0:00:02 > 0:00:04This is one of the finest medieval buildings in the UK,
0:00:04 > 0:00:06and it has strong ties to America.
0:00:06 > 0:00:08Find out how they're connected,
0:00:08 > 0:00:10and, of course, where we are in just a moment.
0:00:29 > 0:00:32Today our house hunting duo are looking for a country pad
0:00:32 > 0:00:36that will bring them closer to family and friends.
0:00:36 > 0:00:39- What a view!- Yeah, the view. - It's lovely!
0:00:39 > 0:00:42And there's a bit of excitement along the way.
0:00:42 > 0:00:44I feel quite emotional.
0:00:44 > 0:00:45THEY LAUGH
0:00:45 > 0:00:47Going to do a dance!
0:00:50 > 0:00:52Today I'm in Gloucestershire,
0:00:52 > 0:00:54and behind me is Gloucester Cathedral,
0:00:54 > 0:00:58celebrated for its fan-vaulted roof and Gothic architecture.
0:00:58 > 0:01:01It's also famed for a choirboy, John Stafford Smith.
0:01:01 > 0:01:05He wrote a well-known drinking song for a London social club.
0:01:05 > 0:01:07For some reason, it gained popularity
0:01:07 > 0:01:08during the American Civil War,
0:01:08 > 0:01:12when it was paired with the lyrics of a patriotic poem
0:01:12 > 0:01:15before being renamed The Star Spangled Banner.
0:01:15 > 0:01:19Adopted as the American national anthem in 1931,
0:01:19 > 0:01:22it's just one of the many stars from this beautiful county.
0:01:24 > 0:01:26Gloucestershire lies to the south-west of England
0:01:26 > 0:01:29and shares its boundaries with seven other counties,
0:01:29 > 0:01:31including Wiltshire and Oxfordshire,
0:01:31 > 0:01:34as well as the Welsh county of Monmouthshire.
0:01:36 > 0:01:38Home to acres of established woodland,
0:01:38 > 0:01:41Gloucestershire was once the hunting ground for Norman kings,
0:01:41 > 0:01:44in particular the leafy depths of the Forest of Dean.
0:01:44 > 0:01:46With some 20 million trees,
0:01:46 > 0:01:51today this forest is celebrated as England's largest oak woodland.
0:01:51 > 0:01:55Countryside accounts for around 90% of the Gloucestershire landscape,
0:01:55 > 0:01:58and over half of the county is designated as an area of
0:01:58 > 0:02:00outstanding natural beauty,
0:02:00 > 0:02:05into which sit perfectly preserved historic villages.
0:02:05 > 0:02:09To the east lie the majority of the Cotswold Hills, a scenic limestone
0:02:09 > 0:02:13spine whose mellow ochre stone defines the local architecture.
0:02:13 > 0:02:16And aside from outstanding villages,
0:02:16 > 0:02:19Tewkesbury in the north of Gloucestershire is a historic town
0:02:19 > 0:02:21with over 200 listed buildings.
0:02:21 > 0:02:24But the main attraction is the cathedral-sized abbey,
0:02:24 > 0:02:26founded back in 1087.
0:02:26 > 0:02:28It's one of the largest and grandest
0:02:28 > 0:02:29parish churches in the country
0:02:29 > 0:02:32that has been a sacred haven to many people
0:02:32 > 0:02:33over countless centuries.
0:02:35 > 0:02:38With so much on offer in this lovely county it will probably
0:02:38 > 0:02:41come as no surprise when I tell you that those wishing to move here
0:02:41 > 0:02:44are going to have to dig a little deeper into their pockets.
0:02:44 > 0:02:48The average price of a detached house here in Gloucestershire is
0:02:48 > 0:02:50£308,000,
0:02:50 > 0:02:5230,000 above the national average.
0:02:52 > 0:02:56And with house prices up 12% on last year, those looking to
0:02:56 > 0:03:00relocate should probably do it sooner rather than later.
0:03:00 > 0:03:03So let's go and meet today's couple and find out what draws them
0:03:03 > 0:03:05to this lovely place.
0:03:05 > 0:03:09It was as an uninvited guest that retired agronomist Rick
0:03:09 > 0:03:12first set eyes on his wife-to-be, Sue.
0:03:12 > 0:03:16We got together when you gate-crashed my party
0:03:16 > 0:03:17when we were...
0:03:17 > 0:03:19- Did you not invite me?- No.
0:03:19 > 0:03:20- Oh. - SUE LAUGHS
0:03:20 > 0:03:24- Oops.- Erm, it... Ooh, when we were 18.
0:03:24 > 0:03:2517 or 18?
0:03:25 > 0:03:29So, basically, after that, you used to carry my books home from school.
0:03:29 > 0:03:31Yeah, absolutely.
0:03:32 > 0:03:35So we've been together now for, ooh, 40-odd years?
0:03:35 > 0:03:37We've been married 44.
0:03:38 > 0:03:41And for the past two decades, Sue and Rick have been based
0:03:41 > 0:03:45in the Yorkshire town of Harrogate, along with their pet dog, Minnie.
0:03:45 > 0:03:48Home is a modern four-bedroomed 1980s property that they
0:03:48 > 0:03:50recently spent two years renovating.
0:03:51 > 0:03:55We live in the Duchy area of Harrogate,
0:03:55 > 0:04:00which is strongly residential, one of the older parts of Harrogate.
0:04:00 > 0:04:02It's getting more and more congested,
0:04:02 > 0:04:05so lots of cars, lots of parking problems.
0:04:05 > 0:04:07Originally we moved up here for a job,
0:04:07 > 0:04:10which, seeing as we're both retired, we're free agents now,
0:04:10 > 0:04:12we can go where we like.
0:04:12 > 0:04:14But the plan is to head south.
0:04:14 > 0:04:19Our daughter has just settled and is running a business in Wales, so we're
0:04:19 > 0:04:25fairly confident that she's going to sort of not be moving around.
0:04:25 > 0:04:27It'll be so nice to be a lot closer.
0:04:27 > 0:04:30Sadly, a family tragedy makes relocating to within close
0:04:30 > 0:04:35proximity of their daughter one of the main drivers for the move.
0:04:35 > 0:04:36We had two children.
0:04:36 > 0:04:39Sadly we lost our son, erm, five years ago,
0:04:39 > 0:04:42so our family now is
0:04:42 > 0:04:46our daughter and her family, which is a lovely little new grandson,
0:04:46 > 0:04:51well, 18 months, Maelo, who is half Welsh,
0:04:51 > 0:04:54- and, erm, yeah, lives a long way away.- Yeah.
0:04:54 > 0:04:57My mother lives on the south coast of Devon,
0:04:57 > 0:05:00which again is about six hours' drive from here,
0:05:00 > 0:05:04so between those two we're clocking way too many miles in the car.
0:05:04 > 0:05:08Yeah, we're keeping the petrol industry afloat, aren't we?
0:05:08 > 0:05:11- Certainly are, even though it's a diesel car.- Yeah.
0:05:13 > 0:05:15As previous residents of Bristol,
0:05:15 > 0:05:18they've chosen Gloucestershire as the right place
0:05:18 > 0:05:21within easy reach of their family as well as old acquaintances.
0:05:21 > 0:05:25But when it comes to the perfect house, they seem flexible.
0:05:25 > 0:05:29We're very capable, if the potential is there...
0:05:29 > 0:05:30Absolutely.
0:05:30 > 0:05:33..to add things to a building to bring it up to the
0:05:33 > 0:05:34- spec that we need.- Yeah.
0:05:34 > 0:05:37I hanker after a cottage but cottages can be dark,
0:05:37 > 0:05:41so a nice, light, airy cottage would be lovely.
0:05:41 > 0:05:45And I'd love a house that's in a garden rather than
0:05:45 > 0:05:47looking down on a garden.
0:05:47 > 0:05:50And they'd love a location that allows them
0:05:50 > 0:05:53to make new friends and indulge in their hobbies -
0:05:53 > 0:05:55as well as find new ones.
0:05:55 > 0:06:00I hope to, erm, join new societies,
0:06:00 > 0:06:02perhaps do a few classes, erm,
0:06:02 > 0:06:05needlework classes perhaps,
0:06:05 > 0:06:07learn how to do things properly at last.
0:06:07 > 0:06:08It's never too late.
0:06:08 > 0:06:10I'm pretty active.
0:06:10 > 0:06:13I play racquetball two or three times a week.
0:06:13 > 0:06:17I do a lot of walking, not just with the dog,
0:06:17 > 0:06:19but distance walking as well.
0:06:19 > 0:06:22I do DIY, erm...
0:06:22 > 0:06:25Sail? Ski?
0:06:25 > 0:06:29Sail, ski, erm, and...
0:06:29 > 0:06:30He's Action Man, really.
0:06:32 > 0:06:34An energetic and positive couple,
0:06:34 > 0:06:37they've already secured a buyer for their Harrogate home,
0:06:37 > 0:06:41and are wholeheartedly welcoming a new chapter in Gloucestershire.
0:06:41 > 0:06:44A lot of people don't like change,
0:06:44 > 0:06:47but I embrace change, I love it.
0:06:47 > 0:06:50Yeah, you're always much more positive about change than I am.
0:06:50 > 0:06:52You're more set in your ways, aren't you?
0:06:52 > 0:06:54I'm more set in my ways, but, erm,
0:06:54 > 0:06:57it's inevitable that we move from here,
0:06:57 > 0:07:01so the sooner we get on with it, the better it'll be.
0:07:01 > 0:07:03This will probably be our last move, erm,
0:07:03 > 0:07:06so we need to make sure that we've got it right.
0:07:09 > 0:07:12Ideally, Rick and Sue are looking to be within an hour and a half of
0:07:12 > 0:07:15their daughter and grandson in Swansea, south-west Wales,
0:07:15 > 0:07:19so we're focusing the house hunt in Gloucestershire's rural villages,
0:07:19 > 0:07:21in the southern portion of the county,
0:07:21 > 0:07:23within easy reach of good road links.
0:07:23 > 0:07:25But to really get to grips
0:07:25 > 0:07:27with what this couple are after in their new home,
0:07:27 > 0:07:29I'm meeting up with them face-to-face
0:07:29 > 0:07:31in their chosen county.
0:07:31 > 0:07:35So what is it about Gloucestershire that appeals to the two of you?
0:07:35 > 0:07:38Oh, it's just beautiful. It's just beautiful.
0:07:38 > 0:07:41The scenery, the rolling hills, the...
0:07:41 > 0:07:43Yeah, it's so pretty.
0:07:43 > 0:07:46- And it's an area that we know quite well too.- Yes.
0:07:46 > 0:07:48Because, er, we came from Bristol
0:07:48 > 0:07:50before we went up to, er, to Yorkshire.
0:07:50 > 0:07:51Old stomping grounds, really.
0:07:51 > 0:07:54Which is always good, isn't it, if you're starting somewhere else,
0:07:54 > 0:07:57- to have those connections there already?- Absolutely.
0:07:57 > 0:07:59- Well, let's talk about the property.- OK.
0:07:59 > 0:08:02When you envisage this property in your mind, what do you see?
0:08:02 > 0:08:06A really welcoming family home, practical for children and dogs,
0:08:06 > 0:08:09nice big kitchen I can spend days in.
0:08:09 > 0:08:13Certainly a study would be essential for you, wouldn't it?
0:08:13 > 0:08:14Yeah, although, I mean,
0:08:14 > 0:08:17- we've never been terribly good with very small rooms, have we?- No.
0:08:17 > 0:08:20And do you have any strong ideas on garden?
0:08:20 > 0:08:24Flat or not on a slope would be great.
0:08:24 > 0:08:28- We don't want enormous, do we, but... - Yes, we don't want a smallholding,
0:08:28 > 0:08:30but, erm, a reasonable sized garden,
0:08:30 > 0:08:33- some play areas for me?- Yes.
0:08:33 > 0:08:36That sounds intriguing, do you want to expand on that?
0:08:36 > 0:08:39- Garage, man-shed, yes.- Yes.
0:08:39 > 0:08:43Is there anything on that list that you feel you could compromise on?
0:08:43 > 0:08:46- I'm sure we could compromise. - Absolutely.
0:08:46 > 0:08:49We've never yet bought a house
0:08:49 > 0:08:52that has fitted our specification, if you like.
0:08:52 > 0:08:56We've always just walked into one and thought, "Oh, yes."
0:08:56 > 0:08:57- "This is it."- "This is it."
0:08:57 > 0:08:59"We'll get that next time."
0:08:59 > 0:09:01That's music to my ears!
0:09:01 > 0:09:03That's absolutely perfect.
0:09:03 > 0:09:05Can you remind me what the budget is for this move?
0:09:05 > 0:09:09- The budget for this move is £650,000.- OK.
0:09:09 > 0:09:11Is there any wiggle room on it?
0:09:11 > 0:09:15If we find the great house, can we push it slightly?
0:09:15 > 0:09:17(We can always squeeze a bit more.)
0:09:17 > 0:09:18(Shh.)
0:09:18 > 0:09:21So have you looked at any properties in the area yet?
0:09:21 > 0:09:24- We haven't looked at all. - So this is quite exciting.
0:09:24 > 0:09:26- This is amazingly exciting. - Absolutely.
0:09:26 > 0:09:28Well, shall we see if we can find you that perfect property?
0:09:28 > 0:09:30- Yes, please.- Yes, come on, then.
0:09:35 > 0:09:37For a budget of £650,000,
0:09:37 > 0:09:41Rick and Sue are after a spacious family home that should have
0:09:41 > 0:09:43a large sociable kitchen-diner, a separate study,
0:09:43 > 0:09:48and a flat, sunny garden with man space, like a garage or shed.
0:09:48 > 0:09:51The location needs to be well connected for easy access
0:09:51 > 0:09:53to their daughter and grandson.
0:09:53 > 0:09:56And although open minded about the property's style,
0:09:56 > 0:09:58they're hoping to find somewhere in a lively,
0:09:58 > 0:10:00pretty village with a few amenities to hand.
0:10:02 > 0:10:05We have a fine selection of Gloucestershire properties to
0:10:05 > 0:10:07serve up, but I'll be keeping the price a hush-hush
0:10:07 > 0:10:10until we've had a good look around first.
0:10:10 > 0:10:13Then to finish up our tour, we're presenting the Mystery House,
0:10:13 > 0:10:16which may not be on the straight and narrow
0:10:16 > 0:10:17in terms of the wish-list,
0:10:17 > 0:10:21but I'll do my level best to get our buyers on-side.
0:10:21 > 0:10:24So how are you finding being grandparents for the first time?
0:10:24 > 0:10:28- Is it wonderful?- It's brilliant, it's such fun, such fun,
0:10:28 > 0:10:32but, erm, being hands-on and being able to take a turn in the rota
0:10:32 > 0:10:35rather than a visitor will be great.
0:10:37 > 0:10:40We're starting our property search in the village of Avening,
0:10:40 > 0:10:44down in the south of the county, which is just under a two-hour drive
0:10:44 > 0:10:47from the Swansea-based side of the family.
0:10:47 > 0:10:50This desirable Cotswold village is chock-full of characterful
0:10:50 > 0:10:53properties in attractive, pale ochre tones,
0:10:53 > 0:10:58and the community provides not one but two public houses.
0:10:58 > 0:11:01Right in the heart of the village down a quiet country lane,
0:11:01 > 0:11:02our first offering is found.
0:11:04 > 0:11:07- This is the first property.- This here?- It is, right in front of us.
0:11:07 > 0:11:10- Looks very pretty.- Looks interesting.
0:11:10 > 0:11:11- Yes.- I think it's got...
0:11:11 > 0:11:14- It looks very promising. - I think it's got some wow factor.
0:11:14 > 0:11:16- Mm.- Yes.- Yes, it's very attractive, charming.
0:11:16 > 0:11:18Very handsome, I think.
0:11:18 > 0:11:21It's Cotswold stone, built in around 1695.
0:11:21 > 0:11:23It's a semidetached property, actually,
0:11:23 > 0:11:26- although you wouldn't know that from looking at it.- No.
0:11:26 > 0:11:29The house itself has got parking, three cars out the front,
0:11:29 > 0:11:32you've got a garage, and at the back of the garage is your man space.
0:11:32 > 0:11:35- Excellent.- You have a workshop. - Excellent.
0:11:35 > 0:11:37It's quite a low workshop but it is a workshop.
0:11:37 > 0:11:39It's all right, I'm not very tall.
0:11:39 > 0:11:43- It is Grade II listed.- Let's hope we don't need to change anything.
0:11:43 > 0:11:45- Yes, absolutely! - Does it draw you in?
0:11:45 > 0:11:47Do you want to go and open that front door?
0:11:47 > 0:11:48- Absolutely.- Oh, yes.
0:11:48 > 0:11:51- Yeah.- Yes.- Come on, let's go and open it then, let's see what's inside.
0:11:53 > 0:11:54With roots in the 17th century,
0:11:54 > 0:11:57this attractive double-fronted property
0:11:57 > 0:11:59is laid out over three floors.
0:11:59 > 0:12:01The interior has a cottage feel,
0:12:01 > 0:12:03which is something Sue quite fancies,
0:12:03 > 0:12:06but it's a real contrast to the modern design of their current home.
0:12:06 > 0:12:09We're starting off in the sitting room.
0:12:09 > 0:12:12First impressions, it's quite small.
0:12:12 > 0:12:14I think the way to view this room is as a family room.
0:12:14 > 0:12:18I mean, the window seat, I think, is beautiful. I love a window seat.
0:12:18 > 0:12:19Yes, the window seat is a good feature.
0:12:19 > 0:12:24It's a room for probably reading in, perhaps a room... A play room.
0:12:24 > 0:12:26It's a second space, really, to use.
0:12:26 > 0:12:28As a second sitting room, it's got possibilities.
0:12:28 > 0:12:31- I'd do something with it. - Work. Definitely work.
0:12:32 > 0:12:36- Well, let's go and take a look at the other main living area.- OK.
0:12:36 > 0:12:39- And just see how the two would work together.- Mm-hm.- OK...
0:12:43 > 0:12:46So this is the second living room. You can see it's much larger.
0:12:46 > 0:12:48It's a great space, so this is
0:12:48 > 0:12:52- the room that the family who live here currently use all the time.- OK.
0:12:52 > 0:12:55It's got that spectacular fireplace with the log burner.
0:12:55 > 0:12:58- Yeah, that's nice.- That's very nice. - It's lovely, isn't it?- Yeah.
0:12:58 > 0:13:01- What are your thoughts? - Sort of feels a little dark.
0:13:01 > 0:13:05I don't know. I think it's the low...low ceilings.
0:13:05 > 0:13:08We've still got a lot more to see.
0:13:08 > 0:13:09- OK.- Come on.
0:13:12 > 0:13:14OK, this is the kitchen. It's lovely and cosy
0:13:14 > 0:13:17thanks to that range cooker over there in the corner.
0:13:17 > 0:13:19Yeah, definitely the range cooker.
0:13:19 > 0:13:22- She's smiling! She's in the kitchen, she's smiling!- Yeah.
0:13:22 > 0:13:26But it's not the big inclusive family space
0:13:26 > 0:13:28that I would be looking for.
0:13:28 > 0:13:31- It's very much a country cottage style, isn't it?- Yes.
0:13:31 > 0:13:34So I mean, it fits in with the room nicely.
0:13:34 > 0:13:35- It's too small.- OK.
0:13:35 > 0:13:40Coming in here, it's made me realise that perhaps a cottage isn't for us.
0:13:40 > 0:13:46Despite the cosy proportions, this is by no means a petite property.
0:13:46 > 0:13:48As well as the two reception rooms we've already seen
0:13:48 > 0:13:50and the kitchen/breakfast room,
0:13:50 > 0:13:52all at the front of the house,
0:13:52 > 0:13:55at the back there's also a garden room along with a large utility,
0:13:55 > 0:13:58which is very handy for storage and white goods.
0:13:58 > 0:14:02'The rest of the accommodation lies on two floors above.'
0:14:02 > 0:14:06The first set of stairs leads to the three first-floor bedrooms,
0:14:06 > 0:14:08the smallest being used as a study
0:14:08 > 0:14:11and then there are two bright double rooms,
0:14:11 > 0:14:14the largest of which has useful built-in storage.
0:14:14 > 0:14:15The bedrooms on this floor
0:14:15 > 0:14:19are all served by a good-sized four-piece family bathroom.
0:14:19 > 0:14:21But we're heading to the second floor
0:14:21 > 0:14:25to find the sleeping quarters we've saved for Sue and Rick.
0:14:25 > 0:14:28- So I'm bringing you right up to the top of the house...- Right.
0:14:28 > 0:14:30- ..to the master bedroom.- OK.
0:14:30 > 0:14:34- This one, I'm sure you'll agree, is very impressive.- Oh, my word!
0:14:34 > 0:14:39How do you feel about having your en-suite part of the bedroom?
0:14:39 > 0:14:41No wall, no door?
0:14:41 > 0:14:42It's a little exhibitionist!
0:14:42 > 0:14:44THEY LAUGH
0:14:44 > 0:14:47Not really my style. How about you?
0:14:47 > 0:14:49I...
0:14:49 > 0:14:51See? He's speechless!
0:14:51 > 0:14:55It's got a lot of character. You really see the bones of this house
0:14:55 > 0:14:57with these beautiful A-frame beams.
0:14:57 > 0:14:59- Fabulous, fabulous roof.- Yeah.
0:14:59 > 0:15:03I'm not sure the intriguing mix of period history and dimensions,
0:15:03 > 0:15:06coupled with some contemporary design features,
0:15:06 > 0:15:08present an appealing combination for our buyers.
0:15:08 > 0:15:11But I'm confident that the garden
0:15:11 > 0:15:13may be more what they're looking for.
0:15:13 > 0:15:16Mainly lawn, there's a large, flat area
0:15:16 > 0:15:19that gently slopes away towards the rear boundary,
0:15:19 > 0:15:22enclosed by dry stonewalling. What's more, there are lovely views
0:15:22 > 0:15:25over the neighbouring fields and countryside.
0:15:26 > 0:15:29So here we are in the garden, and it becomes apparent, doesn't it,
0:15:29 > 0:15:32where the house is semidetached. You can't tell from the front.
0:15:32 > 0:15:36- No, not at all.- It's a good-sized garden.- The garden has potential.
0:15:36 > 0:15:38I'm going to put you two on the spot now.
0:15:38 > 0:15:41How much do you think this property is on the market for?
0:15:41 > 0:15:43I'll have a guess around 500,000.
0:15:43 > 0:15:46I would think somewhere around 475.
0:15:46 > 0:15:50475, OK, well, it is under your budget of £650,000
0:15:50 > 0:15:55but not by that much. It's on the market for £575,000.
0:15:55 > 0:16:00- Wow.- But it's a four-bedroomed house in a lovely part of the country.
0:16:00 > 0:16:03So I know you're not feeling engaged with it particularly at the moment.
0:16:03 > 0:16:06Why don't you go in, have a look around, just explore,
0:16:06 > 0:16:08take your time to look at it again.
0:16:08 > 0:16:11- OK.- OK, off you go, I'll catch up with you soon.
0:16:15 > 0:16:19On the market for £75,000 under Sue and Rick's budget,
0:16:19 > 0:16:22our first home is an historic semidetached property
0:16:22 > 0:16:24that has two separate receptions,
0:16:24 > 0:16:26a kitchen/breakfast room
0:16:26 > 0:16:27and four bedrooms,
0:16:27 > 0:16:30including a glamorous master suite,
0:16:30 > 0:16:32and outside there's a lovely garden
0:16:32 > 0:16:34and workshop, perfect for Rick.
0:16:34 > 0:16:36I thought the house had amazing kerb appeal,
0:16:36 > 0:16:41so pretty and in a lovely location. Beautiful village.
0:16:41 > 0:16:46But for me, sadly, the kerb appeal didn't follow through into the rooms.
0:16:46 > 0:16:50I think we need more space and more rooms that flow.
0:16:50 > 0:16:53We wouldn't write off cottages
0:16:53 > 0:16:56but we probably would write off this particular one.
0:16:59 > 0:17:02- Had a good look around?- Yes. - Has it changed anything?
0:17:02 > 0:17:04- Not a thing.- No?- Not for us.- No.
0:17:04 > 0:17:07- It's a lovely house but it's not really working for you.- Absolutely.
0:17:07 > 0:17:10- Well, just as well we've got plenty more to see.- Excellent.
0:17:10 > 0:17:11Come on, let's go and look.
0:17:18 > 0:17:22Creative Sue is keen to continue pursuing her interest in arts
0:17:22 > 0:17:25and crafts when she moves, so we have arranged for her and Rick
0:17:25 > 0:17:29to visit Stroud, a town once known for its cloth and wool production.
0:17:29 > 0:17:33They're meeting Liz Lippiatt at her town centre studio.
0:17:33 > 0:17:36She's been a silkscreen printer for 30 years and creates her own
0:17:36 > 0:17:38designs, which she sells locally
0:17:38 > 0:17:40as cushions, scarves and clothing.
0:17:42 > 0:17:45- So, welcome to the studio. - Excellent.- Thank you.
0:17:45 > 0:17:49Liz, what are your major influences for your work?
0:17:49 > 0:17:51I live in the countryside,
0:17:51 > 0:17:54so I'm inspired by the great beauty of the countryside around me.
0:17:54 > 0:17:58My favourite design is the hare, the running hare,
0:17:58 > 0:18:01it's full of energy and this design means a lot to me.
0:18:01 > 0:18:04Liz's hare design is hand-printed on Scottish linen,
0:18:04 > 0:18:08but she also creates designs within the very fibres of fabrics too.
0:18:08 > 0:18:11This is my devore fabric.
0:18:11 > 0:18:15Devore is a French word, "devour",
0:18:15 > 0:18:17it's burning away part of the velvet,
0:18:17 > 0:18:20so in order to make devore work,
0:18:20 > 0:18:23you have to use a mixed-fibre cloth
0:18:23 > 0:18:26and this cloth is made of rayon,
0:18:26 > 0:18:31which is made from wood pulp, it's a cellulose fibre, and silk.
0:18:31 > 0:18:35This art form originated in 17th-century France
0:18:35 > 0:18:39and transforming fabric into devore is a long and skilled process.
0:18:39 > 0:18:42It can take Liz as long as three days from start to end product
0:18:42 > 0:18:45but today she is going to show Sue and Rick how to make a design
0:18:45 > 0:18:48on silk velvet in just three hours.
0:18:48 > 0:18:52The first step is to make a stencil cut from iron-on paper.
0:18:52 > 0:18:54I thought we would take
0:18:54 > 0:18:57the leaves I've gathered in the byways this morning,
0:18:57 > 0:19:00so you can trace around the leaves.
0:19:05 > 0:19:08Sue and Rick are using a permanent felt-tip pen
0:19:08 > 0:19:11to trace around the autumn leaves on the iron-on paper, sticky side down.
0:19:13 > 0:19:17That's pretty! Do you want to swap?
0:19:17 > 0:19:19No, I want to see you cut that out!
0:19:19 > 0:19:22They are both cutting out intricate leaf patterns,
0:19:22 > 0:19:24which will be placed on the screen.
0:19:24 > 0:19:27Oh, well, Sue, that looks lovely.
0:19:27 > 0:19:30- Well done.- Thank you. - Really beautiful.
0:19:30 > 0:19:33I think these are so pretty that actually
0:19:33 > 0:19:37- they would look rather good as a floating design.- OK.
0:19:37 > 0:19:41That means we're going to devore the whole of the background
0:19:41 > 0:19:44- and this will be left as the velvet.- Right.
0:19:44 > 0:19:48So the next thing is to iron the sticky paper onto the screen
0:19:48 > 0:19:52so that we can print through and it will stay in place,
0:19:52 > 0:19:55so all we're going to do is dab it on,
0:19:55 > 0:19:58so we just lightly press,
0:19:58 > 0:20:01to stick it in place.
0:20:01 > 0:20:05A bit of couture protection and it's time for the fun bit.
0:20:05 > 0:20:08The screen with Rick's design attached is placed
0:20:08 > 0:20:10on top of a square of white velvet.
0:20:10 > 0:20:14So now I'm going to put the devore paste into the well
0:20:14 > 0:20:16at the edge of the screen.
0:20:16 > 0:20:18The paste is a seaweed gum
0:20:18 > 0:20:21carrying an acid which will eat the rayon fibres in the velvet
0:20:21 > 0:20:24and with every stroke of the squeegee, the paste is pushed
0:20:24 > 0:20:27through the mesh and onto the silk velvet fabric below.
0:20:27 > 0:20:30That's it, stop short and...
0:20:31 > 0:20:32..pull it back.
0:20:38 > 0:20:39- Ah, yeah.- Oh.
0:20:39 > 0:20:42It's a clear paste but you can see where it's printed.
0:20:42 > 0:20:46So the next stage is to bake the devore paste,
0:20:46 > 0:20:50so now we're going to carbonise the fibres,
0:20:50 > 0:20:54so you can see we're slowly toasting,
0:20:54 > 0:20:57carbonising the devore paste...
0:20:59 > 0:21:02..and revealing your pattern.
0:21:02 > 0:21:04The fibres that have come into contact with the paste
0:21:04 > 0:21:07will disintegrate, leaving the transparent silk mesh.
0:21:07 > 0:21:11Now you can see all the fibres just crumbling away.
0:21:11 > 0:21:13Yeah.
0:21:13 > 0:21:18So instead of scratching it, we're going to just wash it, wash it off.
0:21:18 > 0:21:20Do you squeeze it out or not?
0:21:20 > 0:21:23- Yeah, you can do. - It's not too fragile?- No.
0:21:23 > 0:21:25- Da-da!- Lovely!
0:21:25 > 0:21:28So the last stage is the dyeing process,
0:21:28 > 0:21:30so we've got the wet fibres
0:21:30 > 0:21:36and we're going to put it into the dye bath, into the warm dye,
0:21:36 > 0:21:39and keep the whole thing agitated,
0:21:39 > 0:21:44because it's the movement that stops it dyeing it in a patchy way.
0:21:44 > 0:21:46And after 20 minutes of stirring,
0:21:46 > 0:21:50the blue and green dye has penetrated every fibre of the fabric
0:21:50 > 0:21:51and it's ready to take out.
0:21:51 > 0:21:54This is so exciting!
0:21:54 > 0:21:57Think I've got the other one. Yeah.
0:21:57 > 0:22:00A rinse and a squeeze before the fabric's iron-dry,
0:22:00 > 0:22:04which will reveal its true colours.
0:22:04 > 0:22:06- That's like magic, isn't it?- Yeah.
0:22:08 > 0:22:10See what it's... Finished?
0:22:10 > 0:22:13- That's fantastic.- Isn't it lovely?
0:22:14 > 0:22:16- That's gorgeous.- There you go!
0:22:16 > 0:22:18That's lovely, that's so fascinating.
0:22:18 > 0:22:20Thank you very much for showing us that.
0:22:20 > 0:22:22- Yes, thank you very much indeed. - It's a great pleasure,
0:22:22 > 0:22:24- and well done, both of you. - Thank you.- Thank you.
0:22:30 > 0:22:33For our next stop, we're travelling two miles south of Stroud,
0:22:33 > 0:22:34to the village of Amberly,
0:22:34 > 0:22:37about an hour and three quarters by car to Swansea.
0:22:39 > 0:22:42Surrounded by 600 acres of National Trust land,
0:22:42 > 0:22:44Amberly is a particularly peaceful place,
0:22:44 > 0:22:47so much so that cattle roam freely through the village.
0:22:47 > 0:22:50There's a good range of amenities to hand, including a post office,
0:22:50 > 0:22:53convenience store, village church and two pubs,
0:22:53 > 0:22:56one of which is right opposite our next house.
0:22:58 > 0:23:01So, this is the property that I wanted to show you.
0:23:01 > 0:23:03- And you'll see there's a lot going on with the roof lines.- Yes.
0:23:03 > 0:23:05The first part of it, which is here on the right,
0:23:05 > 0:23:08was built in 1731, so it's got a lot of history,
0:23:08 > 0:23:11extended in the '70s and then extended again about ten years ago.
0:23:11 > 0:23:12Looks promising to me.
0:23:12 > 0:23:16Yes, it's not got quite the chocolate box look that the last place had,
0:23:16 > 0:23:17but it's nice and symmetrical
0:23:17 > 0:23:20and lovely stone, so it looks promising.
0:23:20 > 0:23:23I'm putting this theory that you've never actually bought
0:23:23 > 0:23:25- the house you went looking for to the test with this one.- Never.
0:23:25 > 0:23:27Let's go and have a look.
0:23:29 > 0:23:33For this property, we've moved from the 17th to the 18th century,
0:23:33 > 0:23:36so we're giving historic period charm another stab,
0:23:36 > 0:23:40as inside there's an open plan feel that should appeal to our buyers.
0:23:40 > 0:23:42So, here we are,
0:23:42 > 0:23:48and we're straight into this very nice, big, open living space.
0:23:48 > 0:23:51- Lovely.- Yes, you're smiling.- Yes!
0:23:51 > 0:23:52And you haven't even spotted
0:23:52 > 0:23:55- that huge open fireplace around there yet.- OK!
0:23:55 > 0:23:56Very nice. It's lovely.
0:23:56 > 0:23:59What I think is quite interesting about the layout here
0:23:59 > 0:24:01is that as it's been added on,
0:24:01 > 0:24:03there's now a really nice split-level area here,
0:24:03 > 0:24:06which goes up to a secondary area,
0:24:06 > 0:24:09it's got another fireplace and it's used as a dining room at the moment
0:24:09 > 0:24:11but you could use it as another sitting-room.
0:24:11 > 0:24:13- It's sounding very good. - There's also a study up there.
0:24:13 > 0:24:16- Really?- Yes. So what are your thoughts in here?
0:24:16 > 0:24:19- Could you imagine yourselves... - Yes.- ..in something like this?
0:24:19 > 0:24:21- Very happy, yeah.- I think so.
0:24:21 > 0:24:23It's spacious, it's open.
0:24:23 > 0:24:26- You've got double doors opening out onto the garden.- It feels nice.
0:24:26 > 0:24:29Absolutely, there's a view into the garden, which is key.
0:24:29 > 0:24:31- I'm liking it. - That's a really good start.
0:24:31 > 0:24:35- I'm very happy. Shall we go and look at the kitchen?- Yes, please.
0:24:38 > 0:24:43- It's not the big kitchen that you had talked about potentially.- No.
0:24:43 > 0:24:46But I think it has a nice feel to it, it's nice and light.
0:24:46 > 0:24:49It's nice, it's attractive. Clean lines.
0:24:49 > 0:24:51So this is the part that's from 1731, and actually, over
0:24:51 > 0:24:55in the living room is the original deed of covenant of the house,
0:24:55 > 0:24:57which is quite a nice touch, that they still have that.
0:24:57 > 0:25:00So this is the oldest part but I do think there is potential here.
0:25:00 > 0:25:02You've got a fantastic boot room, back doors,
0:25:02 > 0:25:05you don't have to bring the dogs in, straight into the living room,
0:25:05 > 0:25:08you've got plenty of room in there for all your coats, your wellies,
0:25:08 > 0:25:09you'll need it living somewhere like this
0:25:09 > 0:25:12- because you'll be out walking all the time.- Definitely.
0:25:12 > 0:25:16- Now, beyond the kitchen is a fairly big pantry.- Right.
0:25:16 > 0:25:20- And then beyond the pantry is a very big laundry room space.- OK.
0:25:20 > 0:25:23The size of this is slightly disappointing
0:25:23 > 0:25:26but if the house is as nice as the first room,
0:25:26 > 0:25:30and there's potential, that sounds very promising.
0:25:30 > 0:25:31It looks absolutely fine to me.
0:25:31 > 0:25:35It's more with what Sue considers to be the kitchen,
0:25:35 > 0:25:37I'm more interested in what comes out of it.
0:25:37 > 0:25:39You can sit at the breakfast bar, eat the cakes
0:25:39 > 0:25:42- and watch the cows wandering by the window.- Absolutely.- Very nice.
0:25:42 > 0:25:45- That's all right, isn't it? - I could stand that.
0:25:45 > 0:25:47- OK, well, let's take a look upstairs.- OK.
0:25:50 > 0:25:53Sue and Rick are much more enthusiastic about this property
0:25:53 > 0:25:54than the morning's offering,
0:25:54 > 0:25:57so let's hope the momentum keeps going upstairs,
0:25:57 > 0:25:58where there are four bedrooms
0:25:58 > 0:26:01that lie alongside the family bathroom.
0:26:01 > 0:26:04All the three bedrooms are doubles, one with a basin,
0:26:04 > 0:26:06another with built-in wardrobes
0:26:06 > 0:26:08and a third, which is beautifully bright.
0:26:08 > 0:26:10Lastly, another bright room
0:26:10 > 0:26:13overlooking the rear of the property.
0:26:15 > 0:26:18Going to go down a couple of steps,
0:26:18 > 0:26:20into one of the four bedrooms,
0:26:20 > 0:26:23- and this is the master bedroom.- OK.
0:26:23 > 0:26:26- Again, it's in the older part of the house.- Yeah.
0:26:26 > 0:26:28And as you can see, you get...
0:26:28 > 0:26:29Oh, wow, what a view!
0:26:29 > 0:26:33So you can sit in bed with your cup of tea and papers and that's...
0:26:33 > 0:26:35- What a view!- You get the view.
0:26:35 > 0:26:37It's lovely. Where do you keep your clothes?
0:26:37 > 0:26:41The door behind you actually goes up to a sort of secondary smaller room,
0:26:41 > 0:26:45which is kitted out as almost a walk-in wardrobe above this.
0:26:45 > 0:26:49- Really?- Yes.- OK.- And there's also an en-suite just over there.- Right.
0:26:49 > 0:26:51So how would you describe this room?
0:26:51 > 0:26:55Well, it's nice, it's light and airy, and gosh, it's got a view.
0:26:55 > 0:26:57- You're really making me smile, you know.- It's lovely.
0:26:57 > 0:27:00You're making me smile because actually I can touch the ceiling,
0:27:00 > 0:27:02- so this is quite...- Yes.
0:27:02 > 0:27:04- This is quite a little cottagey room.- I had noticed.
0:27:04 > 0:27:07But you're not as conscious of it, are you, this time around?
0:27:07 > 0:27:09- Not at all. - A lot more light coming in.- Yeah.
0:27:09 > 0:27:13- So maybe we shouldn't rule out cottagey living just yet.- We'll see.
0:27:13 > 0:27:15THEY LAUGH
0:27:15 > 0:27:18I'm delighted that it's all going to plan so far inside,
0:27:18 > 0:27:22but there is more to explore outside. Let's see
0:27:22 > 0:27:24if we can deliver there as well.
0:27:24 > 0:27:27An attached single garage lies to one side of the property
0:27:27 > 0:27:30and the garden wraps itself from the other side around to the back
0:27:30 > 0:27:32and features gravelled areas,
0:27:32 > 0:27:35patios with potted plants, as well as a compact lawn.
0:27:36 > 0:27:39Rick, how does the size of the garden strike you?
0:27:39 > 0:27:41It certainly could be a little bit bigger,
0:27:41 > 0:27:44but there was always going to be a compromise somewhere down the line.
0:27:44 > 0:27:46- It could fit the bill.- Yeah.
0:27:46 > 0:27:48What do you think this property is on the market for?
0:27:48 > 0:27:50Right. Go.
0:27:51 > 0:27:56I'm going to go for...620,000.
0:27:56 > 0:28:00Hmm. I think it's probably on budget at 650.
0:28:00 > 0:28:05OK, it was on the market for £595,000 a few months ago...
0:28:05 > 0:28:10- Right.- It's currently on the market for £575,000.
0:28:10 > 0:28:14- How is that?- Interesting. - That's interesting.- Yeah.
0:28:14 > 0:28:17I have a feeling you're not going to need much encouragement to go back
0:28:17 > 0:28:20- and have a good root around. - No!- All right, off you go.
0:28:20 > 0:28:22I'll come and find you in a minute.
0:28:24 > 0:28:30Isn't that strange? This morning it was, "Cottages, low ceilings, no!"
0:28:30 > 0:28:34Suddenly, a different property, a different feel, different area,
0:28:34 > 0:28:35and it's a whole different story.
0:28:38 > 0:28:42A pleasant surprise, under budget by £75,000.
0:28:42 > 0:28:43This charming property
0:28:43 > 0:28:45is an extended detached four-bedroom
0:28:45 > 0:28:48home featuring a master en-suite,
0:28:48 > 0:28:50sizeable open-plan living area,
0:28:50 > 0:28:51two further reception rooms
0:28:51 > 0:28:53and a manageable garden,
0:28:53 > 0:28:55but big enough for the dog,
0:28:55 > 0:28:59and the whole lot lies at the heart of a beautiful Cotswold village.
0:29:00 > 0:29:02- Good size for a study.- Mmm.
0:29:02 > 0:29:04- With a nice view, again, into the garden.- Yes.
0:29:04 > 0:29:06I could easily see myself living here.
0:29:06 > 0:29:11The outside space is probably not as big as I would have liked,
0:29:11 > 0:29:14it's a single garage rather than a double garage,
0:29:14 > 0:29:21so it would require a compromise to move here, but it's a possibility.
0:29:21 > 0:29:23Takes a bit of thinking about.
0:29:23 > 0:29:27It's a house that flows, which was just such a relief,
0:29:27 > 0:29:29but slightly tempered by
0:29:29 > 0:29:32a bit of a disappointment going into the kitchen,
0:29:32 > 0:29:37which although it's very nice, it's not what I would have chosen.
0:29:37 > 0:29:40There are lots of positives about the house that I like,
0:29:40 > 0:29:44but I would want to explore what we could do...
0:29:44 > 0:29:47and I'd be very keen for a second viewing
0:29:47 > 0:29:49if there are a few things we can change.
0:29:49 > 0:29:51I have a very funny feeling
0:29:51 > 0:29:54that cottages might be back on the agenda.
0:29:54 > 0:29:57So I think we may be ending the day on quite a positive note.
0:29:57 > 0:30:00- I think we might.- Yes. I think it has got possibilities.
0:30:00 > 0:30:02I think we deserve a drink.
0:30:02 > 0:30:04And guess what, there's a pub just over there.
0:30:04 > 0:30:06- Shall we go and try it out?- Why not?
0:30:06 > 0:30:09- Perfect.- See what your potential local could be like.
0:30:21 > 0:30:24It's the second day of our house hunting tour around Gloucestershire
0:30:24 > 0:30:28in search of a country escape for Sue and Rick from Harrogate.
0:30:28 > 0:30:32They've got a healthy budget of £650,000 to spend on
0:30:32 > 0:30:34a spacious pad with a great garden.
0:30:34 > 0:30:35Coming up,
0:30:35 > 0:30:39are things going to go downhill when our mystery house is revealed?
0:30:41 > 0:30:43I can see you looking up there.
0:30:43 > 0:30:46- This is...- It's not flat!
0:30:47 > 0:30:50And I'll be getting my adrenaline fix behind the wheel.
0:30:50 > 0:30:51This is fantastic.
0:30:51 > 0:30:55This is the most fun I've had in the morning in a very long time!
0:30:55 > 0:30:56HE LAUGHS
0:31:01 > 0:31:04What would you like me to be taking you off to look at today?
0:31:04 > 0:31:07I'd like...
0:31:07 > 0:31:09a bit more going on outside.
0:31:09 > 0:31:14Storage for all the accumulated...stuff.
0:31:14 > 0:31:18That isn't accumulated stuff, that is essential...
0:31:18 > 0:31:20SUE LAUGHS
0:31:20 > 0:31:24- ..essential tools and materials.- OK.
0:31:24 > 0:31:26- Is this your man space, are we back to that?- Yeah.
0:31:26 > 0:31:30OK, so we'd like a nice, cosy, welcoming family space
0:31:30 > 0:31:33- and some man space.- And some man space.- That's on the list for today.
0:31:33 > 0:31:35- Absolutely.- Great, let's see what we can do.
0:31:38 > 0:31:42With life and activities high on the agenda, for our next property stop
0:31:42 > 0:31:45we're taking our buyers out of Gloucestershire,
0:31:45 > 0:31:48away from the quiet of the Cotswolds landscape and to familiar territory
0:31:48 > 0:31:51in the rural outskirts of Bristol.
0:31:51 > 0:31:54Our destination is the conservation area of Siston Hamlet,
0:31:54 > 0:31:58which has a journey time of an hour and a half to family in Swansea.
0:31:59 > 0:32:03Just over a mile away from Siston, Pucklechurch is the nearest village,
0:32:03 > 0:32:08which has a shop, tearoom, newsagent and a choice of three pubs.
0:32:09 > 0:32:12Back in Siston, the next property we've lined up isn't a cottage
0:32:12 > 0:32:15but it does have rather a noble pedigree.
0:32:15 > 0:32:21- Ooh!- Oh! If we talk about a house having kerb appeal,
0:32:21 > 0:32:25I think it's fair to say that this one has definitely got that.
0:32:25 > 0:32:29It's part of the Grade I listed Tudor mansion, Siston Manor.
0:32:29 > 0:32:32- Grade I?- Yes, Grade I. This has got a Grade II listing.
0:32:32 > 0:32:34This was the gardener's cottage.
0:32:34 > 0:32:37- Goodness me!- Right.
0:32:37 > 0:32:41Lucky gardener! This is the garden here for the property,
0:32:41 > 0:32:43it's all here at the front.
0:32:43 > 0:32:45- Right.- OK.- So it's a good size, it's flat.- Yes.
0:32:45 > 0:32:48- Yeah?- Yeah. I could work with that.
0:32:48 > 0:32:51You also have a separate outbuilding,
0:32:51 > 0:32:53a kind of large, detached old barn.
0:32:53 > 0:32:56It's big, it could be, you know, a garage, storage,
0:32:56 > 0:32:59- so you've got that as well to go outside.- Right, that's good to know.
0:32:59 > 0:33:00That is interesting, yeah.
0:33:00 > 0:33:04- OK, well, we've seen the outside of your castle.- Yes.
0:33:04 > 0:33:06Or your manor! Do you want to see inside?
0:33:06 > 0:33:09- I haven't looked round a castle before!- Come on.
0:33:10 > 0:33:12Constructed with blue lias stone,
0:33:12 > 0:33:15it's thought this handsome property was built in 1830,
0:33:15 > 0:33:20but inside, the accommodation is very much up-to-date and on trend.
0:33:20 > 0:33:25An impressive and original front door takes you into a grand hallway,
0:33:25 > 0:33:28off which is a contemporary downstairs bathroom
0:33:28 > 0:33:30and the smaller of two living rooms.
0:33:30 > 0:33:33We've passed through the room the family that own this house
0:33:33 > 0:33:35refer to as the snug, with its little log burner,
0:33:35 > 0:33:39into this room, which is the main family room, the entertaining space.
0:33:39 > 0:33:42- What are your first thoughts? - This is lovely!
0:33:42 > 0:33:44This is lovely!
0:33:44 > 0:33:50- Ah, yes.- Yeah.- Fabulous windows into the garden.- The window's original.
0:33:50 > 0:33:52It's got the original shutters
0:33:52 > 0:33:55but they work, they're in great working order.
0:33:55 > 0:33:58Oh, wow. And lovely to have two spaces, you know,
0:33:58 > 0:34:01nice to have somewhere away from the telly that you can be
0:34:01 > 0:34:04and then the telly in the snug, perhaps, so it's not dominating.
0:34:04 > 0:34:06Wonderful! I love it.
0:34:06 > 0:34:09I have a feeling that you are going to like the kitchen.
0:34:09 > 0:34:10- Oh, yes!- Come on.
0:34:12 > 0:34:16A second larger hallway lies on the other side of the property,
0:34:16 > 0:34:19with an office in the alcove under the stairs.
0:34:19 > 0:34:21Watch the step down.
0:34:22 > 0:34:24- And here we have...- Ah-ha!
0:34:24 > 0:34:26Oh, this is more like it!
0:34:26 > 0:34:29You said you wanted a big kitchen.
0:34:29 > 0:34:33- Oh, yes! Yes, this is feeling wonderful.- Ticking some boxes?
0:34:33 > 0:34:35- What do you think? - This is a good space.
0:34:35 > 0:34:37Now, then, where can I put the table?
0:34:37 > 0:34:39Yep, exactly there. Yeah, it's lovely.
0:34:39 > 0:34:42It's a really good-sized family room,
0:34:42 > 0:34:46it's a huge dining kitchen, you've got a lot of light coming in
0:34:46 > 0:34:50- from those doors that open onto that sweet little courtyard area.- Yes!
0:34:50 > 0:34:52I bet you want to take a closer look at what's going on
0:34:52 > 0:34:54- down at the cooking end, don't you? - Yes!- Shall we wander down?
0:34:54 > 0:34:57It's got a lovely range.
0:34:57 > 0:35:01What a lovely space. How well done is this?
0:35:01 > 0:35:03It's lovely.
0:35:03 > 0:35:04I feel quite emotional.
0:35:04 > 0:35:06THEY LAUGH
0:35:06 > 0:35:07Going to do a dance.
0:35:08 > 0:35:12- Is it a happy dance?- Yes. - Have you got a tear in your eye?- No.
0:35:12 > 0:35:14Course not.
0:35:14 > 0:35:17- It's super.- Really nice. Really nice space.
0:35:17 > 0:35:19There's more to show you, let's go and check out the bedrooms.
0:35:19 > 0:35:21- OK.- Brilliant.
0:35:23 > 0:35:27You can't ask for a better reaction than one which touches the heart.
0:35:27 > 0:35:31And this fabulous property seems to be doing just that.
0:35:31 > 0:35:33I'm leading Sue and Rick back to the hallway
0:35:33 > 0:35:35and upstairs to explore the first floor.
0:35:35 > 0:35:38There are four bedrooms in total but one of them
0:35:38 > 0:35:41has such high ceilings that the space comfortably fits a
0:35:41 > 0:35:45mezzanine level that creates a fifth sleeping space or study area.
0:35:45 > 0:35:47There's also another roomy, bright double
0:35:47 > 0:35:52and the smallest bedroom features one of the stunning Gothic windows.
0:35:52 > 0:35:55These bedrooms all make use of a smart family shower room
0:35:55 > 0:35:58and that just leaves the room with Rick and Sue's name on it.
0:36:01 > 0:36:05- So this is the room currently used as the master bedroom.- Right.
0:36:05 > 0:36:07It has an en-suite.
0:36:08 > 0:36:09Very nicely finished.
0:36:11 > 0:36:14This is a really good sized walk-in wardrobe that is all railed
0:36:14 > 0:36:16- out for the clothes.- Oh, perfect.
0:36:16 > 0:36:19- There's a lot of wow factor in this house downstairs.- Yes.
0:36:19 > 0:36:20What do you feel about the bedroom?
0:36:20 > 0:36:23We don't have very much in the way of bedroom furniture.
0:36:23 > 0:36:26Virtually none cos we're totally built-in
0:36:26 > 0:36:30so we don't necessarily need big rooms up here.
0:36:30 > 0:36:33There is still one extra room downstairs that I haven't
0:36:33 > 0:36:36- shown you yet that I'm quite keen for you to have a look at.- Right.
0:36:36 > 0:36:39And I also need you to start putting your mind to the price.
0:36:39 > 0:36:43- To how much this house is on the market for.- Yes, I'm worried.
0:36:43 > 0:36:45THEY LAUGH
0:36:45 > 0:36:46My lips are sealed.
0:36:46 > 0:36:49- Let's go and look downstairs again. - OK.
0:36:50 > 0:36:53This property has already delivered way above expectation,
0:36:53 > 0:36:56yet there's more to take in.
0:36:56 > 0:36:59We're weaving our way back down to the ground floor through
0:36:59 > 0:37:02the dining room and out into the last of the reception rooms.
0:37:02 > 0:37:07So I've been saving this room which is a beautiful sunroom.
0:37:07 > 0:37:10It's a fairly recent addition to the property
0:37:10 > 0:37:14and you get the view of the gardens and the fields.
0:37:14 > 0:37:17- It's bright and airy.- It's amazing. - It's got a log burner.
0:37:19 > 0:37:24Ah! I'm speechless. I really am speechless.
0:37:24 > 0:37:27There's a huge laundry room behind me with a second fridge,
0:37:27 > 0:37:29- with washer, dryer, everything. - You're joking!
0:37:29 > 0:37:31Everything's in there, it's a huge space.
0:37:31 > 0:37:34Loads of room for it all.
0:37:34 > 0:37:38This is so well thought through. Just perfect, it's lovely.
0:37:38 > 0:37:41I'm quite intrigued to find out from you both what you think this
0:37:41 > 0:37:44property is on the market for. Sue?
0:37:44 > 0:37:47This has got to be top end of our budget or above.
0:37:47 > 0:37:53- I'm going to go for an optimistic 650.- OK and, Rick, what about you?
0:37:53 > 0:37:55I'd go for 630.
0:37:55 > 0:37:59OK. I'm afraid it's over budget.
0:37:59 > 0:38:04It was on the market earlier this year for £825,000.
0:38:04 > 0:38:09It has been reduced to £695,000.
0:38:09 > 0:38:11You did say to me there was some wiggle room in your budget.
0:38:11 > 0:38:13What do you think of that?
0:38:14 > 0:38:19- Well, I'm not surprised. Yes. - Interesting reduction.- Absolutely.
0:38:19 > 0:38:22We need to think about it, look at the rest
0:38:22 > 0:38:24and I wouldn't rule it out yet.
0:38:24 > 0:38:26Why don't you go and explore the rest of the house.
0:38:26 > 0:38:28I know it sparked an interest in you.
0:38:28 > 0:38:30Go and ponder on the wiggle room.
0:38:30 > 0:38:33- Yes, definitely.- See what you think. I'll catch up with you.
0:38:37 > 0:38:41Jumping over budget by £45,000, this property is an exceptional
0:38:41 > 0:38:43Grade II listed historic home.
0:38:43 > 0:38:45Beautifully renovated it boasts...
0:38:53 > 0:38:57When I walked through the door it was a surprising change from
0:38:57 > 0:39:03a somewhat formidable exterior to a really homely feel inside the house.
0:39:03 > 0:39:07In the garages there is certainly potential.
0:39:07 > 0:39:11At the moment it's a fairly rough area but it's a big space.
0:39:11 > 0:39:16A big, interesting space. And with some work and some imagination...
0:39:17 > 0:39:21..I could certainly turn that into what I need.
0:39:21 > 0:39:25If the location works and Rick's happy with his man space outside,
0:39:25 > 0:39:30I would be very interested in exploring...
0:39:31 > 0:39:34..exploring further and coming back again.
0:39:34 > 0:39:36I can imagine us living here.
0:39:38 > 0:39:44- So, did the inside live up to that very handsome exterior?- Absolutely.
0:39:44 > 0:39:45It's lovely.
0:39:45 > 0:39:48How are you both feeling now that you've had a good look around?
0:39:48 > 0:39:50Optimistic. It's definitely a contender.
0:39:50 > 0:39:53- Yeah.- It's good to see you with a smile on your face, both of you.
0:39:53 > 0:39:55- It's nice to have one. - Let's head off.
0:40:02 > 0:40:05When we started this journey with Rick and Sue to help them
0:40:05 > 0:40:09find their dream home they really gave me a blank canvas to work from.
0:40:09 > 0:40:12However, after yesterday I think they've got a firmer
0:40:12 > 0:40:14idea of what they're looking for than they're letting on.
0:40:14 > 0:40:18But one thing that I do believe is they are open to compromise
0:40:18 > 0:40:21and today's mystery house with its, shall we say
0:40:21 > 0:40:24steep garden, will really put that theory to the test.
0:40:24 > 0:40:27But I do believe if they're willing to be flexible,
0:40:27 > 0:40:30this could prove to be the house that they're looking for.
0:40:34 > 0:40:37For our final property we're heading back into Gloucestershire proper.
0:40:37 > 0:40:41Just north of our houses yesterday to the village of Sheepscombe.
0:40:42 > 0:40:45Sheepscombe is located at the bottom of a steep green valley
0:40:45 > 0:40:47covered in woodland.
0:40:47 > 0:40:52The village is well serviced with a pub, a village hall,
0:40:52 > 0:40:54post office and a church.
0:40:54 > 0:40:57And on the edge of the village is our mystery house.
0:40:59 > 0:41:01So this is what I brought you to see.
0:41:01 > 0:41:06This very charming Cotswold stone cottage dates back to 1880.
0:41:06 > 0:41:09It's been beautifully renovated inside
0:41:09 > 0:41:11and out by its current owners.
0:41:11 > 0:41:14It's stunning to look at. If you notice behind you, it's an annexe.
0:41:14 > 0:41:18It's a one-bedroom annexe with a separate bathroom.
0:41:18 > 0:41:24- Is that interesting?- Yes, it would probably be very useful for visitors.
0:41:24 > 0:41:28We may well be in a position to need one for relatives at some stage.
0:41:28 > 0:41:30- Definitely of interest.- Yeah.
0:41:30 > 0:41:35- I can see you're looking up there. - It's not flat.
0:41:35 > 0:41:38This is the mystery house and it's the mystery house for a reason.
0:41:38 > 0:41:40We have to throw a curveball in there somewhere.
0:41:40 > 0:41:42It isn't flat, as you've noticed.
0:41:42 > 0:41:46It has a stepped garden. Having said that, it's been
0:41:46 > 0:41:48beautifully planned out and designed.
0:41:48 > 0:41:51This all looks delightful. It's really nicely done.
0:41:51 > 0:41:56- But levels worry me at this stage. - See how we go.
0:41:56 > 0:41:59One thing I should also tell you is it comes with an acre of land
0:41:59 > 0:42:01so there is a plot of land just down below there that they
0:42:01 > 0:42:03use for extra parking.
0:42:03 > 0:42:06- They're got a thriving veggie garden already on that.- Interesting.
0:42:06 > 0:42:08- Shall we take a look inside? - Yes, please.- Come on.
0:42:11 > 0:42:14This 19th century stone cottage is semidetached
0:42:14 > 0:42:16and it may not sit on level ground
0:42:16 > 0:42:20but hopefully that won't be a concern once our buyers step inside.
0:42:20 > 0:42:22And we're starting in the kitchen.
0:42:23 > 0:42:25I always feel the kitchen should be the heart of the house
0:42:25 > 0:42:28and it really does feel like this with this one.
0:42:28 > 0:42:30Yes, it does. It's lovely.
0:42:30 > 0:42:33- Very cottage-y, isn't it?- It is but with space.
0:42:33 > 0:42:36It's nice and open. I like it a lot.
0:42:36 > 0:42:39- I could happily spend time here. - Yeah.
0:42:39 > 0:42:41- It's got that cosy feel, hasn't it?- Yep.
0:42:41 > 0:42:44And it flows down nicely into the sitting room,
0:42:44 > 0:42:45which is down here.
0:42:46 > 0:42:53- It's compact but it doesn't feel too close.- Claustrophobic. It's well lit.
0:42:53 > 0:42:55It's a friendly room.
0:42:55 > 0:42:58You can see yourself with your feet up and your book.
0:42:58 > 0:42:59That will be a first.
0:42:59 > 0:43:00THEY LAUGH
0:43:01 > 0:43:03But this isn't the only reception room.
0:43:03 > 0:43:06Back through the kitchen is a beautiful addition to this
0:43:06 > 0:43:07traditional home,
0:43:07 > 0:43:09a garden room attached to the outside of the property.
0:43:09 > 0:43:12Making the most of the original stone walls.
0:43:12 > 0:43:16- It's a lovely room.- Yeah. - Very attractive.
0:43:16 > 0:43:17It's currently used as a dining room.
0:43:17 > 0:43:20I think it's a room you could probably use all year round.
0:43:20 > 0:43:24- Yes.- Cosy in winter.- Yes. - Doors open in summer.
0:43:24 > 0:43:25How are you feeling at this point?
0:43:25 > 0:43:30I'm sensing an interest but I'm not sensing wow from you.
0:43:30 > 0:43:34No, I think it's absolutely charming and the spaces are lovely.
0:43:34 > 0:43:40I'm not 100% convinced there's enough living space for us.
0:43:40 > 0:43:44- But what there is here is lovely. What do you think?- I...
0:43:47 > 0:43:52- I think there might be enough living space.- Do you?- Yeah.- OK.
0:43:52 > 0:43:55Our mystery house seems to be dividing opinions
0:43:55 > 0:43:57between Sue and Rick. But there's still more to see.
0:43:57 > 0:44:01On this floor there's a utility room and a cloakroom.
0:44:01 > 0:44:05As we move upstairs there's a family bathroom with the added
0:44:05 > 0:44:09bonus of a shower and three bedrooms laid out over two floors.
0:44:09 > 0:44:13There's a bright double in the eaves of the second floor, another double
0:44:13 > 0:44:18below it with a striking beamed ceiling and then, there's a master.
0:44:21 > 0:44:22So that lovely, quirky,
0:44:22 > 0:44:26- charming nature of the downstairs is carried on up here.- Very charming.
0:44:26 > 0:44:30- High ceilings. Higher than downstairs.- It is a nice, light room.
0:44:30 > 0:44:33- Nice colours.- It's a lovely room.
0:44:33 > 0:44:36One of the beautiful things about this room is, of course, that view.
0:44:36 > 0:44:39- Lovely.- You get the view because we're on a hill and the hill means
0:44:39 > 0:44:41you've got that sloping garden which
0:44:41 > 0:44:43- I know you were concerned about. - Yes.
0:44:43 > 0:44:45Shall we go and have a really good look at it?
0:44:45 > 0:44:48- Let's take a look at how manageable it may or may not be.- OK.
0:44:48 > 0:44:49I think we'd have to.
0:44:49 > 0:44:53The gardens here may not be flat, but they are stunning.
0:44:53 > 0:44:58Landscaped with paths, steps, terraces and vistas.
0:44:58 > 0:45:01There's also a garage below the annexe which could serve
0:45:01 > 0:45:03well as Rick's man space.
0:45:05 > 0:45:07And here we are at the top of the sloping garden.
0:45:09 > 0:45:13- Look, that's what you get. You get that spectacular view.- Yep.- Wow!
0:45:13 > 0:45:16- It's lovely.- You could while away a few hours up here.
0:45:16 > 0:45:20Wouldn't get anything done. It's too good.
0:45:20 > 0:45:22A tiered garden you can do in chunks
0:45:22 > 0:45:27so from that point of view it will be a lot easier than a long
0:45:27 > 0:45:31sloping field but I think it's too much up and down for me.
0:45:31 > 0:45:33I think it's too much up and down for you.
0:45:33 > 0:45:35I'm going to ask you to take a guess what the
0:45:35 > 0:45:38property's on the market for.
0:45:38 > 0:45:39Stunning location,
0:45:39 > 0:45:42beautiful Cotswold village, views to die for.
0:45:42 > 0:45:48The cottage is on the small side but it has the annexe and the land.
0:45:48 > 0:45:49So I'm going to go for 600,000.
0:45:50 > 0:45:52Rick?
0:45:52 > 0:45:57- I'll go slightly above, 625. - I'm afraid you're both off the mark.
0:45:57 > 0:45:59You did mention the land and because it has that
0:45:59 > 0:46:03- acre of land in this part of the country it's over budget.- Really?
0:46:03 > 0:46:09- It's on the market at £675,000 and it's not been on that long.- No.
0:46:09 > 0:46:12- Does that surprise you? - It does. Yes, it does.
0:46:12 > 0:46:16Go off and have a look, explore and I'll come
0:46:16 > 0:46:20- and meet you in a little while. - OK.
0:46:26 > 0:46:29This gorgeous cottage is on the market £25,000 over Sue
0:46:29 > 0:46:31and Rick's agreed budget.
0:46:31 > 0:46:34But there is the option of selling the extra acre of land to
0:46:34 > 0:46:35reduce costs.
0:46:35 > 0:46:37It's got the welcoming feel they were after
0:46:37 > 0:46:40and a lovely, sociable kitchen.
0:46:40 > 0:46:42The annexe brings the bedrooms to four,
0:46:42 > 0:46:45meaning space to accommodate family and friends.
0:46:45 > 0:46:50And although the garden may not be flat, there's plenty of it.
0:46:50 > 0:46:51Mind your head.
0:46:51 > 0:46:53- Oh! This is above the garage.- Yeah.
0:46:53 > 0:46:58- So you got the bedroom and you've got the...- Little en-suite.
0:46:58 > 0:47:01- Little en-suite.- Charming. - It is. Lovely.
0:47:01 > 0:47:05The mystery house has been quite a revelation
0:47:05 > 0:47:08because the house is very charming.
0:47:08 > 0:47:12I don't feel it's quite large enough for dimensions for us
0:47:12 > 0:47:13to make it work.
0:47:13 > 0:47:18The garden is just wonderful but on so many terraces,
0:47:18 > 0:47:22so many steps I couldn't contemplate getting old here.
0:47:22 > 0:47:26When I first saw the mystery house I thought, "Levels.
0:47:26 > 0:47:32"Steep stairs. This is going to be very difficult for Sue."
0:47:32 > 0:47:35I hoped not to like the house.
0:47:35 > 0:47:38I love the house but I'm quite glad it's too small
0:47:38 > 0:47:39because I would struggle.
0:47:42 > 0:47:46- It's very cute in there.- It's great for Hobbits.- Great for Hobbits.
0:47:48 > 0:47:50That was the last house I had to show you.
0:47:50 > 0:47:52The mystery house ends the search.
0:47:52 > 0:47:55I think it's time we went and had a drink, have a
0:47:55 > 0:47:58chat and see what you're feeling about everything.
0:47:58 > 0:47:59- BOTH: Sounds good.- Come on.
0:48:07 > 0:48:10Gloucestershire is bursting with beautiful scenery.
0:48:10 > 0:48:13And in the southeast of the country is the Cotswold Water Park.
0:48:13 > 0:48:16A peaceful, 40 square-mile area of countryside
0:48:16 > 0:48:20with 150 lakes it's a wildlife haven.
0:48:20 > 0:48:24But in one corner of it is a less tranquil 20 acres which is
0:48:24 > 0:48:28home to an exciting adrenaline sport - rally driving.
0:48:29 > 0:48:32Like in motor racing, rally drivers aim to go faster than their
0:48:32 > 0:48:36opponents, but unlike motor racing which mainly takes place on a tarmac
0:48:36 > 0:48:42circuit, rallying can happen on any surface, gravel, forests, even snow.
0:48:42 > 0:48:44I've cove to meet Andy Gwynne who has owned this rally school
0:48:44 > 0:48:46for 20 years.
0:48:46 > 0:48:49- Hi, Andy.- You all right? - Nice to meet you.- And you.
0:48:49 > 0:48:52I know I'm in the hands of a seasoned pro today
0:48:52 > 0:48:54so tell me about your rallying experiences.
0:48:54 > 0:48:58As a kid with the family going out and watched rallies, just really
0:48:58 > 0:49:03admiring the drivers from all over the world and wanting to be like it.
0:49:03 > 0:49:06I think everyone likes that sort of sport, really.
0:49:06 > 0:49:10- So you were lured by the excitement of it all, were you?- Very much so.
0:49:10 > 0:49:14It strikes me that rallying is quite an accessible form of motorsport.
0:49:14 > 0:49:18- It's not that hard to have a go. - No, I mean, there's the likes of us.
0:49:18 > 0:49:21A good few centres over the country that you can go
0:49:21 > 0:49:25and buy an experience and come and drive a rally car
0:49:25 > 0:49:29so it does tend to lead onto other people wanting to go a little
0:49:29 > 0:49:31bit further with it, which is quite nice.
0:49:31 > 0:49:33What are you going to teach me today, Andy?
0:49:33 > 0:49:37Just the starting basics of driving a rally car.
0:49:37 > 0:49:40The balance, how you position the car in the corner.
0:49:40 > 0:49:43Just how you make the car slide around
0:49:43 > 0:49:45- in your favour, basically. - Can't wait.
0:49:47 > 0:49:50Rally driving dates back to 1894 in France
0:49:50 > 0:49:53when an event took place between two cities.
0:49:53 > 0:49:56The vehicles were horseless carriages.
0:49:56 > 0:50:00Today, rally cars are modified road vehicles with adapted engines and
0:50:00 > 0:50:05gear boxes and tens of thousands of pounds could be spent doing them up.
0:50:05 > 0:50:08The car we're driving today is Andy's Citroen C2 with
0:50:08 > 0:50:10around £6,000-worth of additions.
0:50:12 > 0:50:13One of these.
0:50:16 > 0:50:20Safety is paramount and every rally car has safety modifications too,
0:50:20 > 0:50:24like a roll cage and fire extinguisher system.
0:50:24 > 0:50:27And unlike in motor racing, in rallying you always have a
0:50:27 > 0:50:30co-driver who's there to navigate and keep track of time.
0:50:30 > 0:50:33I'm not sure how much use I'll be but here we go.
0:50:33 > 0:50:37And right on cue the heavens have opened, it's raining.
0:50:37 > 0:50:40What's that going to do to this surface?
0:50:40 > 0:50:42- Less grip, really. - Just a little less grip.
0:50:42 > 0:50:45So, come on, talk me through it.
0:50:45 > 0:50:51OK. Turn into the corner. Off the gas, that makes the car turn in.
0:50:51 > 0:50:55- Off the gas again. Back on the gas to straighten the car out.- OK.
0:50:55 > 0:50:58Andy's showing me a move called the Scandinavian Flick, which
0:50:58 > 0:51:03allows the car to turn at speed, slingshotting it around the corner.
0:51:03 > 0:51:08This is what the flick's all about. One way, then the other.
0:51:08 > 0:51:13Back on the gas, straightens up. Back off the gas, there it goes.
0:51:13 > 0:51:17You can literally feel the car sliding through.
0:51:17 > 0:51:19It is a balance thing.
0:51:20 > 0:51:23'The handbrake is used extensively in rallying,
0:51:23 > 0:51:26'which makes the car slide and change direction at speed.'
0:51:26 > 0:51:29This kind of driving is strictly not for public roads
0:51:29 > 0:51:32and should only happen under the supervision of an expert.
0:51:35 > 0:51:37Using the handbrake.
0:51:37 > 0:51:39Good handbrake.
0:51:39 > 0:51:42Do you think having a go at a course like this can actually
0:51:42 > 0:51:44make your on-road driving better?
0:51:44 > 0:51:49It does teach you how easy it is to lose control of a car.
0:51:49 > 0:51:52It's a great pendulum effect as you feel the back of the car
0:51:52 > 0:51:54swinging around.
0:51:54 > 0:51:58Just like walking the tightrope, you've got to balance the weight.
0:51:58 > 0:52:01Feel the car going one way, you lean the other a little.
0:52:01 > 0:52:04- Off the gas, into the corner. - Off the gas.
0:52:04 > 0:52:09- And as you hit the corner, back on the gas to power through.- That's it.
0:52:09 > 0:52:12It sounds perfect in theory. What can go wrong?
0:52:13 > 0:52:15Well, I'm about to find out.
0:52:15 > 0:52:18Andy's putting his trust in me and allowing me to take the wheel.
0:52:18 > 0:52:22Oh, wow! Andy, that was fantastic.
0:52:22 > 0:52:25I can't wait to have a go, I have to say.
0:52:25 > 0:52:29- So what first, Andy? - OK, into second. That's it.
0:52:29 > 0:52:33- This is just a steady lap.- Getting you to know where we're going.
0:52:34 > 0:52:40Lean to the right. That's it. Hit the gas. That's the lift off.
0:52:40 > 0:52:44I could feel the lift. Did you do that or did I do that?
0:52:44 > 0:52:46To the right again.
0:52:48 > 0:52:50Gas, that's it.
0:52:50 > 0:52:53That's where you have to predict where to get on the gas.
0:52:55 > 0:53:00Right, right, right. That's the one.
0:53:00 > 0:53:04This car might be worth under £10,000 but some rally cars can be
0:53:04 > 0:53:06worth up to half a million pounds,
0:53:06 > 0:53:10- or even more.- A bit more, bit more, bit more.- Am I being too gentle?
0:53:10 > 0:53:11Whoo!
0:53:11 > 0:53:12THEY LAUGH
0:53:15 > 0:53:17Little bit of gas, little bit of gas.
0:53:19 > 0:53:20Ease off.
0:53:21 > 0:53:25- Gas, that's good.- Really nice. That felt really good.
0:53:25 > 0:53:27I could really feel the slide.
0:53:27 > 0:53:29I bet I'm going really slowly, aren't I?
0:53:29 > 0:53:33- No, you're doing really well. - I feel like I'm going 15mph.
0:53:34 > 0:53:37It might feel like 15 but I'm actually reaching a slightly
0:53:37 > 0:53:38more impressive 50mph.
0:53:40 > 0:53:42- Whoa!- You got it.
0:53:45 > 0:53:46This is fantastic.
0:53:46 > 0:53:50This is the most fun I've had in the morning in a very long time.
0:53:51 > 0:53:54Back to the pits and sadly, the fun's over.
0:53:54 > 0:53:58- Andy, thank you. That was so much fun.- Good.
0:53:58 > 0:54:01I'm really sorry about the state of your car.
0:54:01 > 0:54:04Who would have thought that in the middle of the peaceful
0:54:04 > 0:54:07Cotswolds you could have so much high octane fun.
0:54:07 > 0:54:08It's brilliant.
0:54:10 > 0:54:12Rick and Sue have seen all the properties that
0:54:12 > 0:54:15I had to show them and there's been some mixed emotions so I'm looking
0:54:15 > 0:54:17forward to hearing their thoughts
0:54:17 > 0:54:20and finding out what their next move is.
0:54:27 > 0:54:29Well, you two, when we started off looking at properties you
0:54:29 > 0:54:31were very flexible, very laid-back.
0:54:31 > 0:54:34I'm wondering what you might have learned from the last
0:54:34 > 0:54:35couple of days.
0:54:35 > 0:54:38It's been fascinating looking at different styles of property,
0:54:38 > 0:54:40hasn't it?
0:54:40 > 0:54:42I've noticed a real difference between the two of you
0:54:42 > 0:54:44and your attitudes towards this move.
0:54:44 > 0:54:48I have a real sense that Sue, you still want, actually,
0:54:48 > 0:54:52the big family house with the big rooms and you can envisage
0:54:52 > 0:54:55packing it with all your family on their special occasions.
0:54:55 > 0:54:59Yet, Rick, I sense that you would be happy to downsize.
0:54:59 > 0:55:01To perhaps go to a smaller cottage if it worked for you
0:55:01 > 0:55:03and it was in the right location.
0:55:03 > 0:55:05I think that's right.
0:55:05 > 0:55:07- Yeah.- Yes, I think it probably is.
0:55:07 > 0:55:10So is there a what next with any of the properties you've seen?
0:55:10 > 0:55:14I think we'd be interested in going back to the castle.
0:55:14 > 0:55:18- I think we would. - Definitely like another look at that.
0:55:18 > 0:55:22It's quite curious to me that your favourite house is the house that
0:55:22 > 0:55:26isn't in the chocolate box village and it's by far the largest house.
0:55:26 > 0:55:31The house really took our breath away, mine.
0:55:31 > 0:55:35So, yes, it's a tricky one. It's got to be able to work, I think.
0:55:35 > 0:55:39The mystery house was lovely and not taking into account
0:55:39 > 0:55:44the size of the rooms, the garden was just not doable for us.
0:55:44 > 0:55:47How are you both feeling at this point, going forward?
0:55:47 > 0:55:49I'm very excited by the whole prospect.
0:55:49 > 0:55:52It's been great to look at properties in the area
0:55:52 > 0:55:55and it's concentrated the area for me.
0:55:55 > 0:55:59I sort of also know the corridor we're looking in gets ever so hilly.
0:55:59 > 0:56:03A lot more hilly than I realised in places.
0:56:03 > 0:56:04So looking at the surrounding
0:56:04 > 0:56:06countryside around here has been brilliant.
0:56:06 > 0:56:08It has been really, so useful.
0:56:08 > 0:56:10I'm really excited for the two of you.
0:56:10 > 0:56:13I think it's fantastic that we've found one property that has
0:56:13 > 0:56:14sparked such an interest in you.
0:56:14 > 0:56:17It seems like you've learned quite a lot about the journey
0:56:17 > 0:56:19that you're going on.
0:56:19 > 0:56:21And we do wish you all the best.
0:56:21 > 0:56:24We hope it goes really well and you find that dream home
0:56:24 > 0:56:26- so you can be closer to Sarah and Maelo.- Thank you.
0:56:26 > 0:56:28- It's been wonderful. - Thanks very much.
0:56:28 > 0:56:30It's been great. Thank you very much.
0:56:33 > 0:56:35It's quite a hard search to sum up because while
0:56:35 > 0:56:37Sue and Rick have found a property
0:56:37 > 0:56:40and an area they want to explore more, I don't think they've found
0:56:40 > 0:56:44the dream home that's going to allow them to move closer to their family.
0:56:44 > 0:56:47But I do think the experience has made them focus more on exactly
0:56:47 > 0:56:51what it is they want and what they're willing to compromise on.
0:56:51 > 0:56:54Both of which can only be great things for their move.
0:56:54 > 0:56:57I'll see you next time on Escape To The Country.
0:56:59 > 0:57:02Sue and Rick decided the castle house wasn't situated close
0:57:02 > 0:57:04enough to local amenities
0:57:04 > 0:57:07but the great news is they had an offer accepted on a
0:57:07 > 0:57:10five-bedroom property not far away and have already moved in.
0:57:10 > 0:57:12If you would like to escape to
0:57:12 > 0:57:15the country in Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales or England
0:57:15 > 0:57:18and would like our help, please apply online at: