0:42:46John and Lynn have since been back for a second viewing
0:42:46 > 0:42:49on house number one and the mystery house.
0:42:49 > 0:42:51They like both properties
0:42:51 > 0:42:53but are waiting until their house is sold
0:42:53 > 0:42:55before they proceed any further.
0:42:55 > 0:42:57If you'd like to escape to the country
0:42:57 > 0:43:00in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland or England,
0:43:00 > 0:43:04or maybe even further afield to the continent, and need our help,
0:43:04 > 0:43:05please apply online at: