0:00:02 > 0:00:04At first glance, it's hard to believe this
0:00:04 > 0:00:07picture-perfect village, with all these thatched cottages,
0:00:07 > 0:00:10was built just a couple of centuries ago when a whole community
0:00:10 > 0:00:12was uprooted and moved here.
0:00:12 > 0:00:14Find out why and where I am in just a moment.
0:00:31 > 0:00:35Today's property search is all about having the right outlook.
0:00:35 > 0:00:37That's what this house is about.
0:00:37 > 0:00:39Yes. That picture.
0:00:39 > 0:00:41We asked for a sea view and we didn't think you would find it,
0:00:41 > 0:00:43but how you did it, I don't know.
0:00:43 > 0:00:46But will we be able to find our home hunters
0:00:46 > 0:00:49the dream location for a country retirement?
0:00:49 > 0:00:51I feel quite emotional about it.
0:00:51 > 0:00:54It's really, really fabulous.
0:00:54 > 0:00:55It's a great start.
0:00:56 > 0:01:01Today I'm in Dorset and this is the village of Milton Abbas.
0:01:01 > 0:01:04It was built in the 1770s by the Earl of Dorchester,
0:01:04 > 0:01:07who brought on board the famous landscape designer
0:01:07 > 0:01:11Lancelot "Capability" Brown and architect Sir William Chambers.
0:01:11 > 0:01:14But this was no great philanthropic mission.
0:01:14 > 0:01:19The Earl actually moved the village here from its original spot nearby
0:01:19 > 0:01:22because it was spoiling the view from his newly built mansion,
0:01:22 > 0:01:26so he completely demolished it and created this village here
0:01:26 > 0:01:28over the hill and out of sight.
0:01:28 > 0:01:32That said, the end result certainly possesses that authentic
0:01:32 > 0:01:36Dorset character that you will find in many places across the county.
0:01:37 > 0:01:41Dorset is found on the south coast of England and is bordered
0:01:41 > 0:01:44by Hampshire to the east, Wiltshire to the north
0:01:44 > 0:01:47and Somerset and Devon to the west.
0:01:47 > 0:01:51Its 95 miles of coastline offer striking geological features
0:01:51 > 0:01:54such as Durdle Door, a natural limestone arch,
0:01:54 > 0:01:57thought to be named from the old English word, thirl,
0:01:57 > 0:02:00meaning to pierce or bore.
0:02:00 > 0:02:04Man-made coastal landmarks include the Cobb at Lyme Regis,
0:02:04 > 0:02:10a curved stone pier which has formed a harbour since at least 1313.
0:02:10 > 0:02:14Close to the town of Bridport, a near-conical sandstone hill
0:02:14 > 0:02:18is eye-catchingly topped by a smattering of pine trees.
0:02:18 > 0:02:21Indeed, hills are very much a feature of the landscape here,
0:02:21 > 0:02:26where fertile pastures have made an ideal sheep farming location,
0:02:26 > 0:02:29providing trade in both wool and meat.
0:02:29 > 0:02:32Dorset is also rich in ecclesiastical buildings,
0:02:32 > 0:02:36although its religious history is rather more turbulent
0:02:36 > 0:02:39than the serenity of the resultant architecture.
0:02:39 > 0:02:41The village of Chideock was once known for
0:02:41 > 0:02:44clandestine Catholic worship after the Civil War.
0:02:44 > 0:02:47In the late 16th century, four local Catholics,
0:02:47 > 0:02:49now known as the Chideock Martyrs,
0:02:49 > 0:02:53were tried in the village and consequently executed in the county.
0:02:53 > 0:02:57The Weld Memorial Chapel is an important landmark in the story
0:02:57 > 0:02:59of Catholic emancipation.
0:02:59 > 0:03:03So whether it's picture-postcard towns and villages,
0:03:03 > 0:03:07wild coastlines or local history, Dorset really does offer
0:03:07 > 0:03:11a great choice for those seeking a country escape.
0:03:11 > 0:03:15All of this beauty and history does of course come at a price.
0:03:15 > 0:03:21The average cost of a detached home here in Dorset is around ?321,000 -
0:03:21 > 0:03:24that's about 55,000 above the national figure.
0:03:24 > 0:03:27That does include the super-expensive Sandbanks
0:03:27 > 0:03:31near Poole, where price tags are routinely in their millions.
0:03:31 > 0:03:35As a general rule of thumb, if you move away from coastal hotspots,
0:03:35 > 0:03:37your money will go that little bit further,
0:03:37 > 0:03:40especially if you move towards the north of the county.
0:03:40 > 0:03:44So which part of Dorset are today's buyers inspired to move to?
0:03:44 > 0:03:46Let's meet them and find out.
0:03:47 > 0:03:50Life has been an adventure for Diana and Jonathan,
0:03:50 > 0:03:52from Burgess Hill, Sussex,
0:03:52 > 0:03:56since they first got together over three decades ago.
0:03:56 > 0:04:01We met when Jonathan was in the police force
0:04:01 > 0:04:03and I was a stewardess.
0:04:03 > 0:04:06After knowing each other for ten days, we decided to get married
0:04:06 > 0:04:08and that was 33 years ago.
0:04:08 > 0:04:10Yes.
0:04:10 > 0:04:15I think excitement sums up our relationship and our life together.
0:04:15 > 0:04:19We are quite impulsive, very impulsive.
0:04:19 > 0:04:22As well as packing in plenty of round-the-world travel,
0:04:22 > 0:04:26Diana and Jonathan also had two sons.
0:04:26 > 0:04:29Now the couple are in their mid-60s and their kids have moved away
0:04:29 > 0:04:31to have families of their own.
0:04:31 > 0:04:33But life hasn't stopped with retirement,
0:04:33 > 0:04:36particularly for former police officer Jonathan
0:04:36 > 0:04:38who has become a published author.
0:04:38 > 0:04:42My writing, I started about five years ago.
0:04:42 > 0:04:46Crime thriller, based using my experience.
0:04:46 > 0:04:49I'm on my third book at the moment.
0:04:49 > 0:04:51But that's not all Diana and Jonathan are seeking -
0:04:51 > 0:04:55they're also looking for more new experiences and want to move away
0:04:55 > 0:04:59from their hometown of 23 years to start a new life
0:04:59 > 0:05:02in more rural surroundings.
0:05:02 > 0:05:05We are enclosed on the edge of an estate
0:05:05 > 0:05:09with a main road 50 yards away.
0:05:09 > 0:05:13There is a constant noise, a constant traffic jam,
0:05:13 > 0:05:15there is building going on.
0:05:15 > 0:05:19Every day, there is someone nearby drilling,
0:05:19 > 0:05:22cutting down a tree or hedge-cutting.
0:05:22 > 0:05:26We would like somewhere that had just that little bit of extra space,
0:05:26 > 0:05:29a little bit quieter, a little bit more of a view.
0:05:29 > 0:05:34And there's one part of the country in particular that is calling them.
0:05:34 > 0:05:37An area that we really do like and we have visited
0:05:37 > 0:05:41and travelled through quite a bit is west Dorset.
0:05:41 > 0:05:44I think it's a very pretty area,
0:05:44 > 0:05:45it's got fascinating history,
0:05:45 > 0:05:48the coastline is quite dramatic.
0:05:48 > 0:05:51Even during the summer, out on the headlands,
0:05:51 > 0:05:53it's got that little bit of wildness about it.
0:05:53 > 0:05:58What is drawing me to west Dorset is the relaxed pace of life.
0:05:58 > 0:05:59I like the scenery,
0:05:59 > 0:06:02I like the fact that the sea is there.
0:06:02 > 0:06:06I think there's a lot of energy going on there - it's becoming
0:06:06 > 0:06:10an interesting, lively place as well as a peaceful place.
0:06:10 > 0:06:12I feel quite at home in that area,
0:06:12 > 0:06:14I think I could settle down there.
0:06:15 > 0:06:19Of course, settling down for this energetic duo doesn't really mean
0:06:19 > 0:06:20putting their feet up.
0:06:21 > 0:06:23I want to take up sailing,
0:06:23 > 0:06:27maybe get a small boat to go up and down rivers or that type of thing.
0:06:27 > 0:06:29I want to meet new people.
0:06:29 > 0:06:31Perhaps running a sewing group there.
0:06:31 > 0:06:34I think we'll turn out to be very busy.
0:06:34 > 0:06:36I think so too.
0:06:36 > 0:06:40Although the move means leaving behind the location of many happy
0:06:40 > 0:06:45memories, they know there are plenty of new ones to look forward to.
0:06:45 > 0:06:49It will be sad because we have been happy and we've got lots of friends,
0:06:49 > 0:06:52but they'll have to come and visit us.
0:06:56 > 0:06:59Diana and Jonathan want to concentrate their search
0:06:59 > 0:07:03in the south-west of the county, close to the coast between Bridport
0:07:03 > 0:07:05and the Devon border.
0:07:05 > 0:07:07But before we start our house hunt,
0:07:07 > 0:07:10I want to know more about the type of home they are hoping to find.
0:07:11 > 0:07:14Diana and Jonathan, welcome to Dorset.
0:07:14 > 0:07:15Thank you very much. Thank you.
0:07:15 > 0:07:19Is it those fabulous sea views that are attracting you to this county?
0:07:19 > 0:07:24The sea views, the countryside, the way of life, yes.
0:07:24 > 0:07:26It really does have a little bit of everything.
0:07:26 > 0:07:31It's got everything and it's just so peaceful yet there is that vibrancy
0:07:31 > 0:07:33that you get next to the sea.
0:07:33 > 0:07:36What do you want from the house itself?
0:07:36 > 0:07:38We're looking for somewhere bright and airy.
0:07:38 > 0:07:41We'd probably like three bedrooms and we would like a room
0:07:41 > 0:07:44where I could do my sewing and you could perhaps do your writing.
0:07:44 > 0:07:46That's really quite important.
0:07:46 > 0:07:49The view's most important to us and the location.
0:07:49 > 0:07:54So, location-wise, what sort of setting would you like?
0:07:54 > 0:07:56I'd like a view,
0:07:56 > 0:07:59proximity to the sea,
0:07:59 > 0:08:02and not too far away from a town.
0:08:02 > 0:08:06Is there anything you both don't want?
0:08:06 > 0:08:09I think from experience, a thatched cottage.
0:08:09 > 0:08:10Yes, I agree, really.
0:08:10 > 0:08:13That's probably, as we say, a thatch, we don't want a thatch.
0:08:13 > 0:08:15Remind me of your budget.
0:08:15 > 0:08:16Go ahead.
0:08:16 > 0:08:18Well, our budget is ?500,000. OK.
0:08:18 > 0:08:22We could just go a little bit above that if we needed to.
0:08:22 > 0:08:26I like hearing that because it is a popular county, of course,
0:08:26 > 0:08:29so it's always nice to know that you might have a little bit extra.
0:08:29 > 0:08:31Yes.
0:08:31 > 0:08:36And we have got some fantastic properties already waiting for you.
0:08:36 > 0:08:37Lovely. So, let's get going.
0:08:37 > 0:08:38Lovely, thank you very much.
0:08:41 > 0:08:44For a budget of ?500,000,
0:08:44 > 0:08:46but some leeway if necessary,
0:08:46 > 0:08:48Diana and Jonathan are looking for
0:08:48 > 0:08:49a bright and airy property with
0:08:49 > 0:08:51a minimum of three bedrooms.
0:08:51 > 0:08:53They'd like a sewing room for Diana
0:08:53 > 0:08:55as well as a separate space
0:08:55 > 0:08:57for Jonathan to write.
0:08:57 > 0:08:59The location is important and should
0:08:59 > 0:09:01offer them views as well as
0:09:01 > 0:09:03proximity to the coast and a town.
0:09:03 > 0:09:05While they are flexible over style,
0:09:05 > 0:09:07neither of them is keen
0:09:07 > 0:09:08on thatched houses.
0:09:09 > 0:09:13We have an exciting variety of homes to present, and at each one,
0:09:13 > 0:09:17I will be asking them to guess the price before I reveal it.
0:09:17 > 0:09:20Our final property will be the Mystery House which may be
0:09:20 > 0:09:24a naughty choice, but could turn out to be surprisingly nice.
0:09:27 > 0:09:29But before that, we're off to view house number one.
0:09:33 > 0:09:36Our property search is kicking off just a five-minute drive
0:09:36 > 0:09:40from Charmouth Beach, in the small village of Morcombelake.
0:09:40 > 0:09:43With its outlook across rolling fields to the sea,
0:09:43 > 0:09:46it's a great starting point for several walks.
0:09:46 > 0:09:49The village is home to the savoury Dorset knob biscuit,
0:09:49 > 0:09:52made here since late Victorian times.
0:09:52 > 0:09:56Amenities include a post office and store as well as a farm shop.
0:09:58 > 0:10:00Our first house is idyllically located
0:10:00 > 0:10:03just a five-minute walk away.
0:10:03 > 0:10:07This is our first property, the house on the hill.
0:10:07 > 0:10:09Wow. It's just lovely. Isn't it gorgeous?
0:10:09 > 0:10:11Absolutely gorgeous, the trees...
0:10:11 > 0:10:14This is the location you were looking for? Am I right?
0:10:14 > 0:10:16Yes, lovely, it really is lovely.
0:10:16 > 0:10:18Do we need to go in?
0:10:18 > 0:10:20Look, the house is ideal already.
0:10:20 > 0:10:22It's ticking a lot of boxes already.
0:10:22 > 0:10:24It's lovely, yes, really nice.
0:10:24 > 0:10:26Let's see if the inside charms you.
0:10:26 > 0:10:27OK. Yes, lovely.
0:10:30 > 0:10:33This hillside home was originally built in the 1930s,
0:10:33 > 0:10:38but has been fully renovated by the current owners over the past decade.
0:10:38 > 0:10:41The property is accessed via a decked frontage with French doors
0:10:41 > 0:10:45that lead straight into the large country kitchen.
0:10:45 > 0:10:47Come in. Wow.
0:10:47 > 0:10:50It's a really good-sized kitchen, nice and light.
0:10:50 > 0:10:53You come straight in, so the balcony is part of the kitchen?
0:10:53 > 0:10:55Absolutely, so you can throw open the doors
0:10:55 > 0:10:57and that's your little champagne balcony.
0:10:57 > 0:10:59Yes.
0:10:59 > 0:11:01Oh, I think it's gorgeous.
0:11:01 > 0:11:03It's lovely, isn't it? Beautiful.
0:11:03 > 0:11:06Really lovely. You've got a conservatory just through there,
0:11:06 > 0:11:08which again makes use of the views. Yes.
0:11:08 > 0:11:11You've got a really lovely-sized utility room,
0:11:11 > 0:11:14so this isn't where everything is.
0:11:14 > 0:11:18Even as you're washing up in the utility room or doing the laundry,
0:11:18 > 0:11:19you've got the views.
0:11:19 > 0:11:21Fantastic. Lovely.
0:11:21 > 0:11:24Also off the kitchen is a ground floor family bathroom,
0:11:24 > 0:11:27and on the other side, the main reception,
0:11:27 > 0:11:29once again with charming country features
0:11:29 > 0:11:31including a log-burning stove.
0:11:32 > 0:11:36Again, in here, the owners have really made use of the setting.
0:11:36 > 0:11:39A really nice-sized room, a door that goes outside.
0:11:39 > 0:11:43And you've still got the view and it is so light and bright.
0:11:43 > 0:11:45It's got a lovely feel to it.
0:11:45 > 0:11:48So you can imagine yourself relaxing in here?
0:11:48 > 0:11:49Absolutely. I can, actually.
0:11:49 > 0:11:52I can, actually, it is really nice.
0:11:52 > 0:11:55The two doors that you can see there are bedrooms.
0:11:55 > 0:11:57Oh. So they are matching bedrooms,
0:11:57 > 0:12:01they've each got a working fireplace in each of the bedrooms.
0:12:01 > 0:12:05Both can fit double beds in so really, those are your guest rooms.
0:12:05 > 0:12:08Yes, lovely. Let me show you your bedroom, though.
0:12:08 > 0:12:10Thank you.
0:12:10 > 0:12:13A really heartening reaction to the welcoming spaces on offer
0:12:13 > 0:12:16in this beautifully located home.
0:12:16 > 0:12:19But there is even more to impress Jonathan and Diana upstairs,
0:12:19 > 0:12:24where the converted loft space is entirely devoted to the master accommodation
0:12:24 > 0:12:28with its own dressing room and en suite featuring a modern bathtub
0:12:28 > 0:12:31and separate shower.
0:12:31 > 0:12:35Up here you've got your own private suite, really.
0:12:35 > 0:12:38Wow. I like the lightness, it's really bright.
0:12:38 > 0:12:39Look at the views across there.
0:12:39 > 0:12:42You could wake up to that view.
0:12:42 > 0:12:43Wow.
0:12:43 > 0:12:47That is like a picture, it's absolutely lovely.
0:12:47 > 0:12:50This floor is your own, not really for guests, unless in the future
0:12:50 > 0:12:53you chose to stay in the bedrooms on the ground floor.
0:12:53 > 0:12:55It's a perfect house for a couple.
0:12:55 > 0:12:57It is, yes. Perfect.
0:12:57 > 0:13:00I like the way they have shaped the ceiling to get the light in.
0:13:00 > 0:13:02Beautifully done. It's been done very nicely.
0:13:02 > 0:13:04Great. Let's go and see what else is in store.
0:13:04 > 0:13:06Exciting. Lead us back out to the garden.
0:13:08 > 0:13:12Well, the interior has delivered everything Diana and Jonathan
0:13:12 > 0:13:16had hoped for, and I don't think the outside will disappoint.
0:13:16 > 0:13:20Extensive gardens boast many mature shrubs and trees,
0:13:20 > 0:13:24plus outbuildings including a former housekeeper's annexe
0:13:24 > 0:13:26with recently lapsed planning permission.
0:13:26 > 0:13:28Subject to a fresh application,
0:13:28 > 0:13:31it could be turned into extra guest accommodation,
0:13:31 > 0:13:34or they could use it as a writing or sewing space.
0:13:34 > 0:13:36There's also a large paddock,
0:13:36 > 0:13:40currently kept in check by the owner's small flock of sheep.
0:13:40 > 0:13:43So you've got three quarters of an acre, really.
0:13:43 > 0:13:45That's a joy. I like gardening,
0:13:45 > 0:13:48I like working outside.
0:13:48 > 0:13:51So, what would this beautiful house cost you?
0:13:51 > 0:13:55Well, I would say certainly top-end,
0:13:55 > 0:13:58so I would say...525.
0:13:58 > 0:14:00I'm not going to argue too much with that.
0:14:00 > 0:14:02I will be optimistic and go 520.
0:14:03 > 0:14:08It's actually on the market for just under your budget,
0:14:08 > 0:14:11?499,950.
0:14:11 > 0:14:13Good gracious. Unbelievable.
0:14:13 > 0:14:16It's just absolutely gorgeous.
0:14:16 > 0:14:18I feel quite emotional about it.
0:14:18 > 0:14:20It's really, really fabulous.
0:14:20 > 0:14:22It's a great start. Go and have another look around,
0:14:22 > 0:14:24now that you know the price. OK.
0:14:24 > 0:14:25I will meet you out front in a bit.
0:14:25 > 0:14:28Thank you very much. Thank you very much.
0:14:30 > 0:14:32Coming in slightly under budget,
0:14:32 > 0:14:34this hillside property has
0:14:34 > 0:14:36everything our buyers want from
0:14:36 > 0:14:38their new home in the country.
0:14:38 > 0:14:40The three double bedrooms include
0:14:40 > 0:14:42a master suite on the entire upper
0:14:42 > 0:14:45floor. Plus there is a large kitchen
0:14:45 > 0:14:46diner and spacious sitting room,
0:14:46 > 0:14:49as well as wonderful countryside views
0:14:49 > 0:14:50from almost every room.
0:14:51 > 0:14:53The large plot gives keen gardener
0:14:53 > 0:14:56Jonathan plenty to work with
0:14:56 > 0:14:57and an annexe offers potential
0:14:57 > 0:14:59as a writing or sewing room.
0:15:00 > 0:15:02Nice, isn't it? Yes, really.
0:15:02 > 0:15:06Again, it is an extension of the house into the garden.
0:15:06 > 0:15:08Everything is joined up. It's really lovely.
0:15:08 > 0:15:10Yes, gorgeous.
0:15:10 > 0:15:13The house inside - lovely open plan, beautifully done,
0:15:13 > 0:15:15nice soft wood everywhere.
0:15:15 > 0:15:19I wouldn't want to change anything, I think it's really gorgeous.
0:15:19 > 0:15:23I think that views were our number one priority and it is
0:15:23 > 0:15:25beautifully situated. The rooms are so nicely done.
0:15:25 > 0:15:28It feels as though the outside and inside are almost joined together.
0:15:30 > 0:15:33Beaming smiles, that's what I like to see.
0:15:33 > 0:15:36I don't think we could have asked for a better start to our house hunt.
0:15:36 > 0:15:39No, no.
0:15:39 > 0:15:40It really does tick all the boxes.
0:15:40 > 0:15:43It's lovely. It really is lovely.
0:15:43 > 0:15:45Great, I can't ask for more than that.
0:15:45 > 0:15:46Let's go. Thank you.
0:15:51 > 0:15:55The fertile lands of Dorset have a long tradition of food production,
0:15:55 > 0:15:59but historically, they were also an important source of clothing.
0:15:59 > 0:16:03Arable and livestock farming supported the making of lace
0:16:03 > 0:16:07and wool, whilst the county's sheep also provided discs of horn
0:16:07 > 0:16:10to be turned into early cloth-covered buttons.
0:16:11 > 0:16:12In the 17th century,
0:16:12 > 0:16:16button making really took off here when an English soldier,
0:16:16 > 0:16:18returning from battles in Europe,
0:16:18 > 0:16:22realised the growing popularity of buttoned clothing and set up
0:16:22 > 0:16:26a commercial makers in the town of Shaftesbury.
0:16:26 > 0:16:29And that's where we are sending Jonathan and keen seamstress Diana -
0:16:29 > 0:16:33they are meeting local button maker and historian Anna McDowell
0:16:33 > 0:16:36to find out about this Dorset form of haberdashery.
0:16:38 > 0:16:40Hello and welcome to Shaftesbury.
0:16:40 > 0:16:42Thank you very much. You are now visiting the birthplace
0:16:42 > 0:16:44of the Dorset button industry.
0:16:44 > 0:16:46So, I understand you are a sewer? I am indeed.
0:16:46 > 0:16:49Why don't we go into the Gold Hill Museum and have a look?
0:16:49 > 0:16:51We'd love to. Thank you very much.
0:16:51 > 0:16:55With women typically able to earn more from making buttons
0:16:55 > 0:16:57from home than from working on the land,
0:16:57 > 0:17:00it was a popular endeavour that supported many families
0:17:00 > 0:17:03for around 200 years.
0:17:03 > 0:17:06Gold Hill Museum has several examples of the different designs
0:17:06 > 0:17:08produced over that time.
0:17:09 > 0:17:13As you can imagine, there are a lot of other people making buttons,
0:17:13 > 0:17:17especially thread buttons, which is basically what a Dorset button is.
0:17:17 > 0:17:20Up in Macclesfield you had the silk buttons,
0:17:20 > 0:17:25you had button makers in London, but here in Dorset, we're unique,
0:17:25 > 0:17:29because our buttons are actually made originally with linen,
0:17:29 > 0:17:34linen fabric and also the natural sheep's horn.
0:17:34 > 0:17:37But the original buttons were the high tops and the Dorset knobs
0:17:37 > 0:17:41which you can see a little Dorset knob in here with a flatter button
0:17:41 > 0:17:44they say was more undergarments.
0:17:44 > 0:17:47Was it just the women at home that made the buttons?
0:17:47 > 0:17:49No, the children would have been involved.
0:17:49 > 0:17:54These buttons here are made from a wire ring and small boys were used
0:17:54 > 0:17:57to dip the wire to seal them.
0:17:57 > 0:17:59There would have been the men -
0:17:59 > 0:18:02they were agents and used to sell the buttons.
0:18:02 > 0:18:08It was actually a very well organised industry or business.
0:18:08 > 0:18:12These handmade thread buttons were to provide a viable income
0:18:12 > 0:18:16for many Dorset families until the middle of the 19th century
0:18:16 > 0:18:20when machines capable of doing the job much faster and more cheaply
0:18:20 > 0:18:23cut the cottage industry dead.
0:18:23 > 0:18:26But just a short distance from the museum, Anna is bringing
0:18:26 > 0:18:29the old-fashioned techniques back to life in her workshop.
0:18:30 > 0:18:34I thought we would have a go at just doing something simple,
0:18:34 > 0:18:36a larger version of one of these.
0:18:36 > 0:18:38You call that a simple one, do you?
0:18:38 > 0:18:41Yes, that is a simple cartwheel button.
0:18:41 > 0:18:42Lovely.
0:18:42 > 0:18:45As there are no written records of how the original buttons
0:18:45 > 0:18:49were made, Anna has had to work the methods out for herself,
0:18:49 > 0:18:51starting with measuring out the thread.
0:18:51 > 0:18:54Three lengths like that.
0:18:54 > 0:18:55Yes.
0:18:55 > 0:18:57Is this the old-fashioned yard?
0:18:57 > 0:18:59It is the old-fashioned yard.
0:19:00 > 0:19:02Next, the thread is used to cover
0:19:02 > 0:19:06a small metal ring with a series of blanket stitches.
0:19:06 > 0:19:11Throw the thread over the back of your hand and you form a loop.
0:19:11 > 0:19:14Right? You're going to put the needle through that loop.
0:19:14 > 0:19:17The most difficult thing is, it keeps getting tangled up,
0:19:17 > 0:19:18or is it just me?
0:19:20 > 0:19:22Go through the loop,
0:19:22 > 0:19:25the centre of the ring and pull it tight.
0:19:25 > 0:19:28It's not as easy as it looks. No, it's not.
0:19:28 > 0:19:32It now takes Anna around 40 minutes to make a single button
0:19:32 > 0:19:34but in the 1730s,
0:19:34 > 0:19:37women workers were earning around two shillings a day
0:19:37 > 0:19:40with averages of six or seven dozen buttons.
0:19:40 > 0:19:45I was told that a local farmer, at harvest time,
0:19:45 > 0:19:49said he couldn't get the women to help harvest because they could
0:19:49 > 0:19:53actually earn more making buttons than they could on the land.
0:19:53 > 0:19:56Once the ring is tightly covered with the blanket stitching,
0:19:56 > 0:19:59Anna creates an effect like the spokes of a wheel
0:19:59 > 0:20:01by taking turns around the entire button.
0:20:01 > 0:20:04Sometimes I put more spokes,
0:20:04 > 0:20:07sometimes I put in less spokes.
0:20:07 > 0:20:11And then draws these all together with a crossed stitch at the centre.
0:20:11 > 0:20:14Watch this. Oh.
0:20:14 > 0:20:16How clever.
0:20:16 > 0:20:19Finally, a back stitch is used over each of the spokes
0:20:19 > 0:20:21to cover the gaps.
0:20:21 > 0:20:23Eventually, you will fill up the button.
0:20:23 > 0:20:25Right, we're nearly there,
0:20:25 > 0:20:27and you've got something like that.
0:20:27 > 0:20:30Good gracious. It looks really lovely.
0:20:30 > 0:20:34It's fabulous. It looks like a really intricate spider's web.
0:20:34 > 0:20:37There you have it, a Dorset button.
0:20:37 > 0:20:39It's lovely, thank you very much indeed, it's really lovely.
0:20:39 > 0:20:42Why don't you take that home?
0:20:42 > 0:20:44That's fabulous.
0:20:44 > 0:20:47Take those two you have been working on and finish them off.
0:20:47 > 0:20:50Thank you very much for showing us. Good luck.
0:20:50 > 0:20:53It has been wonderful to see a cottage craft being revived
0:20:53 > 0:20:57in its original surroundings, but for now we will have to wait to get
0:20:57 > 0:21:00our buyers' property search all sewn up when we continue
0:21:00 > 0:21:02with the house hunt tomorrow.
0:21:10 > 0:21:13Diana and Jonathan from Burgess Hill, West Sussex,
0:21:13 > 0:21:17have a budget of ?500,000 to find their dream home
0:21:17 > 0:21:20near the coast of west Dorset.
0:21:20 > 0:21:23We've already shown them some tantalising property,
0:21:23 > 0:21:27but there's still more to look at and our Mystery House
0:21:27 > 0:21:29may just confound expectations.
0:21:30 > 0:21:33What a surprise. I take it all back, it's really bright.
0:21:35 > 0:21:38Plus, I get back to basics with a pair of printmakers
0:21:38 > 0:21:41who left London life for the rural delights of Dorset.
0:21:41 > 0:21:44It is caveman technology, it's not that difficult, really.
0:21:47 > 0:21:49We have two more properties to view today -
0:21:49 > 0:21:52later on, we'll be visiting our Mystery House which gives me
0:21:52 > 0:21:55the opportunity to show Diana and Jonathan something
0:21:55 > 0:21:58they would never have gone to see themselves.
0:21:58 > 0:22:01But first, we have another house to look at
0:22:01 > 0:22:04and this one really makes the most of being by the coast.
0:22:05 > 0:22:09For our next house, we are walking distance from the sea
0:22:09 > 0:22:11in the historic market town of Bridport.
0:22:12 > 0:22:17Used as the basis for Port Bredy in Thomas Hardy's fictional Wessex,
0:22:17 > 0:22:20it has a lively arts scene as well as a broad selection
0:22:20 > 0:22:22of shops and services.
0:22:22 > 0:22:24Within the town's boundary,
0:22:24 > 0:22:28West Bay features spectacular cliff walks and sandy beaches.
0:22:29 > 0:22:33The next house enjoys this magnificent coastal outlook
0:22:33 > 0:22:36from less than a mile away. We're starting our tour at the rear
0:22:36 > 0:22:41of the property, where the seaside setting is really maximised.
0:22:41 > 0:22:47Now, as you both do want to live by the coast,
0:22:47 > 0:22:49here is a house by the sea.
0:22:49 > 0:22:53Bringing you in this way, you really get to appreciate the views
0:22:53 > 0:22:56which is what you're after and what you have requested. Yes.
0:22:56 > 0:22:58What do you think about the house itself?
0:22:58 > 0:23:01A good size, nice windows.
0:23:01 > 0:23:03Immediately I see those big glass doors,
0:23:03 > 0:23:06which is showing us the view again and making the most of it.
0:23:08 > 0:23:09Let's go in. Lovely, thank you.
0:23:11 > 0:23:13Built in 1936,
0:23:13 > 0:23:17this seaside home was given a two-storey extension to the front
0:23:17 > 0:23:20by the current owners in 2013.
0:23:20 > 0:23:24A conservatory entrance to the side of the property takes us through
0:23:24 > 0:23:28to this newer section of the home and the large kitchen-diner.
0:23:28 > 0:23:30A really good size.
0:23:30 > 0:23:31Really nice.
0:23:31 > 0:23:33Bright. I like the fixtures and fittings.
0:23:33 > 0:23:35They look good. Loads of colours.
0:23:35 > 0:23:37It has been nicely done.
0:23:37 > 0:23:40Would this kind of space work for you in the way you live?
0:23:40 > 0:23:42Yes. Yes, definitely.
0:23:42 > 0:23:44This is the front of the house -
0:23:44 > 0:23:48let's go to the view side of the house. Lovely.
0:23:48 > 0:23:49Back at the rear of the property,
0:23:49 > 0:23:53past a useful downstairs cloakroom, the spacious reception room
0:23:53 > 0:23:56has sliding patio doors to soak up the setting.
0:23:56 > 0:23:58This used to be two rooms.
0:23:58 > 0:24:00It works well as a big room, really.
0:24:00 > 0:24:02A really good-sized room, log-burning stove.
0:24:02 > 0:24:03It's lovely, isn't it?
0:24:03 > 0:24:07Nice, bright, and the views are really gorgeous.
0:24:07 > 0:24:10Huge, huge doors.
0:24:10 > 0:24:14It feels like a lovely Dorset picture, doesn't it? Yes.
0:24:14 > 0:24:18Let's go higher because of course that sea view can only get better.
0:24:20 > 0:24:24Jonathan and Diana barely dared to wish for a view of the sea
0:24:24 > 0:24:28but the one on offer from this immaculate detached home
0:24:28 > 0:24:30is certainly winning them over.
0:24:30 > 0:24:33Upstairs there are four bedrooms -
0:24:33 > 0:24:36the two smallest rooms are located in the top floor
0:24:36 > 0:24:39of the front extension, both with single beds.
0:24:39 > 0:24:41Then, to the rear of the property,
0:24:41 > 0:24:44a large double enjoys that coastal outlook.
0:24:44 > 0:24:49The family bathroom provides a roll-top bath and separate shower.
0:24:49 > 0:24:51And then, also to the rear of the property,
0:24:51 > 0:24:54bedroom number four is the master en suite.
0:24:54 > 0:24:56You could have next door as a master
0:24:56 > 0:24:58but this had the space for the en suite.
0:24:58 > 0:25:01Yes, and you've got the view.
0:25:01 > 0:25:03It's lovely.
0:25:03 > 0:25:04That's what this house is about -
0:25:04 > 0:25:07that picture. Yes.
0:25:07 > 0:25:10And lovely big windows to show it off.
0:25:10 > 0:25:13If that's what you want, this is the place to go for.
0:25:13 > 0:25:16We asked for a sea view but didn't think you would find it.
0:25:16 > 0:25:17How you did it, I don't know.
0:25:17 > 0:25:20And you've got the hills as well, so you've got everything.
0:25:20 > 0:25:25Nicely decorated. I like the colours and it means no decorating.
0:25:25 > 0:25:27Yes. I'm really impressed.
0:25:27 > 0:25:29It's lovely. Really, really lovely.
0:25:29 > 0:25:31Yes.
0:25:31 > 0:25:35The appeal of this home seems to be growing stronger and stronger.
0:25:35 > 0:25:39Outside to the front of the property is a block-paved driveway
0:25:39 > 0:25:41with parking for several cars.
0:25:41 > 0:25:46A garage is found at the rear and is reached via a service road.
0:25:46 > 0:25:49What's more, it has planning permission to be redeveloped,
0:25:49 > 0:25:53so could provide options for their creative pastimes.
0:25:53 > 0:25:56There's also a greenhouse and small vegetable patch
0:25:56 > 0:25:59as well as a raised terrace and an ample lawn
0:25:59 > 0:26:02from which to enjoy the views across to the bay.
0:26:03 > 0:26:07I think this garden is a bit of a blank canvas for you.
0:26:07 > 0:26:11Absolutely, and actually, not a bad place to be working, is it?
0:26:11 > 0:26:16No. It needs work doing but we've got the location of course which is
0:26:16 > 0:26:17again, what we asked for.
0:26:17 > 0:26:19Close to West Bay, so...
0:26:19 > 0:26:22How much is this property on the market for?
0:26:22 > 0:26:25How much is that sea view going to cost you?
0:26:25 > 0:26:27Again, it's going to be top-end.
0:26:27 > 0:26:30An optimistic 515. OK.
0:26:32 > 0:26:34Still some gardening to be done -
0:26:34 > 0:26:36I'm going to be really optimistic
0:26:36 > 0:26:38and go for 495.
0:26:40 > 0:26:43You both are being very optimistic.
0:26:43 > 0:26:47It is actually on the market for ?540,000.
0:26:47 > 0:26:49Is it really?
0:26:49 > 0:26:52I know I've been naughty by going over budget but you did say that you
0:26:52 > 0:26:56might have a little bit extra over the half a million,
0:26:56 > 0:26:58and there is always room to negotiate -
0:26:58 > 0:27:00540 is the guide price.
0:27:00 > 0:27:03OK, yes. Go and have another look around.
0:27:03 > 0:27:05Lovely, thank you very much.
0:27:08 > 0:27:12The asking price of this detached coastal home may be over budget
0:27:12 > 0:27:15but it does fulfil that dream of a sea view.
0:27:15 > 0:27:20There's a total of four bedrooms, that is one more than requested
0:27:20 > 0:27:23so plenty of scope for hobby rooms. The property has a large
0:27:23 > 0:27:28kitchen-diner as well as a good-sized reception room with space
0:27:28 > 0:27:32to entertain the whole family. The gardens give Jonathan options
0:27:32 > 0:27:35for a project and the garage could potentially
0:27:35 > 0:27:38be turned into a writer's den.
0:27:38 > 0:27:43The first impression was a nice, big, bright, light, airy house.
0:27:43 > 0:27:47Really attractive. South-facing, walking distance to the sea.
0:27:47 > 0:27:49Location - absolutely lovely.
0:27:49 > 0:27:53The views, out southwards really does take the eye.
0:27:53 > 0:27:57I would hope there would be room for negotiation because
0:27:57 > 0:27:59I am definitely interested, yeah.
0:27:59 > 0:28:03It's definitely up there. You've made life difficult for us.
0:28:03 > 0:28:09I'm afraid I will need to drag you both away from the gorgeous view
0:28:09 > 0:28:11as we still have the Mystery House to go.
0:28:11 > 0:28:13OK. Our property hunt is not over.
0:28:13 > 0:28:17Thank you very much. Let's see what else you've got up your sleeve.
0:28:20 > 0:28:24Dorset's beautiful land and seascapes have long been a source
0:28:24 > 0:28:28of artistic inspiration. Turner was a frequent visitor,
0:28:28 > 0:28:32painting several sunsets at Poole Harbour, while the brush
0:28:32 > 0:28:35of Constable captured rain clouds over Weymouth Bay
0:28:35 > 0:28:38along with many pastoral scenes.
0:28:38 > 0:28:41It is a draw that continues to this day.
0:28:41 > 0:28:44A decade ago, creative couple Cameron Short and Janet Tristram
0:28:44 > 0:28:49chucked in their London lives and careers in advertising and retail
0:28:49 > 0:28:53to move to the county and pursue more artistic paths.
0:28:53 > 0:28:55Settling in Thorncombe,
0:28:55 > 0:28:59they turned abandoned premises into a home and studio for themselves
0:28:59 > 0:29:01and their three young daughters.
0:29:01 > 0:29:03Now working as handmade printmakers,
0:29:03 > 0:29:07they are building a reputation for uniquely captivating work
0:29:07 > 0:29:11inspired by their Dorset setting and local folklore.
0:29:11 > 0:29:14I want to find out about the appeal of the area...
0:29:14 > 0:29:15Hello. Hello, Sonali.
0:29:15 > 0:29:18..and why it is such an attractive location for those
0:29:18 > 0:29:21seeking creative fulfilment.
0:29:21 > 0:29:24What persuaded you to move away from London?
0:29:24 > 0:29:28Many people wanting to get into this business would have been tempted
0:29:28 > 0:29:31to stay there. What made you come to Dorset?
0:29:31 > 0:29:35Yeah, well, I got to a stage in my career, as a copywriter,
0:29:35 > 0:29:37where I'd just kind of had enough.
0:29:37 > 0:29:41So I'd be carving away, whittling at night, thinking about designs.
0:29:41 > 0:29:45And we found our way, through trial and error, but the things
0:29:45 > 0:29:49that we do as a family, naturally, are imbued into the imagery.
0:29:49 > 0:29:54So it might be the walks we do, the animals we see in the area.
0:29:54 > 0:29:58All that stuff does lend itself beautifully to creating imagery.
0:29:58 > 0:30:01Our life in the countryside now does influence our work.
0:30:01 > 0:30:04There's a lot that I get stirred by, even now,
0:30:04 > 0:30:08and the pace of life suits us, it's very relaxed,
0:30:08 > 0:30:10people are very friendly,
0:30:10 > 0:30:12so we feel very much at home here.
0:30:14 > 0:30:18Janet and Cameron now create designs that they work onto cushions,
0:30:18 > 0:30:22lampshades, wallpaper and furniture, as well as limited edition prints.
0:30:24 > 0:30:26But it's about more than simply creating
0:30:26 > 0:30:27aesthetically pleasing objects -
0:30:27 > 0:30:31there's a depth of statement contained within.
0:30:31 > 0:30:32Tell me about this one.
0:30:32 > 0:30:35Ode To The Ash. Well, that particular print...
0:30:35 > 0:30:38I heard about the crisis with ash dieback,
0:30:38 > 0:30:43and I wanted to do something that celebrated the tree,
0:30:43 > 0:30:45and maybe educated people when they looked at it,
0:30:45 > 0:30:49about how important the tree had been in our history and our culture.
0:30:49 > 0:30:53Cameron's really using storytelling,
0:30:53 > 0:30:56and there's certain vignettes within the overall design,
0:30:56 > 0:31:00so you can kind of lose yourself in what is a repeat pattern.
0:31:00 > 0:31:02For instance, if it was in a child's room,
0:31:02 > 0:31:05they can daydream away looking at the little bits and pieces
0:31:05 > 0:31:07within the image.
0:31:07 > 0:31:10The process starts by carving away the parts of the design
0:31:10 > 0:31:14that will remain ink-free into a lino-covered wood block.
0:31:15 > 0:31:18It's caveman technology, it's not that difficult, really.
0:31:19 > 0:31:23A tacky, linseed-based ink is applied to a plain glass surface
0:31:23 > 0:31:25and rolled out until it's the texture of suede.
0:31:25 > 0:31:27Just push the ink.
0:31:27 > 0:31:29Really nice.
0:31:29 > 0:31:32There's something very therapeutic about this.
0:31:33 > 0:31:38Next, the ink is transferred from the glass to the carved wood block with the roller.
0:31:38 > 0:31:41It's a manual process that creates natural imperfections.
0:31:41 > 0:31:43You know that it's been done by hand,
0:31:43 > 0:31:47because each print is going to be unique, not totally perfect,
0:31:47 > 0:31:50but that's what gives it its life.
0:31:50 > 0:31:53Now for Cameron and Janet's early 20th century proofing press
0:31:53 > 0:31:56to be put into action. You've got the handle here,
0:31:56 > 0:31:59which will move the cylinder across the bed of the press and apply the
0:31:59 > 0:32:03pressure, and this thing here that you can alter the pressures.
0:32:03 > 0:32:06The paper is carefully laid over the inked block.
0:32:06 > 0:32:10Once it's down, you can't move it, don't even breathe.
0:32:10 > 0:32:14And protective felts are put on top before adjusting the pressure.
0:32:14 > 0:32:16About there should do it.
0:32:16 > 0:32:18Then the cylinder is brought across the design,
0:32:18 > 0:32:21a little like a mechanical rolling pin.
0:32:21 > 0:32:24Just roll it across gently, like this. Give it some welly! Yeah.
0:32:24 > 0:32:27We probably did that a bit quickly, but it's not going to matter.
0:32:27 > 0:32:31Sorry. That's OK. Finally the felts and paper are peeled back,
0:32:31 > 0:32:33revealing the image.
0:32:33 > 0:32:35There we go. Oh, my gosh.
0:32:35 > 0:32:39You see nightjars, moths and a lantern.
0:32:39 > 0:32:41My gosh, I want to take that home and frame it.
0:32:41 > 0:32:42You can.
0:32:42 > 0:32:45Of course you can, yes. Thank you.
0:32:45 > 0:32:49What a wonderful memento of the natural details true artists
0:32:49 > 0:32:52like Cameron and Janet observe in their surroundings.
0:32:52 > 0:32:55Stepping into their world has given me a fresh insight
0:32:55 > 0:32:58into the creative energy that Dorset has to offer.
0:33:07 > 0:33:12What do you think I have up my sleeve for the mystery property?
0:33:12 > 0:33:15Oh... I really don't know. You've surprised us so far.
0:33:15 > 0:33:20I can only think, although we said we would prefer not to,
0:33:20 > 0:33:23perhaps you've got a thatched property...
0:33:23 > 0:33:26So, remind me why you don't like thatched.
0:33:26 > 0:33:29We didn't want the upkeep of a thatched.
0:33:29 > 0:33:34And normally they're very small and not light and airy.
0:33:34 > 0:33:36You might end up loving the mystery!
0:33:40 > 0:33:43The mystery offering takes us back to Morcombelake,
0:33:43 > 0:33:45just a short drive from the seaside village of Charmouth.
0:33:47 > 0:33:49Known as the gateway to the Jurassic Coast,
0:33:49 > 0:33:53there's a gently shelving beach below striking cliffs,
0:33:53 > 0:33:55often yielding fossils.
0:33:56 > 0:34:00Amenities include cafes and eateries, medical services,
0:34:00 > 0:34:03a post office and a traditional butcher's.
0:34:04 > 0:34:07Our Mystery House nestles in the surrounding countryside
0:34:07 > 0:34:09of Morcombelake, a couple of miles away.
0:34:10 > 0:34:12LAUGHTER
0:34:14 > 0:34:16How did we know?!
0:34:16 > 0:34:17How pretty is that?
0:34:17 > 0:34:19And you did know, didn't you?
0:34:20 > 0:34:24Yeah. So, I'm afraid my Mystery House wasn't as much of a mystery
0:34:24 > 0:34:27as it should've been, because you completely guessed.
0:34:27 > 0:34:30Oh... But how pretty is that?
0:34:30 > 0:34:32And what a lovely setting.
0:34:32 > 0:34:35Wow. Actually, it looks really nice.
0:34:35 > 0:34:39It's a really nice house. I know you said no thatched. Yeah.
0:34:39 > 0:34:41I wanted you to give this a chance,
0:34:41 > 0:34:45because those fears you have about a thatched, being perhaps pokey...
0:34:45 > 0:34:47Yeah, yeah. It doesn't really apply.
0:34:47 > 0:34:49Yeah. It looks so lovely. Yeah, it does.
0:34:49 > 0:34:51I love the round bits on the end.
0:34:51 > 0:34:54Oh, it's gorgeous, let's give it a go.
0:34:54 > 0:34:55Shall we? Yeah, absolutely.
0:34:55 > 0:34:58You're up for trying it? BOTH: Absolutely.
0:34:58 > 0:35:00That's all I wanted to know.
0:35:01 > 0:35:06A great reaction to the exterior of our rather cheeky mystery proposition.
0:35:06 > 0:35:10Built in the 17th century from cob stone and brick,
0:35:10 > 0:35:14the porched front door of this Grade II listed thatched cottage,
0:35:14 > 0:35:18takes us via a hallway into a decidedly spacious reception room.
0:35:20 > 0:35:22This is the main living room.
0:35:22 > 0:35:24Very light and bright. Very!
0:35:24 > 0:35:29What a pleasant surprise. I take it all back, it's really bright, yeah.
0:35:29 > 0:35:33Higher ceilings, I think, than usual on a cottage. Yes.
0:35:33 > 0:35:36And I like the way they're painted in, rather than left dark.
0:35:36 > 0:35:38It brightens it up.
0:35:38 > 0:35:41Good-sized windows, so that you can see the sun's really coming in.
0:35:41 > 0:35:44Was it what you expected?
0:35:44 > 0:35:46From a thatched place, no.
0:35:46 > 0:35:48No. It's much brighter, much lighter.
0:35:48 > 0:35:53This is the older part of the house, let's take you through into the newer part. OK.
0:35:55 > 0:35:59"New" is a comparative concept in this charming period property.
0:35:59 > 0:36:00Extended in 1949,
0:36:00 > 0:36:04in order to provide a plumbed kitchen and WC,
0:36:04 > 0:36:08the space has been sympathetically refitted by the current owners.
0:36:08 > 0:36:12This is the relatively newer part of the house, the kitchen.
0:36:12 > 0:36:14Oh, isn't that lovely? It's really light.
0:36:14 > 0:36:17So many windows, you couldn't ever call this dark and dingy, could you?
0:36:17 > 0:36:20No. It's a good size, a good-sized table in here.
0:36:20 > 0:36:23Really, really surprised, really pleasantly surprised.
0:36:23 > 0:36:25It hasn't got straw falling off everywhere!
0:36:25 > 0:36:28No. And the floor's all nicely done.
0:36:28 > 0:36:30It's a lovely country kitchen.
0:36:30 > 0:36:33I'm causing problems, aren't I? Yes. Giving you too many choices.
0:36:33 > 0:36:37You are, you're definitely causing us problems.
0:36:37 > 0:36:39Shall we go and explore the upstairs?
0:36:39 > 0:36:41Lovely. Oh, yes, please.
0:36:41 > 0:36:45Despite Diana and Jonathan's professed wariness of thatched cottages,
0:36:45 > 0:36:49the proportions of our charming mystery offering are persuading them
0:36:49 > 0:36:53that "period" doesn't have to mean "pokey".
0:36:53 > 0:36:56Off the kitchen there is also a utility and cloakroom,
0:36:56 > 0:36:59as well as a snug with cast iron stove.
0:36:59 > 0:37:01An original curved, elm staircase takes us up to
0:37:01 > 0:37:04the three-bedroom accommodation.
0:37:05 > 0:37:08A good-sized double is set under the eaves,
0:37:08 > 0:37:11as is a similarly characterful twin room.
0:37:11 > 0:37:14There's also a family bathroom,
0:37:14 > 0:37:17and then the third and largest of the bedrooms.
0:37:17 > 0:37:19This is the master. Ah-ha.
0:37:19 > 0:37:21Gosh, it's all so nice.
0:37:21 > 0:37:25It's bright. Yes. You can lie in bed and look out at the lovely view.
0:37:25 > 0:37:27And this room has a wet room.
0:37:27 > 0:37:30Oh, I thought it was just wardrobe space, how nicely done.
0:37:30 > 0:37:33It's totally different from my experiences
0:37:33 > 0:37:36of thatched cottages, you know,
0:37:36 > 0:37:39which have always had small windows
0:37:39 > 0:37:41and everywhere's dark inside the house.
0:37:41 > 0:37:43It's really, really different.
0:37:43 > 0:37:45Mmm. Mmm.
0:37:45 > 0:37:47Crumbs!
0:37:47 > 0:37:50Let's go back downstairs and outside. OK.
0:37:50 > 0:37:54Because we need to discuss the price. OK, right. Lovely.
0:37:56 > 0:37:59I'm glad to have confounded their expectations of thatched cottages
0:37:59 > 0:38:02with this bright and spacious Mystery House.
0:38:02 > 0:38:05And outside there's a lot more to show them,
0:38:05 > 0:38:09with a third of an acre of mainly south-facing, secluded grounds,
0:38:09 > 0:38:12surrounded by countryside.
0:38:12 > 0:38:16There's a rotating summerhouse, and a well appointed timber cabin,
0:38:16 > 0:38:20perhaps offering a peaceful spot to sit sewing or writing that latest
0:38:20 > 0:38:22crime thriller.
0:38:22 > 0:38:27How could we not see a Dorset thatched when we're in Dorset?
0:38:27 > 0:38:30And it's beautiful, it's such a pretty house,
0:38:30 > 0:38:33and inside does not disappoint.
0:38:33 > 0:38:34So it's charmed you both?
0:38:34 > 0:38:37It has. Yeah, it has. Absolutely, absolutely.
0:38:37 > 0:38:41So how much is this charming property on the market for?
0:38:41 > 0:38:43Oh, dear...
0:38:43 > 0:38:46I'm going to go for...
0:38:46 > 0:38:48520.
0:38:49 > 0:38:54OK... I can't believe it's anywhere near our price range.
0:38:54 > 0:38:56Again, top end, but I'd say 525.
0:38:56 > 0:38:58You've hit the nail on the head.
0:38:58 > 0:39:00Oh, well done.
0:39:00 > 0:39:04It is on the market for ?525,000.
0:39:04 > 0:39:07The good news is, if you are interested,
0:39:07 > 0:39:11the owners are willing to take offers, so I think it's attainable,
0:39:11 > 0:39:14it's achievable. Yeah, yeah. Have another look around.
0:39:14 > 0:39:15OK, lovely. OK, lovely.
0:39:15 > 0:39:19Talk about it and have a think about whether this kind of
0:39:19 > 0:39:22country-style property is you.
0:39:22 > 0:39:24Lovely, thank you very much. Thank you.
0:39:24 > 0:39:26I'll meet you in a bit. Thank you. Thank you.
0:39:29 > 0:39:33With an asking price somewhat above budget, but room for negotiation,
0:39:33 > 0:39:36this thatched Grade II listed cottage
0:39:36 > 0:39:40has unexpectedly fulfilled Diana and Jonathan's property wish list.
0:39:40 > 0:39:43Packed with original features, such as fireplaces
0:39:43 > 0:39:45and a timber staircase,
0:39:45 > 0:39:48there are three bedrooms, including an en suite.
0:39:48 > 0:39:51The large grounds are set in beautiful countryside,
0:39:51 > 0:39:55and there's a choice of versatile outbuildings.
0:39:55 > 0:39:58I think you're far more open now, in my views of thatches,
0:39:58 > 0:39:59of thatched houses.
0:39:59 > 0:40:03Because of inside, some of the old timbers
0:40:03 > 0:40:05really are just so beautiful.
0:40:05 > 0:40:07A nice, big garden.
0:40:07 > 0:40:11Set in countryside, really surprised, pleasantly surprised.
0:40:11 > 0:40:14It was really pretty.
0:40:14 > 0:40:15Unexpectedly so.
0:40:15 > 0:40:18So, yeah, really pleased with it.
0:40:18 > 0:40:20It's really given us something to think about.
0:40:20 > 0:40:24We've seen some fabulous properties, all very different,
0:40:24 > 0:40:26all meeting what we asked for,
0:40:26 > 0:40:29so we've now got to make a decision of which one.
0:40:32 > 0:40:36We better get going, because we have so much to discuss.
0:40:36 > 0:40:39Yeah. Where are you both going to live?
0:40:44 > 0:40:46Choices, choices, choices.
0:40:46 > 0:40:49It's time to find out if Jonathan and Diana have been able to make a
0:40:49 > 0:40:52decision about which property to go for.
0:40:52 > 0:40:56I'm pretty confident at least one of them is still in the running.
0:41:00 > 0:41:02Hello. Hello. Hello.
0:41:02 > 0:41:07I thought it would be lovely to have our chat here on Charmouth Beach,
0:41:07 > 0:41:09as this could be one of your local beaches.
0:41:09 > 0:41:13Yes. I'd say it's been a successful house hunt, wouldn't you?
0:41:13 > 0:41:16Absolutely. Definitely, definitely.
0:41:16 > 0:41:20All of our properties had pretty much everything on your wish list,
0:41:20 > 0:41:23so now it's just down to just a feeling perhaps.
0:41:23 > 0:41:26What do we do now, what do you do now?
0:41:26 > 0:41:28What we've decided is that we'd like to make an offer
0:41:28 > 0:41:33on the house by the sea. Yeah.
0:41:33 > 0:41:36And if the offer isn't accepted,
0:41:36 > 0:41:39then we'd go for the house on the hill.
0:41:39 > 0:41:41Wow, that sounds like a grand plan.
0:41:41 > 0:41:44Yes, yes. We phoned the estate agent about our house
0:41:44 > 0:41:48and we've reduced the price and we said we need it gone, because...
0:41:48 > 0:41:50You want to be in a position to move quickly.
0:41:50 > 0:41:53Yes, we said reduce the price, just do it.
0:41:53 > 0:41:55Well, I'm just so pleased for you.
0:41:55 > 0:41:58Two houses that you would be very happy in.
0:41:58 > 0:42:01Yeah, yeah. That's brilliant news.
0:42:01 > 0:42:04We couldn't have asked for more and we're just delighted.
0:42:04 > 0:42:08We had high hopes, but they were met over and above.
0:42:08 > 0:42:10I'm so pleased for you both. So thank you. Thank you.
0:42:10 > 0:42:12I can't wait to hear what happens.
0:42:12 > 0:42:14Thank you very much.
0:42:14 > 0:42:18So, the very best of luck. Thank you very much. Thank you.
0:42:22 > 0:42:25I do love it when a plan comes together,
0:42:25 > 0:42:27and this plan has a backup plan.
0:42:27 > 0:42:31How lovely that Jonathan and Diana absolutely love
0:42:31 > 0:42:33not just one, but two of our properties,
0:42:33 > 0:42:36and I'm so looking forward to hearing the end of this story
0:42:36 > 0:42:39and finding out where they'll be starting their new life here in
0:42:39 > 0:42:42Dorset. See you next time on Escape To The Country.
0:42:44 > 0:42:48Jonathan and Diana put in their offer on the house by the sea,
0:42:48 > 0:42:50and it was accepted.
0:42:50 > 0:42:52They're all packed up and ready to fulfil their dream
0:42:52 > 0:42:56of living near the Dorset coast in the very near future.
0:42:56 > 0:43:00If you'd like to escape to the country in England, Scotland,
0:43:00 > 0:43:03Northern Ireland or Wales and need our help,
0:43:03 > 0:43:06please apply online at...
0:43:40 > 0:43:42Good morning, this is BBC Breakfast. Morning, Dan.
0:43:42 > 0:43:43Morning, Jenny!
0:43:43 > 0:43:46In the sports news, we have the latest on the Welsh rugby team,
0:43:46 > 0:43:49Poppy's sports day, and news on Andy Murray.
0:43:49 > 0:43:52The headlines coming up, but our next guest is really quite special.