0:00:02 > 0:00:03The view behind me was the inspiration
0:00:03 > 0:00:07for a very evocative hymn penned by a local clergyman in 1847,
0:00:07 > 0:00:11which, to this day, brings tears to the eyes of British sport fans.
0:00:11 > 0:00:15I wonder if you can guess which hymn it is and where I might be.
0:00:15 > 0:00:17I'll let you know in just a few moments.
0:00:34 > 0:00:36Today, it's good old country air
0:00:36 > 0:00:39that's attracting an artistic duo to move south.
0:00:39 > 0:00:42And our houses are met with a warm reception.
0:00:42 > 0:00:45- It has that nice feel about it. - It's got a cosy feel, hasn't it?
0:00:45 > 0:00:48- Yes, that's it. That's the very word I was looking for. Cosy.- Yes.
0:00:48 > 0:00:51There are also some surprises in store.
0:00:51 > 0:00:53We certainly weren't asking for period, but...
0:00:53 > 0:00:55this may be an exception.
0:00:59 > 0:01:02Today, I'm here in the beautiful county of Devon,
0:01:02 > 0:01:05and this is All Saints' Church in Brixham,
0:01:05 > 0:01:08where the Reverend Henry Francis Lyte was the vicar.
0:01:08 > 0:01:10Tragically, he contracted tuberculosis
0:01:10 > 0:01:12and had just a few weeks left to live
0:01:12 > 0:01:16when he wrote the evocative words to Abide With Me,
0:01:16 > 0:01:21a hymn that's gone on to be sung at every FA Cup final since 1927.
0:01:21 > 0:01:25His legacy is the creation of a beloved British sporting anthem,
0:01:25 > 0:01:27and every evening, here in Brixham,
0:01:27 > 0:01:30the streets echo to the sound of church bells
0:01:30 > 0:01:32ringing out that famous tune.
0:01:32 > 0:01:36The county of Devon is located in the area of England
0:01:36 > 0:01:38known as the West Country,
0:01:38 > 0:01:42with Cornwall to one side and Somerset and Dorset to the other.
0:01:42 > 0:01:45It features two striking coastlines.
0:01:45 > 0:01:47The northern one faces out to the Bristol Channel,
0:01:47 > 0:01:52whilst the southern one includes a large section of the Jurassic Coast,
0:01:52 > 0:01:55England's first Natural World Heritage site.
0:01:55 > 0:02:00The cliffs here are a 250-million-year walk through time,
0:02:00 > 0:02:04with some of the oldest and most recent rock formations
0:02:04 > 0:02:06both located in the county.
0:02:06 > 0:02:11Inland, Dartmoor National Park combines broad expanses
0:02:11 > 0:02:15of open moorland and densely wooded or gorse-scattered hills.
0:02:15 > 0:02:19Dartmoor's deep valleys are home to atmospheric villages
0:02:19 > 0:02:21and small towns like Chagford.
0:02:21 > 0:02:26Known for its well-preserved 15th- and 16th-century buildings,
0:02:26 > 0:02:29including an impressive octagonal market house,
0:02:29 > 0:02:33legend has it that a wedding day tragedy in the local church
0:02:33 > 0:02:38inspired the 19th-century historical novel Lorna Doone.
0:02:38 > 0:02:42So, with its unique coastlines, extraordinary landscapes
0:02:42 > 0:02:44and historic towns and villages,
0:02:44 > 0:02:48Devon is a county that provides a captivating mixture
0:02:48 > 0:02:51for both a temporary or more permanent country escape.
0:02:53 > 0:02:56With so much on offer, it's no surprise that here in Devon,
0:02:56 > 0:02:58the average price of a detached house
0:02:58 > 0:03:04is £20,000 above the national figure, at almost £310,000.
0:03:04 > 0:03:07And in hotspots like Dartmouth on the River Dart,
0:03:07 > 0:03:09that can quickly rise.
0:03:09 > 0:03:11So if you want your money to stretch further,
0:03:11 > 0:03:12it's worth coming north of the A38,
0:03:12 > 0:03:16away from the coast, to towns like Buckfastleigh and Ivybridge.
0:03:16 > 0:03:19But what about today's house-hunters? What are they after?
0:03:19 > 0:03:22Let's find out a little bit more about them.
0:03:22 > 0:03:24Professional storyteller Janet
0:03:24 > 0:03:27and her retired systems engineer husband Jeff
0:03:27 > 0:03:32met 25 years ago over their love of classical music.
0:03:32 > 0:03:36We went to the same event and we saw each other and...
0:03:36 > 0:03:38lo and behold!
0:03:39 > 0:03:42He sat next to me in the Proms,
0:03:42 > 0:03:45and then afterwards, we went for a drink.
0:03:45 > 0:03:48True love blossomed and they never looked back.
0:03:48 > 0:03:50We got married in '94.
0:03:50 > 0:03:52- It's 21 years.- Yeah.
0:03:52 > 0:03:55The things she gets me into...
0:03:56 > 0:03:59You will never know what's going to happen next week.
0:03:59 > 0:04:02They have lived together in their four-bedroom bungalow
0:04:02 > 0:04:04in Ewell in Surrey for 23 years,
0:04:04 > 0:04:07but it's been home to Jeff for even longer.
0:04:07 > 0:04:12I bought this bungalow with my brother over 30 years ago.
0:04:12 > 0:04:15It's a very nice cul-de-sac, nice neighbours.
0:04:17 > 0:04:19But...
0:04:19 > 0:04:20It's off a dual carriageway,
0:04:20 > 0:04:27and we're just 400 yards from the boundary with Greater London.
0:04:27 > 0:04:31Unfortunately, Janet has faced health problems over the years
0:04:31 > 0:04:35and living so close to the big smoke often makes matters worse.
0:04:35 > 0:04:38The hope is that a move to the country,
0:04:38 > 0:04:42with access to fresh sea air, will provide something of a tonic.
0:04:43 > 0:04:46So we want to look to going to the country or by the seaside...
0:04:46 > 0:04:49- Yes.- ..because the air will be cleaner.
0:04:49 > 0:04:51So part of it is a health reason.
0:04:51 > 0:04:56And after a trial run, they know just where they'd love to be.
0:04:56 > 0:04:57We plan to move to Devon...
0:04:59 > 0:05:01..focus somewhere around Sidmouth.
0:05:01 > 0:05:04We have a flat in Sidmouth which we've been using
0:05:04 > 0:05:07for the past four years as kind of a transition flat.
0:05:07 > 0:05:09Get to know the area and get to know people.
0:05:09 > 0:05:15I know Sidmouth very well. I've been going there since 1976.
0:05:15 > 0:05:17Janet's love of a good read
0:05:17 > 0:05:19means that they'll have plenty of company
0:05:19 > 0:05:23in the form of a rather large amount of reading material.
0:05:23 > 0:05:25I have 3,000 books.
0:05:25 > 0:05:28- I've been packing my books since last November.- Yes.
0:05:28 > 0:05:32That's why we've got 160-odd boxes in the garage at the moment.
0:05:32 > 0:05:35Yes, that's true!
0:05:35 > 0:05:39And that doesn't include the thousands I've given away.
0:05:39 > 0:05:44Janet is planning to continue her storytelling after the move.
0:05:44 > 0:05:47And Jeff will have plenty to keep him busy too.
0:05:47 > 0:05:50I have three main interests,
0:05:50 > 0:05:53one of which is photography,
0:05:53 > 0:05:56the other is golf
0:05:56 > 0:05:58and the third is volunteering.
0:05:58 > 0:06:02I've been volunteering with the Epsom Riding for the Disabled group
0:06:02 > 0:06:03now for 15 years,
0:06:03 > 0:06:06and I'm hoping to explore the opportunities
0:06:06 > 0:06:09wherever it is we end up
0:06:09 > 0:06:11for the local Riding for the Disabled.
0:06:11 > 0:06:13With their bungalow already sold,
0:06:13 > 0:06:17it's time to get the ball rolling on their property search.
0:06:17 > 0:06:20So they'll shortly be moving to their flat in Sidmouth
0:06:20 > 0:06:24while they wait for their Devonshire dream home to come along.
0:06:24 > 0:06:26I'm really looking forward to moving down to Devon.
0:06:26 > 0:06:30I want to be able to walk out of my front door and be in country,
0:06:30 > 0:06:35breathing in the fresh air, but also being able to enjoy seeing nature.
0:06:35 > 0:06:38I've only ever lived in two houses,
0:06:38 > 0:06:41one I was born in and this one,
0:06:41 > 0:06:45but we're moving on to new adventures in Devon.
0:06:47 > 0:06:51Janet and Jeff have asked us to concentrate our search
0:06:51 > 0:06:53in South Devon, between Plymouth and Exmouth,
0:06:53 > 0:06:56an area to the west of their flat in Sidmouth.
0:06:56 > 0:06:59'And before we begin the story of their house hunt,
0:06:59 > 0:07:02'I'm meeting them in Devon to make sure I'm absolutely clear
0:07:02 > 0:07:05'about what it is they are looking for.'
0:07:05 > 0:07:07Well, Janet, Jeff, welcome to Devon.
0:07:07 > 0:07:10- Thank you.- So what kind of thing are you searching for?
0:07:10 > 0:07:12A minimum of four bedrooms,
0:07:12 > 0:07:18and make sure that both Janet and I have a place to work,
0:07:18 > 0:07:19a nice study area.
0:07:19 > 0:07:22So, two studies, a home for the books and lots of bedrooms.
0:07:22 > 0:07:24This is just for the two of you?
0:07:24 > 0:07:27Well, we've got lots of family we want to come and visit,
0:07:27 > 0:07:28and friends to visit,
0:07:28 > 0:07:31but I also like running workshops with storytellers.
0:07:31 > 0:07:33Is there anything you're not looking for?
0:07:33 > 0:07:36I'd prefer not to have thatch.
0:07:36 > 0:07:38OK. And what are the must haves?
0:07:38 > 0:07:42Well, for me, it'd be nice to have a bungalow,
0:07:42 > 0:07:45but we are open to looking at two-storey.
0:07:45 > 0:07:47But for me, there needs to be the possibility
0:07:47 > 0:07:49of having a bedroom on the ground floor.
0:07:49 > 0:07:50I have a bad back and sometimes
0:07:50 > 0:07:53it's very difficult to walk upstairs.
0:07:53 > 0:07:55And what about the garden, what would you like to see?
0:07:55 > 0:07:57- A lot of space, or...? - Not too much.
0:07:57 > 0:08:02But Janet wants people to be able to camp in the garden
0:08:02 > 0:08:04in case we are putting people up.
0:08:04 > 0:08:07- OK.- So a place for tents.
0:08:07 > 0:08:10So, no garden for you, as in to enjoy,
0:08:10 > 0:08:13- but somewhere that...? - Low-maintenance.- OK.
0:08:13 > 0:08:15I love gardens, I love doing a bit of work.
0:08:15 > 0:08:17And what about the key things in the area?
0:08:17 > 0:08:18What are you looking for there?
0:08:18 > 0:08:21We're certainly looking for a local community
0:08:21 > 0:08:24where we can get involved with activities,
0:08:24 > 0:08:26you know, arts and crafts.
0:08:26 > 0:08:28We like being with people and, you know,
0:08:28 > 0:08:31we like popping in and out of each other's houses.
0:08:31 > 0:08:33That's what I want to be, part of the community.
0:08:33 > 0:08:37And I think it needs to be fairly flat.
0:08:37 > 0:08:39Yes, because when I say, again, when my back is bad,
0:08:39 > 0:08:42I really can't cope with any kind of slope.
0:08:42 > 0:08:45But also that's close to local amenities, like a pub,
0:08:45 > 0:08:48a little shop, a post office, so that we can walk down there
0:08:48 > 0:08:51without having to get in the car and drive somewhere else.
0:08:51 > 0:08:53Just remind me of the budget that we're working with?
0:08:53 > 0:08:55£750,000 maximum.
0:08:55 > 0:08:58And that is if it's a perfect house.
0:08:58 > 0:09:01Well, I know we have some fantastic properties for you to see,
0:09:01 > 0:09:03- let's get searching.- Thank you. - Good, let's go.
0:09:05 > 0:09:08For their budget of £750,000,
0:09:08 > 0:09:11Janet and Jeff are looking for a home that's either a bungalow
0:09:11 > 0:09:15or allows for single-storey living, if needs be.
0:09:15 > 0:09:18They need space for Janet's library of books,
0:09:18 > 0:09:21and they'd each like a study, as well as at least four bedrooms.
0:09:21 > 0:09:24Outside, they want a garden that's manageable,
0:09:24 > 0:09:25but has room for camping.
0:09:25 > 0:09:29And location-wise, they'd ideally want to be somewhere that's flat.
0:09:29 > 0:09:32They'd also like to be close to amenities
0:09:32 > 0:09:35with an opportunity to be part of the local community.
0:09:35 > 0:09:36We've chosen a selection
0:09:36 > 0:09:39of interesting and contrasting properties
0:09:39 > 0:09:40for Janet and Jeff to view,
0:09:40 > 0:09:44but they'll only find out the price of each one after they've toured it.
0:09:44 > 0:09:47The final visit will be to the mystery house,
0:09:47 > 0:09:50which might leave them thinking they're seeing double,
0:09:50 > 0:09:55but it should guarantee each and every one of Janet's books a home.
0:09:58 > 0:10:01We are on our way to the village of Diptford
0:10:01 > 0:10:03in the foothills of Dartmoor.
0:10:03 > 0:10:05The rural village is located in the South Devon Area
0:10:05 > 0:10:07of Outstanding Natural Beauty,
0:10:07 > 0:10:10overlooking the River Avon and surrounded
0:10:10 > 0:10:12by stunning Devonshire scenery.
0:10:12 > 0:10:15There's a post office here as well in a parish hall,
0:10:15 > 0:10:20which, curiously, doubles up as the Diptford Arms pub four times a year.
0:10:20 > 0:10:24There's also the attractive 13th-century St Mary's Church,
0:10:24 > 0:10:27whose spire towers over the village.
0:10:27 > 0:10:29Three miles away is the larger village of Avonwick,
0:10:29 > 0:10:33where there's a traditional pub and a garage as well as a shop.
0:10:33 > 0:10:36An eight-minute drive takes us back to tranquil Diptford,
0:10:36 > 0:10:39where we find this remodelled bungalow.
0:10:39 > 0:10:41Oh! This looks interesting.
0:10:41 > 0:10:44Very interesting. It's a bungalow!
0:10:44 > 0:10:46A beautiful, very spacious bungalow.
0:10:46 > 0:10:49- Yes, it is. - It seems to go on for ages.
0:10:49 > 0:10:51Wow. And a double garage over there, Jeff.
0:10:51 > 0:10:54Yes. And plenty of parking, which is good.
0:10:54 > 0:10:57Yes. There's a little village in every direction.
0:10:57 > 0:10:59We are actually on the boundary
0:10:59 > 0:11:01of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
0:11:01 > 0:11:04- Yeah.- You've got two farmers living either side.
0:11:04 > 0:11:06- OK.- There's so much more to tell you.
0:11:06 > 0:11:07- Yes.- Shall we get in?
0:11:07 > 0:11:09Let's go.
0:11:09 > 0:11:12This wonderfully located property is perfect for Janet,
0:11:12 > 0:11:15offering her single-storey living.
0:11:15 > 0:11:16There's a pretty garden to the front
0:11:16 > 0:11:19and we are entering straight from the terrace
0:11:19 > 0:11:21into a beautifully bright kitchen.
0:11:21 > 0:11:23So you've got the triple-aspect kitchen.
0:11:23 > 0:11:24This was the new part of the bungalow
0:11:24 > 0:11:27that was built four or five years ago.
0:11:27 > 0:11:29- OK.- Beautiful high ceilings
0:11:29 > 0:11:31and a wonderful look into your back garden,
0:11:31 > 0:11:33as you wash up of an evening.
0:11:33 > 0:11:36And then that open-plan into your living area.
0:11:36 > 0:11:41- Right.- Is this somewhere you could have a morning cup of coffee?
0:11:41 > 0:11:44Well, probably nip out there.
0:11:44 > 0:11:47Well, your garden door, literally, there's not even a step
0:11:47 > 0:11:50into the garden. I know you just want that lovely flat aspect
0:11:50 > 0:11:54- into the garden.- Yeah.- We'll soon have the table and chairs out there.
0:11:54 > 0:11:56I like this - forward planning already!
0:11:56 > 0:11:58Shall we do a little exploring?
0:11:58 > 0:12:01- Yes.- Plenty more surprises with this particular house.
0:12:01 > 0:12:03Come this way, come this way.
0:12:03 > 0:12:07The sitting room leads to a hallway, off which are four bedrooms.
0:12:07 > 0:12:10We're heading to one at the back of the house.
0:12:12 > 0:12:14Now, I wanted to show you this bedroom,
0:12:14 > 0:12:17because it's one of the master bedrooms,
0:12:17 > 0:12:19but this particular one's got an en-suite,
0:12:19 > 0:12:23- which I know you were wanting. - Yes, yes.
0:12:23 > 0:12:26And then views out into your garden.
0:12:26 > 0:12:30- Very nice.- It's a good size. Plenty of room.
0:12:30 > 0:12:32There's a lot of space in this house,
0:12:32 > 0:12:33and I know you were really after that.
0:12:33 > 0:12:35You need a home for your books.
0:12:35 > 0:12:38- Yes.- Shall we see if we can find one in this particular house?
0:12:38 > 0:12:40- Yes! - I think we may have just the thing.
0:12:40 > 0:12:42- Oh, excellent.- Sounds good.
0:12:42 > 0:12:45All right, I shall lead the way, follow me.
0:12:45 > 0:12:49Opposite the bedroom is a family bathroom with a separate shower,
0:12:49 > 0:12:52and along the hallway are the other three bedrooms.
0:12:52 > 0:12:56There's a bright double with doors to the terrace at the front,
0:12:56 > 0:12:58a smaller double at the back,
0:12:58 > 0:13:01and next to that, a room currently used for storage,
0:13:01 > 0:13:06then a door at the far end of the bungalow conceals the last room.
0:13:06 > 0:13:08- OK.- Oh, my goodness. - Good grief.
0:13:08 > 0:13:11- It's another kitchen. - It's a second kitchen.
0:13:11 > 0:13:12What a beautiful room.
0:13:12 > 0:13:15You've got a gorgeous decked area out here.
0:13:15 > 0:13:18- Yes.- And the reason we have a second kitchen in this house
0:13:18 > 0:13:22is the house is actually owned by two friends,
0:13:22 > 0:13:24who live in separate parts of the property.
0:13:24 > 0:13:27- Oh, right.- But I thought this would be perfect for you.
0:13:27 > 0:13:30You can have guests stay in this half of the house
0:13:30 > 0:13:34or you could run your writing workshops or storytelling workshops.
0:13:34 > 0:13:37I think it would work very well as a workshop area space.
0:13:37 > 0:13:40Yes, it offers a whole heap of opportunities.
0:13:40 > 0:13:42It has that nice feel about it,
0:13:42 > 0:13:45it's really quite nice and welcoming and just sort of...
0:13:45 > 0:13:47- Yes.- It's got a cosy feel, hasn't it?
0:13:47 > 0:13:49Yes, that's the very word I was looking for. Cosy.
0:13:49 > 0:13:54This property has already revealed one surprise to Janet and Jeff,
0:13:54 > 0:13:57but there's another one, as we head outside.
0:13:57 > 0:14:02The garden is well laid out with mature trees, shrubs and flowers,
0:14:02 > 0:14:05and there's even a pond and a small area of woodland.
0:14:05 > 0:14:08The compact kitchen garden has far-reaching views
0:14:08 > 0:14:10across neighbouring fields,
0:14:10 > 0:14:13adding up to around three-quarters of an acre.
0:14:13 > 0:14:17There's room for tents too, but that's not all.
0:14:17 > 0:14:20- Ah.- Is that a good "ah"?
0:14:20 > 0:14:23- Ah! Ah. - You're already liking what you see?
0:14:23 > 0:14:26- Ah!- Your beautiful writer's retreat, here.
0:14:26 > 0:14:28- Yes.- That looks good.
0:14:28 > 0:14:32Two rooms, one's used as a bedroom at the moment.
0:14:32 > 0:14:34- Yes. - So you could have guests staying.
0:14:34 > 0:14:38The other is actually used by the current owners for artist workshops.
0:14:38 > 0:14:40- Right. - What do you feel when you see that?
0:14:40 > 0:14:42Well, I have to say I feel very excited.
0:14:42 > 0:14:45- Very interesting.- So you've got your writer's retreat
0:14:45 > 0:14:47as well as your bungalow.
0:14:47 > 0:14:50What do you think the value of this property is?
0:14:50 > 0:14:54Well, I think it's got most of the things that we really want.
0:14:54 > 0:14:58I reckon it must be around about £720,000.
0:14:58 > 0:15:01I think it's about £740,000.
0:15:01 > 0:15:04OK. This house is on the market
0:15:04 > 0:15:08for £649,000.
0:15:08 > 0:15:12- Oh, very interesting. - That sounds very interesting, yes.
0:15:12 > 0:15:15- Do you want to explore your writer's retreat?- Yes, please!
0:15:15 > 0:15:18- Get in there, go on.- Thank you.
0:15:18 > 0:15:20This detached bungalow has a price tag
0:15:20 > 0:15:25a generous £101,000 below our buyers' budget.
0:15:25 > 0:15:28The kitchen/diner is bright and spacious
0:15:28 > 0:15:31and the separate self-contained living area and kitchen
0:15:31 > 0:15:34open up all sorts of possibilities for Janet's workshops.
0:15:34 > 0:15:38Four bedrooms allow Jeff to have his own space, too.
0:15:38 > 0:15:40The garden and its views are magnificent,
0:15:40 > 0:15:44and the writer's retreat is an unexpected bonus for Janet,
0:15:44 > 0:15:48who could house some of her book collection here.
0:15:48 > 0:15:51Oh, yes. There's plenty of room here.
0:15:51 > 0:15:52For your big worktable.
0:15:52 > 0:15:55Yep. And there's the room next door.
0:15:55 > 0:15:58Yes. I was eyeing that up for my photography room.
0:15:58 > 0:16:01- Well, yes, actually, that's a very good idea, isn't it?- Mm.
0:16:01 > 0:16:05Well, the house here, it seems to meet all the requirements.
0:16:05 > 0:16:09There's plenty of nice rooms, a few adaptations we will need to do.
0:16:09 > 0:16:10It looks great.
0:16:10 > 0:16:14And there's a great outside space for Janet's library
0:16:14 > 0:16:16and my photography workshop.
0:16:16 > 0:16:18I think this house is very interesting.
0:16:18 > 0:16:22It has lots of rooms, lots of opportunity for developing things.
0:16:22 > 0:16:24I think it really is a real contender,
0:16:24 > 0:16:27and I think this whole place is inspirational
0:16:27 > 0:16:32and I would look forward to being able to do some writing here.
0:16:32 > 0:16:35Have we potentially found a home for your library, Janet?
0:16:35 > 0:16:37Well, there's certainly the space for it.
0:16:37 > 0:16:39OK, lots of smiles.
0:16:39 > 0:16:41Absolutely, lots to think about.
0:16:41 > 0:16:43- Let's keep going.- OK.- Good.
0:16:47 > 0:16:50Devon's rich pasture land and moderate climate
0:16:50 > 0:16:53means a good variety of crops flourish here,
0:16:53 > 0:16:55but one of the oldest crops known to man,
0:16:55 > 0:16:58dating back some 30,000 years,
0:16:58 > 0:17:00has all but died out in the county,
0:17:00 > 0:17:02and it's called flax.
0:17:02 > 0:17:05Perhaps known more nowadays for the linseed it produces,
0:17:05 > 0:17:10its fibres are also traditionally used to make linen.
0:17:10 > 0:17:12Susie Gillespie is a textile designer
0:17:12 > 0:17:14based just outside of Totnes
0:17:14 > 0:17:18who uses the environment around her for inspiration.
0:17:18 > 0:17:20She marries age-old techniques
0:17:20 > 0:17:22with her own creative, modern-day vision
0:17:22 > 0:17:25and produces unique creations from linen,
0:17:25 > 0:17:27made entirely from scratch.
0:17:27 > 0:17:32She also runs courses in linen spinning and creative weaving.
0:17:32 > 0:17:36Today, Janet and Jeff have come to meet her at her home studio
0:17:36 > 0:17:37to learn how it's done.
0:17:37 > 0:17:41Now we know Janet loves to spin a yarn, and so does Susie.
0:17:43 > 0:17:46I'm a weaver, I process my own flax.
0:17:46 > 0:17:48I've always used linen,
0:17:48 > 0:17:51so I thought it would be nice to try and make my own.
0:17:51 > 0:17:56So I've started growing it in the fields and processing it
0:17:56 > 0:17:57to use for my work.
0:17:57 > 0:18:01I use textiles and materials in some of my storytelling
0:18:01 > 0:18:03with my work with people who have profound
0:18:03 > 0:18:04and multiple learning disabilities,
0:18:04 > 0:18:08because it helps them to have a tangible basis of learning a story,
0:18:08 > 0:18:10or feeling a story.
0:18:10 > 0:18:12At the moment, I buy lots of my materials from shops,
0:18:12 > 0:18:16but the idea of maybe being able to create my own textures,
0:18:16 > 0:18:17I think that's quite exciting.
0:18:17 > 0:18:19Susie works with home-grown flax,
0:18:19 > 0:18:22planted in the orchards surrounding her studio,
0:18:22 > 0:18:26which she harvests by hand, pulling it up roots and all.
0:18:27 > 0:18:30Once it's dry, the first stage is to remove the seed heads
0:18:30 > 0:18:32using a large metal comb.
0:18:32 > 0:18:36The flax is then submerged in water before it's dried again.
0:18:37 > 0:18:41This is the flax that I've pulled up and wetted
0:18:41 > 0:18:44for a couple of weeks in a bath of water.
0:18:44 > 0:18:49And that just loosens off the fibres from the woody core.
0:18:49 > 0:18:54And their fibres are what we need for the spinning to make the yarn.
0:18:54 > 0:18:58But if I just show you how I do it with the flax breaker.
0:18:59 > 0:19:02It's an amazing tool.
0:19:02 > 0:19:08The design was taken from an old-fashioned flax breaker.
0:19:08 > 0:19:10It's essentially the same process that has been used
0:19:10 > 0:19:12for thousands of years.
0:19:12 > 0:19:15The flax is crimped, which reveals the inner fibres.
0:19:15 > 0:19:17You keep working at it.
0:19:17 > 0:19:18I can see how that's turning into...
0:19:18 > 0:19:20- The fibres are coming out. - ..the fibres, wow.
0:19:20 > 0:19:22That's very interesting.
0:19:22 > 0:19:24If Janet is serious about making her own yarn,
0:19:24 > 0:19:27then she better have a go herself.
0:19:27 > 0:19:29You take the handle.
0:19:29 > 0:19:30OK.
0:19:33 > 0:19:35It's changing, it really is changing, isn't it?
0:19:37 > 0:19:40That's probably ready now, I can show you the next step.
0:19:40 > 0:19:41OK.
0:19:42 > 0:19:45The next stage is for the flax to be spun into yarn
0:19:45 > 0:19:48using a spinning wheel before it's woven into fabric.
0:19:48 > 0:19:52The golden yarn can be dyed a rainbow of colours.
0:19:52 > 0:19:55Susie creates all kinds of products from her linen,
0:19:55 > 0:19:58including cushions, artwork and table runners.
0:19:59 > 0:20:01So this is the yarn that's been spun?
0:20:01 > 0:20:04Yes, it's ready now to start weaving.
0:20:04 > 0:20:08With the weaving, you use your feet to press the pedals.
0:20:08 > 0:20:14And we use the two outside pedals to make the alternate shafts come up.
0:20:14 > 0:20:15These are the shafts.
0:20:15 > 0:20:21So if you press one pedal down, and you put the shuttle across...
0:20:23 > 0:20:27..and you use the beater to beat the thread in place.
0:20:27 > 0:20:29And then you take your foot off the pedal,
0:20:29 > 0:20:34then put the other foot on and change it to the other side.
0:20:36 > 0:20:39So I guess it's a lot different from machines in the factory,
0:20:39 > 0:20:42where they produce perfect stuff every time.
0:20:42 > 0:20:45Yes. Well, I think by doing it by hand,
0:20:45 > 0:20:48you are able to put in elements that you like
0:20:48 > 0:20:51and then sometimes, if it goes a bit wrong,
0:20:51 > 0:20:56it just adds to the creativity, you know, the human error adds to it.
0:20:56 > 0:20:59Now Janet and Jeff are getting the chance
0:20:59 > 0:21:02to put their stamp on a weave.
0:21:02 > 0:21:05Yes.
0:21:05 > 0:21:08And to the other one.
0:21:08 > 0:21:10And then we are backing this one through.
0:21:10 > 0:21:12That's it.
0:21:12 > 0:21:13OK, go.
0:21:15 > 0:21:17OK.
0:21:17 > 0:21:19Let's see what you've done. Really nice.
0:21:19 > 0:21:21It's been a lovely day. Learnt a lot.
0:21:21 > 0:21:24Thanks for coming. Good luck with your house-hunting.
0:21:24 > 0:21:26- Thank you. - Thank you.
0:21:26 > 0:21:29Now our pair have learned how to spin a yarn,
0:21:29 > 0:21:32it's time to reflect on their Devon journey so far,
0:21:32 > 0:21:35before our house hunt continues tomorrow.
0:21:40 > 0:21:44Morning has broken on the next leg of our trip around South Devon,
0:21:44 > 0:21:48searching for a country home for Janet and Jeff from Surrey.
0:21:48 > 0:21:51And armed with a budget of £750,000,
0:21:51 > 0:21:55our brief is to find a property that allows for ground-floor living.
0:21:55 > 0:21:59We've still got a mystery house with a rather big bonus.
0:21:59 > 0:22:00Now that would be a great place
0:22:00 > 0:22:02to have a glass of something lovely in the evening,
0:22:02 > 0:22:04- on that patio space there. - Or first thing in the morning.
0:22:04 > 0:22:07Oh, first thing in the morning! I like your style.
0:22:07 > 0:22:10And I will be working out whodunnit
0:22:10 > 0:22:13when I visit a world-famous crime writer's
0:22:13 > 0:22:14rather magnificent Devonshire home.
0:22:14 > 0:22:17Any details in this room that are in her books?
0:22:17 > 0:22:20Absolutely. In Dead Man's Folly, Poirot was sitting here,
0:22:20 > 0:22:22Mrs Stubbs would be sitting here
0:22:22 > 0:22:25looking at her emerald ring with her arms stretched out.
0:22:27 > 0:22:29Today is day two of our property search,
0:22:29 > 0:22:33and later on I'll be showing our lovely couple their mystery house,
0:22:33 > 0:22:36or should I say houses?
0:22:36 > 0:22:39But first to a rather grand and very imposing property.
0:22:43 > 0:22:45For our next visit, we are heading just outside
0:22:45 > 0:22:47the village of Stoke Gabriel,
0:22:47 > 0:22:51which is situated on a creek of the historic River Dart.
0:22:51 > 0:22:54The unspoiled village has a good selection of shops,
0:22:54 > 0:22:57alongside places to eat and drink.
0:22:57 > 0:22:59Its narrow lanes roll down to the river,
0:22:59 > 0:23:02where Dart salmon has long been fished.
0:23:03 > 0:23:05Just a six-minute drive away
0:23:05 > 0:23:09is the rather handsome property we've come to see.
0:23:09 > 0:23:14What I'm liking is the big, big smiles that I'm seeing already.
0:23:15 > 0:23:17- It looks great.- Yes.
0:23:17 > 0:23:19It is full of character.
0:23:19 > 0:23:21I love the doorway.
0:23:21 > 0:23:23The doorway is just so inviting, it's so much a story house.
0:23:23 > 0:23:27It's got a history. There must be a story there somewhere.
0:23:27 > 0:23:29It has a great history.
0:23:29 > 0:23:32Late Georgian, Grade II listed,
0:23:32 > 0:23:36restored just four years ago through the entire house.
0:23:36 > 0:23:39So there is so little work to do inside.
0:23:39 > 0:23:41We certainly weren't asking for period,
0:23:41 > 0:23:44but this may be an exception.
0:23:44 > 0:23:47- Let's go in. - All right, you can't wait, can you?
0:23:47 > 0:23:49Come on, let's do it.
0:23:49 > 0:23:51This impressive double-fronted property
0:23:51 > 0:23:54was built around 1820 as a farmhouse.
0:23:54 > 0:23:57The current owners have spent a year transforming the property
0:23:57 > 0:24:00into the home we are about to explore.
0:24:00 > 0:24:03It is attached on either side to former farm buildings,
0:24:03 > 0:24:05which are now separate residences.
0:24:07 > 0:24:09As we cross the threshold,
0:24:09 > 0:24:12a grand entrance hall passes a sweeping stairway,
0:24:12 > 0:24:16which leads to a rather majestic sitting room.
0:24:16 > 0:24:20Beautiful cornicing in keeping with a Georgian property, ceiling rose.
0:24:20 > 0:24:24The original sash windows from the farmhouse.
0:24:24 > 0:24:26And the original shutters as well.
0:24:26 > 0:24:28It's a good-sized room, isn't it?
0:24:28 > 0:24:29Yes, I could see myself here.
0:24:29 > 0:24:32It's certainly got a nice, warm feel to it.
0:24:32 > 0:24:35- There is another beautiful living room of this size.- Right.
0:24:35 > 0:24:38And I thought that could make a perfect downstairs bedroom.
0:24:38 > 0:24:40Again, it's gorgeous views out into the garden.
0:24:40 > 0:24:44And behind us is a cloakroom, and utility room,
0:24:44 > 0:24:45along this stretch of wall,
0:24:45 > 0:24:47which is already plumbed in
0:24:47 > 0:24:49and you can look at adding a shower in there,
0:24:49 > 0:24:51and then you have that perfect downstairs bathroom,
0:24:51 > 0:24:55- so you could investigate that as an option.- Yes.
0:24:55 > 0:24:57This house may be a period property,
0:24:57 > 0:24:59but its fine proportions and excellent flow
0:24:59 > 0:25:02could provide an appealing option for Janet and Jeff.
0:25:02 > 0:25:04And at the back of the property
0:25:04 > 0:25:07is a fantastic farmhouse-style kitchen/diner
0:25:07 > 0:25:10with access to the garden and adjacent parking spaces.
0:25:12 > 0:25:15Oh, my word. Oh, look at the flagstones.
0:25:15 > 0:25:18The original farmhouse floor.
0:25:18 > 0:25:23A kitchen that has been restored so lovingly,
0:25:23 > 0:25:25and you have your range.
0:25:25 > 0:25:28You've got your dining space behind you.
0:25:28 > 0:25:31- It's very nice.- I do like the fact that they do run into each other,
0:25:31 > 0:25:33and it's a different character from the kitchen.
0:25:33 > 0:25:35They are separately defined spaces.
0:25:35 > 0:25:38And then in this wonderful old farmhouse kitchen,
0:25:38 > 0:25:41running the entire length of the kitchen and dining area,
0:25:41 > 0:25:44you have a basement room.
0:25:44 > 0:25:47So for guests, friends, family coming to stay,
0:25:47 > 0:25:49it also has a little bathroom downstairs, too.
0:25:49 > 0:25:52More places, either for storage, and a wonderful library,
0:25:52 > 0:25:55or just a lovely place for guests to visit.
0:25:55 > 0:25:58So lots of living space on the ground floor for you.
0:25:58 > 0:26:00Should we take a look upstairs?
0:26:00 > 0:26:01- Yes, please.- OK.
0:26:04 > 0:26:06The winding stairway leads to the first floor,
0:26:06 > 0:26:10passing a wonderful picture window with views to the garden.
0:26:10 > 0:26:12Up on this floor, off a large landing,
0:26:12 > 0:26:15there's a bright, tiled family bathroom and four bedrooms.
0:26:15 > 0:26:18A spacious twin room lies at the back of the house,
0:26:18 > 0:26:22a double at the front with a pretty feature fireplace.
0:26:22 > 0:26:25And next door there's a smaller room used as a study.
0:26:25 > 0:26:28But we are on our way to the largest and most impressive
0:26:28 > 0:26:31of the four bedrooms, the master suite.
0:26:31 > 0:26:32It's lovely and big.
0:26:32 > 0:26:36- Lovely, big space. - And I love the fireplace.
0:26:36 > 0:26:38It's a beautiful-size room.
0:26:38 > 0:26:41Off this bedroom, you have an en-suite, as well.
0:26:41 > 0:26:45Double sinks, and a lovely walk-in wardrobe.
0:26:45 > 0:26:47So you don't need wardrobes in here.
0:26:47 > 0:26:50No, you don't. Shall we keep taking a look?
0:26:50 > 0:26:52- Yes, please. - Let's explore those gardens.
0:26:52 > 0:26:54Maybe now is the time to start thinking about
0:26:54 > 0:26:56how much a house like this might be worth.
0:26:56 > 0:26:58Yes.
0:26:58 > 0:27:00- You don't want to leave, do you?- No.
0:27:01 > 0:27:04Right, come and tell me where you're going to move everything into.
0:27:04 > 0:27:05OK.
0:27:05 > 0:27:09Outside, there's a large garage, providing additional storage space,
0:27:09 > 0:27:11and there's also a workshop.
0:27:11 > 0:27:15We're heading to the grounds, which lie to the front of the house.
0:27:15 > 0:27:18The exceptional walled garden is filled with bursts of colour.
0:27:18 > 0:27:21There's also an immaculately manicured lawn
0:27:21 > 0:27:23surrounded by mature shrubs and trees.
0:27:23 > 0:27:26And beyond, in a further area of garden,
0:27:26 > 0:27:30an idyllic summer house in which to soak up the tranquil surroundings.
0:27:34 > 0:27:37That is quite a view of the property, isn't it?
0:27:37 > 0:27:38It's wonderful.
0:27:38 > 0:27:42And this land goes right up into that lovely viewing bench up there.
0:27:42 > 0:27:44And not too difficult to maintain.
0:27:44 > 0:27:47Mainly lawn in this area.
0:27:47 > 0:27:50- You are wondering about the price, I'm sure.- Yes.
0:27:50 > 0:27:53What do you think this property is on the market for?
0:27:53 > 0:27:56I think about £690,000.
0:27:56 > 0:27:58I shall go a bit higher than that.
0:27:58 > 0:28:03I think about £730,000.
0:28:03 > 0:28:05I have to say, Janet, you are closer.
0:28:05 > 0:28:07This property is on the market...
0:28:07 > 0:28:12for £695,000.
0:28:12 > 0:28:17Yes. I think it's a very nice amount, and it's a nice property.
0:28:17 > 0:28:19I get the sense you're itching to explore some more.
0:28:19 > 0:28:23I'm going to send you off. I shall enjoy this gorgeous view.
0:28:24 > 0:28:28This wonderful Georgian home is priced at £55,000
0:28:28 > 0:28:30under Janet and Jeff's budget.
0:28:30 > 0:28:32And with all its character and space,
0:28:32 > 0:28:35it's given them plenty to think about.
0:28:35 > 0:28:38It's got the farmhouse kitchen Janet was dreaming of
0:28:38 > 0:28:40and four good-sized bedrooms.
0:28:40 > 0:28:43Outside, the garden is not only beautiful,
0:28:43 > 0:28:48but also provides work-space options for both Janet and Jeff.
0:28:48 > 0:28:50I really like this house.
0:28:50 > 0:28:54As we approached it down the path, it was immediately a story house.
0:28:54 > 0:28:56It has a story of its own,
0:28:56 > 0:28:59but it looks like the typical sort of storybook house.
0:28:59 > 0:29:03I love the house. I love this symmetry as you approach the house.
0:29:03 > 0:29:05I love the size of the rooms.
0:29:05 > 0:29:06Nice, tall ceilings.
0:29:06 > 0:29:08Georgian windows, beautiful lights.
0:29:10 > 0:29:12So, have you seen enough?
0:29:12 > 0:29:15- Yes.- We certainly had a good hunt around.
0:29:15 > 0:29:16All pretty positive?
0:29:16 > 0:29:19- Yes.- I think it's really good, very interesting.
0:29:19 > 0:29:22And we still have that mystery house to see.
0:29:22 > 0:29:23The mystery house.
0:29:23 > 0:29:24Come on.
0:29:29 > 0:29:33It's not just Janet who's drawn to seek inspiration
0:29:33 > 0:29:35from Devon's beautiful landscape.
0:29:35 > 0:29:39Many creatives past and present have links to the county,
0:29:39 > 0:29:43including Charles Dickens, Thomas Hardy and Jane Austen.
0:29:43 > 0:29:46But one novelist is synonymous with the south of the region,
0:29:46 > 0:29:49and that's crime writer Agatha Christie.
0:29:49 > 0:29:54Born in Torquay, she bought Greenway House near Brixham in 1938
0:29:54 > 0:29:55as a holiday retreat,
0:29:55 > 0:29:58a Georgian property with a Grade II* listing.
0:29:58 > 0:30:01It sits on the banks of the River Dart,
0:30:01 > 0:30:04and Christie dubbed it, "The loveliest place in the world."
0:30:04 > 0:30:07In the year 2000, Christie's daughter gave Greenway
0:30:07 > 0:30:10to the National Trust and the property now welcomes
0:30:10 > 0:30:15over 100,000 visitors a year, plus overnight guests.
0:30:15 > 0:30:19I've come to meet house and collections manager Elaine Ward
0:30:19 > 0:30:22to find out more about the very private writer
0:30:22 > 0:30:26and her holiday hideaway, where she was known by her married name.
0:30:26 > 0:30:29She used to come here and escape from being Agatha Christie.
0:30:29 > 0:30:32She was Mrs Mallowan while she was here, she was part of the community,
0:30:32 > 0:30:35the school, children used to come in,
0:30:35 > 0:30:36gardeners here, the community.
0:30:36 > 0:30:38This is where she came to relax.
0:30:38 > 0:30:41So would we find the house in any of her books?
0:30:41 > 0:30:43We know it as Greenway, but many Agatha Christie fans
0:30:43 > 0:30:46will know it as Naase House in Dead Man's Folly.
0:30:46 > 0:30:48This is where the garden fete was happening,
0:30:48 > 0:30:50and also where the murder victim was found in the boathouse
0:30:50 > 0:30:52there down in the garden.
0:30:52 > 0:30:53So when you read Dead Man's Folly,
0:30:53 > 0:30:56and you're walking through the garden, walking through the house,
0:30:56 > 0:30:59you can see the story come alive.
0:30:59 > 0:31:02And was this always her holiday home until she passed away?
0:31:02 > 0:31:04She did own this house until she passed away.
0:31:04 > 0:31:06Obviously, subsequently, her daughter
0:31:06 > 0:31:08and her son-in-law, Anthony, took over this house,
0:31:08 > 0:31:12but she had this house until she passed away in 1976.
0:31:12 > 0:31:13Now the National Trust have taken over
0:31:13 > 0:31:16and we're keeping it in the spirit of Agatha Christie,
0:31:16 > 0:31:18as if she has just walked out into the garden.
0:31:20 > 0:31:23Well, not only is it an incredibly impressive house,
0:31:23 > 0:31:27I can understand why Agatha Christie would have loved this view so much.
0:31:27 > 0:31:28- Absolutely.- It is stunning.
0:31:30 > 0:31:33Greenway was built in the late 1700s.
0:31:33 > 0:31:36Agatha Christie had admired the striking property
0:31:36 > 0:31:37since she was a little girl.
0:31:37 > 0:31:40So when, as an adult, she saw it was up for sale,
0:31:40 > 0:31:42she knew it was her dream house.
0:31:42 > 0:31:47Today, its interior is just as it was in the 1950s.
0:31:47 > 0:31:49This is such a large room,
0:31:49 > 0:31:52and yet there's a sense of a really cosy atmosphere here.
0:31:52 > 0:31:55What would Agatha have used this room for?
0:31:55 > 0:31:56This is her drawing room.
0:31:56 > 0:31:59And they used to spend time in here relaxing with the family,
0:31:59 > 0:32:02mainly this area here is where they used to read her scripts.
0:32:02 > 0:32:05She used to sit here with her family reading the stories,
0:32:05 > 0:32:06reading the chapters.
0:32:06 > 0:32:09So she would actually sit here reading to her family?
0:32:09 > 0:32:10- Yes.- Sort of testing out the stories?
0:32:10 > 0:32:14- Yes, she would.- And are there any details in this room that are in her books?
0:32:14 > 0:32:18Absolutely. Again, Dead Man's Folly. Poirot was sitting here.
0:32:18 > 0:32:20They would come through the doorway here,
0:32:20 > 0:32:21and then one of the characters
0:32:21 > 0:32:23were leaving out through the French window over here.
0:32:23 > 0:32:25Also Mrs Stubbs would be sitting here,
0:32:25 > 0:32:29looking at her emerald ring with her arms stretched out,
0:32:29 > 0:32:32so you can just imagine her sitting here whilst she's looking at this.
0:32:32 > 0:32:35Are these actually the sofas that Agatha actually sat on,
0:32:35 > 0:32:36or have you just replicated everything?
0:32:36 > 0:32:38No, everything that is here
0:32:38 > 0:32:40actually belonged to Agatha Christie and her family.
0:32:40 > 0:32:43For instance, that's a desk she used to write at whilst she was here,
0:32:43 > 0:32:46drafting out plotlines, notebooks, that sort of thing.
0:32:46 > 0:32:49This house is truly fascinating,
0:32:49 > 0:32:51a shrine to the revered writer,
0:32:51 > 0:32:54and you can feel her spirit is all around.
0:32:54 > 0:32:57But outside in the grounds, her presence is felt, too.
0:32:57 > 0:33:01There are 272 acres here, which roll down to the river,
0:33:01 > 0:33:04where, by the water's edge, is the boathouse
0:33:04 > 0:33:07Christie and her family used to relax in,
0:33:07 > 0:33:12hold barbecues, swim and, of course, keep a small boat.
0:33:12 > 0:33:16It was yet another location featured in her novel Dead Man's Folly,
0:33:16 > 0:33:20where one of her characters met an untimely death.
0:33:22 > 0:33:24Well, this is a little different from the main house.
0:33:24 > 0:33:25What's going on here?
0:33:25 > 0:33:28As you can see, it's in a bit of a dilapidated state,
0:33:28 > 0:33:30so we are doing a building restoration here.
0:33:30 > 0:33:31Sadly, we've got...
0:33:32 > 0:33:35..plaster coming off the walls here.
0:33:35 > 0:33:39So is anything here as it would have been in Agatha's time?
0:33:39 > 0:33:42What you see in the building, you've got the fireplace there,
0:33:42 > 0:33:44that was here, obviously, when Agatha was here.
0:33:44 > 0:33:47- You've got some of the furniture. - Oh, this is hers?- Yeah, absolutely.
0:33:47 > 0:33:50This is her chair. This is where she used to sit and do some reading.
0:33:50 > 0:33:54So what are the unique challenges of renovating a property like this?
0:33:54 > 0:33:57Well, the boathouse gives us an initial challenge straightaway.
0:33:57 > 0:33:59We are right on the River Dart here,
0:33:59 > 0:34:02so with the environment, we have to put new lime plaster on the walls.
0:34:02 > 0:34:05We have to make sure that it's clean and dry
0:34:05 > 0:34:08and very warm to make sure that that plaster dries significantly,
0:34:08 > 0:34:10otherwise it all has to be taken off and started again.
0:34:10 > 0:34:12So it's a lot of research involved
0:34:12 > 0:34:14to make sure we use the correct materials.
0:34:14 > 0:34:16Elaine, thank you so much for taking the time
0:34:16 > 0:34:18to let us come and explore.
0:34:18 > 0:34:21I know there's lots of work to be done, so I will let you get on.
0:34:21 > 0:34:22Thank you very much.
0:34:24 > 0:34:27From one fabulous Devon pad to another,
0:34:27 > 0:34:29but we've got to wait a little while
0:34:29 > 0:34:32to get to the bottom of our thriller today.
0:34:38 > 0:34:40Mystery house.
0:34:40 > 0:34:42What are you thinking we might show you?
0:34:42 > 0:34:45I think it's going to be a modern farm conversion.
0:34:47 > 0:34:49- Open-plan.- With a thatched roof?
0:34:51 > 0:34:52Possibly not.
0:34:53 > 0:34:55Well, you never know.
0:34:58 > 0:34:59For our last property,
0:34:59 > 0:35:01we're travelling to the village of Bigbury-on-Sea,
0:35:01 > 0:35:06also located in the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
0:35:06 > 0:35:11Local amenities include a shop and a 16th-century pub and restaurant.
0:35:11 > 0:35:13Just under six miles north
0:35:13 > 0:35:16is the historic market town of Modbury, where a wider selection
0:35:16 > 0:35:19of independent shops and eateries can be found,
0:35:19 > 0:35:23including an attractive 14th-century coaching inn.
0:35:23 > 0:35:26A quarter-of-an-hour drive takes us back to Bigbury-on-Sea
0:35:26 > 0:35:29and our mystery property,
0:35:29 > 0:35:32which is located behind a sweeping circular drive.
0:35:32 > 0:35:34Just 200 metres from the sea,
0:35:34 > 0:35:37it boasts a bird's-eye view of Burgh Island,
0:35:37 > 0:35:40a tidal island reached by foot at low tide
0:35:40 > 0:35:42and a sea tractor when the tide is high.
0:35:42 > 0:35:46It provided literary inspiration to Agatha Christie
0:35:46 > 0:35:51and also attracted Noel Coward to its Art Deco hotel in the 1930s.
0:35:51 > 0:35:55So here we are, our mystery house.
0:35:55 > 0:35:57- First impressions?- It's a bungalow.
0:35:57 > 0:35:59- Which is what you are after.- Yay.
0:35:59 > 0:36:02And it looks very big, it seems to go a long way back.
0:36:02 > 0:36:04- Yes.- It does.
0:36:04 > 0:36:07Any idea why it's our mystery house?
0:36:07 > 0:36:09Not yet.
0:36:09 > 0:36:13This particular house is our mystery house because it is two houses.
0:36:13 > 0:36:16- Two?- Two houses?- Two houses.
0:36:16 > 0:36:20So you have the main house here. And then the other house...
0:36:20 > 0:36:22You know you were talking about your writing groups,
0:36:22 > 0:36:25friends and family coming to stay? You could run it as a going concern,
0:36:25 > 0:36:27which is what the current owners do.
0:36:27 > 0:36:29They rent out this section of the house
0:36:29 > 0:36:31and live in the annexe at the back.
0:36:31 > 0:36:35- Oh.- What do you think of the idea of the two properties in one?
0:36:35 > 0:36:37I think it's got potential.
0:36:37 > 0:36:40- Should we see inside? Come on, let's do it.- Yes, please.
0:36:40 > 0:36:44This wonderfully located bungalow was originally built in the 1960s
0:36:44 > 0:36:50but was extended five years ago to create a self-contained annexe.
0:36:50 > 0:36:53We are entering via a hallway into the original part of the property,
0:36:53 > 0:36:56currently rented out for holidays by the present owners.
0:36:58 > 0:37:00So nice, big hall space.
0:37:00 > 0:37:04Already a couple of bookshelves up. Maybe room for more.
0:37:04 > 0:37:07- And then a lovely, big living area for you.- Oh, yes.
0:37:07 > 0:37:09It's a nice, big space.
0:37:09 > 0:37:12- It's ideal.- With those lovely views of Burgh Island.
0:37:12 > 0:37:14- Oh, yes.- Yes. Beautiful.
0:37:14 > 0:37:16Now that would be a great place to have a glass of something
0:37:16 > 0:37:18lovely in the evening, on that patio space there.
0:37:18 > 0:37:20Or first thing in the morning.
0:37:20 > 0:37:23Oh, first thing in the morning! I like your style.
0:37:23 > 0:37:25Our welcoming mystery house
0:37:25 > 0:37:27has already got Jeff's imagination working.
0:37:27 > 0:37:29Just behind us is a dining room area,
0:37:29 > 0:37:31off which is a beautifully finished kitchen
0:37:31 > 0:37:34with access to a small courtyard garden.
0:37:34 > 0:37:36And there's a utility room next door.
0:37:36 > 0:37:40Then, behind the kitchen is a nautically themed family bathroom,
0:37:40 > 0:37:42serving three double bedrooms.
0:37:42 > 0:37:44There's one with doors to the courtyard
0:37:44 > 0:37:46and a smart shower room.
0:37:46 > 0:37:48Next door is a twin,
0:37:48 > 0:37:50and another double is lucky enough
0:37:50 > 0:37:52to have views across to Burgh Island.
0:37:52 > 0:37:54That's the main bungalow,
0:37:54 > 0:37:57and next door is the adjoining annexe the current owners call home.
0:37:57 > 0:38:00It's just the other side of the courtyard.
0:38:00 > 0:38:03We are starting from the open-plan kitchen and living room,
0:38:03 > 0:38:06which takes up half of the property.
0:38:06 > 0:38:07It's very nice.
0:38:07 > 0:38:09Certainly nice.
0:38:09 > 0:38:11You could use this as maybe your writer's retreat
0:38:11 > 0:38:14and then have the main part of the property to yourselves.
0:38:14 > 0:38:17There is also a little office outside,
0:38:17 > 0:38:21which is a converted garage, which could be your man cave, Jeff,
0:38:21 > 0:38:22if you wanted.
0:38:22 > 0:38:25So, our mystery house does have lots of options for you.
0:38:25 > 0:38:28- Yes.- Should we go and see the master bedroom?- Yes, let's.
0:38:28 > 0:38:30The sleeping quarters just next door
0:38:30 > 0:38:32take up the other half of the annexe.
0:38:32 > 0:38:35So big, big room.
0:38:35 > 0:38:36Lovely cupboard space for both of you.
0:38:36 > 0:38:39You've got full built-in wardrobes there.
0:38:39 > 0:38:43Very large bathroom. Lovely walk-in shower.
0:38:43 > 0:38:45So a nice, big space for you in the annexe.
0:38:45 > 0:38:48Certainly, it's a beautiful master bedroom.
0:38:48 > 0:38:50And what about that view into the garden?
0:38:50 > 0:38:52- Yes.- Nice to wake up to that.
0:38:52 > 0:38:55When you are in bed, you can see all the way up the hill.
0:38:55 > 0:38:58Now you've had a look, should we head out into that garden?
0:38:58 > 0:39:00- Yes, please.- OK, come on.
0:39:00 > 0:39:04The main bungalow benefits from wonderful sea views.
0:39:04 > 0:39:07Behind the annexe is a stunning and expansive garden
0:39:07 > 0:39:10surrounded by fields and hilly countryside.
0:39:10 > 0:39:13The grounds are well kept with beautiful flowerbeds,
0:39:13 > 0:39:17mature trees, a kitchen garden and a greenhouse.
0:39:17 > 0:39:20There's also lapsed planning permission for a double garage,
0:39:20 > 0:39:23which could become Janet's longed-for library.
0:39:23 > 0:39:25It's worth coming up this tiered garden
0:39:25 > 0:39:30to catch that view of Burgh Island and the ocean.
0:39:30 > 0:39:31Just marvellous.
0:39:31 > 0:39:35I think it's easy maintenance, just the right size.
0:39:35 > 0:39:39So, easy to look after, even I might cut this grass.
0:39:39 > 0:39:42- So it would work for you? - It certainly would.
0:39:42 > 0:39:45You've seen the garden, the house. Now down to the price.
0:39:45 > 0:39:47Oh, the difficult bit.
0:39:47 > 0:39:49What do you think our mystery house is on the market for?
0:39:49 > 0:39:55I'm going, optimistically, at £720,000.
0:39:55 > 0:39:57OK. Janet?
0:39:57 > 0:40:00I would think around about £680,000.
0:40:00 > 0:40:03Take each of those offers, come halfway.
0:40:03 > 0:40:04700,000.
0:40:04 > 0:40:07- Right.- Offers in excess of 700,000.
0:40:07 > 0:40:08So you're both 20 out.
0:40:08 > 0:40:10- Yes.- Would you like to take another look at the house?
0:40:10 > 0:40:12- Yes.- Yes, please.- You do that.
0:40:12 > 0:40:13I'm going to take in the view a little bit longer.
0:40:13 > 0:40:15- Enjoy.- Thank you.
0:40:16 > 0:40:18This mystery property, with its bonus annexe,
0:40:18 > 0:40:22could leave Janet and Jeff with £50,000 in the kitty
0:40:22 > 0:40:24if they decide to make it theirs.
0:40:24 > 0:40:28It offers Janet accessible single-level living
0:40:28 > 0:40:31in a spacious home with more options than they could have dreamed of
0:40:31 > 0:40:33for housing Janet's library,
0:40:33 > 0:40:36as well as welcoming guests and holding workshops.
0:40:36 > 0:40:40And Jeff would have a photography room for himself.
0:40:40 > 0:40:42Outside, the garden is perfect for our pair
0:40:42 > 0:40:45and comes complete with spectacular views
0:40:45 > 0:40:48that are sure to inspire some of Janet's storytelling.
0:40:48 > 0:40:51Plus, it's close to amenities.
0:40:53 > 0:40:56Mystery house, it is very interesting.
0:40:56 > 0:41:01Being divided as two, it gives great potential in dividing up
0:41:01 > 0:41:03in the way that we want to use it.
0:41:03 > 0:41:05I found the mystery house intriguing
0:41:05 > 0:41:08and I can see the possibility of living here.
0:41:08 > 0:41:10I can see how you might use it, how we might set it out.
0:41:10 > 0:41:13But I think, for me, I'd need to know more about the area
0:41:13 > 0:41:16before I could say, "Yes, definitely a contender."
0:41:16 > 0:41:19- You've had a good look round the mystery house?- Certainly have.
0:41:19 > 0:41:23- You've seen all the properties now. - Yes.- Yes.- Lots to think about.
0:41:23 > 0:41:24Lots to think about.
0:41:24 > 0:41:26Shall we find somewhere to have a coffee and a chat?
0:41:26 > 0:41:28- Yes, please.- Let's do that, come on.
0:41:31 > 0:41:34Right, it's time to catch up with Janet and Jeff
0:41:34 > 0:41:37and find out what their next step is going to be,
0:41:37 > 0:41:39and, I have to admit, even at the end of our search,
0:41:39 > 0:41:44I'm not 100% sure in which direction they're heading.
0:41:47 > 0:41:50Janet, Jeff, do we have a frontrunner
0:41:50 > 0:41:52from all the properties we've seen?
0:41:52 > 0:41:56Well, I think there are two which sort of spoke to us more.
0:41:56 > 0:41:59That was the Georgian house and the mystery house.
0:41:59 > 0:42:02We're interested in both properties,
0:42:02 > 0:42:04so part of what we aim to do
0:42:04 > 0:42:06is to go back, have a look round the areas,
0:42:06 > 0:42:09find out more details about the kinds of things that go on.
0:42:09 > 0:42:13And will you go back for a second viewing on either of the properties?
0:42:13 > 0:42:16I think that's really subject to, you know, testing out the area,
0:42:16 > 0:42:20finding out more about the area, what the local facilities are.
0:42:20 > 0:42:23Well, I wish you all the best of luck with your continued search,
0:42:23 > 0:42:25and I look forward to coming and exploring,
0:42:25 > 0:42:27perhaps borrowing a book from your library very soon!
0:42:27 > 0:42:28You'll be very welcome.
0:42:28 > 0:42:31Perhaps you'll join Janet at one of her workshops there.
0:42:31 > 0:42:34- I'm in, I'm in. Sign me up now! - Come and tell a story.
0:42:39 > 0:42:42So we're at the end of a successful few days house-hunting
0:42:42 > 0:42:43here in Devon.
0:42:43 > 0:42:45I'm really pleased that we've managed to find Janet and Jeff
0:42:45 > 0:42:48two properties that they really liked.
0:42:48 > 0:42:50It just remains to be seen, in this particular tale,
0:42:50 > 0:42:54whether it's their heads or their hearts that will win out.
0:42:54 > 0:42:57See you next time on Escape To The Country.
0:42:57 > 0:42:59If you would like to escape to the country
0:42:59 > 0:43:03in Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales or England, and need our help,
0:43:03 > 0:43:04then apply online at...