0:00:02 > 0:00:04There's been a castle on this spot for over 500 years,
0:00:04 > 0:00:08watching out over this stretch of water and protecting our shorelines.
0:00:08 > 0:00:09Where am I?
0:00:09 > 0:00:12Well, I'll give you a clue. We're not on the mainland.
0:00:29 > 0:00:31Today, I'm house hunting with a retired couple looking to
0:00:31 > 0:00:34swap their suburban home of 24 years
0:00:34 > 0:00:38to begin a new chapter in the country by the coast.
0:00:38 > 0:00:40Our search serves up a few surprises...
0:00:40 > 0:00:42- Oh, my goodness.- Oh, goodness.
0:00:42 > 0:00:46What did we say about large gardens? Not wanting large gardens, eh?
0:00:46 > 0:00:47..as well as a few home truths.
0:00:47 > 0:00:50So, this is a good place for you when you're in the doghouse.
0:00:50 > 0:00:52There are facilities there.
0:00:52 > 0:00:55I wouldn't mind being in the doghouse.
0:00:57 > 0:01:00Welcome to Dorset and this is Brownsea Castle
0:01:00 > 0:01:03on its very own island in the middle of Poole Harbour.
0:01:03 > 0:01:06It was built in the middle of the 16th century by Henry VIII
0:01:06 > 0:01:09to defend against the Spanish Armada.
0:01:09 > 0:01:12But over the centuries, it passed into private family hands.
0:01:12 > 0:01:14At the beginning of the 20th century,
0:01:14 > 0:01:16it was owned by a very extravagant millionaire
0:01:16 > 0:01:19who developed the grounds and built a golf course,
0:01:19 > 0:01:23imported golden pheasant and exotic game for his Edwardian guests,
0:01:23 > 0:01:27including grandchildren of Queen Victoria herself.
0:01:27 > 0:01:31In 1961, it passed into the stewardship of the National Trust
0:01:31 > 0:01:34but, I have to say, as properties with a sea view go
0:01:34 > 0:01:35this one is hard to beat.
0:01:38 > 0:01:42In the south west of England, Dorset is bordered by Devon
0:01:42 > 0:01:44to the west and Hampshire to the east.
0:01:44 > 0:01:48Largely bypassed by the Industrial Revolution, the county has
0:01:48 > 0:01:51retained much of its natural beauty with habitats that are among
0:01:51 > 0:01:54the richest for biodiversity in the country.
0:01:55 > 0:01:59Along its stunning 95-mile coastline are some extraordinary
0:01:59 > 0:02:02geological features, including Chesil Beach, the longest shingle
0:02:02 > 0:02:06bar in Europe, separated from the mainland by the Fleet Lagoon.
0:02:08 > 0:02:11Further east is Poole Harbour, created from a drowned valley
0:02:11 > 0:02:14formed at the end of the last ice age.
0:02:14 > 0:02:16It's one of the largest natural harbours in the world
0:02:16 > 0:02:18and provides a perfect haven for yachts.
0:02:20 > 0:02:22At neighbouring Bournemouth, the glorious seven-mile sweep of
0:02:22 > 0:02:25golden sand was recently voted the UK's best beach
0:02:25 > 0:02:28and it's just another of the wonderful features
0:02:28 > 0:02:31this gorgeous county has to offer.
0:02:36 > 0:02:40So, is it going to be worthwhile for our house buyers to move here?
0:02:40 > 0:02:42Let's meet them and find out.
0:02:45 > 0:02:47For the last 24 years, Sue and John have been living
0:02:47 > 0:02:49in a five bedroomed detached home
0:02:49 > 0:02:52in the town of Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire.
0:02:52 > 0:02:55But until they moved there, they rarely stayed put in one place
0:02:55 > 0:02:59longer than three years, thanks to John's career in the oil industry.
0:02:59 > 0:03:03After such a stretch of settled life here, the globetrotting couple have
0:03:03 > 0:03:08got itchy feet and are fairly clear about where they're headed next.
0:03:08 > 0:03:10It's not so much that we want to leave Beaconsfield.
0:03:10 > 0:03:14We'd like a new start, a new challenge.
0:03:14 > 0:03:17Somewhere like Dorset is a place that we've always hankered after.
0:03:17 > 0:03:20I used to live on the coast, before I got married,
0:03:20 > 0:03:22so I really miss the coast.
0:03:24 > 0:03:26Although they now feel able to move away from the area
0:03:26 > 0:03:28there are some much-loved family members
0:03:28 > 0:03:30they'll have to leave behind.
0:03:30 > 0:03:32Two of their three children live close to their current home,
0:03:32 > 0:03:35so they've been able to spend a lot of time with their grandchildren.
0:03:37 > 0:03:39We really enjoy being grandparents
0:03:39 > 0:03:42and that's one of the downsides of moving, really.
0:03:42 > 0:03:45But they've all promised to come and visit us lots and lots
0:03:45 > 0:03:48and, I suspect, half terms we'll be quite popular,
0:03:48 > 0:03:50so we're looking forward to that.
0:03:50 > 0:03:54And there's one particular pastime they enjoy together.
0:03:54 > 0:03:56We are both quite competitive.
0:03:56 > 0:04:00John usually gets quite cross because he's trying really hard.
0:04:00 > 0:04:02And the harder he tries, the worse it gets!
0:04:02 > 0:04:06And Sue is so laidback, you know, "OK, it's only a game."
0:04:06 > 0:04:09But anyway, we love the game. It gets under the skin.
0:04:10 > 0:04:13On the days when the weather isn't suitable for golf
0:04:13 > 0:04:16there's a place indoors where John is most likely to be found.
0:04:16 > 0:04:18I like being in my study.
0:04:18 > 0:04:22Sue and I don't share the same television programmes.
0:04:22 > 0:04:26So, when she's looking at her soaps, it's a fine time for me
0:04:26 > 0:04:29to go in there and have a little escapism.
0:04:29 > 0:04:32I've got some bits and pieces in there, my toys.
0:04:32 > 0:04:35I'm a bit of a collector of militaria and things.
0:04:35 > 0:04:37There so much stuff in there.
0:04:37 > 0:04:40Yes, there's all sorts of stuff but it's stuff that I like.
0:04:41 > 0:04:45Uprooting after 24 years and moving all that stuff
0:04:45 > 0:04:48might seem daunting but this couple aren't fazed.
0:04:48 > 0:04:50I quite look forward to the challenge of it.
0:04:50 > 0:04:52We're not too old for a new start!
0:04:56 > 0:05:00Our buyers have chosen Dorset for its beautiful scenery and are
0:05:00 > 0:05:03happy to consider either a coastal or countryside setting
0:05:03 > 0:05:06but with family to consider, close to their current home in
0:05:06 > 0:05:09Buckinghamshire, they'd like to be no more than two hours away,
0:05:09 > 0:05:12so would prefer to look in the east of the county.
0:05:12 > 0:05:15I'm meeting them to talk through the details of their planned move.
0:05:17 > 0:05:18John and Sue, welcome to Dorset.
0:05:18 > 0:05:20- Thank you. - So, this is a big move for you?
0:05:20 > 0:05:23This is your big, wonderful retirement move.
0:05:23 > 0:05:25It's the first time we've ever actually chosen
0:05:25 > 0:05:27where we're going to live.
0:05:27 > 0:05:29With the company, we've always been told where we're going.
0:05:29 > 0:05:32And what are you looking for in the property?
0:05:32 > 0:05:34Well, I'm looking, mainly, for a view.
0:05:34 > 0:05:37Sea, golf course, or really nice countryside.
0:05:37 > 0:05:39We'd like five bedrooms.
0:05:39 > 0:05:42Well, four to five, isn't it?
0:05:42 > 0:05:45- Because you've got your family to come and stay.- Yes.- Yes.
0:05:45 > 0:05:48We've got family coming. And a lovely, big, modern kitchen.
0:05:48 > 0:05:52I'd like a nice study, or family room, for my toys.
0:05:52 > 0:05:53Toys? What do you collect?
0:05:53 > 0:05:56Bits and pieces I've picked up on my travels around the world.
0:05:56 > 0:05:59So the house is going to be a showcase for your collection.
0:05:59 > 0:06:02No, he has to keep all that in his room. That's why
0:06:02 > 0:06:03he needs a separate room.
0:06:03 > 0:06:05And what about the style, then?
0:06:05 > 0:06:07Are you looking for something contemporary and modern
0:06:07 > 0:06:11- or are you happy for a period property?- Certainly modern interior.
0:06:11 > 0:06:13No thatched cottage with tiny windows.
0:06:13 > 0:06:15I like the older buildings, I must admit.
0:06:15 > 0:06:17I'm a bit traditionalist in that respect
0:06:17 > 0:06:20but on the other hand, we don't want small windows.
0:06:20 > 0:06:24We do want rooms that are well lit, naturally well lit.
0:06:24 > 0:06:26- With lovely views. - With lovely views of course.
0:06:26 > 0:06:29- That's definitely number one. - And what about the outside space?
0:06:29 > 0:06:31We're not great gardeners.
0:06:31 > 0:06:33We're not looking for a large garden.
0:06:33 > 0:06:35Small to medium would be fine.
0:06:35 > 0:06:37Remind me again of your budget.
0:06:37 > 0:06:40Ideally we're talking about just
0:06:40 > 0:06:43under a million or up to a million, ideally, but for the right place,
0:06:43 > 0:06:46we're prepared to go up to 1.2 million.
0:06:46 > 0:06:48That's obviously a beautifully big budget.
0:06:48 > 0:06:51And what about your house sale, how's that going?
0:06:51 > 0:06:53Legally, it's sold, subject to contract
0:06:53 > 0:06:56and I believe there's another two weeks, is it?
0:06:56 > 0:06:59We're expecting to exchange in two weeks.
0:06:59 > 0:07:01- Better get our skates on. - Absolutely.
0:07:01 > 0:07:03Well, we've got three lovely properties. Let's go and see them
0:07:03 > 0:07:06- before you miss the boat. - Great, lovely.
0:07:07 > 0:07:10With a very substantial budget of £1.2 million to spend,
0:07:10 > 0:07:13Sue and John are looking for a spacious home
0:07:13 > 0:07:16with at least four bedrooms so the grandchildren can visit.
0:07:16 > 0:07:19John needs a study to store his collections
0:07:19 > 0:07:21and Sue's after a light, modern interior.
0:07:21 > 0:07:25The garden doesn't need to be huge but one thing they don't want
0:07:25 > 0:07:27to compromise on are great views.
0:07:27 > 0:07:29They'd also like the property to be
0:07:29 > 0:07:30in an attractive village setting
0:07:30 > 0:07:33with an active local community.
0:07:33 > 0:07:36We've lined up three excellent properties to view which
0:07:36 > 0:07:40would offer them the lifestyle and scenic setting they're after.
0:07:40 > 0:07:43They won't know the prices of each until they've viewed it
0:07:43 > 0:07:45and at the end of the search, I'll be tempting them with a
0:07:45 > 0:07:48one-of-a-kind property in the form of our mystery house.
0:07:53 > 0:07:56For our first property, we're heading to the East Dorset village
0:07:56 > 0:07:59of Horton, ten miles north of Poole.
0:08:00 > 0:08:04This small village has a population of just over 500 people.
0:08:04 > 0:08:08There's an attractive church, local pub and the village itself is
0:08:08 > 0:08:10overlooked by the unique local landmark, Horton Tower.
0:08:12 > 0:08:15Just a mile away from a very prestigious golf course and
0:08:15 > 0:08:18100 yards from the pub, hopefully the position of our first property
0:08:18 > 0:08:19will appeal to Sue and John.
0:08:19 > 0:08:23Et voila! House number one.
0:08:23 > 0:08:26Oh, wow. It does look lovely.
0:08:26 > 0:08:29It's a contemporary property. It's from the '60s but it's been extended
0:08:29 > 0:08:31and completely transformed, actually,
0:08:31 > 0:08:34in the last eight to ten years.
0:08:34 > 0:08:36The core of the house is this really central part
0:08:36 > 0:08:40and all these other sections have been added in subsequent decades.
0:08:40 > 0:08:42You're very well-placed here for golf clubs.
0:08:42 > 0:08:45- There's a very exclusive golf club just around the corner.- Right.
0:08:45 > 0:08:47But there are also several other ones, so you've got lots of options.
0:08:47 > 0:08:50- Oh, really? Oh, my goodness. - It's golfing central here.
0:08:50 > 0:08:52I'd like to go inside.
0:08:52 > 0:08:54- Shall we go?- Indeed.
0:08:55 > 0:08:59Built in 1965, I'm hoping this house offers the contemporary living
0:08:59 > 0:09:01that Sue and John are looking for.
0:09:01 > 0:09:04Offering nearly 4,000 square feet of floor space,
0:09:04 > 0:09:07the downstairs centres on a well-thought-out
0:09:07 > 0:09:09open-plan kitchen and breakfast room
0:09:09 > 0:09:11developed by the current owners.
0:09:13 > 0:09:16Straight into your domain, Sue, the kitchen.
0:09:16 > 0:09:19Yes! Oh, wow, that's really lovely.
0:09:19 > 0:09:21It's nice and light, isn't it?
0:09:21 > 0:09:24A lovely combination of kitchen with the dining area,
0:09:24 > 0:09:26right out onto decking.
0:09:26 > 0:09:29Really lovely. That's exactly what I like.
0:09:29 > 0:09:31- Is it?- Yes.
0:09:31 > 0:09:33The ceiling being so nice and light
0:09:33 > 0:09:34and this area is really light,
0:09:34 > 0:09:37you know, when you've got the family it's really nice not to be
0:09:37 > 0:09:39shut away in the kitchen.
0:09:39 > 0:09:41Through there, you've got a sort of TV snug room.
0:09:41 > 0:09:44Round the back, there's a big utility room, a downstairs toilet
0:09:44 > 0:09:47and lots and lots of storage. Is it your taste in finishing?
0:09:47 > 0:09:49- Oh, yes, indeed.- Great.
0:09:49 > 0:09:51So, let's go through into the lounge.
0:09:51 > 0:09:54At the front of the property, there's a study area
0:09:54 > 0:09:55opposite the main lounge.
0:09:55 > 0:09:58A large modern space with a southerly aspect.
0:09:58 > 0:09:59More space.
0:09:59 > 0:10:01Oh, yes, it is, it's lovely.
0:10:01 > 0:10:04Really unusual with the glass panelling there.
0:10:04 > 0:10:09That's the dining room, but they're using it as a study.
0:10:09 > 0:10:11That would be my study.
0:10:11 > 0:10:12Let's look upstairs.
0:10:14 > 0:10:17Upstairs, there's plenty of space to accommodate the family with
0:10:17 > 0:10:19three good-sized guest bedrooms,
0:10:19 > 0:10:23two modern en-suites and an impressive family bathroom
0:10:23 > 0:10:25with floor-to-ceiling windows to the garden.
0:10:25 > 0:10:28This is the master bedroom.
0:10:28 > 0:10:30- My goodness.- Oh, my goodness. Yeah.
0:10:30 > 0:10:32That is lovely.
0:10:32 > 0:10:35You've got an en-suite in here. Lovely views.
0:10:35 > 0:10:38- Yep, triple aspect makes it extremely bright.- Nice and light.
0:10:38 > 0:10:41And upstairs, you've got a mezzanine changing room.
0:10:41 > 0:10:43- Oh...- My goodness.
0:10:43 > 0:10:46Or you could keep it as your study.
0:10:46 > 0:10:48Indeed, yes, out of the way.
0:10:48 > 0:10:50- Let's look outside.- Right.
0:10:51 > 0:10:54The grounds are larger than John and Sue asked for,
0:10:54 > 0:10:56with great countryside views.
0:10:56 > 0:10:59I think this low-maintenance space could work well for them.
0:10:59 > 0:11:02You have this formal garden, which is pretty simple to keep.
0:11:02 > 0:11:05- Just a bit of lawn. - It needs a sit-on mower.
0:11:05 > 0:11:07Definitely needs a sit-on mower because...
0:11:07 > 0:11:11At the back, there, you see that huge field? That's yours too.
0:11:11 > 0:11:14- Oh, my goodness.- Oh, goodness.
0:11:14 > 0:11:16What did we say about large gardens?
0:11:16 > 0:11:17Not wanting large gardens, eh?
0:11:17 > 0:11:21Well, what's good about that is that it's four acres, the total
0:11:21 > 0:11:24of the garden, but you can just leave it to go to hay and there's
0:11:24 > 0:11:27a farmer who comes, there's an arrangement where they take the hay.
0:11:27 > 0:11:29- Oh, right.- Oh, that's quite nice.
0:11:29 > 0:11:30It is quite low-maintenance.
0:11:30 > 0:11:33So how much do you think the house is on the market for?
0:11:33 > 0:11:36I think it's probably about £900,000.
0:11:36 > 0:11:37John?
0:11:37 > 0:11:39Probably around £960,000.
0:11:39 > 0:11:41Actually, it's a bit more expensive than that.
0:11:41 > 0:11:45It's on at £1,195,000.
0:11:45 > 0:11:47- Gosh.- Good grief.
0:11:47 > 0:11:49- Well, we're not very good at that then, are we?- No, we're not.
0:11:51 > 0:11:54Coming in just under budget, this contemporary and bright home
0:11:54 > 0:11:56would give John and Sue the
0:11:56 > 0:11:58four bedrooms they want, that
0:11:58 > 0:12:00all-important study space for John,
0:12:00 > 0:12:01plus another for Sue.
0:12:01 > 0:12:03Coming with over four acres, there
0:12:03 > 0:12:05may be more outside space than they
0:12:05 > 0:12:07wanted but it's low-maintenance and
0:12:07 > 0:12:08comes with beautiful country views,
0:12:08 > 0:12:10not to mention a number of golf
0:12:10 > 0:12:12courses within a short drive.
0:12:14 > 0:12:17Excellent. Pull the door behind you, we're going onto house number two.
0:12:17 > 0:12:19- Thank you.- Oh, great.
0:12:28 > 0:12:32Dorset is celebrated for its landscape and captivating coastline,
0:12:32 > 0:12:35three quarters of which is a world heritage site.
0:12:35 > 0:12:37But like the rest of the British Isles,
0:12:37 > 0:12:40its seas can be deceptively treacherous.
0:12:40 > 0:12:44Keeping a watchful eye on the welfare of seafarers is the RNLI.
0:12:46 > 0:12:49And it's here in Poole, at the charity's purpose-built college,
0:12:49 > 0:12:51that the thousands of volunteers
0:12:51 > 0:12:55who make up the RNLI's lifeboat crews and lifeguards
0:12:55 > 0:12:56come to receive their training.
0:12:56 > 0:12:59I'm meeting Training Manager Glen Mallon
0:12:59 > 0:13:01to find out more about their work.
0:13:01 > 0:13:03It must be quite exciting for you
0:13:03 > 0:13:05to have all these things around you all the time?
0:13:05 > 0:13:07It is. It's a real privilege to be able to look after this
0:13:07 > 0:13:10and allow us to train the volunteers on some of the best kit in the UK.
0:13:10 > 0:13:12How many boats have you got here in Poole?
0:13:12 > 0:13:15Two lifeboats and we've got a myriad of different vessels,
0:13:15 > 0:13:18from the inshore lifeboats behind us and some training vessels.
0:13:18 > 0:13:19And in terms of the training...
0:13:19 > 0:13:22So, obviously the RNLI is famous for its volunteers.
0:13:22 > 0:13:24..do they come down here and do their training in Poole?
0:13:24 > 0:13:27The reasons people come here is that the facilities are second to none.
0:13:27 > 0:13:30We can do things like training on the full bridge mission simulator
0:13:30 > 0:13:31and the sea survival centre.
0:13:31 > 0:13:34Is there anything I can do here that's not too...?
0:13:34 > 0:13:37We've got some surprises for you and I'm sure you'll enjoy them.
0:13:37 > 0:13:39And it might involve you getting a little bit wet.
0:13:39 > 0:13:41I'm up for that. Lead the way.
0:13:41 > 0:13:43The centre opened in 2004
0:13:43 > 0:13:47and has the largest sea survival pool in the UK.
0:13:47 > 0:13:51Capable of creating waves of up to 1.5 metres in height
0:13:51 > 0:13:55and demonstrating various conditions such as thunder, lightning and rain,
0:13:55 > 0:13:58it means volunteers can be trained in sea-survival skills,
0:13:58 > 0:14:01lifeguard tests and capsize drills,
0:14:01 > 0:14:03which is what I'm being taught today.
0:14:03 > 0:14:05So, this is an amazing set up.
0:14:05 > 0:14:07It's like a giant swimming pool, really. So, basically, we're
0:14:07 > 0:14:11learning to right the ship and get going again, is that the idea?
0:14:11 > 0:14:14Yeah, the aim of this isn't to train our volunteers how to capsize,
0:14:14 > 0:14:17cos the aim is to go and do the rescue, but it's to ensure that
0:14:17 > 0:14:20they've got the right skills and the confidence in themselves
0:14:20 > 0:14:23and the kit, should the boat capsize for real during a service.
0:14:23 > 0:14:25That's a pretty good skill to learn.
0:14:25 > 0:14:28They operate around 2,000 capsize drills a year here
0:14:28 > 0:14:31and Glen assures me that the boat we're on has been running
0:14:31 > 0:14:33and capsizing for 14 years.
0:14:35 > 0:14:37OK, then, guys. Helmets on.
0:14:37 > 0:14:40So, after a full briefing, I feel in safe hands.
0:14:55 > 0:14:58With the lifeboat capsized, all crew make their way towards
0:14:58 > 0:15:02the bow of the upturned boat, where there's the most space.
0:15:14 > 0:15:16We then exit one at a time.
0:15:23 > 0:15:26With the team out, we move to the back of the boat
0:15:26 > 0:15:29and swim backwards along the swim line.
0:15:29 > 0:15:31The inflation ring is pulled, activating a cylinder
0:15:31 > 0:15:34which fills an airbag to re-right the boat.
0:15:36 > 0:15:40Since its foundation in 1824, the RNLI has saved more than
0:15:40 > 0:15:43140,000 lives.
0:15:43 > 0:15:46Seeing Glen and the team in action first hand, really highlights
0:15:46 > 0:15:49the importance of the work these volunteers do.
0:15:49 > 0:15:52The drill ends with a series of engine checks
0:15:52 > 0:15:55and it's mission complete from the team and me.
0:15:55 > 0:15:58That was amazing!
0:15:58 > 0:16:01You did really well, Alistair. I'm impressed. Well done.
0:16:01 > 0:16:03And that demonstrates that, for our volunteers,
0:16:03 > 0:16:05less than one in ten comes from a maritime background.
0:16:05 > 0:16:07This training's vital.
0:16:07 > 0:16:10- Yeah. Well, hopefully I'll never, ever have to use it.- I hope so, too.
0:16:10 > 0:16:13Brilliant though, really brilliant.
0:16:20 > 0:16:22For our second property, we've crossed the border just
0:16:22 > 0:16:25east of Dorset to the Hampshire village of Damerham,
0:16:25 > 0:16:2913 miles from Salisbury and five miles from the New Forest.
0:16:29 > 0:16:32Running along the River Allen, this typically English village
0:16:32 > 0:16:35provides excellent walking, riding and cycling opportunities
0:16:35 > 0:16:38for residents and visitors alike.
0:16:38 > 0:16:42Down a country lane and standing proud behind hedged gardens
0:16:42 > 0:16:45is our second property offering.
0:16:45 > 0:16:49Come here and you get a full frontal version of the house.
0:16:49 > 0:16:53- Gosh, yes, it looks imposing. - Impressive.
0:16:53 > 0:16:57So, we're not going contemporary here. This is a much older offering.
0:16:57 > 0:17:01Mm-hm. As long as it's got a nice modern inside.
0:17:01 > 0:17:05Architecturally, it's more in sympathy with my feelings.
0:17:05 > 0:17:08Well, it is an historic building. This bit is the Georgian part,
0:17:08 > 0:17:12the redder brick. This is an Edwardian extension. And then
0:17:12 > 0:17:15on the other side there's an '80s extension plus a little extra.
0:17:15 > 0:17:18- Oh, right.- Plus a very special treat added to that.
0:17:18 > 0:17:19Oh.
0:17:19 > 0:17:22We've crossed over the border into Hampshire. Is that a problem?
0:17:22 > 0:17:25No, no, it isn't actually because it's not going to any further
0:17:25 > 0:17:27than two hours from our home.
0:17:27 > 0:17:30We're much closer. It's one hour 40 to Beaconsfield from here.
0:17:30 > 0:17:33- Oh, right, well, that's good. - Shall we go in?- Indeed.
0:17:34 > 0:17:37Larger than the first house they viewed, this one occupies
0:17:37 > 0:17:40three floors and, despite being extended over the years, has
0:17:40 > 0:17:43retained many of its traditional features.
0:17:44 > 0:17:46Here's the kitchen and dining room.
0:17:46 > 0:17:48Quite farmhouse feel to it, isn't it?
0:17:48 > 0:17:52I think I prefer the other kitchen a little bit more than this one.
0:17:52 > 0:17:55The wood, I preferred. You know, the granite and the wood.
0:17:55 > 0:17:57Let's go and look at the rest of the house.
0:17:59 > 0:18:02So this is the orangery.
0:18:02 > 0:18:04- Oh, this is nice and light and airy, isn't it?- Oh.- Mm-hmm.
0:18:04 > 0:18:07Yes, this is gorgeous. It is, it's lovely.
0:18:07 > 0:18:09Lovely, well constructed. And then this.
0:18:09 > 0:18:11This is the sort of '80s extension
0:18:11 > 0:18:14and the sitting room that goes through into this space here.
0:18:14 > 0:18:16Is it gripping you like the last house or not so much?
0:18:16 > 0:18:19Not quite as much, although I love this room.
0:18:19 > 0:18:23I can imagine spending time in this room.
0:18:23 > 0:18:25OK, so muted feelings.
0:18:25 > 0:18:26Just a little, yes.
0:18:26 > 0:18:28- Let's take a look upstairs.- OK.
0:18:29 > 0:18:32The downstairs of this house flows seamlessly, connecting large
0:18:32 > 0:18:35entertaining rooms with more intimate areas.
0:18:35 > 0:18:38Back through the kitchen, there's a large formal drawing room
0:18:38 > 0:18:41with views to the garden and meadows beyond.
0:18:41 > 0:18:44And the trend continues upstairs.
0:18:44 > 0:18:47- They use this as the master bedroom. - Right.- Ah.
0:18:47 > 0:18:50This one has a very nice en suite, you can see,
0:18:50 > 0:18:53- and a dressing room so you can take your pick.- Indeed.
0:18:53 > 0:18:57- It's a lovely room.- Again, a lovely room.- Nice proportion.
0:18:57 > 0:19:00And here you start to get the views over the fields and the horses.
0:19:00 > 0:19:03I'm conscious though, John, that we haven't given you a study.
0:19:03 > 0:19:06I'm here, waiting in anticipation, though.
0:19:06 > 0:19:09- Don't wait any longer. - Right.- Follow me.
0:19:10 > 0:19:13There are three further bedrooms on the first floor.
0:19:13 > 0:19:15Two of which have en-suite bathrooms.
0:19:15 > 0:19:18The fifth bedroom is on the second floor, which has been converted
0:19:18 > 0:19:22to a self contained suite - the perfect set up for John.
0:19:22 > 0:19:25This would make a lovely office, I think.
0:19:25 > 0:19:27- This is spot on, absolutely.- Ah.
0:19:27 > 0:19:28Yes.
0:19:28 > 0:19:31And you've also got a bedroom through there with an en-suite.
0:19:31 > 0:19:34So this is a good place for you when you're in the doghouse.
0:19:34 > 0:19:37Indeed it is, and with the facilities there,
0:19:37 > 0:19:39I wouldn't mind being in the doghouse.
0:19:39 > 0:19:42- Well, let's look at the garden and see if that pleases you.- Indeed.
0:19:42 > 0:19:46Outside, the property is a double garage, a number of seating
0:19:46 > 0:19:47areas and wide gardens
0:19:47 > 0:19:50backing onto open farmland at the rear.
0:19:50 > 0:19:53Lovely field here with horses.
0:19:53 > 0:19:54- This is your boundary.- Right.
0:19:54 > 0:19:57So a smaller garden but it's still about half an acre.
0:19:57 > 0:20:00- Yes, look, it's...- It's a lovely garden.- Very nice garden.
0:20:00 > 0:20:02So what do you think the price of the property is?
0:20:02 > 0:20:04Probably about 1.1.
0:20:04 > 0:20:07I think it would be at least 115.
0:20:07 > 0:20:09It's actually on at a shade under 1.1.
0:20:09 > 0:20:12It's on at 1,095,000.
0:20:12 > 0:20:16Right. Well, so that's... that's good.
0:20:16 > 0:20:20For £105,000 under their sizeable top budget, this huge extended
0:20:20 > 0:20:24home is a mix of traditional and contemporary, that would give
0:20:24 > 0:20:27John and Sue enough space to accommodate the whole family,
0:20:27 > 0:20:31while offering the perfect hideaway for John and his toys.
0:20:32 > 0:20:35Many of the rooms have a southerly aspect and those countryside views.
0:20:35 > 0:20:37They'd get the village lifestyle
0:20:37 > 0:20:39they wanted and be nearer
0:20:39 > 0:20:41their family in Buckinghamshire.
0:20:41 > 0:20:44OK, so that's your lot for the day. Two down.
0:20:44 > 0:20:47Time to digest and have a rest. Are you ready for that?
0:20:47 > 0:20:50Absolutely. Thank you, Alistair, it's a very interesting property.
0:20:50 > 0:20:52Let's go.
0:20:57 > 0:21:00What a day yesterday. Two big budget houses.
0:21:00 > 0:21:02Lots of strong responses.
0:21:02 > 0:21:05I got the impression that Sue was not so sold
0:21:05 > 0:21:08on the second house although, after I showed him that man cave
0:21:08 > 0:21:12at the top, John was definitely gunning for house number two.
0:21:12 > 0:21:15I think one of the problems for Sue was there wasn't really views,
0:21:15 > 0:21:18and she really, really wants views, so for the mystery house,
0:21:18 > 0:21:21oh, my word, we are giving them views.
0:21:21 > 0:21:23But it's going to involve some work.
0:21:25 > 0:21:28For our final offering, we're stretching the search area by
0:21:28 > 0:21:32moving further west, to give them the coastal setting they dream of.
0:21:32 > 0:21:35Seven miles south of Weymouth, our mystery property is in Weston,
0:21:35 > 0:21:36on the Isle of Portland.
0:21:38 > 0:21:41Four miles long and just a mile and a half wide,
0:21:41 > 0:21:43the island sits in the English Channel.
0:21:43 > 0:21:47Our mystery house is an architect-designed circular property
0:21:47 > 0:21:51positioned high on a cliff, maximising views out to the sea.
0:21:51 > 0:21:54But this stunning setting comes with a compromise.
0:21:54 > 0:21:57The plot around it needs a lot of work.
0:21:57 > 0:21:59Now you are puzzled, aren't you?
0:21:59 > 0:22:00THEY LAUGH
0:22:00 > 0:22:02- Very.- Oh, my goodness, yes.
0:22:02 > 0:22:05- You wanted a mystery. This is a mystery.- It is a mystery.
0:22:05 > 0:22:09Well, I totally blame the both of you because you wanted views,
0:22:09 > 0:22:12- and you're interested in military history.- Correct.
0:22:12 > 0:22:14Mm-hm! So this, believe it or not,
0:22:14 > 0:22:17is a modern building based on a pre-World War I
0:22:17 > 0:22:19military installation.
0:22:19 > 0:22:21SUE LAUGHS
0:22:21 > 0:22:23So we've come onto the island of Portland.
0:22:23 > 0:22:26- Right.- Not famous for its golf courses.- True.
0:22:26 > 0:22:28You will have to cross the causeway to get to the nearest
0:22:28 > 0:22:32- golf course in Weymouth. But you wanted views.- Yes.
0:22:32 > 0:22:34SUE LAUGHS
0:22:34 > 0:22:38The fortress on this plot was constructed in 1902
0:22:38 > 0:22:41as part of Portland's coastal defence.
0:22:41 > 0:22:44Now an area of archaeological interest, the site was purchased
0:22:44 > 0:22:49by the previous owners in 2007, to build this unique, modern home.
0:22:49 > 0:22:53Despite the building being completed to a high specification, parts
0:22:53 > 0:22:56of the inside still need some finishing and the outside of
0:22:56 > 0:22:59the property is yet to be landscaped.
0:22:59 > 0:23:03But I felt I had to show it to them for one very good reason.
0:23:03 > 0:23:06Oh, goodness me! That is lovely.
0:23:06 > 0:23:10So the whole house is built around this room, really, and this view.
0:23:10 > 0:23:12I can cook with a view.
0:23:12 > 0:23:15And a modern kitchen with a black marble worktop.
0:23:15 > 0:23:17Definitely modern kitchen, yes.
0:23:17 > 0:23:20You can see basically the whole length of Chesil Beach.
0:23:20 > 0:23:22The causeway across.
0:23:22 > 0:23:26This side, you can see... Well, actually, come over and have a look.
0:23:27 > 0:23:30So you look down there, you can see the top of the lighthouse,
0:23:30 > 0:23:34just on the other side of Portland Bill, and this is the coastal path
0:23:34 > 0:23:37- that goes in front of your property behind this wall.- Stunning.
0:23:37 > 0:23:40Obviously, the challenge for this property is the surroundings.
0:23:40 > 0:23:42- Yes.- Correct.
0:23:42 > 0:23:46You are perched right on the side of a cliff, but you are on a
0:23:46 > 0:23:47Portland stone cliff,
0:23:47 > 0:23:51one of the most erosion-resistant stones there is.
0:23:51 > 0:23:54- OK.- Let's go and look at the bedrooms.
0:23:54 > 0:23:57This property would clearly be a huge undertaking, but they
0:23:57 > 0:24:00don't seem put off just yet.
0:24:00 > 0:24:03Hopefully they'll stay open-minded when they see the five bedrooms,
0:24:03 > 0:24:05spanning the circumference of the house.
0:24:05 > 0:24:08They're all of a good size but currently lacking in furnishings.
0:24:08 > 0:24:13Luckily, the master bedroom and en suite is almost there.
0:24:13 > 0:24:15It's gorgeous.
0:24:15 > 0:24:17- You could lie in bed and look over Portland.- What a view.
0:24:17 > 0:24:21- Oh, it's lovely. Superb situation, isn't it?- A nice sized room, too.
0:24:21 > 0:24:23Not yet decorated, so...
0:24:23 > 0:24:26Here, through here is the en-suite.
0:24:26 > 0:24:29Also with a glass window so you can see the view while you're showering.
0:24:29 > 0:24:31- SUE LAUGHS - They have thought of everything.
0:24:31 > 0:24:34You'd have a view and you've got your bubble bath.
0:24:34 > 0:24:36- I mean, what more do you want? - Great.
0:24:36 > 0:24:39The house is very energy efficient. It kind of basically
0:24:39 > 0:24:41runs itself. It's one of those incredibly green houses.
0:24:41 > 0:24:45Let's have a look outside and then we can talk about price.
0:24:45 > 0:24:49Heading downstairs, there's a bright study with an en-suite bathroom
0:24:49 > 0:24:53that should keep John happy, with plenty of space for his collections.
0:24:53 > 0:24:57The house sits on a sizeable 1.5 acre plot
0:24:57 > 0:25:00and comes with a few added extras.
0:25:00 > 0:25:02This is the whole thing,
0:25:02 > 0:25:05and then over here you've got all these outbuildings,
0:25:05 > 0:25:07so these are the leftovers from the World War I site.
0:25:07 > 0:25:09You've got a big workshop, and then there's actually
0:25:09 > 0:25:12a bungalow where they lived while they were doing it up.
0:25:12 > 0:25:15Obviously you'll need some budget over to do all this work outside,
0:25:15 > 0:25:17so how much do you think the house costs?
0:25:17 > 0:25:19About £500,000.
0:25:19 > 0:25:21I would say at least 600,000.
0:25:21 > 0:25:24Well, it's very difficult to price a property like this.
0:25:24 > 0:25:25I mean, it's kind of unique.
0:25:25 > 0:25:27Though you're both a little on the low side.
0:25:27 > 0:25:30It's actually on the market for 685.
0:25:30 > 0:25:31Oh, goodness, I was way out.
0:25:31 > 0:25:34It is still a considerable chunk of change.
0:25:34 > 0:25:37- Oh, absolutely. - Indeed. That's true, yes.
0:25:37 > 0:25:39But you would have to do a lot outside.
0:25:39 > 0:25:43For over £500,000 under Sue and John's maximum budget,
0:25:43 > 0:25:46this one of a kind property gives them their number one wish -
0:25:46 > 0:25:48fantastic sea views.
0:25:48 > 0:25:50Once finished, it would have
0:25:50 > 0:25:52the modern interior they're after
0:25:52 > 0:25:55with plenty of bedrooms and a study.
0:25:55 > 0:25:56The outside of the property needs
0:25:56 > 0:25:58some extensive landscaping work
0:25:58 > 0:26:00but with the pot of money left over,
0:26:00 > 0:26:03they could afford to do it justice.
0:26:03 > 0:26:06Whether it's too large a project and too far from their family
0:26:06 > 0:26:08are the only questions.
0:26:08 > 0:26:10So, all three houses... We've seen all three houses.
0:26:10 > 0:26:13Now, time to find somewhere to mull them over.
0:26:13 > 0:26:16- Indeed.- Yes. Let's do that. - Come on.
0:26:19 > 0:26:21We've finished. We're all done.
0:26:21 > 0:26:23Have you enjoyed the week?
0:26:23 > 0:26:25- Very much.- Yes, it's been a wonderful few days.
0:26:25 > 0:26:27More to the point, has it been useful?
0:26:27 > 0:26:30Because obviously you've got someone moving into your house
0:26:30 > 0:26:32- in a few weeks. - Yes, we have.
0:26:32 > 0:26:36But sadly, I don't think we've found our house.
0:26:36 > 0:26:40I think if you put the first house in the second house's
0:26:40 > 0:26:43situation, that would have been great. But we are going to go back
0:26:43 > 0:26:47to Horton and have a look, and look at the village area.
0:26:47 > 0:26:49So, of all the contenders it was the first house
0:26:49 > 0:26:50that took your fancy most?
0:26:50 > 0:26:53Yes, the specification of that house,
0:26:53 > 0:26:57all the rooms and the views from it that we would want.
0:26:57 > 0:27:00But the one factor against it, really, appeared to be
0:27:00 > 0:27:03the lack of being part of a community, a community village.
0:27:03 > 0:27:06So, have things come into focus? I mean, I know the clock is ticking
0:27:06 > 0:27:09cos you actually need somewhere to live.
0:27:09 > 0:27:12- I think we're going to have to rent, I think...- Right.
0:27:12 > 0:27:14..and then take our time, a bit more time.
0:27:14 > 0:27:17Well, I'm sorry we didn't manage to pull the jackpot for you.
0:27:17 > 0:27:20But it's been lovely showing you round with a lovely big budget
0:27:20 > 0:27:22and I hope you've enjoyed your time in Dorset?
0:27:22 > 0:27:24We have, very much. Thank you.
0:27:29 > 0:27:32Oh, it's so frustrating when we've got a £1 million budget
0:27:32 > 0:27:35and we don't find the house buyers the house that they want.
0:27:35 > 0:27:39But I guess if you've got £1 million to spend then you really
0:27:39 > 0:27:42have a precise idea of what it is that you're looking for.
0:27:42 > 0:27:44Hopefully, though, John and Sue will rent
0:27:44 > 0:27:47and take a leisurely stroll around Dorset,
0:27:47 > 0:27:50and finally find that dream property.
0:27:50 > 0:27:52But you don't have to wait that long.
0:27:52 > 0:27:54No, you can just turn on the TV next time
0:27:54 > 0:27:57and watch more Escape To The Country.
0:28:00 > 0:28:03If you would like to Escape To The Country in Northern Ireland,
0:28:03 > 0:28:06Scotland, Wales, or England and you need our help,
0:28:06 > 0:28:09why not apply online at: