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 > 0:00:12Where am I? Well, I'll give you a clue. We're not on the mainland.
0:00:28 > 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 > 0:01:55the richest for biodiversity in the country.
0:01:55 > 0:01:58There are more miles of footpaths and bridleways than roads here
0:01:58 > 0:02:01and not a single motorway in the county.
0:02:01 > 0:02:05Along its stunning 95 mile coastline are some extraordinary
0:02:05 > 0:02:08geological features, including Chesil Beach, the longest shingle
0:02:08 > 0:02:12bar in Europe, separated from the mainland by the Fleet Lagoon.
0:02:14 > 0:02:18Further east is Poole Harbour, created from a drowned valley
0:02:18 > 0:02:20formed at the end of the last ice age.
0:02:20 > 0:02:23It's one of the largest natural harbours in the world
0:02:23 > 0:02:26and provides a perfect haven for yachts.
0:02:27 > 0:02:30At neighbouring Bournemouth, the glorious seven mile sweep of
0:02:30 > 0:02:33golden sand was recently voted the UK's best beach
0:02:33 > 0:02:36and it's just another of the wonderful features
0:02:36 > 0:02:38this gorgeous county has to offer.
0:02:43 > 0:02:46Living cheek by jowl with that bracing coastline
0:02:46 > 0:02:49and this beautiful countryside seems to have a benefit.
0:02:49 > 0:02:52A government survey suggests that Dorset has the highest life
0:02:52 > 0:02:54expectancy in the whole country -
0:02:54 > 0:02:58particularly in the east of the county, where I am standing now.
0:02:58 > 0:03:01But long life and beautiful countryside does not come cheap.
0:03:01 > 0:03:07The average price for a detached property in the county is £319,000,
0:03:07 > 0:03:10which is £53,000 above the national figure.
0:03:10 > 0:03:14So, is it going to be worthwhile for our house buyers to move here?
0:03:14 > 0:03:16Let's meet them and find out.
0:03:18 > 0:03:21For the last 24 years, Sue and John have been living
0:03:21 > 0:03:23in a five bedroom detached home
0:03:23 > 0:03:26in the town of Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire.
0:03:26 > 0:03:29But until they moved there, they rarely stayed put in one place
0:03:29 > 0:03:33longer than three years, thanks to John's career in the oil industry.
0:03:33 > 0:03:37After such a stretch of settled life here, the globetrotting couple have
0:03:37 > 0:03:41got itchy feet and are fairly clear about where they're headed next.
0:03:41 > 0:03:44It's not so much that we want to leave Beaconsfield.
0:03:44 > 0:03:47We'd like a new start, a new challenge.
0:03:47 > 0:03:51Somewhere like Dorset is a place that we've always hankered after.
0:03:51 > 0:03:54I used to live on the coast, before I got married,
0:03:54 > 0:03:56so I really miss the coast.
0:03:56 > 0:03:58I think we really look forward to starting
0:03:58 > 0:04:00a new chapter in our life
0:04:00 > 0:04:03down in that part of the world.
0:04:03 > 0:04:06Five years ago, John retired from his jet-set job
0:04:06 > 0:04:09hoping to enjoy a quieter way of life.
0:04:09 > 0:04:12I've been finding retirement extremely busy.
0:04:12 > 0:04:15I've got involved in local resident's association.
0:04:15 > 0:04:18So, there's times when I wish I was actually back to work,
0:04:18 > 0:04:21when life would be more regulated.
0:04:21 > 0:04:24Although they now feel able to move away from the area
0:04:24 > 0:04:26there are some much-loved family members
0:04:26 > 0:04:28they'll have to leave behind.
0:04:28 > 0:04:31Two of their three children live close to their current home,
0:04:31 > 0:04:34so they've been able to spend a lot of time with their grandchildren.
0:04:34 > 0:04:36We really enjoy being grandparents
0:04:36 > 0:04:39and that's one of the downsides of moving, really.
0:04:39 > 0:04:42But they've all promised to come and visit us lots and lots
0:04:42 > 0:04:45and, I suspect, half term we'll be quite popular,
0:04:45 > 0:04:47so we're looking forward to that.
0:04:47 > 0:04:50Something else Sue is looking forward to is having more
0:04:50 > 0:04:52time for her hobbies.
0:04:52 > 0:04:54I've always enjoyed needlework.
0:04:54 > 0:04:56When the children were little, we lived in Abu Dhabi.
0:04:56 > 0:04:58At that time, the early 1970s,
0:04:58 > 0:05:02you couldn't actually buy clothes for the children.
0:05:02 > 0:05:05So, I used to make most of the children's clothes then
0:05:05 > 0:05:07and I've just continued.
0:05:07 > 0:05:11And there's one particular pastime they enjoy together.
0:05:11 > 0:05:13We are both quite competitive.
0:05:13 > 0:05:17John usually gets quite cross because he's trying really hard.
0:05:17 > 0:05:19And the harder he tries, the worse it gets!
0:05:19 > 0:05:23And Sue is so laidback, you know, "OK, it's only a game."
0:05:23 > 0:05:27But anyway, we love the game. It gets under the skin
0:05:27 > 0:05:30and whenever we go on holiday, we always have our clubs with us.
0:05:32 > 0:05:35On the days when the weather isn't suitable for golf
0:05:35 > 0:05:38there's a place indoors where John is most likely to be found.
0:05:38 > 0:05:40I like being in my study.
0:05:40 > 0:05:44Sue and I don't share the same television programmes.
0:05:44 > 0:05:48So, when she's looking at her soaps, it's a fine time for me
0:05:48 > 0:05:51to go in there and have a little escapism.
0:05:51 > 0:05:54I've got some bits and pieces in there, my toys.
0:05:54 > 0:05:57I'm a bit of a collector of militaria and things.
0:05:57 > 0:05:59There so much stuff in there.
0:05:59 > 0:06:02Yes, there's all sorts of stuff but it's stuff that I like.
0:06:04 > 0:06:07Uprooting after 24 years and moving all that stuff
0:06:07 > 0:06:10might seem daunting but this couple aren't fazed.
0:06:10 > 0:06:12A move, it's most in the blood.
0:06:12 > 0:06:15I quite look forward to the challenge of it.
0:06:15 > 0:06:17We're not too old for a new start.
0:06:21 > 0:06:25Our buyers have chosen Dorset for its beautiful scenery and are
0:06:25 > 0:06:28happy to consider either a coastal or countryside setting
0:06:28 > 0:06:31but with family to consider, close to their current home in
0:06:31 > 0:06:34Buckinghamshire, they'd like to be no more than two hours away,
0:06:34 > 0:06:37so would prefer to look in the east of the county.
0:06:37 > 0:06:41I'm meeting them to talk through the details of their planned move.
0:06:41 > 0:06:43John and Sue, welcome to Dorset.
0:06:43 > 0:06:45- Thank you. - So, this is a big move for you?
0:06:45 > 0:06:47This is your big, wonderful retirement move.
0:06:47 > 0:06:50It's the first time we've ever actually chosen
0:06:50 > 0:06:51where we're going to live.
0:06:51 > 0:06:55With the company, we've always been told where we're going and so
0:06:55 > 0:07:00this is a bit scary because it's the first time we've made the decision.
0:07:00 > 0:07:02So, you have to make choices.
0:07:02 > 0:07:04And what are you looking for in the property?
0:07:04 > 0:07:07Well, I'm looking, mainly, for a view.
0:07:07 > 0:07:10Sea, golf course, or really nice countryside.
0:07:10 > 0:07:12We'd like five bedrooms.
0:07:12 > 0:07:15Well, four to five, isn't it?
0:07:15 > 0:07:18- Because you've got your family to come and stay.- Yes.- Yes.
0:07:18 > 0:07:21We've got family coming. And a lovely, big, modern kitchen.
0:07:21 > 0:07:24I'd like a nice study or family room for my toys.
0:07:24 > 0:07:26Toys? What do you collect?
0:07:26 > 0:07:29Bits and pieces I've picked up on my travels around the world.
0:07:29 > 0:07:32So the house is going to be a showcase for your collection.
0:07:32 > 0:07:35No, he has to keep all that in his room. That's why
0:07:35 > 0:07:36he needs a separate room.
0:07:36 > 0:07:38And what about the style, then?
0:07:38 > 0:07:40Are you looking for something contemporary and modern
0:07:40 > 0:07:42or are you happy for a period property?
0:07:42 > 0:07:46Certainly modern interior. No thatched cottage with tiny windows.
0:07:46 > 0:07:48I like the older buildings, I must admit.
0:07:48 > 0:07:50I'm a bit traditionalist in that respect
0:07:50 > 0:07:53but on the other hand, we don't want small windows.
0:07:53 > 0:07:56We do want rooms that are well lit, naturally well lit.
0:07:56 > 0:07:59- With lovely views. - With lovely views of course.
0:07:59 > 0:08:01That's definitely number one.
0:08:01 > 0:08:03And what about the outside space?
0:08:03 > 0:08:07We're not great gardeners but we do like to keep the garden tidy
0:08:07 > 0:08:09so we're not looking for a large garden.
0:08:09 > 0:08:12Small to medium would be fine.
0:08:12 > 0:08:13Remind me again of your budget.
0:08:13 > 0:08:15Ideally we're talking about just
0:08:15 > 0:08:20under a million or up to a million, ideally, but for the right place,
0:08:20 > 0:08:22we're prepared to go up to 1.2 million.
0:08:22 > 0:08:25That's obviously a beautifully big budget.
0:08:25 > 0:08:27And what about your house sale, how's that going?
0:08:27 > 0:08:30Legally, it's sold, subject to contract
0:08:30 > 0:08:32and I believe there's another two weeks, is it?
0:08:32 > 0:08:35We're expecting to exchange in two weeks.
0:08:35 > 0:08:37Gosh, so the timescale is quite pressing.
0:08:37 > 0:08:39Yes. They want us out by the middle of August.
0:08:39 > 0:08:41- Better get our skates on. - Absolutely.
0:08:41 > 0:08:45Well, we've got three lovely properties. Let's go and see them
0:08:45 > 0:08:47- before you miss the boat. - Great, lovely.
0:08:47 > 0:08:51With a very substantial budget of £1.2 million to spend,
0:08:51 > 0:08:54Sue and John are looking for a spacious home
0:08:54 > 0:08:57with at least four bedrooms so the grandchildren can visit.
0:08:57 > 0:08:59John needs a study to store his collections
0:08:59 > 0:09:02and Sue's after a light, modern interior.
0:09:02 > 0:09:05The garden doesn't need to be huge but one thing they don't want
0:09:05 > 0:09:07to compromise on are great views.
0:09:07 > 0:09:09They'd also like the property to be
0:09:09 > 0:09:11in an attractive village setting
0:09:11 > 0:09:14with an active local community.
0:09:14 > 0:09:17We've lined up three excellent properties to view which
0:09:17 > 0:09:20would offer them the lifestyle and scenic setting they're after.
0:09:20 > 0:09:23They won't know the prices of each until they've viewed it
0:09:23 > 0:09:26and at the end of the search, I'll be tempting them with a
0:09:26 > 0:09:29one-of-a-kind property in the form of our mystery house.
0:09:33 > 0:09:35So, it must be quite a long time
0:09:35 > 0:09:38since you've actually looked to buy a house together.
0:09:38 > 0:09:40Yes, it is a long time.
0:09:40 > 0:09:42Who has the final say?
0:09:42 > 0:09:44We both usually do agree.
0:09:45 > 0:09:47She can dig her feet in at times though.
0:09:47 > 0:09:48LAUGHTER
0:09:50 > 0:09:53For our first property, we're heading to the East Dorset village
0:09:53 > 0:09:55of Horton, ten miles north of Poole.
0:09:56 > 0:10:00This small village has a population of just over 500 people.
0:10:00 > 0:10:04There's an attractive church, local pub and the village itself is
0:10:04 > 0:10:07overlooked by the unique local landmark, Horton Tower.
0:10:07 > 0:10:11The six-storey red brick folly was built in 1750
0:10:11 > 0:10:15as an observatory and marks the centre of the East Dorset district.
0:10:16 > 0:10:19Just a mile away from a very prestigious golf course and
0:10:19 > 0:10:23100 yards from the pub, hopefully the position of our first property
0:10:23 > 0:10:24will appeal to Sue and John.
0:10:25 > 0:10:28Et voila. House number one.
0:10:28 > 0:10:30Oh, wow. It does look lovely.
0:10:30 > 0:10:32It's a contemporary property.
0:10:32 > 0:10:34It's from the '60s but it's been extended
0:10:34 > 0:10:37and completely transformed, actually,
0:10:37 > 0:10:39in the last eight to ten years.
0:10:39 > 0:10:42Nice contrast between the brickwork and stone facing.
0:10:42 > 0:10:45The core of the house is this really central part
0:10:45 > 0:10:48and all these other sections have been added in subsequent decades.
0:10:48 > 0:10:50You're very well-placed here for golf clubs.
0:10:50 > 0:10:53There's a very exclusive golf club just around the corner.
0:10:53 > 0:10:55- Right.- But there are also several other ones,
0:10:55 > 0:10:58so you've got lots of options, all within, like, a stone's throw.
0:10:58 > 0:11:01- Oh, really? Oh my goodness. - It's golfing central here.
0:11:01 > 0:11:03I'd like to go inside.
0:11:03 > 0:11:05Let's look in.
0:11:05 > 0:11:09Built in 1965, I'm hoping this house offers the contemporary living
0:11:09 > 0:11:11that Sue and John are looking for.
0:11:11 > 0:11:14Offering nearly 4,000 square feet of floor space,
0:11:14 > 0:11:17the downstairs centres on a well-thought-out
0:11:17 > 0:11:21open-plan kitchen and breakfast room developed by the current owners.
0:11:23 > 0:11:26Straight into your domain, Sue, the kitchen.
0:11:26 > 0:11:29Yes! Oh, wow, that's really lovely.
0:11:29 > 0:11:31It's nice and light, isn't it?
0:11:31 > 0:11:34Lovely combination of kitchen with the dining area,
0:11:34 > 0:11:36right out onto decking.
0:11:36 > 0:11:39Really lovely. That's exactly what I like.
0:11:39 > 0:11:41- Is it?- Yes. Nice, modern kitchen.
0:11:41 > 0:11:43Yeah.
0:11:43 > 0:11:45The ceiling being so nice and light
0:11:45 > 0:11:47and this area is really light,
0:11:47 > 0:11:50you know, when you've got the family it's really nice not to be
0:11:50 > 0:11:52- shut away in the kitchen. - Yeah, absolutely.
0:11:52 > 0:11:54I like this sociable area. It's lovely.
0:11:54 > 0:11:57And through there, you've got a sort of TV snug room.
0:11:57 > 0:12:00Round the back, there's a big utility room, a downstairs toilet
0:12:00 > 0:12:03and lots and lots of storage. Is it your taste in finishing?
0:12:03 > 0:12:04Oh, yes, indeed.
0:12:04 > 0:12:07Great. So, let's go through into the lounge.
0:12:07 > 0:12:10At the front of the property, there's a study area
0:12:10 > 0:12:12opposite the main lounge.
0:12:12 > 0:12:15A large modern space with a southerly aspect.
0:12:15 > 0:12:16More space.
0:12:16 > 0:12:18Oh, yes, it is, it's lovely.
0:12:18 > 0:12:21Really unusual with the glass panelling there.
0:12:21 > 0:12:22Yeah, the glass bricks.
0:12:22 > 0:12:24Yeah, it is, it's lovely.
0:12:24 > 0:12:27In our existing lounge we've got our
0:12:27 > 0:12:30furniture cabinets, which probably wouldn't go in here.
0:12:30 > 0:12:32They might go against this wall
0:12:32 > 0:12:34but I think they would look a little odd.
0:12:34 > 0:12:37We'll have to get more modern.
0:12:37 > 0:12:41Well, they would fit in that area over there.
0:12:41 > 0:12:45- That would be my study.- OK.
0:12:45 > 0:12:47You can fight about it but there are many options.
0:12:47 > 0:12:49Let's look upstairs.
0:12:49 > 0:12:53They're already visualising how this property could work for them,
0:12:53 > 0:12:54which is a very good sign.
0:12:54 > 0:12:58Luckily, there won't be any need to argue over rooms once they've
0:12:58 > 0:12:59seen the rest of the house.
0:12:59 > 0:13:03Upstairs, there's plenty of space to accommodate the family with
0:13:03 > 0:13:05three good-sized guest bedrooms,
0:13:05 > 0:13:09two modern en-suites and an impressive family bathroom
0:13:09 > 0:13:12with floor-to-ceiling windows to the garden.
0:13:12 > 0:13:14This is the master bedroom.
0:13:14 > 0:13:16- My goodness.- Oh, my goodness. Yeah.
0:13:16 > 0:13:18A huge, 27-foot long...
0:13:18 > 0:13:19That is lovely.
0:13:19 > 0:13:22You've got an en-suite in here. Lovely views.
0:13:22 > 0:13:24Yes, it is lovely.
0:13:24 > 0:13:28- Yep, triple aspect makes it extremely bright.- Nice and light.
0:13:28 > 0:13:29Well, it's really...
0:13:29 > 0:13:31Obviously, for sleeping as well, but also as a sort of
0:13:31 > 0:13:34private sanctum, I think, away from the children.
0:13:34 > 0:13:36Indeed. Absolutely. White carpets.
0:13:36 > 0:13:38No grandkids in here.
0:13:38 > 0:13:41And upstairs, you've got a mezzanine changing room.
0:13:41 > 0:13:43- Oh...- My goodness.
0:13:43 > 0:13:45Or you could keep it as your study.
0:13:45 > 0:13:47Indeed, yes, out of the way.
0:13:47 > 0:13:49Or you may have dibs on it.
0:13:49 > 0:13:51No, I've got mine downstairs.
0:13:51 > 0:13:54Oh, right, you sure you don't want to swap now? Now you've seen it.
0:13:54 > 0:13:55No, no. No.
0:13:55 > 0:13:57- Let's look outside.- Right.
0:13:58 > 0:14:01The grounds are larger than John and Sue asked for,
0:14:01 > 0:14:03with great countryside views.
0:14:03 > 0:14:06I think this low-maintenance space could work well for them.
0:14:06 > 0:14:10You have this formal garden, which is pretty simple to keep.
0:14:10 > 0:14:12- Just a bit of lawn. - It needs a sit-on mower.
0:14:12 > 0:14:14Definitely needs a sit-on mower because...
0:14:14 > 0:14:18At the back, there, you see that huge field? That's yours too.
0:14:18 > 0:14:21- Oh, my goodness.- Oh, goodness.
0:14:21 > 0:14:24What did we say about large gardens? Not wanting large gardens, eh?
0:14:24 > 0:14:28Well, what's good about that is that it's four acres, the total
0:14:28 > 0:14:31of the garden, but you can just leave it to go to hay and there's
0:14:31 > 0:14:34a farmer who comes, there's an arrangement where they take the hay.
0:14:34 > 0:14:36- Oh, right.- Oh, that's quite nice.
0:14:36 > 0:14:38It is quite low-maintenance.
0:14:38 > 0:14:39But it is nice to have that at the back.
0:14:39 > 0:14:41And great entertaining space.
0:14:41 > 0:14:44This gets the evening sun, so, they eat outside on that side
0:14:44 > 0:14:46and in the morning, over here.
0:14:46 > 0:14:47Yes, a lot of choice.
0:14:47 > 0:14:50Well, the kids would have a wonderful time here, wouldn't they?
0:14:50 > 0:14:53So how much do you think the house is on the market for?
0:14:53 > 0:14:56I think it's probably about £900,000.
0:14:56 > 0:14:57John?
0:14:57 > 0:14:59I think the land different aspect...
0:14:59 > 0:15:01Probably around £960,000.
0:15:01 > 0:15:04OK, well, actually, it's a bit more expensive than that.
0:15:04 > 0:15:07It's kind of up at the top of your budget.
0:15:07 > 0:15:08Oh, right.
0:15:08 > 0:15:11It's on at £1,195,000.
0:15:11 > 0:15:13- Gosh.- Good grief.
0:15:13 > 0:15:16- Well, we're not very good at that then, are we?- No, we're not.
0:15:16 > 0:15:19No, but then, we don't know the area very well at all.
0:15:20 > 0:15:21No big surprise.
0:15:21 > 0:15:24- Go back inside and have a look. - Thank you.- Thank you.
0:15:26 > 0:15:29Coming in just under budget, this contemporary and bright home
0:15:29 > 0:15:30would give John and Sue the
0:15:30 > 0:15:32four bedrooms they want, that
0:15:32 > 0:15:34all-important study space for John,
0:15:34 > 0:15:36plus another for Sue.
0:15:36 > 0:15:38Coming with over four acres, there
0:15:38 > 0:15:39may be more outside space than they
0:15:39 > 0:15:41wanted but it's low-maintenance and
0:15:41 > 0:15:43comes with beautiful country views,
0:15:43 > 0:15:45not to mention a number of golf
0:15:45 > 0:15:46courses within a short drive.
0:15:48 > 0:15:52I really like the house. The kitchen is very nice indeed.
0:15:52 > 0:15:54It's a very, very light house.
0:15:54 > 0:15:55The bedroom's pretty special.
0:15:55 > 0:15:59This is a lovely area isn't it? What a bonus.
0:15:59 > 0:16:04- Our own little sitting room, up here.- Little hideaway.- Yes.
0:16:04 > 0:16:06The garden at the rear is fantastic.
0:16:06 > 0:16:10Big patch of land back there, which is just begging to be
0:16:10 > 0:16:12turned into a nine-hole golf course!
0:16:12 > 0:16:14The house is definitely a contender.
0:16:14 > 0:16:18I think the issue is the location for us
0:16:18 > 0:16:21because we don't know this area at all.
0:16:21 > 0:16:22Still a strong contender.
0:16:22 > 0:16:25I think they were a little startled by the price
0:16:25 > 0:16:26but it's only house number one.
0:16:26 > 0:16:28- All done?- Yes, thank you.
0:16:28 > 0:16:32Excellent. Pull the door behind you, we're going onto house number two.
0:16:32 > 0:16:33- Thank you.- Oh, great.
0:16:38 > 0:16:41Known throughout the world for its stunning coastline and
0:16:41 > 0:16:45archaeological finds, Dorset's inland areas also contain a wealth
0:16:45 > 0:16:47of natural and historical gems.
0:16:47 > 0:16:51Running parallel to the sea, the South Dorset Ridgeway is a
0:16:51 > 0:16:5514-square-mile chalky ridge whose numerous long barrows
0:16:55 > 0:16:57hold evidence of man's existence
0:16:57 > 0:17:00dating back as far as 4,000 BC.
0:17:00 > 0:17:03But this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty also holds
0:17:03 > 0:17:06lesser-known secrets in its flora and fauna.
0:17:06 > 0:17:10We sent John and sewing enthusiast Sue to meet Annabel Wilson,
0:17:10 > 0:17:13a local textiles artist who's been putting the region's
0:17:13 > 0:17:15native plant life to artistic use.
0:17:16 > 0:17:20I'm up here collecting plants to dye fabrics and yarn with
0:17:20 > 0:17:22and we've got this really nice patch
0:17:22 > 0:17:25here because there's quite a lot of different choices of plants.
0:17:25 > 0:17:28How many different plants do you use for your dyes?
0:17:28 > 0:17:29At least 20, I would think.
0:17:29 > 0:17:33And from what part of the plant do you actually take the dye?
0:17:33 > 0:17:34It's the flower, really.
0:17:34 > 0:17:37It's the top. So, what I'm going to collect is this pineapple mayweed
0:17:37 > 0:17:41to dye with, and that'll give us quite a nice strong yellow, I hope.
0:17:41 > 0:17:43There's something about the natural dyes.
0:17:43 > 0:17:46There's this sort of harmony about the colours.
0:17:46 > 0:17:48And the colours you get vary from season to season,
0:17:48 > 0:17:51so if I pick this plant now, it will be a certain colour
0:17:51 > 0:17:53and if I pick it in a few months' time,
0:17:53 > 0:17:55it might be paler or brighter.
0:17:55 > 0:17:58It's a bit of an inexact science so it's quite fun as well.
0:17:58 > 0:18:01So, what I'm picking today is this pineapple mayweed
0:18:01 > 0:18:04and we're just taking the tops off.
0:18:04 > 0:18:05So, it's like that,
0:18:05 > 0:18:08and I just wondered if you would both like to help me.
0:18:08 > 0:18:12The main body of chemical dyes were invented in the 1850s.
0:18:12 > 0:18:16Until then, it was normal for dye to be made from natural ingredients
0:18:16 > 0:18:18and evidence of the use of natural dyes has been
0:18:18 > 0:18:21found as far back as Ancient Egypt.
0:18:21 > 0:18:24Annabel has been working with natural dyes and textiles at
0:18:24 > 0:18:28her studio in Sherborne for nearly ten years, where she makes
0:18:28 > 0:18:30a range of interior accessories.
0:18:31 > 0:18:34I've got this piece of material which you're going to be
0:18:34 > 0:18:38working on, Sue, and it's been treated with amordon which is
0:18:38 > 0:18:41a mineral salt and it makes the colour stronger.
0:18:41 > 0:18:43And I'm going to weigh it
0:18:43 > 0:18:45and that's about 60 grams
0:18:45 > 0:18:47and then we're going to use four times
0:18:47 > 0:18:50that amount of dye stuff.
0:18:50 > 0:18:53So, I want 240 grams of it.
0:18:54 > 0:18:55There we are.
0:18:55 > 0:18:58Now, we're going to put it in the water to boil up.
0:18:58 > 0:19:01Are there any other chemical additives in the water?
0:19:01 > 0:19:02No, it is just water.
0:19:04 > 0:19:07Leaving the water to boil for a good hour while the colours extract,
0:19:07 > 0:19:12it's Sue's turn to get creative by showing off her sewing skills.
0:19:12 > 0:19:14So, is this the same as tie-dying?
0:19:14 > 0:19:18Yes, it's very similar but it's actually called shibori,
0:19:18 > 0:19:21which is a Japanese word which means
0:19:21 > 0:19:23to wring or to squeeze the fabric.
0:19:23 > 0:19:25Squeezing it up.
0:19:25 > 0:19:28Stitching it very simply and then pulling it up.
0:19:28 > 0:19:31The earliest known example of cloth dyed with shibori technique
0:19:31 > 0:19:33dates from the eighth century.
0:19:33 > 0:19:37Patterns are created by stitching, folding and twisting the cloth
0:19:37 > 0:19:40in different ways, creating different lines.
0:19:40 > 0:19:43Each method is used in harmony with the type of cloth used.
0:19:43 > 0:19:46So, I'm going to go and put this in the dye now.
0:19:46 > 0:19:48- Thank you.- Lovely, brilliant.
0:19:49 > 0:19:51The flowers are removed from the dye
0:19:51 > 0:19:52and the dye bath cooled
0:19:52 > 0:19:54before the material goes in.
0:19:54 > 0:19:56The temperature is slowly raised to
0:19:56 > 0:19:5880 degrees for just under an hour
0:19:58 > 0:20:00before finally removing and rinsing
0:20:00 > 0:20:03the material until the water runs clear.
0:20:03 > 0:20:05Here it is, dyed,
0:20:05 > 0:20:07and now you need to unpick it.
0:20:10 > 0:20:13So, once it's unstitched do you then just lay it out
0:20:13 > 0:20:15- and let it dry naturally?- Yes.
0:20:20 > 0:20:22That's good.
0:20:22 > 0:20:23Yeah, well done.
0:20:23 > 0:20:25Well, thank you very much.
0:20:25 > 0:20:27I really enjoyed it.
0:20:27 > 0:20:28Thank you very much indeed.
0:20:33 > 0:20:36For our second property, we've crossed the border just
0:20:36 > 0:20:40east of Dorset to the Hampshire village of Damerham,
0:20:40 > 0:20:4313 miles from Salisbury and five miles from the New Forest.
0:20:43 > 0:20:46Running along the River Allen, this typically English village
0:20:46 > 0:20:50provides excellent walking, riding and cycling opportunities
0:20:50 > 0:20:52for residents and visitors alike.
0:20:52 > 0:20:56The community is based around the local pub and the village hall
0:20:56 > 0:20:59and it's a five-minute drive to the nearest shops in the
0:20:59 > 0:21:01neighbouring village of Sandleheath.
0:21:01 > 0:21:05Down a country lane and standing proud behind hedged gardens
0:21:05 > 0:21:08is our second property offering.
0:21:08 > 0:21:13Come here and you get a full frontal version of the house.
0:21:13 > 0:21:17- Gosh, yes, it's very imposing. - Impressive.
0:21:17 > 0:21:21So, we're not going contemporary here. This is a much older offering.
0:21:21 > 0:21:24As long as it's got a nice modern inside.
0:21:24 > 0:21:28Architecturally, it's more in sympathy with my feelings.
0:21:28 > 0:21:32Ah, now it's becoming clear. Split taste.
0:21:32 > 0:21:35Well, it is a historic building. This bit is the Georgian part,
0:21:35 > 0:21:39the redder brick. This is an Edwardian extension. And then
0:21:39 > 0:21:42on the other side there's an '80s extension plus a little extra.
0:21:42 > 0:21:44Oh, right.
0:21:44 > 0:21:46- Plus a very special treat added to that.- Oh.
0:21:46 > 0:21:50We've crossed over the border into Hampshire. Is that a problem?
0:21:50 > 0:21:53No, no, it isn't actually because it's not going to any further
0:21:53 > 0:21:55than two hours from our home.
0:21:55 > 0:21:58We're much closer. It's one hour 40 to Beaconsfield from here.
0:21:58 > 0:22:01- Oh, right, well, that's good. - Shall we go in?- Indeed.
0:22:02 > 0:22:05Larger than the first house they viewed, this one occupies
0:22:05 > 0:22:09three floors and, despite being extended over the years, has
0:22:09 > 0:22:11retained many of its traditional features.
0:22:11 > 0:22:13Here's the kitchen and dining room.
0:22:13 > 0:22:16Quite farmhouse feel to it, isn't it? I should imagine
0:22:16 > 0:22:18- that would be very...- Cosy.
0:22:18 > 0:22:22..cosy in the winter, particularly with the wood burner on the go.
0:22:22 > 0:22:25- This is a different offering from the last one.- Yes, definitely.
0:22:25 > 0:22:27Does it match up or does it feel...
0:22:27 > 0:22:31I think I prefer the other kitchen a little bit more than this one.
0:22:31 > 0:22:34The wood, I preferred. You know, the granite and the wood.
0:22:34 > 0:22:38Let's go and look at the rest of the house.
0:22:39 > 0:22:41So this is the orangery.
0:22:41 > 0:22:43- Oh, this is nice and light and airy, isn't it?- Oh.
0:22:43 > 0:22:46- Doesn't get more airy and light than this.- No, it doesn't.
0:22:46 > 0:22:49- No, this is a lovely conservatory. - This is lovely.
0:22:49 > 0:22:53The extra addition made actually in the last ten or 12 years.
0:22:53 > 0:22:56Yes, this is gorgeous. It is, it's lovely.
0:22:56 > 0:22:58Lovely, well constructed. And then this.
0:22:58 > 0:23:00This is the sort of '80s extension
0:23:00 > 0:23:03and the sitting room that goes through into this space here.
0:23:03 > 0:23:05Lovely and warm and light.
0:23:05 > 0:23:07Is it gripping you like the last house or not so much?
0:23:07 > 0:23:11Not quite as much, although I love this room.
0:23:11 > 0:23:14I can imagine spending time in this room.
0:23:14 > 0:23:16OK, so muted feelings.
0:23:16 > 0:23:18Just a little, yes.
0:23:18 > 0:23:19- Let's take a look upstairs.- OK.
0:23:21 > 0:23:25The downstairs of this house flows seamlessly, connecting large
0:23:25 > 0:23:27entertaining rooms with more intimate areas.
0:23:27 > 0:23:31Back through the kitchen, there's a large formal drawing room
0:23:31 > 0:23:33with views to the garden and meadows beyond.
0:23:33 > 0:23:36And the trend continues upstairs.
0:23:36 > 0:23:39- They use this as the master bedroom. - Right.- Ah.
0:23:39 > 0:23:41This one has a very nice en suite, you can see,
0:23:41 > 0:23:45- and a dressing room so you can take your pick.- Indeed.
0:23:45 > 0:23:48- It's a lovely room.- Again, a lovely room.- Nice proportion.
0:23:48 > 0:23:51And here you start to get the views over the fields
0:23:51 > 0:23:53and the horses to the village school.
0:23:53 > 0:23:57Indeed, yes. You can sit in bed and look out.
0:23:57 > 0:23:59Very nice, comfortable room.
0:23:59 > 0:24:02I'm conscious though, John, that we haven't given you a study.
0:24:02 > 0:24:05I'm here, waiting in anticipation, though.
0:24:05 > 0:24:07- Don't wait any longer. - Right.- Follow me.
0:24:09 > 0:24:12There are three further bedrooms on the first floor.
0:24:12 > 0:24:15Two of which have en-suite bathrooms.
0:24:15 > 0:24:18The fifth bedroom is on the second floor, which has been converted
0:24:18 > 0:24:22to a self contained suite - the perfect set up for John.
0:24:22 > 0:24:25This would make a lovely office, I think.
0:24:25 > 0:24:27Yes, indeed.
0:24:27 > 0:24:30Oh, a playroom, a playroom. My kingdom for a playroom.
0:24:30 > 0:24:34- Oh, my goodness. This is spot on, absolutely.- Ah.
0:24:34 > 0:24:35Yes.
0:24:35 > 0:24:38And you've also got a bedroom through there with an en suite.
0:24:38 > 0:24:41So this is a good place for you when you're in the doghouse.
0:24:41 > 0:24:44Indeed it is, and with the facilities there,
0:24:44 > 0:24:46I wouldn't mind being in the doghouse.
0:24:46 > 0:24:50- Few cans of baked beans, you'd be laughing.- Wonderful. Absolutely.
0:24:50 > 0:24:51So this gets a tick from you?
0:24:51 > 0:24:54Oh, absolutely. Yeah, double tick. Double tick.
0:24:54 > 0:24:57- Well, let's look at the garden and see if that pleases you.- Indeed.
0:24:57 > 0:25:01Outside, the property is a double garage, a number of seating
0:25:01 > 0:25:02areas and wide gardens
0:25:02 > 0:25:05backing onto open farmland at the rear.
0:25:05 > 0:25:08So lovely views over the field, although it's not your field.
0:25:08 > 0:25:09- This is your boundary.- Right.
0:25:09 > 0:25:12So a smaller garden but it's still about half an acre.
0:25:12 > 0:25:15- Yes, look, it's...- It's a lovely garden.- Very nice garden.
0:25:15 > 0:25:18Quite manageable, isn't it? We haven't got too much to do.
0:25:18 > 0:25:21So what do you think the price of the property is?
0:25:21 > 0:25:24- It's really difficult. - Oh, my goodness.
0:25:24 > 0:25:27I think this one, probably about 1.1.
0:25:27 > 0:25:29What do you think, John?
0:25:29 > 0:25:32Well, it's certainly a large, imposing property,
0:25:32 > 0:25:35so I think it would be at least 115.
0:25:35 > 0:25:37It's actually on at a shade under 1.1.
0:25:37 > 0:25:40It's on at 1,095,000.
0:25:40 > 0:25:43Right. Well, so that's...that's good.
0:25:43 > 0:25:47OK, so you guys go back in, and I'll see you outside the front door.
0:25:47 > 0:25:51- OK, thank you.- OK. Thank you, Alistair. After you.
0:25:51 > 0:25:55Oh! You see, I love this house, I think it's gorgeous
0:25:55 > 0:25:57but I can also see that it's rather overwhelming.
0:25:57 > 0:25:59There's so much to take in.
0:25:59 > 0:26:02I'm hoping as they wander round, they get more inspired, or
0:26:02 > 0:26:05particularly Sue will get more inspired.
0:26:05 > 0:26:09For £105,000 under their sizeable top budget, this huge extended
0:26:09 > 0:26:13home is a mix of traditional and contemporary, that would give
0:26:13 > 0:26:16John and Sue enough space to accommodate the whole family,
0:26:16 > 0:26:20while offering the perfect hideaway for John and his toys.
0:26:21 > 0:26:24Many of the rooms have a southerly aspect and those countryside views.
0:26:24 > 0:26:26They'd get the village lifestyle
0:26:26 > 0:26:28they wanted and be nearer
0:26:28 > 0:26:30their family in Buckinghamshire.
0:26:30 > 0:26:32I loved the village as we drove in.
0:26:32 > 0:26:35I thought it was a really nice villagey feeling.
0:26:35 > 0:26:39And the house is really imposing. I really like that.
0:26:39 > 0:26:40Ah, this is a nice room.
0:26:40 > 0:26:42Oh, that's beautiful.
0:26:42 > 0:26:44There's so many rooms round the house that
0:26:44 > 0:26:48I really liked, especially the upstairs.
0:26:48 > 0:26:50Oh, this is a lovely room, isn't it?
0:26:50 > 0:26:52My goodness, yes. Absolutely.
0:26:52 > 0:26:55It's gorgeous. Got a bathroom as well.
0:26:55 > 0:26:58I think it's a very exciting property.
0:26:58 > 0:27:00Coming up into my potential playroom, I could
0:27:00 > 0:27:02live for most of the day up here.
0:27:02 > 0:27:03HE LAUGHS
0:27:03 > 0:27:07It is an old building, so one's got to bear in mind there may
0:27:07 > 0:27:10well be some ongoing maintenance work that's required.
0:27:10 > 0:27:13We've got to think, is it a sensible challenge to
0:27:13 > 0:27:14take on at our time of life?
0:27:16 > 0:27:19Whoo, that's a big house. A lot of walking around.
0:27:19 > 0:27:21Yes, indeed.
0:27:21 > 0:27:24OK, so that's your lot for the day. Two down.
0:27:24 > 0:27:27Time to digest and have a rest. Are you ready for that?
0:27:27 > 0:27:30Absolutely. Thank you, Alistair, it's a very interesting property.
0:27:30 > 0:27:31Let's go.
0:27:38 > 0:27:41It's the second day of our search with retirees John and Sue,
0:27:41 > 0:27:45who are looking to leave behind their lives in Beaconsfield,
0:27:45 > 0:27:48Buckinghamshire, to return to Sue's roots by the coast.
0:27:48 > 0:27:52Armed with a hefty £1.2 million, they're hoping that Dorset
0:27:52 > 0:27:54will have the dream property for them.
0:27:54 > 0:27:58Still to come, my mystery house baffles our buyers.
0:27:58 > 0:28:00- You wanted a mystery. This is a mystery.- It is a mystery.
0:28:00 > 0:28:03The mystery is probably, why on Earth has he brought us here?
0:28:03 > 0:28:05Well, that does come to mind.
0:28:05 > 0:28:06THEY LAUGH
0:28:06 > 0:28:09And I find myself treading water.
0:28:09 > 0:28:12- Welcome to an upturned Atlantic. - Oh, it's lovely down here.
0:28:15 > 0:28:17What a day yesterday. Two big budget houses.
0:28:17 > 0:28:19Lots of strong responses.
0:28:19 > 0:28:22I got the impression that Sue was not so sold
0:28:22 > 0:28:25on the second house although, after I showed him that man cave
0:28:25 > 0:28:29at the top, John was definitely gunning for house number two.
0:28:29 > 0:28:32I think one of the problems for Sue was there wasn't really views,
0:28:32 > 0:28:35and she really, really wants views, so for the mystery house,
0:28:35 > 0:28:38oh, my word, we are giving them views.
0:28:38 > 0:28:40But it's going to involve some work.
0:28:40 > 0:28:44What do you think we're going to show you for the mystery house?
0:28:44 > 0:28:47- Have you had any thoughts about that?- I'm hoping it's going to have
0:28:47 > 0:28:50- a really spectacular view...- Mm-hm.
0:28:50 > 0:28:53- ..and a fabulous kitchen to go with it.- Mm-hm.
0:28:53 > 0:28:56- So that would be really, really nice.- Have you seen the...
0:28:56 > 0:28:58That would be the scenario.
0:28:58 > 0:29:00THEY LAUGH
0:29:00 > 0:29:03For our final offering, we're stretching the search area by
0:29:03 > 0:29:07moving further west, to give them the coastal setting they dream of.
0:29:07 > 0:29:10Seven miles south of Weymouth, our mystery property is in Weston,
0:29:10 > 0:29:11on the Isle of Portland.
0:29:13 > 0:29:17Four miles long and just a mile and a half wide, the island sits in the
0:29:17 > 0:29:19English Channel, forming the southern most point
0:29:19 > 0:29:21of the county of Dorset.
0:29:21 > 0:29:24Weston is one of just eight villages on the island.
0:29:24 > 0:29:28The second largest of which is Easton, just a mile down the road.
0:29:28 > 0:29:31Our mystery house is an architect-designed circular property
0:29:31 > 0:29:35positioned high on a cliff, maximising views out to the sea.
0:29:35 > 0:29:38But this stunning setting comes with a compromise.
0:29:38 > 0:29:41The plot around it needs a lot of work.
0:29:41 > 0:29:44Now you are puzzled, aren't you?
0:29:44 > 0:29:45THEY LAUGH
0:29:45 > 0:29:47- Very.- Oh, my goodness, yes.
0:29:47 > 0:29:50- You wanted a mystery. This is a mystery.- It is a mystery.
0:29:50 > 0:29:53The mystery is probably, why on earth has he brought us here?
0:29:53 > 0:29:54Well, that does come to mind.
0:29:54 > 0:29:56THEY LAUGH
0:29:56 > 0:29:59Well, I totally blame the both of you because you wanted views,
0:29:59 > 0:30:02- and you're interested in military history.- Correct.
0:30:02 > 0:30:05Mm-hm! So this, believe it or not,
0:30:05 > 0:30:07is a modern building
0:30:07 > 0:30:10based on a pre-World War I military installation.
0:30:10 > 0:30:11SUE LAUGHS
0:30:11 > 0:30:15Terrific. You know, as we headed up the winding road, I said,
0:30:15 > 0:30:18"I bet it's going to be an old lighthouse or something like that."
0:30:18 > 0:30:20- Lighthouses are so last year. - Absolutely.
0:30:20 > 0:30:24It's all about military installations. So we've come onto the island of Portland.
0:30:24 > 0:30:27- Right.- Not famous for its golf courses.- True.
0:30:27 > 0:30:30You will have to cross the causeway to get to the nearest
0:30:30 > 0:30:34- golf course in Weymouth. But you wanted views.- Yes.
0:30:34 > 0:30:36SUE LAUGHS
0:30:36 > 0:30:39The fortress on this plot was constructed in 1902
0:30:39 > 0:30:42as part of Portland's coastal defence.
0:30:42 > 0:30:46Now an area of archaeological interest, the site was purchased
0:30:46 > 0:30:51by the previous owners in 2007, to build this unique, modern home.
0:30:51 > 0:30:55Despite the building being completed to a high specification, parts
0:30:55 > 0:30:58of the inside still need some finishing and the outside of
0:30:58 > 0:31:00the property is yet to be landscaped.
0:31:00 > 0:31:04But I felt I had to show it to them for one very good reason.
0:31:04 > 0:31:07Oh, goodness me!
0:31:07 > 0:31:10- Do you understand why we brought you here now?- Yes.
0:31:10 > 0:31:12- Isn't that terrific? - That is lovely.
0:31:12 > 0:31:17So the whole house is built around this room, really, and this view.
0:31:17 > 0:31:19I can cook with a view.
0:31:19 > 0:31:21And a modern kitchen with a black marble worktop.
0:31:21 > 0:31:23Definitely modern kitchen, yes.
0:31:23 > 0:31:27You can see basically the whole length of Chesil Beach.
0:31:27 > 0:31:28The causeway across.
0:31:28 > 0:31:32This side, you can see... Well, actually, come over and have a look.
0:31:33 > 0:31:37So you look down there, you can see the top of the lighthouse,
0:31:37 > 0:31:40just on the other side of Portland Bill, and this is the coastal path
0:31:40 > 0:31:43- that goes in front of your property behind this wall.- Stunning.
0:31:43 > 0:31:46Obviously, the challenge for this property is the surroundings.
0:31:46 > 0:31:50- Yes.- Correct. But certainly, I mean, this area here could be decked
0:31:50 > 0:31:53and would make a great barbecue area.
0:31:53 > 0:31:56If it goes all the way round, you'd always be able to find a spot
0:31:56 > 0:31:59- out of the wind, wouldn't you? - Absolutely.
0:31:59 > 0:32:01Beach access is not a possibility, though.
0:32:01 > 0:32:02No, but you'd then have your own pool.
0:32:02 > 0:32:05- Well, Stephen would like it. Rock climbing.- Yes.
0:32:05 > 0:32:07Abseiling down onto the beach.
0:32:07 > 0:32:11- Is that your son?- That's our son, yes.- Yes he's a keen climber.
0:32:11 > 0:32:13- He'd be in his element. - He would.- Yes.
0:32:13 > 0:32:18You are perched right on the side of a cliff, but you are on a
0:32:18 > 0:32:19Portland stone cliff,
0:32:19 > 0:32:23one of the most erosion-resistant stones there is.
0:32:23 > 0:32:25- OK.- Let's go and look at the bedrooms.
0:32:27 > 0:32:30This property would clearly be a huge undertaking, but they
0:32:30 > 0:32:32don't seem put off just yet.
0:32:32 > 0:32:36Hopefully they'll stay open minded when they see the five bedrooms,
0:32:36 > 0:32:38spanning the circumference of the house.
0:32:38 > 0:32:42They're all of a good size but currently lacking in furnishings.
0:32:42 > 0:32:46Luckily, the master bedroom and en suite is almost there.
0:32:46 > 0:32:47It's gorgeous.
0:32:47 > 0:32:50You could lie in bed and look over Portland.
0:32:50 > 0:32:53What a view. Oh, it's lovely. Superb situation, isn't it?
0:32:53 > 0:32:56Not yet decorated, so...
0:32:56 > 0:32:58Here, through here is the en suite.
0:32:58 > 0:33:01Also with a glass window so you can see the view while you're showering.
0:33:01 > 0:33:04- SUE LAUGHS - They have thought of everything.
0:33:04 > 0:33:06You'd have a view and you've got your bubble bath.
0:33:06 > 0:33:08- I mean, what more do you want? - Great.
0:33:08 > 0:33:11And the house is very energy efficient. It kind of basically
0:33:11 > 0:33:14runs itself. It's one of those incredibly green houses.
0:33:14 > 0:33:17Let's have a look outside and then we can talk about price.
0:33:18 > 0:33:22Heading downstairs, there's a bright study with an en-suite bathroom
0:33:22 > 0:33:26that should keep John happy, with plenty of space for his collections.
0:33:26 > 0:33:30The house sits on a sizeable 1.5 acre plot
0:33:30 > 0:33:32and comes with a few added extras.
0:33:32 > 0:33:34This is the whole thing,
0:33:34 > 0:33:37and then over here you've got all these outbuildings,
0:33:37 > 0:33:39so these are the leftovers from the World War I site.
0:33:39 > 0:33:42You've got a big workshop, and then there's actually
0:33:42 > 0:33:45a bungalow where they lived while they were doing it up.
0:33:45 > 0:33:47Obviously you'll need some budget over to do all this work
0:33:47 > 0:33:50outside, so how much do you think the house costs?
0:33:50 > 0:33:54I don't know. I don't know how much this sort of work costs, so
0:33:54 > 0:33:56about £500,000.
0:33:56 > 0:33:58Yes, it is difficult, isn't it?
0:33:58 > 0:34:00I would say at least 600,000.
0:34:00 > 0:34:03Well, it's very difficult to price a property like this.
0:34:03 > 0:34:05I mean, it's kind of unique.
0:34:05 > 0:34:07Though you're both a little on the low side.
0:34:07 > 0:34:09It's actually on the market for 685.
0:34:09 > 0:34:11Oh, goodness, I was way out.
0:34:11 > 0:34:13It is still a considerable chunk of change.
0:34:13 > 0:34:16- Oh, absolutely. - Indeed. That's true, yes.
0:34:16 > 0:34:18But you would have to do a lot outside.
0:34:18 > 0:34:21So why don't you go and have a wander around your domain,
0:34:21 > 0:34:24- and I'll see you out the front. - Indeed.- Thank you.
0:34:24 > 0:34:28For over £500,000 under Sue and John's maximum budget,
0:34:28 > 0:34:32this one of a kind property gives them their number one wish -
0:34:32 > 0:34:34fantastic sea views.
0:34:34 > 0:34:36Once finished, it would have
0:34:36 > 0:34:38the modern interior they're after
0:34:38 > 0:34:40with plenty of bedrooms and a study.
0:34:40 > 0:34:42The outside of the property needs
0:34:42 > 0:34:44some extensive landscaping work
0:34:44 > 0:34:46but with the pot of money left over,
0:34:46 > 0:34:48they could afford to do it justice.
0:34:48 > 0:34:51Whether it's too large a project and too far from their family
0:34:51 > 0:34:53are the only questions.
0:34:53 > 0:34:56As we got nearer and nearer the coast,
0:34:56 > 0:34:59obviously my expectations of a view were...
0:34:59 > 0:35:02I was getting really excited. And it was exciting.
0:35:02 > 0:35:04It was an amazing house.
0:35:04 > 0:35:05Oh, this is nice.
0:35:05 > 0:35:08This would make a really good study for you.
0:35:08 > 0:35:11Oh, yes, plenty of space and very light, isn't it?
0:35:11 > 0:35:13Mm-hm. What's in here?
0:35:13 > 0:35:15Yeah, what have we got hidden there?
0:35:15 > 0:35:18- Oh, another bathroom. - I would have my own loo.
0:35:18 > 0:35:20- You would have, indeed. - And shower, yeah.
0:35:20 > 0:35:23- So, it could be another bedroom actually, couldn't it?- Oh, yes.
0:35:23 > 0:35:26Rather shocked by what we saw.
0:35:26 > 0:35:30Once we walked upstairs and saw the view, truly gobsmacked.
0:35:30 > 0:35:32It was just absolutely amazing.
0:35:32 > 0:35:36Sadly, it's just that little bit too far from the children.
0:35:36 > 0:35:37Too far to come.
0:35:38 > 0:35:41Ah. Away from the view.
0:35:41 > 0:35:44Yes, unfortunately.
0:35:44 > 0:35:47So, all three houses... We've seen all three houses.
0:35:47 > 0:35:49Now, time to find somewhere to mull them over.
0:35:49 > 0:35:51- Indeed.- Yes. Let's do that. - Come over here.
0:35:59 > 0:36:04Dorset is celebrated for its landscape and captivating coastline,
0:36:04 > 0:36:07three quarters of which is a world heritage site.
0:36:07 > 0:36:09But like the rest of the British Isles,
0:36:09 > 0:36:12its seas can be deceptively treacherous.
0:36:12 > 0:36:17Keeping a watchful eye on the welfare of seafarers is the RNLI.
0:36:17 > 0:36:20And it's here in Poole, at the charity's purpose-built college,
0:36:20 > 0:36:22that the thousands of volunteers
0:36:22 > 0:36:26who make up the RNLI's lifeboat crews and lifeguards
0:36:26 > 0:36:28come to receive their training.
0:36:28 > 0:36:30I'm meeting Training Manager Glen Mallon
0:36:30 > 0:36:32to find out more about their work.
0:36:32 > 0:36:34It must be quite exciting for you
0:36:34 > 0:36:36to have all these things around you all the time?
0:36:36 > 0:36:39It is. It's a real privilege to be able to look after this
0:36:39 > 0:36:41and allow us to train our volunteers on some of the best kit in the UK.
0:36:41 > 0:36:43How many boats have you got here in Poole?
0:36:43 > 0:36:46Two lifeboats and we've got a myriad of different vessels,
0:36:46 > 0:36:49from the inshore lifeboats behind us and some training vessels.
0:36:49 > 0:36:50And in terms of the training...
0:36:50 > 0:36:53So, obviously the RNLI is famous for its volunteers.
0:36:53 > 0:36:55..do they come down here and do their training in Poole?
0:36:55 > 0:36:58The reason people come here is that the facilities are second to none.
0:36:58 > 0:37:01We can do things like training on the full bridge mission simulator
0:37:01 > 0:37:03and the sea survival centre.
0:37:03 > 0:37:05Is there anything I can do here that's not too...?
0:37:05 > 0:37:08We've got some surprises for you and I'm sure you'll enjoy them.
0:37:08 > 0:37:11And it might involve you getting a little bit wet.
0:37:11 > 0:37:13I'm up for that. Lead the way.
0:37:13 > 0:37:15The centre opened in 2004
0:37:15 > 0:37:18and has the largest sea survival pool in the UK.
0:37:18 > 0:37:22Capable of creating waves of up to 1.5 metres in height
0:37:22 > 0:37:26and demonstrating various conditions such as thunder, lightning and rain,
0:37:26 > 0:37:30it means volunteers can be trained in sea-survival skills,
0:37:30 > 0:37:32lifeguard tests and capsize drills,
0:37:32 > 0:37:34which is what I'm being taught today.
0:37:34 > 0:37:36So, this is an amazing set up.
0:37:36 > 0:37:39It's like a giant swimming pool, really. So, basically, we're
0:37:39 > 0:37:42learning to right the ship and get going again, is that the idea?
0:37:42 > 0:37:45Yeah, the aim of this isn't to train our volunteers how to capsize,
0:37:45 > 0:37:48cos the aim is to go and do the rescue, but it's to ensure that
0:37:48 > 0:37:51they've got the right skills and the confidence in themselves
0:37:51 > 0:37:54and the kit, should the boat capsize for real during a service.
0:37:54 > 0:37:56That's a pretty good skill to learn.
0:37:56 > 0:37:59It's an essential skill to learn. Unfortunately, these things do happen
0:37:59 > 0:38:02and it's important that those that have had that happen to them
0:38:02 > 0:38:04have said this training has been invaluable.
0:38:04 > 0:38:07They operate around 2,000 capsize drills a year here
0:38:07 > 0:38:11and Glen assures me that the boat we're on has been running
0:38:11 > 0:38:13and capsizing for 14 years.
0:38:15 > 0:38:16OK, then, guys. Helmets on.
0:38:16 > 0:38:20So, after a full briefing, I feel in safe hands.
0:38:35 > 0:38:38With the lifeboat capsized, all crew make their way towards
0:38:38 > 0:38:41the bow of the upturned boat, where there's the most space.
0:38:54 > 0:38:56We then exit one at a time.
0:39:03 > 0:39:06With the team out, we move to the back of the boat
0:39:06 > 0:39:08and swim backwards along the swim line.
0:39:08 > 0:39:11The inflation ring is pulled, activating a cylinder
0:39:11 > 0:39:14which fills an airbag to re-right the boat.
0:39:16 > 0:39:20Since its foundation in 1824, the RNLI has saved more than
0:39:20 > 0:39:22140,000 lives.
0:39:22 > 0:39:26Seeing Glen and the team in action first hand, really highlights
0:39:26 > 0:39:29the importance of the work these volunteers do.
0:39:29 > 0:39:32The drill ends with a series of engine checks
0:39:32 > 0:39:35and it's mission complete from the team and me.
0:39:35 > 0:39:37That was amazing!
0:39:37 > 0:39:40And what was amazing was that, actually, despite it being quite,
0:39:40 > 0:39:43you know, frightening, I felt completely safe and calm
0:39:43 > 0:39:45cos you'd told me everything that was going to happen.
0:39:45 > 0:39:48You did really well, Alistair. I'm impressed. Well done.
0:39:48 > 0:39:50And that demonstrates that, for our volunteers,
0:39:50 > 0:39:53less than one in ten comes from a maritime background.
0:39:53 > 0:39:54This training's vital.
0:39:54 > 0:39:58- Yeah. Well, hopefully I'll never, ever have to use it.- I hope so, too.
0:39:58 > 0:40:00Brilliant though, really brilliant.
0:40:04 > 0:40:06Time to find Sue and John and see
0:40:06 > 0:40:08which houses cut the mustard,
0:40:08 > 0:40:09if any of them do.
0:40:09 > 0:40:13I have to say, I feel that house number two could be a contender
0:40:13 > 0:40:16but I'm often wrong. So, let's find them and see which ones are in.
0:40:20 > 0:40:22We've finished. We're all done.
0:40:22 > 0:40:24Have you enjoyed the week?
0:40:24 > 0:40:26- Very much.- Yes, it's been a wonderful few days.
0:40:26 > 0:40:28More to the point, has it been useful?
0:40:28 > 0:40:31Because obviously you've got someone moving into your house
0:40:31 > 0:40:32in a few weeks.
0:40:32 > 0:40:34Yes, we have. But sadly,
0:40:34 > 0:40:37I don't think we've found our house.
0:40:37 > 0:40:40I think if you put the first house in the second house's
0:40:40 > 0:40:44situation, that would have been great. But we are going to go back
0:40:44 > 0:40:47to Horton and have a look, and look at the village area.
0:40:47 > 0:40:50So, of all the contenders it was the first house
0:40:50 > 0:40:52that took your fancy most?
0:40:52 > 0:40:54Yes, the specification of that house,
0:40:54 > 0:40:57all the rooms and the views from it that we would want.
0:40:57 > 0:41:00A lovely garden, not high maintenance.
0:41:00 > 0:41:04Surprised to have four acres of land tagged on the back.
0:41:04 > 0:41:08But as we said, you know, we could turn it into a local pitch and putt
0:41:08 > 0:41:10and make some money that way.
0:41:10 > 0:41:13But the one factor against it, really, appeared to be
0:41:13 > 0:41:17the lack of being part of a community, a community village.
0:41:17 > 0:41:20So, interesting, the second house dropped off the menu.
0:41:20 > 0:41:23We did really warm to it. A superb property.
0:41:23 > 0:41:26But I think the upkeep with it necessary
0:41:26 > 0:41:29would be something that perhaps we could do without
0:41:29 > 0:41:33at this time of life. It would be a labour of love
0:41:33 > 0:41:35to maintain it in good shape.
0:41:35 > 0:41:39So, have things come into focus? I mean, I know the clock is ticking
0:41:39 > 0:41:41cos you actually need somewhere to live.
0:41:41 > 0:41:44- I think we're going to have to rent, I think...- Right.
0:41:44 > 0:41:46..and then take our time, a bit more time.
0:41:46 > 0:41:48But in terms of what you're actually looking for,
0:41:48 > 0:41:51what's come into focus, it seems that views are very important
0:41:51 > 0:41:53and actually contemporary, modern is important.
0:41:53 > 0:41:55Yes, well, certainly modern inside.
0:41:55 > 0:41:58Well, I'm sorry we didn't manage to pull the jackpot for you.
0:41:58 > 0:42:02But it's been lovely showing you round with a lovely big budget
0:42:02 > 0:42:04and I hope you've enjoyed your time in Dorset?
0:42:04 > 0:42:07- We have, very much. Thank you. - And, yeah, toi, toi, toi.
0:42:07 > 0:42:10Let's hope you find somewhere before they come knocking
0:42:10 > 0:42:12- and demanding the keys! - Yes, thank you.
0:42:17 > 0:42:20Oh, it's so frustrating when we've got a million-pound budget
0:42:20 > 0:42:23and we don't find the house buyers the house that they want.
0:42:23 > 0:42:27But I guess if you've got £1 million to spend then you really
0:42:27 > 0:42:30have a precise idea of what it is that you're looking for.
0:42:30 > 0:42:33Hopefully, though, John and Sue will rent
0:42:33 > 0:42:35and take a leisurely stroll around Dorset,
0:42:35 > 0:42:38and finally find that dream property.
0:42:38 > 0:42:40But you don't have to wait that long.
0:42:40 > 0:42:42No, you can just turn on the TV next time
0:42:42 > 0:42:45and watch more Escape To The Country.
0:42:47 > 0:42:50If you would like to Escape To The Country in Scotland, England,
0:42:50 > 0:42:54Wales, Northern Ireland or even further afield, to the continent,
0:42:54 > 0:42:56and would like our help
0:42:56 > 0:42:58you can apply online at: