0:00:02 > 0:00:05This statue of a wolf symbolises a king who died a martyr to his faith
0:00:05 > 0:00:07and was the first patron saint of England.
0:00:07 > 0:00:09Find out who that was, who he is,
0:00:09 > 0:00:11and where we both are in just a moment.
0:00:30 > 0:00:33One of the key property requirements for today's couple
0:00:33 > 0:00:35is space to accommodate their horses.
0:00:35 > 0:00:37But it soon becomes evident
0:00:37 > 0:00:39there's something that's quite high on their priority list.
0:00:39 > 0:00:43- Look at the sink. - Oh, Belfast sink!- Your dream!
0:00:43 > 0:00:45- I've always said to you about a Belfast sink, haven't I?- Yeah.
0:00:45 > 0:00:49Luckily, our properties deliver on that front.
0:00:49 > 0:00:51- Got your sink again.- Yes! Wow.
0:00:51 > 0:00:52Do you do all the washing up?
0:00:52 > 0:00:55- Because you are obsessed by sinks. - Belfast sinks.
0:00:57 > 0:01:00I'm in the seaside resort of Hunstanton in Norfolk
0:01:00 > 0:01:03and it's believed that this coastline behind me
0:01:03 > 0:01:06is where St Edmund landed back in 855AD
0:01:06 > 0:01:08to claim the throne of East Anglia.
0:01:08 > 0:01:10After a relatively peaceful reign,
0:01:10 > 0:01:14Edmund was forced to defend his kingdom from Vikings.
0:01:14 > 0:01:17He was defeated in battle and later executed
0:01:17 > 0:01:20for refusing to denounce his faith.
0:01:20 > 0:01:24Now, as legend has it, his remains were later found guarded by a wolf,
0:01:24 > 0:01:27and his followers were then able to honour their devout king
0:01:27 > 0:01:30and give him a sacred Christian burial.
0:01:30 > 0:01:33Now to commemorate the legacy of St Edmund,
0:01:33 > 0:01:35the town have created a walking trail
0:01:35 > 0:01:37depicting scenes from his life.
0:01:37 > 0:01:41This carved statue of the wolf here, marks the end of the trail
0:01:41 > 0:01:45and stands as a timely reminder of a captivating story
0:01:45 > 0:01:48deeply rooted in this historic county.
0:01:51 > 0:01:54In the East of England, jutting out into the North Sea,
0:01:54 > 0:01:59Norfolk is bordered by Lincolnshire, Cambridge and Suffolk,
0:01:59 > 0:02:01with wide atmospheric skies
0:02:01 > 0:02:03and unbroken horizons,
0:02:03 > 0:02:06the county is defined by some uniquely beautiful landscapes,
0:02:06 > 0:02:08including the Fens,
0:02:08 > 0:02:11which before systematic drainage began in the 17th century,
0:02:11 > 0:02:13were an impenetrable boggy wilderness,
0:02:13 > 0:02:16but now represent close to half
0:02:16 > 0:02:19of the most fertile agricultural land in England.
0:02:19 > 0:02:22Gateway to the Fens is age-old Downham Market,
0:02:22 > 0:02:24renowned during the Middle Ages for its butter market,
0:02:24 > 0:02:27and today known affectionately as the gingerbread town,
0:02:27 > 0:02:30thanks to the local ochre-hued sandstone used to construct
0:02:30 > 0:02:32many of its fine buildings.
0:02:34 > 0:02:38Not far from here is the unassuming village of Burnham Thorpe,
0:02:38 > 0:02:42birthplace of Norfolk's most famous son Lord Horatio Nelson.
0:02:42 > 0:02:45His father was the rector of the church here
0:02:45 > 0:02:47and in 1793 before returning to sea,
0:02:47 > 0:02:49Nelson held a farewell dinner for locals at the village pub
0:02:49 > 0:02:52which is still open for business today.
0:02:52 > 0:02:53Home of heroes,
0:02:53 > 0:02:56ancient settlements
0:02:56 > 0:02:57and gorgeous vistas
0:02:57 > 0:03:01Norfolk is understandably desirable county to escape to.
0:03:04 > 0:03:07The beautiful open countryside of Norfolk
0:03:07 > 0:03:09certainly rates above the average,
0:03:09 > 0:03:11and that is balanced by its property prices,
0:03:11 > 0:03:15which are currently some £40,000 below the national average figure,
0:03:15 > 0:03:20coming at around £222,000 for a detached house here.
0:03:20 > 0:03:24And regionally the county scores too, being the less expensive
0:03:24 > 0:03:27option out of neighbouring Cambridgeshire and Suffolk.
0:03:27 > 0:03:29So, an undiscovered gem?
0:03:29 > 0:03:31Well, today's buyers certainly seem to think so.
0:03:31 > 0:03:33Let's find out why they in particular want to move
0:03:33 > 0:03:35to this part of the county.
0:03:36 > 0:03:3814 years ago, IT specialist Mark
0:03:38 > 0:03:41and wife Sara who's a marketing manager,
0:03:41 > 0:03:44bought this four-bedroom house in Milton Keynes.
0:03:44 > 0:03:46They've raised nine-year-old daughter Jessica here,
0:03:46 > 0:03:48but have always dreamt of a rural lifestyle.
0:03:48 > 0:03:51So, before Jessica gets to high-school age,
0:03:51 > 0:03:53they're keen to make the move.
0:03:53 > 0:03:57- Milton Keynes has been very good for us.- A town of convenience.- It is.
0:03:57 > 0:03:59Very modern. Very fast.
0:03:59 > 0:04:02It's got a lot of facilities here,
0:04:02 > 0:04:04and it's close to London.
0:04:04 > 0:04:05Great for a young family.
0:04:05 > 0:04:08I'm not sure I'd want to spend the rest of my life here.
0:04:08 > 0:04:10Making the rural escape along with them
0:04:10 > 0:04:13will be their two dogs Roxy and Otis,
0:04:13 > 0:04:16their cat Kizzy, and Sara's beloved horses Turtle and Jamie
0:04:16 > 0:04:19who are currently kept in stables eight miles away,
0:04:19 > 0:04:22and are a major motivating factor for the move.
0:04:22 > 0:04:28It's my dream to have the horses just there outside the back door.
0:04:28 > 0:04:32Every day I get in the car and I drive, you know, ten minutes there
0:04:32 > 0:04:35and I do them, and I spend so much time at the horses.
0:04:36 > 0:04:41It's just been my dream for ever to just have them there.
0:04:41 > 0:04:44And have everything as part of your family, really.
0:04:44 > 0:04:47Same as the dogs and the cats...
0:04:47 > 0:04:51It's something I share with Sara as well, a dream for that...
0:04:51 > 0:04:53every man dreams of his castle.
0:04:53 > 0:04:55- And your astronomy.- Oh, yes. - You can do astronomy!
0:04:55 > 0:04:57That's very good point, yes.
0:04:57 > 0:05:00Both Mark and Sara work from home,
0:05:00 > 0:05:03but Sara will still need to return to her office in Milton Keynes
0:05:03 > 0:05:05every one or two weeks, which is part of the reason
0:05:05 > 0:05:07why they've chosen Norfolk.
0:05:07 > 0:05:09It's close to some major routes,
0:05:09 > 0:05:12and it's that lovely village, rural community.
0:05:12 > 0:05:14You've got the beach nearby...
0:05:14 > 0:05:16Jessica's very excited about having the beach.
0:05:16 > 0:05:18And within an affordable price range.
0:05:18 > 0:05:20Realistically, what we're looking at.
0:05:20 > 0:05:23Because we're not just looking for a house in the country,
0:05:23 > 0:05:25we need land for Sara's horses.
0:05:27 > 0:05:30While Mark and Sara are more than ready to leave urban life behind,
0:05:30 > 0:05:33they have natural parental concern about how their daughter
0:05:33 > 0:05:35will respond to the change.
0:05:35 > 0:05:39I think she's very split between excited
0:05:39 > 0:05:40and nervous.
0:05:40 > 0:05:42She's lived here all her life.
0:05:42 > 0:05:44It will be a change.
0:05:44 > 0:05:47But there are things that she's really excited about -
0:05:47 > 0:05:50like having swings in the garden and having chickens.
0:05:50 > 0:05:54She's even talking about another dog. Did I mention that? Er...
0:05:56 > 0:05:59Sara and Mark might have quite different careers and interests,
0:05:59 > 0:06:01but for both of them, family is very much at the heart
0:06:01 > 0:06:04of their decision to move.
0:06:04 > 0:06:08I think a move to the country will increase our family strength.
0:06:08 > 0:06:11I think the change could really... really do us well.
0:06:11 > 0:06:13The thing that excites me most about the move
0:06:13 > 0:06:17is having our whole family together, and that includes the horses.
0:06:17 > 0:06:20To me they are sort of hairy children.
0:06:25 > 0:06:29So that it's easy for Sara to travel back to her office in Milton Keynes when she needs to,
0:06:29 > 0:06:33we're keeping our search within two hours of the town.
0:06:33 > 0:06:37I'm catching up with them to learn some more about their move.
0:06:37 > 0:06:40So, welcome both of you to Sunny Norfolk.
0:06:40 > 0:06:42Why are we stood here?
0:06:42 > 0:06:45I was born near London, so I have experienced living in the city,
0:06:45 > 0:06:49but I think my heart has always been more than living in the countryside.
0:06:49 > 0:06:53This outdoorsy life's not just about you two, but about family, as well.
0:06:53 > 0:06:55For a better family environment for your daughter?
0:06:55 > 0:06:58Yes. Jessica wants swings.
0:06:58 > 0:07:00Our garden isn't big enough.
0:07:00 > 0:07:02Outside space to play in.
0:07:02 > 0:07:04Preferably a theme park!
0:07:04 > 0:07:06There's a fair nearby.
0:07:06 > 0:07:08Now, how much land are we talking about?
0:07:08 > 0:07:12- Minimum two acres. - Minimum two acres.
0:07:12 > 0:07:13Let's talk about the house.
0:07:13 > 0:07:16It would be lovely to have sort of a Georgian property,
0:07:16 > 0:07:17or something along those lines.
0:07:17 > 0:07:21I think my thoughts are for a character type of property.
0:07:21 > 0:07:24I guess because with such a big change,
0:07:24 > 0:07:25why not go the full hog?
0:07:25 > 0:07:27What about a project?
0:07:27 > 0:07:30As long as there's money in the pot, and we can see the potential.
0:07:30 > 0:07:33- All right.- It's almost certain that we'll have to do some work,
0:07:33 > 0:07:36with regards to the horses, as well.
0:07:36 > 0:07:40- Like fencing and posts, perhaps even stables.- OK.
0:07:40 > 0:07:43Now, the size of the house?
0:07:43 > 0:07:46We're looking for minimum three-bed with a study.
0:07:46 > 0:07:50- Or four bed.- But, ideally, two working spaces for myself and Sara.
0:07:50 > 0:07:52I guess it's even possible to build something,
0:07:52 > 0:07:54if you've got enough land to do that.
0:07:54 > 0:07:57How soon can you make this move? Are you ready to go?
0:07:57 > 0:07:58We are, really.
0:07:58 > 0:08:00- We've got an offer on a house. - Brilliant.
0:08:00 > 0:08:03Sounds like you've a lovely little package in mind
0:08:03 > 0:08:04for your escape here -
0:08:04 > 0:08:06remind me how much you're looking to spend.
0:08:06 > 0:08:08- 500,000.- £500,000.
0:08:08 > 0:08:13500,000, and a little left over for some improvements.
0:08:13 > 0:08:16You mentioned improvements - do you agree changes you'd want to make?
0:08:16 > 0:08:19Do you have different tastes on things to do with the house or land?
0:08:19 > 0:08:23Mark usually comes round to my way of thinking.
0:08:23 > 0:08:24In the end.
0:08:24 > 0:08:28I have a barrier, initially, and Sara has to break down.
0:08:28 > 0:08:31No pressure. Well, we've got three fantastic properties lined up.
0:08:31 > 0:08:33Let's make away to first one.
0:08:33 > 0:08:35- OK.- Thank you. - This way.
0:08:35 > 0:08:38With a budget of £500,000,
0:08:38 > 0:08:41Mark and Sara are looking for a characterful home for themselves,
0:08:41 > 0:08:45their daughter and Sara's much-cherished horses.
0:08:45 > 0:08:47They would like minimum of three bedrooms,
0:08:47 > 0:08:49plus a room that could be used as a home office.
0:08:49 > 0:08:51Outside they're hoping for a garden
0:08:51 > 0:08:54that could fit those swings Jessica is angling for,
0:08:54 > 0:08:57and to accommodate the horses they'll need at least two acres.
0:08:57 > 0:08:59And stables would be a bonus.
0:08:59 > 0:09:01Finally, for Sara's work
0:09:01 > 0:09:05they'll need to be within reasonable driving distance of Milton Keynes.
0:09:06 > 0:09:09We've lined up three excellent properties for them to look at,
0:09:09 > 0:09:10and after each house tour
0:09:10 > 0:09:14I'll be asking them to guess the price before I reveal it.
0:09:14 > 0:09:17One will be the mystery house, with everything they asked for,
0:09:17 > 0:09:19and much, much more,
0:09:19 > 0:09:21but will that be too much for them?
0:09:26 > 0:09:29Now, Sara, are you going to try and drag poor old Mark
0:09:29 > 0:09:31into the world of horses?
0:09:31 > 0:09:34Well, he may need to get more involved.
0:09:34 > 0:09:38There's no real excuse, if they're just there outside the back door.
0:09:38 > 0:09:40"No real excuse"?!
0:09:40 > 0:09:44You're basically giving poor old Mark some groom duties, aren't you?
0:09:44 > 0:09:47- Well, maybe. - That's what it sounds like to me.
0:09:47 > 0:09:49Tell Johnny what you want to do about the astronomy?
0:09:49 > 0:09:53Ah, yes. I've always thought about building an observatory.
0:09:53 > 0:09:55Right.
0:09:55 > 0:09:57Where would you build your telescope. Your observatory?
0:09:57 > 0:10:00As far away from the muck heap as possible!
0:10:01 > 0:10:04We're starting our search in the little village of Necton,
0:10:04 > 0:10:06which is just under a two-hour drive
0:10:06 > 0:10:08from Sara's work base in Milton Keynes.
0:10:09 > 0:10:12The nearest town, six miles away, is Swaffham,
0:10:12 > 0:10:15which has all the amenities the family will need.
0:10:15 > 0:10:18During the 14th and 15th centuries the town grew prosperous
0:10:18 > 0:10:20thanks to a flourishing sheep and wool trade.
0:10:20 > 0:10:23And that wealth is reflected in the fine detail and grand dimensions
0:10:23 > 0:10:27of its impressive late medieval church.
0:10:27 > 0:10:29A ten-minute car journey from the town
0:10:29 > 0:10:33at the end of a long driveway is our first house -
0:10:33 > 0:10:35which started life as a farm building.
0:10:35 > 0:10:38I like it. I like barn-y type conversions.
0:10:38 > 0:10:40- Yeah. - And I notice there's some land.
0:10:40 > 0:10:42A big garden for Jessica. Even chickens!
0:10:42 > 0:10:44Tick, tick, tick, tick, tick.
0:10:44 > 0:10:47The house is a little smaller than I was expecting,
0:10:47 > 0:10:48but I like how it's presented.
0:10:48 > 0:10:52- It's got some character from the outside.- Let's look inside.
0:10:52 > 0:10:54The house was originally a cow shed,
0:10:54 > 0:10:57but the current owners who used to live in the nearby farmhouse,
0:10:57 > 0:10:59stored their tractor in it.
0:10:59 > 0:11:0112 years ago when they were looking to downsize,
0:11:01 > 0:11:05they sold the farmhouse, converted the tractor shed, and moved in.
0:11:05 > 0:11:07So, the owners use this entrance
0:11:07 > 0:11:09pretty much on a daily basis.
0:11:09 > 0:11:12It's larger than our lounge in Milton Keynes.
0:11:12 > 0:11:13I think this is perfectly acceptable.
0:11:13 > 0:11:16I am more than happy with this room.
0:11:16 > 0:11:18Just through that door, you've got a downstairs bedroom.
0:11:18 > 0:11:22- OK.- All right? Which I think would make an ideal office.
0:11:22 > 0:11:25- Let's take a look in the kitchen, next.- OK.
0:11:25 > 0:11:28A big space here to play around with.
0:11:28 > 0:11:29Oh, wow. Look at this.
0:11:29 > 0:11:31Yeah. And look at the sink.
0:11:31 > 0:11:34- Oh, a Belfast sink. - Your dream!
0:11:34 > 0:11:36- I've always said to you about Belfast sinks, haven't I?- Yeah.
0:11:36 > 0:11:38That we hadn't got room for in Milton Keynes.
0:11:38 > 0:11:43Well, even the utility room, has its own Belfast sink, as well!
0:11:43 > 0:11:45OK, well...spoilt, then.
0:11:45 > 0:11:47Is this what you had in mind?
0:11:47 > 0:11:48I actually quite like it.
0:11:48 > 0:11:51- I'm more of a kitchen/breakfast and then dining room person.- Ooh.
0:11:51 > 0:11:53But, it does work.
0:11:53 > 0:11:55This feels nice and open.
0:11:55 > 0:11:57- Yeah.- Very sociable.
0:11:57 > 0:12:00Personally, I would perhaps have a bar area here.
0:12:00 > 0:12:03As part of the kitchen. But then you've got room here to do that.
0:12:03 > 0:12:05Upstairs we do get a bit smaller,
0:12:05 > 0:12:07- so let me show you that now.- OK.
0:12:09 > 0:12:12The ground floor has just over 1,000 square foot of, I think,
0:12:12 > 0:12:14quite flexible space to play with.
0:12:14 > 0:12:17Which hopefully makes up for the slightly more limited
0:12:17 > 0:12:19bedroom space on the next floor.
0:12:19 > 0:12:21So, just the two bedrooms on this floor,
0:12:21 > 0:12:23both of which are en suite.
0:12:23 > 0:12:25- Oh, lovely.- Lucky Jessica.- Yeah.
0:12:25 > 0:12:27Now, this is the master.
0:12:27 > 0:12:30You've got a slightly bigger en suite, with a bath in it.
0:12:30 > 0:12:31OK.
0:12:31 > 0:12:34- The bedroom, I think, is a slightly more interesting shape, certainly. - Yeah.
0:12:34 > 0:12:36I was just thinking if there was any other position
0:12:36 > 0:12:38the bed could occupy within the room.
0:12:38 > 0:12:40You normally expect a bed to be
0:12:40 > 0:12:42the dominant piece of furniture within a room
0:12:42 > 0:12:44whereas here it's almost tucked away around the corner.
0:12:44 > 0:12:48But, to be fair, it's what, in hindsight,
0:12:48 > 0:12:49when we did the build we would have done.
0:12:49 > 0:12:53- And that we've discussed we would have done.- Would we now?- Yes.
0:12:53 > 0:12:55- Oh-ho-ho. Slight difference of opinions.- Yeah.
0:12:55 > 0:12:58Because I think this gives us the floor space,
0:12:58 > 0:12:59and actually works really nicely.
0:12:59 > 0:13:03Mark, bearing in mind that Sara said that in time you normally
0:13:03 > 0:13:07- come round to her way of thinking... - Yes, there is some truth to that.
0:13:07 > 0:13:09And Sara's liking what she sees...
0:13:09 > 0:13:12I couldn't agree more with Sara!
0:13:12 > 0:13:14There's three bedrooms in this house.
0:13:14 > 0:13:16At present, that means we have to think
0:13:16 > 0:13:18of other locations for the offices.
0:13:18 > 0:13:21That's when the project starts, and it will go...
0:13:21 > 0:13:23Well, the building would need to be done outside, I think.
0:13:23 > 0:13:25- Let me show you.- OK.
0:13:27 > 0:13:29A bit of a tricky situation here with Mark and Sara's
0:13:29 > 0:13:32quite different reactions to this place.
0:13:32 > 0:13:34But maybe the space outside will help to reunite them
0:13:34 > 0:13:38because there's plenty of land for Sara's horses
0:13:38 > 0:13:40and for Mark's stargazing ambitions.
0:13:40 > 0:13:41So, chickens.
0:13:41 > 0:13:43Yep. We like the chickens.
0:13:43 > 0:13:45There's a good amount of land not actually dedicated
0:13:45 > 0:13:46to the horses at the moment.
0:13:46 > 0:13:49- You've 3½ acres here, my friend. - 3½ acres?
0:13:49 > 0:13:52Now, you have got a lovely building there.
0:13:52 > 0:13:53That's sweet, isn't it?
0:13:53 > 0:13:56Which would be excellent for a home office, wouldn't it?
0:13:56 > 0:13:58That might have to be our guest suite.
0:13:58 > 0:14:02How much do you think this whole property as a package is on the market for?
0:14:02 > 0:14:03I'm going to say...
0:14:03 > 0:14:05470.
0:14:05 > 0:14:06I would maybe go for 480.
0:14:08 > 0:14:11Well, I've got some good news for you both, then.
0:14:11 > 0:14:15This place is on the market for offers around £425,000.
0:14:17 > 0:14:20That's a lot of room to make improvements.
0:14:20 > 0:14:21Yes.
0:14:21 > 0:14:25OK, go back inside to have a look around,
0:14:25 > 0:14:28- and meet me by the front door. - OK.- Thank you.
0:14:28 > 0:14:32This charming converted farm building
0:14:32 > 0:14:34is a significant £75,000 below
0:14:34 > 0:14:36Mark and Sara's maximum budget.
0:14:36 > 0:14:38It has plenty of living space
0:14:38 > 0:14:39and the three bedrooms they want.
0:14:39 > 0:14:41It doesn't have an office
0:14:41 > 0:14:43but they could easily create one
0:14:43 > 0:14:45in a characterful outbuilding.
0:14:48 > 0:14:501.5 acres MORE than they hoped for.
0:14:54 > 0:14:57Wow, this is a really good size for an office, isn't it?
0:14:57 > 0:14:59- Yeah.- What about guest bedroom?
0:14:59 > 0:15:01I know. That's what I'm thinking.
0:15:01 > 0:15:03At the moment the property doesn't offer
0:15:03 > 0:15:04exactly what we're looking for,
0:15:04 > 0:15:07but a lot of the key features we asked for are here,
0:15:07 > 0:15:12and there is plenty of potential for development that intrigues me.
0:15:12 > 0:15:15What do you think Jessica would make of it?
0:15:15 > 0:15:17Well, you've got plenty of room.
0:15:17 > 0:15:18Oh, this is nice.
0:15:18 > 0:15:20It's big, as well.
0:15:20 > 0:15:23There is a door there. Do you want to...see where that leads?
0:15:25 > 0:15:28- This is like the play space, or the...- Storage.- Or your office.
0:15:28 > 0:15:29My office?!
0:15:29 > 0:15:31You're smaller.
0:15:31 > 0:15:34I really like this property.
0:15:34 > 0:15:36The outside space is fantastic.
0:15:36 > 0:15:383½ acres is brilliant.
0:15:38 > 0:15:41Sara and myself have a slightly different view.
0:15:41 > 0:15:45For me, I think the property requires further extension and work.
0:15:45 > 0:15:49It feels to me like a project that is still in progress in some way -
0:15:49 > 0:15:51that the original owners completed the first phase,
0:15:51 > 0:15:53but there's still some more work to be done.
0:15:53 > 0:15:55It needs stables, it needs a menage,
0:15:55 > 0:15:59but I've got certainly plenty of room to do that.
0:15:59 > 0:16:01So, I'm quite excited about that.
0:16:03 > 0:16:05So, for someone who was pretty positive
0:16:05 > 0:16:09all the way round that property, Sara, have you talked him round?
0:16:09 > 0:16:12I think he's changing his mind to little.
0:16:12 > 0:16:14I'm certainly beginning to see the benefits.
0:16:14 > 0:16:17I think potential for me's the keyword for this property.
0:16:17 > 0:16:18I think you're right, actually.
0:16:18 > 0:16:20OK, well that's one down.
0:16:20 > 0:16:22- Two more to go. Let's go. - Great.
0:16:28 > 0:16:31For centuries, East Anglia has had a strong association with horses.
0:16:31 > 0:16:34The Suffolk Punch, one of the oldest-known working horses
0:16:34 > 0:16:37has its origins here, and the abundance of level terrain
0:16:37 > 0:16:41has helped make the region a world-famous centre for horse racing.
0:16:41 > 0:16:44Seven years ago, a brand-new equine sport emerged here
0:16:44 > 0:16:46called for horse-boarding.
0:16:46 > 0:16:49It was dreamt up by Norfolk local and professional stuntman
0:16:49 > 0:16:51Daniel Fowler-Prime,
0:16:51 > 0:16:53who honed his technique at a very special place
0:16:53 > 0:16:55known as World Horse Welfare,
0:16:55 > 0:16:58the largest horse rescue and re-homing charity in Britain,
0:16:58 > 0:17:00where one of the top horses he competes with
0:17:00 > 0:17:01used to be a resident.
0:17:01 > 0:17:04Sara, a keen rider from the age of nine, and husband Mark,
0:17:04 > 0:17:09are joining the charity's deputy chief executive Tony Tyler.
0:17:09 > 0:17:11The charity was founded in 1927
0:17:11 > 0:17:14by an amazing lady called Ada Cole.
0:17:14 > 0:17:17It was set up originally to deal with the issue of horses
0:17:17 > 0:17:19being transported live for meat.
0:17:19 > 0:17:22She saw horses suffering on the docks
0:17:22 > 0:17:25in Antwerp and decided to do something about it.
0:17:25 > 0:17:28Since then we've expanded into the charity we are now,
0:17:28 > 0:17:31and we actually have four centres across the UK.
0:17:31 > 0:17:34Hall Farm is the largest of those four centres.
0:17:35 > 0:17:37The charity doesn't operate as a sanctuary,
0:17:37 > 0:17:39the aim here is to return horses to full health
0:17:39 > 0:17:41and rehabilitate them until they can be matched
0:17:41 > 0:17:44with new responsible owners
0:17:44 > 0:17:47which, on average, takes around six months.
0:17:47 > 0:17:50Overseeing the rehabilitation process is centre manager
0:17:50 > 0:17:51Sue Hodgkins.
0:17:52 > 0:17:55Our team of specialists - which includes the vet,
0:17:55 > 0:17:58the farrier, the physiotherapist and the equine dentist -
0:17:58 > 0:18:00carry out a full assessment
0:18:00 > 0:18:03and from that assessment we're able to put together an individual
0:18:03 > 0:18:06rehabilitation programme for each of the horses.
0:18:06 > 0:18:09We'll then allocate a member of staff to the horse
0:18:09 > 0:18:12and that person is responsible for the horses treatment
0:18:12 > 0:18:13on a daily basis.
0:18:13 > 0:18:16So where do the horses go onto from here?
0:18:16 > 0:18:18Throughout the rehabilitation programme
0:18:18 > 0:18:20we're continually assessing what future job
0:18:20 > 0:18:24that horse may be able to do, once it is ready to re-home.
0:18:24 > 0:18:26So we've got Candy here.
0:18:26 > 0:18:28Candy came into us in 2008.
0:18:28 > 0:18:31She went through an extensive rehabilitation programme with us.
0:18:31 > 0:18:35Candy arrived at the centre as a frightened and neglected foal,
0:18:35 > 0:18:38but after receiving a huge amount of care
0:18:38 > 0:18:41she made a full recovery and now, with new owner Rachel,
0:18:41 > 0:18:43and horse-boarding inventor Daniel
0:18:43 > 0:18:45she's formed a winning partnership,
0:18:45 > 0:18:49successfully competing in this unique new adrenaline sport.
0:18:49 > 0:18:50This is your board.
0:18:50 > 0:18:52Hoping to tempt a new recruit,
0:18:52 > 0:18:55Daniel is giving Mark brief, gentle taster,
0:18:55 > 0:18:58replacing horse power with more manageable human power.
0:18:58 > 0:19:00Off we go.
0:19:03 > 0:19:06Ramping up the action, it's Candy, Rachel and Daniel's turn
0:19:06 > 0:19:10to take up the reins and show how it's done.
0:19:10 > 0:19:13It's good. It's good. Drop in, drop in, drop in...
0:19:13 > 0:19:16To control speed, which can reach 35mph,
0:19:16 > 0:19:18this exhilarating team sport
0:19:18 > 0:19:22relies on it clear communication between the rider, the boarder and the horse.
0:19:22 > 0:19:24It's a bit faster, isn't it?
0:19:24 > 0:19:26OK, good, good, good, good, good...
0:19:26 > 0:19:29The sport is steadily gaining thrill-seeking devotees,
0:19:29 > 0:19:32and recently in the second-ever UK Horse Boarding Championships,
0:19:32 > 0:19:3420 teams competed.
0:19:34 > 0:19:36That was exactly right!
0:19:36 > 0:19:38After this inspiring display, maybe Mark will have found a way
0:19:38 > 0:19:41to join Sara in her equestrian pursuits,
0:19:41 > 0:19:43and when they moved to the area the two of them
0:19:43 > 0:19:46will form a horse boarding team of their own.
0:19:50 > 0:19:51Continuing on our search,
0:19:51 > 0:19:55we journey 25 miles west of the village of Wiganhall St Germans
0:19:55 > 0:19:58an hour and three quarter drive from Milton Keynes.
0:19:58 > 0:20:03This appealing settlement is nestled in the fertile farmland of the Fens,
0:20:03 > 0:20:04along banks of the Great Ouse
0:20:04 > 0:20:07which was once a major navigation route through East Anglia.
0:20:07 > 0:20:10There's an excellent general store here, a cosy pub
0:20:10 > 0:20:13and an impressive 14th century church.
0:20:13 > 0:20:15Just over a mile from the village
0:20:15 > 0:20:18is our second house, another converted farm building -
0:20:18 > 0:20:19this time a barn.
0:20:21 > 0:20:24Now then, best placed to take it all in is from here.
0:20:24 > 0:20:28And what you see, is what you get.
0:20:28 > 0:20:30- Yeah. - That's quite a scene, actually.
0:20:30 > 0:20:33- Mm.- Almost a Mediterranean-like feel to it, with the tiles.
0:20:33 > 0:20:35Yeah, I get that.
0:20:35 > 0:20:37Would you live somewhere like this?
0:20:37 > 0:20:38Yes.
0:20:38 > 0:20:40- This feels more homely to me. - Let's go inside.
0:20:41 > 0:20:44The barn was converted by the current owners a few years ago,
0:20:44 > 0:20:47and it already seems to have got the seal of approval
0:20:47 > 0:20:49from both Sara and Mark.
0:20:49 > 0:20:52Let's see if they share the same feelings about the interior.
0:20:52 > 0:20:55So, you've got a big kitchen...
0:20:55 > 0:20:57Oh, yeah.
0:20:58 > 0:21:00- This is cracking. Your sink again.- Yeah.
0:21:00 > 0:21:02That's an even bigger Belfast sink.
0:21:02 > 0:21:04- Do you do all the washing up? - No!
0:21:04 > 0:21:07I flipping hope so, because you are obsessed by sinks.
0:21:07 > 0:21:09BELFAST sinks.
0:21:09 > 0:21:10- Yes.- No, it's right. - All right?
0:21:10 > 0:21:14The whole style of the kitchen has got a very real country feel to it.
0:21:14 > 0:21:16Yeah, it's a proper country kitchen.
0:21:16 > 0:21:18A lot of it's new.
0:21:18 > 0:21:21It's been put in retrospectively, but it works, doesn't it?
0:21:21 > 0:21:23Little touches like this.
0:21:23 > 0:21:26It feels like an old post that was in a barn with the hinges on...
0:21:26 > 0:21:29- These beautiful wide boards. - I love the floorboards.
0:21:29 > 0:21:30Who's the cook here?
0:21:31 > 0:21:34- Now, Mark! Really? - Yes.
0:21:34 > 0:21:37Your domain, look cooking on gas here, as well.
0:21:37 > 0:21:39So much surface to leave rubbish on, as well.
0:21:39 > 0:21:41Sounds like a bloke, yeah.
0:21:41 > 0:21:43Now, you don't have to dine here,
0:21:43 > 0:21:45because we've got loads of receptions. Let me show you.
0:21:47 > 0:21:49Now, this is where the house really opens up.
0:21:49 > 0:21:52Dining, and after supper maybe...
0:21:52 > 0:21:53a game of billiards?
0:21:53 > 0:21:55Wow, that's great.
0:21:56 > 0:21:58Now, another big room.
0:21:58 > 0:22:01My word. This is... Yeah. This is big.
0:22:02 > 0:22:04Need more furniture.
0:22:04 > 0:22:05And the fireplace, as well.
0:22:05 > 0:22:08I like this, Johnny. This is nice.
0:22:08 > 0:22:11The character. Just... We're moving in.
0:22:11 > 0:22:13- Are you?- Yeah.
0:22:13 > 0:22:15- It's got a good feel about it. - Good.
0:22:15 > 0:22:17- It feels right. - Yeah.
0:22:17 > 0:22:20- So let's go upstairs and have a look at the bedrooms, OK?- OK.- OK.
0:22:21 > 0:22:23Also on the ground floor, just off the kitchen,
0:22:23 > 0:22:25there's a fully set up study.
0:22:25 > 0:22:28But there are more home office possibilities for Sara and Mark
0:22:28 > 0:22:31in another part of the house which I'll talk more about later.
0:22:31 > 0:22:33Upstairs, there's a family bathroom
0:22:33 > 0:22:35and three double bedrooms.
0:22:35 > 0:22:38All of which have that wonderful stripped wooden flooring
0:22:38 > 0:22:41we admired downstairs in the kitchen.
0:22:42 > 0:22:44Now, the master bedroom.
0:22:44 > 0:22:46Yeah, that's nice.
0:22:46 > 0:22:48- Yeah.- It's got an en suite.
0:22:48 > 0:22:50- It's lovely.- I'm glad you like it.
0:22:50 > 0:22:53I mean, look... Waking up to those views.
0:22:54 > 0:22:57Now, there is some other accommodation to this.
0:22:57 > 0:22:59As we walked in? That long single-storey extension?
0:22:59 > 0:23:04- Yeah. - Now that is a self-contained unit.
0:23:04 > 0:23:07- Wow.- Bedroom, bathroom, kitchenette, living area.
0:23:07 > 0:23:11Or it could be just office space for you guys.
0:23:11 > 0:23:14Or Jessica's personal space as she gets older, perhaps.
0:23:14 > 0:23:16She'll never move out, if you show her that, I tell you!
0:23:16 > 0:23:20But that gives you so much room to grow into in this house.
0:23:20 > 0:23:21- Yeah.- It does.
0:23:21 > 0:23:23There's so much you can do with this.
0:23:23 > 0:23:25- Let's go out the back, and look at the land, OK?- OK.
0:23:25 > 0:23:28I'll just squeeze past you, there.
0:23:28 > 0:23:30Well, I'm delighted that this house
0:23:30 > 0:23:32seems to have these two singing from the same hymn sheet.
0:23:32 > 0:23:35But I'm hoping this sweet harmony, isn't a set of balance
0:23:35 > 0:23:37by what's on offer outside,
0:23:37 > 0:23:41because there is less land here than the first property we showed them.
0:23:41 > 0:23:42There's a total of 1.5 acres,
0:23:42 > 0:23:44including the formal garden
0:23:44 > 0:23:46which I'm sure Jessica would agree,
0:23:46 > 0:23:48has more than enough room for her swings.
0:23:48 > 0:23:51- Now, outside space you wanted, didn't you?- I did.
0:23:51 > 0:23:53So, you've got an acre there...
0:23:53 > 0:23:54- OK.- OK.
0:23:54 > 0:23:56- ..and then this land here. - OK.- OK.
0:23:56 > 0:24:00So it's smaller than your ideal requirement.
0:24:00 > 0:24:01OK.
0:24:01 > 0:24:03Any opportunity to get a bit more?
0:24:03 > 0:24:05- Yes.- Ah!
0:24:05 > 0:24:06This land - all that land -
0:24:06 > 0:24:08is for sale.
0:24:08 > 0:24:11So, how much do you think this place is?
0:24:11 > 0:24:13I think...
0:24:13 > 0:24:15probably 490.
0:24:15 > 0:24:17And I'm going to say slightly less
0:24:17 > 0:24:19because the land is less than what we've seen.
0:24:19 > 0:24:21485, would be my estimate.
0:24:23 > 0:24:24Good guesses! Pretty impressed.
0:24:24 > 0:24:27This place is on the market with a guide price
0:24:27 > 0:24:28of £495,000.
0:24:28 > 0:24:29OK.
0:24:31 > 0:24:33Now, there's lots of this house you haven't yet seen.
0:24:33 > 0:24:35You haven't seen the annexe yet,
0:24:35 > 0:24:37but hopefully that will help you fall in love with this place.
0:24:37 > 0:24:39But take as much time as you want,
0:24:39 > 0:24:42- and I'll see you out front when you're ready.- OK.
0:24:42 > 0:24:43See you in a mo.
0:24:44 > 0:24:46Look, this is a different proposition for them.
0:24:46 > 0:24:48It's a big move coming to the countryside,
0:24:48 > 0:24:50and they've got to think about maybe negotiating
0:24:50 > 0:24:53with another landowner to get hold of that parcel there.
0:24:54 > 0:24:56But if they did that,
0:24:56 > 0:24:59they've got everything they asked for, and more.
0:24:59 > 0:25:01Not a bad shout, is it?
0:25:01 > 0:25:04Superbly renovated barn conversion.
0:25:04 > 0:25:09£5,000 below maximum budget.
0:25:09 > 0:25:11Interior offers space they hoped for
0:25:11 > 0:25:13and more.
0:25:13 > 0:25:14Large country kitchen,
0:25:14 > 0:25:16separate formal dining room,
0:25:16 > 0:25:17and even a billiard room.
0:25:17 > 0:25:20The annexe would accommodate
0:25:20 > 0:25:22a home office for each of them.
0:25:22 > 0:25:24Not the two acres they wanted
0:25:24 > 0:25:26but there is neighbouring land
0:25:26 > 0:25:28available for purchase.
0:25:28 > 0:25:31The interior of the house was, I think, close to ideal.
0:25:31 > 0:25:33Exactly what I had in mind.
0:25:33 > 0:25:35Then there's the whole annexe, as well.
0:25:35 > 0:25:37This is great for an annexe kitchen.
0:25:37 > 0:25:40I mean, this is quite substantial, isn't it?
0:25:40 > 0:25:42This is really good.
0:25:42 > 0:25:44Crikey, I'm struggling to find fault with it.
0:25:47 > 0:25:48It is just a fabulous house.
0:25:50 > 0:25:52- Perfect man-cave. What do you think?- What, this?
0:25:52 > 0:25:54You're not getting the annexe!
0:25:55 > 0:25:58I knew this house would seduce Mark.
0:25:58 > 0:26:01He does love it, and it's really important
0:26:01 > 0:26:05that he buys into it, because obviously, he doesn't do the horses.
0:26:05 > 0:26:06The horses...
0:26:06 > 0:26:08It's slightly more of a challenge.
0:26:08 > 0:26:10The fact we'd have to buy more land
0:26:10 > 0:26:12is more of a concern to us,
0:26:12 > 0:26:14because we'd have to negotiate with somebody else,
0:26:14 > 0:26:17and try and get the right package and the right price.
0:26:17 > 0:26:22But, to be fair, the house may well be worth it.
0:26:23 > 0:26:26Well, that seems to be an end to a very successful day.
0:26:26 > 0:26:28- What do you think?- Yeah.
0:26:28 > 0:26:30- Enjoy walking round here? - Yeah.
0:26:30 > 0:26:32Very pleased. It's been a good day.
0:26:32 > 0:26:34You look quietly confident about this place.
0:26:34 > 0:26:37Now, something to think about tonight. Let's take you back.
0:26:37 > 0:26:38OK.
0:26:47 > 0:26:50It's the second day of our house-hunt in Norfolk,
0:26:50 > 0:26:52and with a budget of £500,000,
0:26:52 > 0:26:55Sara and Mark are looking to leave a busy life in Milton Keynes
0:26:55 > 0:26:58for a rural home that suits them, their nine-year-old daughter
0:26:58 > 0:27:00and their horses.
0:27:00 > 0:27:02Coming up, the mystery house offers
0:27:02 > 0:27:05a little more than they were bargaining for.
0:27:05 > 0:27:07I think a whole community could live here!
0:27:07 > 0:27:08Yeah, yeah.
0:27:08 > 0:27:10It's ginormous!
0:27:10 > 0:27:13And I get to take control of some serious heavy machinery
0:27:13 > 0:27:17at the UK's largest privately owned military collection.
0:27:17 > 0:27:19It's a lot better off-road than my car!
0:27:22 > 0:27:24Well, I'm pretty happy with yesterday
0:27:24 > 0:27:26we had good reactions from both properties.
0:27:26 > 0:27:28Today we're off to the mystery house,
0:27:28 > 0:27:30and as there's usually a compromise,
0:27:30 > 0:27:31let's start with that.
0:27:31 > 0:27:34This property doesn't have the pre-requisite amount of land
0:27:34 > 0:27:36for Sara's horses, although not far off it.
0:27:36 > 0:27:39And the property requires quite a lot of work from Mark,
0:27:39 > 0:27:42and that's because there's quite a lot of house.
0:27:42 > 0:27:44And it has the sort of character
0:27:44 > 0:27:47they could fall head over heels for.
0:27:48 > 0:27:51How did you go through things last night?
0:27:51 > 0:27:54Well, last night Mark went to the spa...
0:27:54 > 0:27:56and I ended up with pen and paper
0:27:56 > 0:27:58and started doing lists.
0:27:58 > 0:28:00Pros and cons for both houses.
0:28:00 > 0:28:03That's a really good idea. Pros and cons.
0:28:03 > 0:28:05It's sort of how I work with things.
0:28:05 > 0:28:08I try and take a step back and look at it, realistically.
0:28:08 > 0:28:11- And Mark takes a massive step back and goes for a swim.- Yeah.
0:28:13 > 0:28:15Continuing our trajectory west,
0:28:15 > 0:28:16we reach the village of West Walton,
0:28:16 > 0:28:19an hour and a half's drive from Milton Keynes
0:28:19 > 0:28:21and the final stop on our search.
0:28:21 > 0:28:24Established by the time of the Norman conquest,
0:28:24 > 0:28:27this quiet settlement doesn't offer many amenities,
0:28:27 > 0:28:29but it does have a decent pub
0:28:29 > 0:28:31and a unique 13th century church
0:28:31 > 0:28:33with an unusual detached and delicately carved belltower
0:28:33 > 0:28:36that can be seen for miles around.
0:28:36 > 0:28:37And half a mile down the road,
0:28:37 > 0:28:40there is another towering landmark,
0:28:40 > 0:28:42which happens to stand in the grounds of our mystery house.
0:28:44 > 0:28:46Now, Mark, I think you like Georgian properties,
0:28:46 > 0:28:48so you should appreciate this specimen.
0:28:48 > 0:28:51I am a big fan of that design and style, yes.
0:28:51 > 0:28:53And this is the real deal, isn't it?
0:28:53 > 0:28:55It's a genuine Georgian farmhouse.
0:28:55 > 0:28:58It was actually attached to the remains of that old mill tower.
0:28:58 > 0:28:59It's huge!
0:28:59 > 0:29:02It is big.
0:29:02 > 0:29:04- Fantastic. - Yeah? Big is good, isn't it?
0:29:04 > 0:29:06I don't know.
0:29:06 > 0:29:09- I suppose big means more work, and maintenance, doesn't it?- Yeah.
0:29:09 > 0:29:11I'm looking at a wobbly chimney and the ivy and...
0:29:11 > 0:29:13I don't know.
0:29:13 > 0:29:14But, being a true mystery house,
0:29:14 > 0:29:17it gives you a lot of what you're after, and then some.
0:29:17 > 0:29:19Land-wise, it comes with that field.
0:29:19 > 0:29:22- Oh, OK.- The owner reckons there's just under two acres there,
0:29:22 > 0:29:24although I think he's being a bit modest.
0:29:24 > 0:29:27Sounds like all the basics are there.
0:29:27 > 0:29:28All the basics are here.
0:29:28 > 0:29:31- And some!- Yeah. Basics is maybe a good word to use.
0:29:31 > 0:29:33Let's take a look inside.
0:29:36 > 0:29:39The three-storey mill house and the mill,
0:29:39 > 0:29:41were built in 1822.
0:29:41 > 0:29:44During the Second World War, the sails of the windmill were removed
0:29:44 > 0:29:47because it was thought to be too much of a prominent landmark,
0:29:47 > 0:29:50but after electrical grinding equipment was fitted,
0:29:50 > 0:29:53the mill continued to produce flour until the mid-1960s.
0:29:53 > 0:29:56The last miller still lives in the village.
0:29:56 > 0:29:59Well, Sara, I think you like to have a separate dining area,
0:29:59 > 0:30:00so you've got that here.
0:30:00 > 0:30:03Then, mind the step up to the kitchen...
0:30:03 > 0:30:05which I rather like, actually. What do you think?
0:30:05 > 0:30:07Yes, it's a nice kitchen, actually.
0:30:07 > 0:30:09It's got a very homely feel to it. Yeah, I like it. I like it a lot.
0:30:09 > 0:30:12Nice floor. It's more than adequate for us,
0:30:12 > 0:30:14and it's got some really nice features.
0:30:14 > 0:30:17I think it's a good country kitchen, yeah.
0:30:17 > 0:30:19Just through there, you've got another double reception room,
0:30:19 > 0:30:21which you could use
0:30:21 > 0:30:23for formal dining, if you like.
0:30:23 > 0:30:26Then this way you've got other reception areas - let me show you.
0:30:30 > 0:30:31Right, then.
0:30:31 > 0:30:34This is when it starts to feel a little more boho, if you like.
0:30:34 > 0:30:36Yeah, its reality is kicking in a bit now.
0:30:36 > 0:30:37The decoration, in particular.
0:30:37 > 0:30:40I think there's some plastering work that needs done,
0:30:40 > 0:30:41but that can probably be fixed.
0:30:41 > 0:30:43Mark, this place is your new hobby.
0:30:43 > 0:30:46- You're right.- So, look, you've got loads of space
0:30:46 > 0:30:47on the ground floor.
0:30:47 > 0:30:50- We've got two more floors to have a look at.- Two more floors.
0:30:50 > 0:30:52- Let's go and take a peek at one of them.- OK.
0:30:53 > 0:30:55At the other end of the ground floor,
0:30:55 > 0:30:57there's yet another reception room,
0:30:57 > 0:30:59and there's plenty more space upstairs.
0:30:59 > 0:31:02On the next floor there's a family bathroom,
0:31:02 > 0:31:03and five double bedrooms,
0:31:03 > 0:31:07one of which looks pretty much ready for Jessica to move into.
0:31:07 > 0:31:09All the rooms have basins in them,
0:31:09 > 0:31:12because before the current owners bought the property 18 years ago,
0:31:12 > 0:31:14it was being used as a B&B.
0:31:14 > 0:31:17But we're going to carry on up to the second floor
0:31:17 > 0:31:19which pretty much mirrors this one,
0:31:19 > 0:31:21because it also has five bedrooms.
0:31:23 > 0:31:25Personally, I absolutely love this room.
0:31:25 > 0:31:27Look at the views out here.
0:31:27 > 0:31:29- It is nice. - That's really, really good.
0:31:29 > 0:31:32But, who says it has to be bedrooms?
0:31:32 > 0:31:35Why can't this be an amazing office?
0:31:35 > 0:31:38- Yeah.- You wouldn't mind coming to work with these views, would you?
0:31:38 > 0:31:41- This is a room that you could write a book in, I think.- Yeah.
0:31:41 > 0:31:43Yeah. It's a massive house
0:31:43 > 0:31:45and I just think about the maintenance costs,
0:31:45 > 0:31:47and just day-to-day...
0:31:47 > 0:31:50I suppose it does come down to price.
0:31:50 > 0:31:52There's aspects of it I really like,
0:31:52 > 0:31:54but I am still twitchy about it.
0:31:54 > 0:31:56But, Mark, you kind of love the character of this place?
0:31:56 > 0:31:58Love the character of this property.
0:31:58 > 0:32:01I'd be fully up for DIY decorating
0:32:01 > 0:32:05within the limits of my experience and skills.
0:32:05 > 0:32:07Look, let's go outside and talk about the out buildings, OK?
0:32:07 > 0:32:10- See if you're still twitchy. - Yeah.
0:32:12 > 0:32:14So between this floor and the one below
0:32:14 > 0:32:17there's a grand total of ten bedrooms,
0:32:17 > 0:32:19but aside from the room we've just seen,
0:32:19 > 0:32:21this top floor is the part of the house
0:32:21 > 0:32:24that requires the most decorative work.
0:32:24 > 0:32:26Outside, apart from the paddock over the road,
0:32:26 > 0:32:28there is an attractive garden
0:32:28 > 0:32:29which leads to a large enclosed yard
0:32:29 > 0:32:31where there's an array of outbuildings
0:32:31 > 0:32:33including a two-storey farm shed,
0:32:33 > 0:32:35which could convert into nice stables,
0:32:35 > 0:32:38and another dwelling which is known as the old bakery.
0:32:38 > 0:32:40Last, but by no means least,
0:32:40 > 0:32:42there is the magnificent
0:32:42 > 0:32:44Grade II listed seven-storey mill,
0:32:44 > 0:32:46which at the moment is pretty much derelict,
0:32:46 > 0:32:48but with planning permission
0:32:48 > 0:32:51could be restored to create a very unique holiday let.
0:32:52 > 0:32:57So, do we think we could make this into some sort of stable yard?
0:32:57 > 0:32:59Look at the outbuildings there?
0:32:59 > 0:33:02- I think a whole community could live here.- Yeah!
0:33:02 > 0:33:03It's ginormous!
0:33:03 > 0:33:06- Is this the start of your new Norfolk commune?- Yeah!
0:33:06 > 0:33:07I think so.
0:33:07 > 0:33:09It's fantastic.
0:33:09 > 0:33:11So, excited about this place, Mark?
0:33:11 > 0:33:13Yeah, very excited, actually.
0:33:13 > 0:33:15It wasn't what I was expecting, at all.
0:33:15 > 0:33:17So, who wants to have a go at guessing the price
0:33:17 > 0:33:19of this house along with the land?
0:33:19 > 0:33:21After you.
0:33:21 > 0:33:24It's difficult to value a property such as this.
0:33:24 > 0:33:28More to the higher end of the budget - so 480,000.
0:33:28 > 0:33:29All right. Sara?
0:33:29 > 0:33:32I know it's huge, there's so much work to be done,
0:33:32 > 0:33:34and I know our budget,
0:33:34 > 0:33:36so I'm going to say 410.
0:33:36 > 0:33:39This place is on the market with that land
0:33:39 > 0:33:41for around £475,000.
0:33:42 > 0:33:43Good guess.
0:33:43 > 0:33:46Look, you've so much property to have a look at.
0:33:46 > 0:33:49But enjoy it. Go and have a good look around the place.
0:33:49 > 0:33:52- Try those buildings first. - Thank you.- Thank you.
0:33:52 > 0:33:53Well, just like any mystery property
0:33:53 > 0:33:56it was a gamble bringing them both here,
0:33:56 > 0:33:58but what a splendid property!
0:33:58 > 0:34:01And it does have that land over the road.
0:34:02 > 0:34:05It also has a lot of work to be done, doesn't it?
0:34:06 > 0:34:09£25,000 under their maximum budget,
0:34:09 > 0:34:14this extraordinary property offers Mark and Sara an awful lot.
0:34:14 > 0:34:16There are five reception rooms and ten bedrooms,
0:34:16 > 0:34:20which more than takes care of their request for three bedrooms
0:34:20 > 0:34:21plus an office space.
0:34:21 > 0:34:23Outside, there's a paddock for Sara's horses
0:34:23 > 0:34:24and with a range of outbuildings,
0:34:24 > 0:34:27there's plenty of scope for stabling them.
0:34:27 > 0:34:29There's also the mill itself, which at the very least
0:34:29 > 0:34:32offers an intriguing focal point to the property,
0:34:32 > 0:34:36but could also be converted into yet more accommodation.
0:34:36 > 0:34:40It's a beautiful property and I think it's a fascinating property.
0:34:40 > 0:34:42You know, classic Georgian features.
0:34:42 > 0:34:45This is the real deal - so much character and history here.
0:34:45 > 0:34:48The inside space is more than meets our needs.
0:34:48 > 0:34:51It's almost too large and I'm wondering whether,
0:34:51 > 0:34:54like a kid looking at a big cream cake,
0:34:54 > 0:34:56my eyes are bigger than my appetite.
0:34:58 > 0:35:01- This is your office.- Big.
0:35:01 > 0:35:04Really big. I'm now thinking business.
0:35:04 > 0:35:06Business?
0:35:06 > 0:35:09Yeah, I'm thinking this is accommodation waiting to happen.
0:35:09 > 0:35:10It's a great place, isn't it?
0:35:10 > 0:35:12It's a good idea.
0:35:12 > 0:35:17I'm the type of person that's always looking at business possibilities,
0:35:17 > 0:35:21but we couldn't afford to take on this project
0:35:21 > 0:35:24without some business capital behind it.
0:35:24 > 0:35:26I think, if I had the capital,
0:35:26 > 0:35:29I'd be right up for the challenge.
0:35:29 > 0:35:32But that's the balance I have to really get to grips with.
0:35:33 > 0:35:37Have we warmed any more to this wonderful property?
0:35:37 > 0:35:40- Well, I'm now seeing it as a business opportunity.- Oh!
0:35:40 > 0:35:42OK, well, that's got to be music to your ears, hasn't it?
0:35:42 > 0:35:45I'm more of a private person myself, but I'm taking a look at it now
0:35:45 > 0:35:49and just wondering how to get up there and maybe bring my telescope.
0:35:49 > 0:35:51Of course, telescope! Wow.
0:35:51 > 0:35:53Maybe this is something to think about.
0:35:53 > 0:35:55Sounds like you've got a lot to talk about yourselves,
0:35:55 > 0:35:57so let's find you somewhere to have a chit-chat.
0:35:57 > 0:35:59- We'll catch up later on. After you.- Thank you.
0:36:07 > 0:36:09Since the days of the Spanish Armada in 1588
0:36:09 > 0:36:12through to the First and Second World Wars,
0:36:12 > 0:36:14large stretches of Norfolk's coastline
0:36:14 > 0:36:16have been seen as vulnerable to invasion.
0:36:17 > 0:36:20One of the most determinedly defended locations
0:36:20 > 0:36:22was Weybourne Hope to the north of the county,
0:36:22 > 0:36:24where a military camp was set up
0:36:24 > 0:36:26training as many as 300,000 personnel
0:36:26 > 0:36:29over the course of four decades.
0:36:29 > 0:36:32The camp was finally closed in 1959,
0:36:32 > 0:36:35but in 1988, the site was bought and is now home
0:36:35 > 0:36:38to the largest private military collection in the UK
0:36:38 > 0:36:41and the man behind it all is Michael Savory.
0:36:43 > 0:36:46To build a collection of tanks and militaria such as you've got here,
0:36:46 > 0:36:50you have to be English and you have to be eccentric
0:36:50 > 0:36:51and I'm a combination of both of them.
0:36:51 > 0:36:54I'm starting to get you qualify there.
0:36:54 > 0:36:58This began really at the Boer War years,
0:36:58 > 0:37:01so you're looking at the turn of the century, 1900,
0:37:01 > 0:37:03for infantry training.
0:37:03 > 0:37:07The land was acquired from the local farmers by the War Office,
0:37:07 > 0:37:08as it was then called,
0:37:08 > 0:37:12and it gradually developed to becoming a residential camp
0:37:12 > 0:37:16and one of the reasons why this bit of the coast was heavily defended
0:37:16 > 0:37:18was that we have very deep water here.
0:37:18 > 0:37:21Deep water allowed the ships to come straight up to the shingle bank
0:37:21 > 0:37:23and unload troops.
0:37:23 > 0:37:26There is a 16th century English saying
0:37:26 > 0:37:29which is, "If ye, old England, wish to win,
0:37:29 > 0:37:31"first at Weybourne Hope begin,"
0:37:31 > 0:37:32and this is Weybourne Hope.
0:37:34 > 0:37:37Michael's collection includes 150 military vehicles,
0:37:37 > 0:37:3925 of which are tanks,
0:37:39 > 0:37:42but he also has a huge number of other military-related exhibits,
0:37:42 > 0:37:44which are sourced from all over the world
0:37:44 > 0:37:48and are painstakingly restored before going on display.
0:37:48 > 0:37:52You are standing amongst a collection of Second World War tanks,
0:37:52 > 0:37:56ranging from the Soviet T-34 to the American Sherman.
0:37:56 > 0:37:59Surrounded also by a lot of light tanks.
0:37:59 > 0:38:03It's a collection which is unusual to the extent that everything works.
0:38:03 > 0:38:05Often, when you go into museums,
0:38:05 > 0:38:07they're just illustrations of a vehicle,
0:38:07 > 0:38:09- but all of these we keep in running order.- Wow!
0:38:11 > 0:38:13As well as the regular military display days held here,
0:38:13 > 0:38:16the public are offered the rare opportunity to get hands on
0:38:16 > 0:38:19and actually drive a tank themselves.
0:38:19 > 0:38:21Today, Michael's very kindly given me the chance
0:38:21 > 0:38:23to experience that for myself.
0:38:23 > 0:38:26- Do I shut this behind me? - Yes, please.
0:38:26 > 0:38:30Appropriately attired, I'm ready for basic training.
0:38:30 > 0:38:33Pull the two levers forward, no thumbs on the top,
0:38:33 > 0:38:34till the buttons click up.
0:38:34 > 0:38:36Meantime, with your left hand,
0:38:36 > 0:38:38you put it into the first notch, first gear.
0:38:38 > 0:38:40We're in business.
0:38:42 > 0:38:46The vehicle I'm driving is a British Army Fighting Vehicle 432,
0:38:46 > 0:38:48which is an armoured personnel carrier.
0:38:48 > 0:38:50They were first introduced in the 1960s
0:38:50 > 0:38:53for transporting infantry on the battlefield.
0:38:53 > 0:38:56This particular one was used in the Middle East
0:38:56 > 0:38:57during the first Gulf War,
0:38:57 > 0:39:00and it would have carried nine to ten troops, a commander,
0:39:00 > 0:39:02a driver and all of their weapons,
0:39:02 > 0:39:05which would have made for a very claustrophobic journey.
0:39:07 > 0:39:12I feel firmly in control. It's finger-touch accurate, isn't it?
0:39:14 > 0:39:16Tanks aren't generally built for speed.
0:39:16 > 0:39:20Their top acceleration doesn't usually go beyond 35mph,
0:39:20 > 0:39:25but what they do have is power - between 500 and 800bhp.
0:39:26 > 0:39:28Yeah, go on right.
0:39:32 > 0:39:35It's been a real privilege getting to drive this formidable vehicle,
0:39:35 > 0:39:38especially when you think of the troops it once carried
0:39:38 > 0:39:40and all that they must have endured.
0:39:40 > 0:39:43And to experience it in such a beautiful, historic part
0:39:43 > 0:39:45of the county has made it all the more memorable.
0:39:48 > 0:39:51Well, we looked at three fantastic properties,
0:39:51 > 0:39:54culminating in, of course, the mystery house,
0:39:54 > 0:39:57which I think even Sara warmed to towards the end.
0:39:57 > 0:39:59Let's catch up with them and find out their thoughts.
0:40:03 > 0:40:06- Is this all to do with all the houses we've seen?- Yep.
0:40:06 > 0:40:09- Do you mind if I have a quick look? - You can do if you want.
0:40:09 > 0:40:11- These are comprehensive.- Are they?
0:40:11 > 0:40:13Has this helped you make your mind up?
0:40:13 > 0:40:15It's focusing me.
0:40:15 > 0:40:17- OK.- It's proved very useful,
0:40:17 > 0:40:19I think particularly with property number three.
0:40:19 > 0:40:22My heart still is attached to that,
0:40:22 > 0:40:24but when you actually see it written down,
0:40:24 > 0:40:27some of the needs and the work that is necessary,
0:40:27 > 0:40:29it brings you back to reality a little bit.
0:40:29 > 0:40:32Do either of you have a favourite?
0:40:32 > 0:40:36The only property where my heart and my head agree with one other
0:40:36 > 0:40:37is number two.
0:40:37 > 0:40:41Number two is probably my strongest pull,
0:40:41 > 0:40:45- but number one I see a lot of financial sense in...- Yeah.
0:40:45 > 0:40:48..and the mystery house, from my point of view,
0:40:48 > 0:40:49I would see it as a business.
0:40:49 > 0:40:54I would see it as B&B, holiday let, do up the external buildings.
0:40:54 > 0:40:56We'd have to get a business loan to do that
0:40:56 > 0:40:59and then, would we recoup that money?
0:40:59 > 0:41:03I'm just trying to balance my view. I think, fundamentally,
0:41:03 > 0:41:06I don't think the mystery house works for us financially.
0:41:06 > 0:41:08What is your next step?
0:41:08 > 0:41:11We're definitely going to go back to house number two.
0:41:11 > 0:41:14I think I'm going to drag Mark kicking and screaming
0:41:14 > 0:41:16back to house number one,
0:41:16 > 0:41:20because I see a lot of potential there and even with the work,
0:41:20 > 0:41:22- there's still room in our budget. - Yeah.
0:41:22 > 0:41:27It's a been a really interesting process. With just three houses,
0:41:27 > 0:41:31you've seen how your differences in taste and challenges have come out.
0:41:31 > 0:41:33Of course, you're horsey,
0:41:33 > 0:41:35you really care about the land.
0:41:35 > 0:41:39Of course, you love the idea of a character property.
0:41:39 > 0:41:41It's just finding a house that gives you both.
0:41:41 > 0:41:44- Maybe that's house number two, maybe not.- Maybe.
0:41:44 > 0:41:47Look, you're going to come back here for a second viewing.
0:41:47 > 0:41:51Please, please let us know what you decide. I can't wait to find out.
0:41:51 > 0:41:52- Good luck!- Thank you.- Thank you.
0:41:56 > 0:41:59I'm pleased to hear Sara and Mark are agreed on one thing
0:41:59 > 0:42:02and that's that they both want to go back to house number two.
0:42:02 > 0:42:05Let's face it, they really enjoyed looking around that place.
0:42:05 > 0:42:09I'm also interested to hear that Sara also wants to go back
0:42:09 > 0:42:13to property number one, taking Mark kicking and screaming if needs be.
0:42:13 > 0:42:15I think they've both realised
0:42:15 > 0:42:17that it's not just about the house or the land,
0:42:17 > 0:42:19it's the whole package,
0:42:19 > 0:42:23so second viewings of both houses and their areas is what's needed
0:42:23 > 0:42:28in order for them to decide which way they need to go as a family.
0:42:28 > 0:42:32So I'm sure, just like me, you wish them both the very best of luck.
0:42:32 > 0:42:33I'll see you next time.
0:42:35 > 0:42:37Mark and Sara returned to view our second house
0:42:37 > 0:42:40and they loved it just as much the second time round.
0:42:40 > 0:42:41They were keen to put in an offer,
0:42:41 > 0:42:44but after investigating the price of the additional land,
0:42:44 > 0:42:46they felt it pushed their budget too far beyond
0:42:46 > 0:42:48what they were comfortable with,
0:42:48 > 0:42:50so their search continues.
0:42:50 > 0:42:52If you're planning to escape to the country
0:42:52 > 0:42:56in Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland or England and would like our help,
0:42:56 > 0:42:58you can apply online at...