0:00:02 > 0:00:04Crowned England's tree of the year in a recent poll,
0:00:04 > 0:00:08this magnificent oak is the largest of its kind in this country,
0:00:08 > 0:00:12weighing in at an estimated 23 tonnes,
0:00:12 > 0:00:16but its size isn't this ancient specimen's biggest claim to fame.
0:00:16 > 0:00:19Find out what is and where it's rooted in just a moment.
0:00:37 > 0:00:41'On today's property search there's a case of love at first sight.'
0:00:41 > 0:00:44- Well, we'll buy and go now, shall we? - LAUGHTER
0:00:44 > 0:00:46See, this is why Tula's here.
0:00:46 > 0:00:48- You're ready to sign on the dotted line.- I am.
0:00:48 > 0:00:50But with so many eligible candidates,
0:00:50 > 0:00:53picking the one could be a tough call.
0:00:53 > 0:00:55Oh, this is stunning.
0:00:55 > 0:00:59- I say!- Oh, sorry!
0:01:02 > 0:01:05Today we're in the East Midlands
0:01:05 > 0:01:06and this is the major oak in
0:01:06 > 0:01:09Nottinghamshire's Sherwood Forest Country Park.
0:01:09 > 0:01:13And legend has it that the hollow centre of this veteran tree
0:01:13 > 0:01:16provided a hideaway for Robin Hood and his Merry Men
0:01:16 > 0:01:19when they were escaping the evil clutches
0:01:19 > 0:01:21of the Sheriff of Nottingham.
0:01:21 > 0:01:24But with experts estimating the age of this tree
0:01:24 > 0:01:26to be between 800 and 1,000 years old,
0:01:26 > 0:01:30it was probably no more than a sapling in Robin Hood's day,
0:01:30 > 0:01:33but that hasn't stopped around 600,000 visitors
0:01:33 > 0:01:36coming to see this mighty oak every year.
0:01:36 > 0:01:41Testament to the enduring popularity of one of our most well-loved
0:01:41 > 0:01:42folklore characters.
0:01:43 > 0:01:46The East Midlands is an official region of England
0:01:46 > 0:01:51incorporating six counties, with the North Sea on its eastern edge.
0:01:51 > 0:01:54Covering over 6,000 square miles,
0:01:54 > 0:01:57the region's highest point is found in Derbyshire,
0:01:57 > 0:01:59within the Peak District National Park,
0:01:59 > 0:02:02where the village of Flash also claims to be
0:02:02 > 0:02:04the highest village in the country.
0:02:04 > 0:02:07Other high points include this summit at Crich,
0:02:07 > 0:02:09said to have been the site of a beacon fire,
0:02:09 > 0:02:14signalling the sighting of the Spanish Armada in 1523.
0:02:14 > 0:02:19The current Notts and Derby war memorial was completed in 1923,
0:02:19 > 0:02:22from which it's possible to view several counties.
0:02:22 > 0:02:25Lincolnshire may be the region's geographical low point
0:02:25 > 0:02:30but the marshy landscape of the Fens is eerily evocative.
0:02:30 > 0:02:34Created by man-made efforts to reclaim land from the sea,
0:02:34 > 0:02:35started by the Romans,
0:02:35 > 0:02:39the process of turning back the tide was conducted in earnest during the
0:02:39 > 0:02:4317th century reign of Charles I.
0:02:43 > 0:02:46Robin Hood country is found in Nottinghamshire,
0:02:46 > 0:02:51where St Mary's Church Edwinstowe in Sherwood Forest is said to have been
0:02:51 > 0:02:54the location for the outlaw's marriage to Maid Marian,
0:02:54 > 0:02:59and indications of the legend abound in the surrounding village.
0:02:59 > 0:03:02So if you're after peak perfection and legendary delights,
0:03:02 > 0:03:06the East Midlands is certainly a region to plan an escape to.
0:03:11 > 0:03:14The average price of a detached property here in the East Midlands
0:03:14 > 0:03:17is almost £232,000.
0:03:17 > 0:03:21That's around £80,000 below the national figure.
0:03:21 > 0:03:25So overall, property here certainly offers excellent value for money.
0:03:25 > 0:03:29And if you move away from the pricier southern counties of Leicestershire
0:03:29 > 0:03:31and Northamptonshire and head north
0:03:31 > 0:03:34towards Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire,
0:03:34 > 0:03:38you could save an additional 15% for an equivalent property.
0:03:38 > 0:03:42And that's the area that today's buyer wants to relocate to,
0:03:42 > 0:03:44so let's meet her and find out why.
0:03:45 > 0:03:48Pat has lived in Old Windsor, Berkshire, all her life -
0:03:48 > 0:03:52and in her current home for almost four decades.
0:03:52 > 0:03:53But now she's ready to move on,
0:03:53 > 0:03:57she's turning to one person to help find her new home.
0:03:57 > 0:03:58Next door neighbour, Tula.
0:03:58 > 0:04:02Tula's a very, very friendly, genuine sort of person.
0:04:02 > 0:04:04She's always there to listen when I'm upset,
0:04:04 > 0:04:07or anything like that, I go trotting in there.
0:04:07 > 0:04:10- Or vice versa. - And we have lots of laughs.
0:04:10 > 0:04:14Pat's friendship means a lot to me, we have always been like sisters.
0:04:16 > 0:04:21I don't know how much I can influence Pat on this house move,
0:04:21 > 0:04:24but I hope I will be of some help,
0:04:24 > 0:04:27because she makes very quick decisions
0:04:27 > 0:04:30and I will hold her back a little bit, just slightly.
0:04:30 > 0:04:32With a neighbour who's like a sister,
0:04:32 > 0:04:34one might wonder why Pat is keen to move
0:04:34 > 0:04:36from the place she was born and bred.
0:04:36 > 0:04:38I think it's just got too big.
0:04:38 > 0:04:41I do not like the traffic that's coming through here now, it really,
0:04:41 > 0:04:43really winds me up.
0:04:43 > 0:04:46It can take me ten minutes to an hour to get home, from work.
0:04:46 > 0:04:50I just want to live my dream, be in the country.
0:04:52 > 0:04:54Her heart is set on a rural lifestyle.
0:04:54 > 0:04:56Retirement is on the horizon,
0:04:56 > 0:04:59and there's one area that offers the chance to not only get closer to
0:04:59 > 0:05:02nature, but also her son and grandchildren.
0:05:02 > 0:05:05I'm looking to move to the East Midlands area,
0:05:05 > 0:05:08within about 15 miles of my son, Stephen, who's in Nottingham,
0:05:08 > 0:05:11possibly towards the Peak District area.
0:05:11 > 0:05:13Or just around the villages of Nottingham.
0:05:15 > 0:05:16That would be perfect.
0:05:16 > 0:05:20My greatest joy will be to be able to visit Stephen and the
0:05:20 > 0:05:21grandchildren, Katie and Charlie.
0:05:22 > 0:05:24Spend time with them.
0:05:24 > 0:05:28We laugh a lot together, and I think that's going to be sheer joy.
0:05:28 > 0:05:29Love it.
0:05:31 > 0:05:35It's about time Pat found some joy because the past few years have seen
0:05:35 > 0:05:39her husband, who suffers from Alzheimer's, going into care.
0:05:39 > 0:05:42Arranging for him to stay close by will also be part of the move.
0:05:43 > 0:05:46Unfortunately, he can't move or anything, he hardly knows us.
0:05:46 > 0:05:49I don't think the move will affect him too much,
0:05:49 > 0:05:52but he obviously has to be with me.
0:05:52 > 0:05:56When I move, I'm also looking to do some voluntary work
0:05:56 > 0:05:57for the care home,
0:05:57 > 0:06:01so that I can visit him, but also be doing something.
0:06:01 > 0:06:04So if I can volunteer a little bit, it'll be lovely.
0:06:08 > 0:06:10And also joining her in the move
0:06:10 > 0:06:13will be much-loved Springer spaniel Jack.
0:06:13 > 0:06:17My main companion now in life is Jack, the dog.
0:06:17 > 0:06:22He's an absolute character, a joy, very good dog, cheeky little fellow.
0:06:22 > 0:06:27So Jack is my friend, my mate and he's coming with me.
0:06:28 > 0:06:35I'm going to miss Pat a lot when she moves, but life goes on.
0:06:35 > 0:06:39And also, she'll come up and stay with me
0:06:39 > 0:06:44and we'll open a bottle and have our normal fun and chat.
0:06:44 > 0:06:47We won't lose our friendship.
0:06:48 > 0:06:52Oh, I'm looking very much forward to go and see Pat's new home,
0:06:52 > 0:06:55and with a bit of luck, I will see it with her first of all.
0:06:58 > 0:07:03Pat wants to concentrate her search within a 40-minute drive of her son
0:07:03 > 0:07:05and grandchildren in Nottingham.
0:07:05 > 0:07:07'But before we start house-hunting,
0:07:07 > 0:07:11'we're meeting up to find out more about her hopes for her new home.'
0:07:11 > 0:07:14Pat, welcome to the East Midlands.
0:07:14 > 0:07:16Family is a big draw for you in this area, isn't it?
0:07:16 > 0:07:20It is. I've got a son and two grandchildren,
0:07:20 > 0:07:23which I like to see an awful lot of, and I've missed them over the years.
0:07:23 > 0:07:26And you've brought your best friend to help you?
0:07:26 > 0:07:28I have.
0:07:28 > 0:07:29You know what she wants.
0:07:29 > 0:07:30I know what she wants.
0:07:30 > 0:07:32And what is that, Pat?
0:07:32 > 0:07:36I'd like a nice characterful cottage, village community,
0:07:36 > 0:07:38so I can join in things.
0:07:38 > 0:07:41Nice, big garden, nice stream or a canal somewhere,
0:07:41 > 0:07:43and lots of walks for the dog, Jack.
0:07:43 > 0:07:46Is there anything you won't compromise on?
0:07:47 > 0:07:48- The garden.- OK.
0:07:48 > 0:07:52I do enjoy gardening, I may want a few chickens, things like that,
0:07:52 > 0:07:54and also the space for the dog and grandchildren.
0:07:54 > 0:07:57- So you need at least a couple of bedrooms, really?- I do, yeah.
0:07:57 > 0:07:59And, Tula, you know what Pat needs,
0:07:59 > 0:08:00you know what she's looking for.
0:08:00 > 0:08:04Is there any kind of property you think just won't suit her?
0:08:05 > 0:08:07Where there's lots of flights of stairs,
0:08:07 > 0:08:08I don't think she should have that.
0:08:08 > 0:08:10She's not getting any younger!
0:08:10 > 0:08:13That's what friends are for, to remind you of that.
0:08:13 > 0:08:15- Yes, thank you, Tula! - Remind us of your budget.
0:08:15 > 0:08:17Up to 300,000.
0:08:17 > 0:08:18- OK.- Less is fine.
0:08:20 > 0:08:23Over, no, but 300,000, yeah.
0:08:23 > 0:08:24And you're ready to move?
0:08:24 > 0:08:26I've sold, so I've got to have somewhere.
0:08:26 > 0:08:28- Well, we've got three properties lined up.- Wow.
0:08:28 > 0:08:30- Let's go and see them. - Fantastic, thank you.
0:08:34 > 0:08:37For her budget of £300,000,
0:08:37 > 0:08:41Pat would like a characterful home with a minimum of two bedrooms,
0:08:41 > 0:08:44a large, dog-friendly garden is a must-have,
0:08:44 > 0:08:47and she'd like to be near a stream and footpaths,
0:08:47 > 0:08:49with access to a village community.
0:08:49 > 0:08:52We've got a great selection of houses to show Pat,
0:08:52 > 0:08:55all with very different takes on her wish list.
0:08:55 > 0:08:59After each tour, it'll be time to guess the price before I reveal it.
0:08:59 > 0:09:02Our final property will be the Mystery House,
0:09:02 > 0:09:05which this time could lead to an embarrassment of riches.
0:09:10 > 0:09:13We're starting our search in Woolley Moor, Derbyshire.
0:09:13 > 0:09:16Around a 20-minute drive from Pat's family,
0:09:16 > 0:09:19this idyllic hamlet includes a pub.
0:09:19 > 0:09:23The landscape of the area changed dramatically in 1958,
0:09:23 > 0:09:26with the creation of Oxton Reservoir.
0:09:26 > 0:09:28As well as being used for sailing and fishing,
0:09:28 > 0:09:30this provides many lovely walks,
0:09:30 > 0:09:33and overlooking this tranquil body of water
0:09:33 > 0:09:35is the property we've come to see.
0:09:35 > 0:09:36Welcome to house number one.
0:09:36 > 0:09:38Oh, that is lovely.
0:09:38 > 0:09:40That's really, really nice.
0:09:40 > 0:09:41Original stone, as well.
0:09:41 > 0:09:43You wanted a cottage, didn't you?
0:09:43 > 0:09:45- I did, I did. - Obviously end of terrace.
0:09:45 > 0:09:47- Fine.- Are you fine about that?
0:09:47 > 0:09:50Absolutely. It's quite nice to have some neighbours as well.
0:09:50 > 0:09:52- Exactly.- Nice, community feel.
0:09:52 > 0:09:55The front garden looks like your front garden.
0:09:55 > 0:09:59- We'll buy and go now, shall we? - You see, this is why Tula's here.
0:09:59 > 0:10:01- You're ready to sign on the dotted line.- I am.
0:10:01 > 0:10:04You like the outside, let's see if the inside fits, then.
0:10:04 > 0:10:06That's great.
0:10:06 > 0:10:11Built in the mid-1800s but extended to the rear in 2001,
0:10:11 > 0:10:12the front door of this stone cottage
0:10:12 > 0:10:16opens straight into the first reception room.
0:10:16 > 0:10:19So, I don't know whether you'd use this entrance all the time,
0:10:19 > 0:10:22- but this would be your...- I don't know, I'll have to see what the rest
0:10:22 > 0:10:23- is like.- ..living room.- I love it.
0:10:23 > 0:10:25I love the stone floor.
0:10:25 > 0:10:28Fireplace. Plenty of room, perfect, cosy.
0:10:28 > 0:10:30- It is.- What a good first choice.
0:10:30 > 0:10:33Well, let's go and see the rest of it.
0:10:33 > 0:10:34Yeah.
0:10:35 > 0:10:38Pat may be sold already, but there's still plenty to see.
0:10:38 > 0:10:42A hallway leads to a small, well-equipped kitchen.
0:10:42 > 0:10:44Oh, this is a good little place, isn't it?
0:10:44 > 0:10:46Oh, tiles.
0:10:46 > 0:10:48- It's enough for me.- It's small...
0:10:48 > 0:10:49Is it enough for you?
0:10:49 > 0:10:52Because we hadn't talked about size and it's a small kitchen.
0:10:52 > 0:10:53It IS a small kitchen.
0:10:53 > 0:10:56But there is an alternative kitchen idea, follow me, ladies.
0:10:56 > 0:10:59Oooh, excellent.
0:10:59 > 0:11:03At the rear, the new extension provides a good-sized dining room
0:11:03 > 0:11:07and the potential to open the kitchen into a much larger space.
0:11:07 > 0:11:08So this...
0:11:08 > 0:11:11- Ah, nice.- ..I think is a real asset.
0:11:11 > 0:11:13It could be more than a dining room, do you not think?
0:11:13 > 0:11:17- I think so.- You could make it a kitchen/diner, dining table,
0:11:17 > 0:11:19maybe an island here, cooker.
0:11:19 > 0:11:21Yeah, yeah absolutely. You could do that, use the stained glass
0:11:21 > 0:11:23as a bit of a feature, as well.
0:11:23 > 0:11:26- Exactly.- Tula, there's a lot of potential, isn't there?
0:11:26 > 0:11:27- Yeah.- Yeah, really, really nice.
0:11:27 > 0:11:29- It has potential.- You like it?
0:11:29 > 0:11:32I like it. I like that it's cosy.
0:11:32 > 0:11:34- Good possibility. - Let's head upstairs.
0:11:34 > 0:11:35Great.
0:11:36 > 0:11:40Even level-headed Tula isn't finding much to rein Pat in on here,
0:11:40 > 0:11:42and upstairs there are three bedrooms
0:11:42 > 0:11:44arranged over two further floors.
0:11:44 > 0:11:46In the converted loft space,
0:11:46 > 0:11:50a guest room could be perfect for Pat's visiting grandchildren.
0:11:50 > 0:11:55On the first floor, there's a guest double with countryside views,
0:11:55 > 0:11:59the family bathroom, and the largest bedroom, number three,
0:11:59 > 0:12:02presented as an office with a daybed,
0:12:02 > 0:12:04which Pat could use for herself.
0:12:04 > 0:12:06I think this would make a really lovely master,
0:12:06 > 0:12:08because of the amazing views.
0:12:09 > 0:12:12- Wow, look at that!- Amazing.
0:12:12 > 0:12:14That is amazing, that's fantastic.
0:12:14 > 0:12:16Lay in bed, tea in the morning.
0:12:17 > 0:12:18Let's check out the garden.
0:12:19 > 0:12:20Thank you.
0:12:21 > 0:12:25All very positive so far for this 19th-century end-of-terrace,
0:12:25 > 0:12:28and outside, as well as the pretty front garden,
0:12:28 > 0:12:31French doors from the dining room open to a patio
0:12:31 > 0:12:33and further sizeable plot to the rear,
0:12:33 > 0:12:35including a selection of sheds,
0:12:35 > 0:12:38plus a rather wild collection of shrubs and trees
0:12:38 > 0:12:39that should entertain
0:12:39 > 0:12:43visiting grandkids and give Jack the spaniel plenty to explore.
0:12:44 > 0:12:46So I think there's a bit of tidying up to do,
0:12:46 > 0:12:49but actually you've got quite a nice sized garden here.
0:12:49 > 0:12:51- Fantastic.- It goes beyond those trees.
0:12:51 > 0:12:54It's just a bit wild down there, so you'd need to...
0:12:54 > 0:12:57- Perfect.- Children love the idea of a secret garden.
0:12:57 > 0:12:59- Exactly.- Just what they love.
0:12:59 > 0:13:01I am so glad this bit is here,
0:13:01 > 0:13:04because the patio wouldn't have been quite big enough.
0:13:04 > 0:13:05She would have not been happy with that.
0:13:05 > 0:13:08Some chickens running around here, too.
0:13:08 > 0:13:10Beautiful, love it. It's a good start.
0:13:10 > 0:13:12- Very good start.- Good start.
0:13:12 > 0:13:16Let's see if you think the same after I reveal the price.
0:13:16 > 0:13:19- OK.- Have you started thinking about what it might be on the market for?
0:13:19 > 0:13:21I'm hoping it's about 260...
0:13:21 > 0:13:23OK.
0:13:23 > 0:13:28- Tula?- I think it could be 275.
0:13:28 > 0:13:30You've both gone a bit over, you'll be glad to know.
0:13:30 > 0:13:33- Oh, good. - It's been reduced in price,
0:13:33 > 0:13:38and it's now on the market for 249,950.
0:13:38 > 0:13:41- No!- So just under £250,000.
0:13:41 > 0:13:44- That's fantastic.- That is good, because that is needed.
0:13:44 > 0:13:46Well done you. I could see me living here.
0:13:46 > 0:13:49Now, I know you two are dying to have a chat between yourselves
0:13:49 > 0:13:50now you know a price.
0:13:50 > 0:13:52Have another look around and I'll meet you out front.
0:13:52 > 0:13:53Thank you.
0:13:58 > 0:14:02With an asking price £50,000 below budget,
0:14:02 > 0:14:06this end-of-terrace cottage includes two good-sized reception rooms and
0:14:06 > 0:14:07three bedrooms.
0:14:07 > 0:14:10There is plenty to keep Pat busy in the rambling garden
0:14:10 > 0:14:13and it's pleasantly situated with reservoir views.
0:14:13 > 0:14:15Oh, my goodness, look at this!
0:14:17 > 0:14:18Slightly wild.
0:14:18 > 0:14:21Oh, my goodness, how far does it go?
0:14:21 > 0:14:24- Oh, it's brilliant. - Jack would love this.
0:14:24 > 0:14:27It's just the country cottage I really want.
0:14:27 > 0:14:30Inside's quaint, very quaint.
0:14:30 > 0:14:32Lovely garden, country garden.
0:14:32 > 0:14:34Yeah, perfect for me and Jack.
0:14:34 > 0:14:36All in all, it's a very good first cottage,
0:14:36 > 0:14:38it's just what I was looking for.
0:14:38 > 0:14:41I think the house is very nice.
0:14:41 > 0:14:44I think Pat could be quite happy here.
0:14:44 > 0:14:49I like this and I'm sure Pat likes it, but it's up to Pat,
0:14:49 > 0:14:50what she decides.
0:14:52 > 0:14:53You've moved in haven't you, already?
0:14:53 > 0:14:56- I have, it's so lovely. - It's very nice.
0:14:56 > 0:14:59But sensible Tula would like us to see the next property, wouldn't you?
0:14:59 > 0:15:00Definitely, yes.
0:15:00 > 0:15:03- And we must listen to her.- Fine.
0:15:03 > 0:15:04Let's go.
0:15:09 > 0:15:12Nestled in the north Nottinghamshire countryside
0:15:12 > 0:15:14is an area known as The Dukeries,
0:15:14 > 0:15:19so-called as no fewer than four historic dukedoms are found here.
0:15:19 > 0:15:23Welbeck Abbey is one such Ducal seat which has been in the same
0:15:23 > 0:15:26family since the 18th century,
0:15:26 > 0:15:29and they've recently fostered a community of artists
0:15:29 > 0:15:32and craftspeople, as well as the School of Artisan Food.
0:15:34 > 0:15:37As Pat is keen to get involved with the local community
0:15:37 > 0:15:40and enjoy some new hobbies, we're sending her and friend Tula
0:15:40 > 0:15:43to find out more about what goes on here
0:15:43 > 0:15:45from operations manager Christine Breach.
0:15:47 > 0:15:50So, tell me, who started it and how did it come about,
0:15:50 > 0:15:53all this Artisan thing?
0:15:53 > 0:15:55The driving force is Alison Swan Parente,
0:15:55 > 0:15:59who is part of the family that have owned Welbeck.
0:15:59 > 0:16:03She opened the Welbeck Bakehouse, which is just behind us,
0:16:03 > 0:16:06and wanted to supply the area with good Artisan bread.
0:16:06 > 0:16:09She had great difficulty finding bakers of the right calibre
0:16:09 > 0:16:12to come and work for her, so she thought once she got it set up,
0:16:12 > 0:16:15she would do a little bit of training out of the bakehouse
0:16:15 > 0:16:18and actually the idea developed to the point where she thought,
0:16:18 > 0:16:22well, I'll open a school and make sure skills such as baking
0:16:22 > 0:16:26and butchery and charcuterie and dairy making don't die out.
0:16:26 > 0:16:30The school offers courses from half-day taster sessions,
0:16:30 > 0:16:33up to a year-long advanced diploma in baking,
0:16:33 > 0:16:36designed to help professionals set up their own business.
0:16:36 > 0:16:39David Carter was working as a solicitor when his wife
0:16:39 > 0:16:42bought him one such course as a birthday present.
0:16:42 > 0:16:47He enjoyed it so much that he gave up his job of 30 years and started
0:16:47 > 0:16:49teaching his own courses in 2011.
0:16:50 > 0:16:52- David.- Hi, Pat, hi, Tula.
0:16:52 > 0:16:54- Hello! - Welcome to the Welbeck Bakehouse.
0:16:54 > 0:16:57- Thank you.- So what are we doing here today, then, David?
0:16:57 > 0:17:00Right, today I'm going to show you how to make
0:17:00 > 0:17:04- the Welbeck sourdough loaf.- Oooh!
0:17:04 > 0:17:05Rather than powdered yeast,
0:17:05 > 0:17:07sourdough is made from water and flour
0:17:07 > 0:17:11that's been left to ferment for around 4-5 days.
0:17:11 > 0:17:15Eventually, providing it's kept in a nice, warm environment,
0:17:15 > 0:17:19you begin to see it getting bubbles and there's a bacteria called
0:17:19 > 0:17:27Lactobacillus, which produces sort of cheesy, lactic, milky notes,
0:17:27 > 0:17:30and then you have acetic acid bacteria,
0:17:30 > 0:17:34- which produces the more sour, vinegary tones.- Oh, right.
0:17:35 > 0:17:38The bread uses very simple ingredients -
0:17:38 > 0:17:42flour, salt, water and the fermented sourdough mixture.
0:17:42 > 0:17:48Bread has one further ingredient that is actually more important
0:17:48 > 0:17:52than all of those ingredients put together, and that is time.
0:17:52 > 0:17:55So to make a really good loaf, you need time.
0:17:56 > 0:18:00After warm water is added, it's worked into small lumps by hand.
0:18:02 > 0:18:06It doesn't matter if you've got some big lumps and some small lumps.
0:18:07 > 0:18:11A combination of three types of flour and some salt is added
0:18:11 > 0:18:15and then it's time for Pat and Tula to get their hands stuck in.
0:18:15 > 0:18:18I've been looking forward to this bit.
0:18:18 > 0:18:22- There's something very satisfying... - Yes!- ..about making bread.
0:18:22 > 0:18:25Everything is scraped together in the middle of the bowl
0:18:25 > 0:18:27and covered for five minutes,
0:18:27 > 0:18:30allowing a protein in the flour, called gluten, to relax.
0:18:30 > 0:18:32Now, using a hand dipped in cold water,
0:18:32 > 0:18:34the kneading process can begin.
0:18:34 > 0:18:37First flattening the dough into the bottom of the bowl
0:18:37 > 0:18:40and then repeatedly folding it in on itself.
0:18:41 > 0:18:43That's it, you've got the technique.
0:18:43 > 0:18:45- That's it.- OK.
0:18:46 > 0:18:48Lovely, well done.
0:18:48 > 0:18:50As you see, really, really simple,
0:18:50 > 0:18:55and we're going to repeat that process another three times,
0:18:55 > 0:18:57and that is all we need do,
0:18:57 > 0:19:01we don't need to put it on the table and break out into a sweat.
0:19:02 > 0:19:06The shaped loaves will need to bake for a minimum of 35 minutes
0:19:06 > 0:19:09at around 220 degrees, but, of course,
0:19:09 > 0:19:12the process wouldn't be complete without a taste test.
0:19:14 > 0:19:16Here's Pat's loaf.
0:19:16 > 0:19:18Out of the oven and cooled down just a little bit.
0:19:18 > 0:19:19Ooh, that looks nice.
0:19:19 > 0:19:22Doesn't that look magnificent?
0:19:22 > 0:19:23Beautiful crust.
0:19:23 > 0:19:25Ooh, how nice.
0:19:28 > 0:19:30Wow.
0:19:30 > 0:19:32- Lovely texture.- Indeed.
0:19:32 > 0:19:34- Rather crusty. - So, beautifully crusty.
0:19:34 > 0:19:38And with bread, one thing we always tend to do if we're testing how nice
0:19:38 > 0:19:41bread is, is just give it a quick smell.
0:19:42 > 0:19:45And you can really smell the aroma.
0:19:45 > 0:19:47You can see the lovely crumb.
0:19:49 > 0:19:50- Stunning.- It is.
0:19:50 > 0:19:53It's so much better than one that you get from the shop.
0:19:53 > 0:19:55The taste is altogether different, isn't it?
0:19:56 > 0:19:59Well, let's see if we can use our loaf and turn Pat's dough
0:19:59 > 0:20:03into a lovely country home here in the East Midlands countryside.
0:20:08 > 0:20:11House two is in the Derbyshire village of Crich.
0:20:11 > 0:20:14Located in the pretty countryside of the Amber Valley,
0:20:14 > 0:20:17the village once had its own quarry,
0:20:17 > 0:20:19and many of the buildings are constructed
0:20:19 > 0:20:21from local Derbyshire limestone,
0:20:21 > 0:20:25including a fish bar, bakery, butcher's and post office.
0:20:25 > 0:20:30As well as the current Baptist church, housed here since 1878.
0:20:30 > 0:20:31Just a ten-minute walk away,
0:20:31 > 0:20:34and served by a bus route in and out of the village centre,
0:20:34 > 0:20:35is our next house.
0:20:37 > 0:20:41As they say, if you like a house in the rain...
0:20:41 > 0:20:43- Exactly.- So...
0:20:43 > 0:20:45- Looks very good.- Here it is.
0:20:45 > 0:20:46And look, Pat.
0:20:46 > 0:20:49Here is what you already... what you wanted.
0:20:49 > 0:20:50- It is.- It's already there!
0:20:50 > 0:20:53- Well, it's there. Yeah. - Your summerhouse, your whatever.
0:20:53 > 0:20:57That's lovely. As happy as you were before seeing the first house?
0:20:57 > 0:20:59Not sure yet. I'll see inside.
0:20:59 > 0:21:01- OK.- But, yeah, no. It's a good feeling.
0:21:01 > 0:21:02You're going to reserve judgment?
0:21:02 > 0:21:05- Yes.- Shall we head on in?
0:21:05 > 0:21:08So, a very different proposition in terms of location,
0:21:08 > 0:21:13but once again an end-of-terrace built from limestone in 1912.
0:21:13 > 0:21:16The front door opens to an elegant entrance hall that doubles as an
0:21:16 > 0:21:21office, and leads into a beautifully finished front reception room.
0:21:21 > 0:21:23Very nice room.
0:21:23 > 0:21:25- It is, isn't it?- Very nice.
0:21:25 > 0:21:30- I like it.- I love the open stove... fireplace.
0:21:30 > 0:21:31Oh, yeah. Love it.
0:21:31 > 0:21:32It's a beautiful fireplace.
0:21:32 > 0:21:34The current owners actually discovered it.
0:21:34 > 0:21:36It was hidden away, it was all panelled off.
0:21:36 > 0:21:39- Really?!- And then their next-door neighbour had remembered what it
0:21:39 > 0:21:40originally looked like.
0:21:40 > 0:21:42He drew a picture and then they got someone to replicate it.
0:21:42 > 0:21:44- Gosh, that's amazing!- Oh, lovely.
0:21:44 > 0:21:47It's very nice workmanship as well, isn't it?
0:21:47 > 0:21:48Absolutely gorgeous, love it.
0:21:48 > 0:21:49I'm glad you love this room,
0:21:49 > 0:21:52because it's certainly not the best room downstairs.
0:21:52 > 0:21:53- Really?- Follow me.- Gosh.
0:21:54 > 0:21:56Behind this room, the rear of the ground floor
0:21:56 > 0:22:00is entirely dedicated to a very impressive country kitchen/diner.
0:22:02 > 0:22:03Oh, this is stunning.
0:22:03 > 0:22:05What are you going to say?
0:22:05 > 0:22:07Oh.
0:22:07 > 0:22:08Sorry.
0:22:09 > 0:22:11That is just... Oh, everything's stunning.
0:22:11 > 0:22:14It looks amazing.
0:22:14 > 0:22:16So tasteful. Look at the fireplace with a fire!
0:22:16 > 0:22:18Oh, yeah.
0:22:18 > 0:22:19This is just so unusual.
0:22:19 > 0:22:21Everything's perfect.
0:22:21 > 0:22:23Well, you're warming up, aren't you?
0:22:23 > 0:22:24Oh! I'm moving in.
0:22:26 > 0:22:29I can see you and Stephen and the children around this table.
0:22:29 > 0:22:32- And a jigsaw. - And a jigsaw on the table.
0:22:32 > 0:22:34And games. Oh, it's lovely.
0:22:34 > 0:22:36The downstairs has certainly been done up beautifully,
0:22:36 > 0:22:39and that theme continues upstairs.
0:22:41 > 0:22:44'It seems Pat can really see herself living here,
0:22:44 > 0:22:46'and upstairs there are three bedrooms,
0:22:46 > 0:22:49'all served by a family bathroom which has been fitted to a high
0:22:49 > 0:22:54'specification with a multi-jet shower and whirlpool bath.'
0:22:54 > 0:22:57The two guest bedrooms are both large enough to be doubles,
0:22:57 > 0:22:59and enjoy views over the Amber Valley,
0:22:59 > 0:23:01each from a single sash window.
0:23:01 > 0:23:04That leaves bedroom number three to the rear of the home
0:23:04 > 0:23:07a very welcoming master.
0:23:07 > 0:23:09Very tasteful, isn't it?
0:23:09 > 0:23:12- Yes.- It's really cosy.
0:23:12 > 0:23:15- Nice.- And enough wardrobe space for you.
0:23:15 > 0:23:17Well, one of the bedrooms could be a walk-in wardrobe!
0:23:17 > 0:23:18- True.- Yeah, could be.
0:23:18 > 0:23:20- True.- So how are you feeling about the house?
0:23:22 > 0:23:24I really, really like it.
0:23:24 > 0:23:28Really like it. I'm not going to sleep tonight, am I?
0:23:28 > 0:23:30It is impeccably done.
0:23:30 > 0:23:32- It really is.- The finish is amazing.
0:23:32 > 0:23:34- Well...- I would move in tomorrow.
0:23:34 > 0:23:36- Would you?- Yes, I would.
0:23:36 > 0:23:38Which guest room would you like, dear?
0:23:38 > 0:23:41So now comes the tricky bit.
0:23:41 > 0:23:46We go outside, and you tell me how much it's on the market for.
0:23:49 > 0:23:54So an interior lovely enough to give Pat an excitedly sleepless night,
0:23:54 > 0:23:56and outside there is also that cabin,
0:23:56 > 0:23:59giving yet more options for guests.
0:23:59 > 0:24:01The fully enclosed front garden is a good size,
0:24:01 > 0:24:05but the patio garden to the rear is much smaller than Pat asked for,
0:24:05 > 0:24:07so there may have to be some compromise.
0:24:09 > 0:24:12Oh! It's cute, isn't it?
0:24:12 > 0:24:15But are you OK about only this much garden?
0:24:15 > 0:24:18You said that was the one thing you wouldn't compromise on.
0:24:18 > 0:24:22Yes. It's funny how you sort of change.
0:24:22 > 0:24:25Oh, you've changed, have you?
0:24:25 > 0:24:26- I've got a nice front garden.- Yes.
0:24:26 > 0:24:28Which is nice and easy to look after.
0:24:28 > 0:24:30There's room for Jack to run around.
0:24:30 > 0:24:33And I walk twice a day with Jack when I'm not working,
0:24:33 > 0:24:36so I think I could live with it.
0:24:36 > 0:24:39That's great news, because otherwise the house is ideal.
0:24:39 > 0:24:41But how much will it cost you?
0:24:42 > 0:24:44It's a difficult one.
0:24:44 > 0:24:49I hope it's not over 300,000, so I say 300,000.
0:24:49 > 0:24:50You're going on budget.
0:24:50 > 0:24:53- Yes.- I think you might have gone slightly over.
0:24:53 > 0:24:55I'll go 310.
0:24:55 > 0:24:57But hopefully not.
0:24:57 > 0:24:59Well, it's good to hope sometimes.
0:24:59 > 0:25:02It's actually currently on the market for...
0:25:03 > 0:25:06..just under 270,000.
0:25:06 > 0:25:08- Wow!- Within your budget.
0:25:08 > 0:25:11Gosh! Enough money for holidays!
0:25:12 > 0:25:15So now you know you can afford the house, go inside,
0:25:15 > 0:25:16have a look around,
0:25:16 > 0:25:19have a look at the log cabin, and we'll meet you out front.
0:25:19 > 0:25:20- Oh, thank you.- Great.
0:25:23 > 0:25:24It's amazing...
0:25:25 > 0:25:27..how you think you want something like a huge garden,
0:25:27 > 0:25:30but when you find a house that you like,
0:25:30 > 0:25:34you're willing to compromise on it. And that's what this is about.
0:25:34 > 0:25:39On the market for £269,950,
0:25:39 > 0:25:43this end terrace offers a beautiful country kitchen/diner,
0:25:43 > 0:25:46three bedrooms and a very modern, well-equipped bathroom.
0:25:46 > 0:25:47There's also a cabin,
0:25:47 > 0:25:51and it's close to countryside as well as village amenities.
0:25:51 > 0:25:54This bathroom is amazing!
0:25:54 > 0:25:56See this?
0:25:56 > 0:25:57What did I say I wanted this morning?
0:25:57 > 0:26:01- One of those.- Yes, you did want a shower like that.
0:26:01 > 0:26:04- It's very tasteful. It's got a bath as well.- Yes!
0:26:04 > 0:26:06Well, this is perfect.
0:26:06 > 0:26:08Would you happily come and stay, then?
0:26:08 > 0:26:10Yes.
0:26:10 > 0:26:14I think with this house, Pat has absolutely hit the cheque-book.
0:26:15 > 0:26:18It's lovely. Pat would be very happy here.
0:26:21 > 0:26:23Emotional. Love it.
0:26:23 > 0:26:27My first reaction coming into this kitchen was tear-jerker,
0:26:27 > 0:26:30to be honest. It's stunning.
0:26:30 > 0:26:31Workmanship's amazing.
0:26:32 > 0:26:37I think the decor in the house is absolutely marvellous, first-class.
0:26:39 > 0:26:42And hopefully they leave all the furniture when they move from here,
0:26:42 > 0:26:43because they are lovely!
0:26:46 > 0:26:47Very, very pleased.
0:26:47 > 0:26:50- Very pleased.- Excellent place.
0:26:50 > 0:26:52Excellent place. Excellent end to the day.
0:26:58 > 0:27:01We're in the East Midlands countryside
0:27:01 > 0:27:04helping soon-to-retire Pat from Old Windsor, in Berkshire,
0:27:04 > 0:27:07make the move to be closer to family.
0:27:07 > 0:27:11We've already seen two houses Pat liked for her budget of £300,000,
0:27:11 > 0:27:15and helping her decide is friend and neighbour Tula.
0:27:15 > 0:27:18But the Mystery House could give them both more choice
0:27:18 > 0:27:20than they bargained for.
0:27:20 > 0:27:21So, Tula, speechless?
0:27:21 > 0:27:23- Yes, I am.- It's a change, isn't it?
0:27:23 > 0:27:24Can I afford it?
0:27:24 > 0:27:25My God, it's beautiful.
0:27:26 > 0:27:30'Plus I'm finding out how one everyday home of yesteryear
0:27:30 > 0:27:34'is being turned into an extraordinary historical resource.'
0:27:34 > 0:27:36I'm going to ask you a very difficult question now.
0:27:36 > 0:27:38- OK.- 30,000 items.
0:27:38 > 0:27:40- Do you have favourites?- Yeah.
0:27:45 > 0:27:49Yesterday's houses made Pat rethink her initial requirements
0:27:49 > 0:27:53for a property. Her heart loved the rural setting of house number one,
0:27:53 > 0:27:56and she was willing to put some work in to make it her own.
0:27:56 > 0:28:00But her head loved the village setting of house number two,
0:28:00 > 0:28:03and how practical those polished interiors would be.
0:28:03 > 0:28:06Today, it's time to reveal our Mystery House,
0:28:06 > 0:28:11and this property will force Pat to focus on what she really wants,
0:28:11 > 0:28:12and perhaps more importantly,
0:28:12 > 0:28:15really NEEDS from a move at this stage in her life.
0:28:18 > 0:28:20What do you think we have up our sleeve for the mystery?
0:28:22 > 0:28:23Aha!
0:28:23 > 0:28:24Maybe an old church.
0:28:26 > 0:28:29I was sort of thinking this morning maybe a bungalow or something
0:28:29 > 0:28:31because, you know, the age group needs it.
0:28:31 > 0:28:35But, yeah, possibly an old church or a barn conversion.
0:28:36 > 0:28:39Well, you should find out very soon.
0:28:39 > 0:28:40Can't wait.
0:28:43 > 0:28:46Our mystery offering is in the small settlement of Pleasley Vale
0:28:46 > 0:28:48on the Nottinghamshire border.
0:28:48 > 0:28:52This deep, narrow river valley was the location for industry since at
0:28:52 > 0:28:58least 1767, when forges and a corn mill operated.
0:28:58 > 0:29:00It later became the site of textile mills,
0:29:00 > 0:29:03with workers' cottages and supporting amenities
0:29:03 > 0:29:05such as a church, springing up.
0:29:05 > 0:29:06But in the 20th century,
0:29:06 > 0:29:10the mills closed and some of the buildings found other uses,
0:29:10 > 0:29:13and that is where our mystery proposition comes in.
0:29:15 > 0:29:16Wow.
0:29:16 > 0:29:17Oh!
0:29:19 > 0:29:22- It's beautiful.- Despite the rain. - I absolutely love it.
0:29:22 > 0:29:24- I love the drive in. - Don't like the rain.
0:29:24 > 0:29:26No. Well, should we get out of the rain and head in?
0:29:26 > 0:29:29- Yes, please.- Let's go!
0:29:29 > 0:29:34'Set in the middle of terraced housing originally built for managers of the mill in 1854,
0:29:34 > 0:29:37'the property is laid out over three levels
0:29:37 > 0:29:40'and we're starting in the main reception room.'
0:29:40 > 0:29:43Oh, it's... Oh, what have you done?
0:29:43 > 0:29:46So, we're giving you the rural setting of house number one
0:29:46 > 0:29:49but with the polished interiors of house number two.
0:29:49 > 0:29:52- You've done it, yes. - To make you really think,
0:29:52 > 0:29:55"What's going to be right for me? And what do I really want?"
0:29:56 > 0:30:00No, what you're really doing, you are trying to confuse us.
0:30:00 > 0:30:01I'm causing trouble, am I?
0:30:01 > 0:30:04You've absolutely cracked it.
0:30:04 > 0:30:06It's just stunning.
0:30:06 > 0:30:08And who doesn't love a fireplace?
0:30:08 > 0:30:10Love the fireplace. Never had one, always wanted one.
0:30:10 > 0:30:12There you go. This is an actual log burner.
0:30:12 > 0:30:15- Yeah, yeah. It's beautiful. - All right, well, let's see
0:30:15 > 0:30:17- where you'd entertain the family. - Really? OK.
0:30:17 > 0:30:20So, our mystery is designed to challenge Pat
0:30:20 > 0:30:24with its combination of rural location and impeccable finish.
0:30:24 > 0:30:27Behind the reception room is a handy cloakroom,
0:30:27 > 0:30:31and a smaller reception space that could be used as a study or snug.
0:30:32 > 0:30:35And then we step down into a rear extension
0:30:35 > 0:30:38housing the rather impressive country kitchen/diner.
0:30:43 > 0:30:44It's an amazing kitchen!
0:30:44 > 0:30:49Oh, it's a definite. Look at that light through here!
0:30:49 > 0:30:52- Oh.- They've done an amazing job, haven't they?
0:30:52 > 0:30:55I think this is almost better than yesterday's one.
0:30:55 > 0:30:58This is actually the old exterior wall.
0:30:58 > 0:31:01So this is a more recent extension,
0:31:01 > 0:31:03so this used to be the front of the house.
0:31:06 > 0:31:08- Tears.- Oh, stunning.
0:31:08 > 0:31:10- Stunning.- It is, isn't it?
0:31:10 > 0:31:14- Yeah.- And it's great workmanship as well, isn't it?
0:31:14 > 0:31:16So, Tula. Speechless?
0:31:16 > 0:31:18- Yes, I am.- It's a change, isn't it?
0:31:18 > 0:31:20Can I afford it? My God, it's beautiful.
0:31:22 > 0:31:23Oh, I just...
0:31:25 > 0:31:27- Yes.- OK. - Mystery House won again, I think.
0:31:27 > 0:31:29Well, you're sold on the downstairs.
0:31:29 > 0:31:31Let's see if you think the same of the upstairs.
0:31:32 > 0:31:36'Our Mystery House has really thrown the cat among the pigeons,
0:31:36 > 0:31:40'and upstairs is not going to make Pat's decision any easier,
0:31:40 > 0:31:43'with three bedrooms laid out over two floors.
0:31:43 > 0:31:46'Nestled in the eaves of the converted roof space
0:31:46 > 0:31:48'is a good-sized guest double,
0:31:48 > 0:31:51'whilst the middle floor offers an additional guest room.
0:31:51 > 0:31:53'Next to which is the family bathroom
0:31:53 > 0:31:56'with roll-top bath and separate shower.
0:31:56 > 0:31:58'Then, to the front of the home is the master,
0:31:58 > 0:32:00'making bedroom number three.'
0:32:02 > 0:32:06Perfect. So it's a good family house, visitors' house.
0:32:06 > 0:32:09How did you feel about the staircase, which was fairly steep?
0:32:09 > 0:32:14- Too steep.- That is a slight worry, as getting old as well.
0:32:14 > 0:32:15Is it a deal-breaker?
0:32:16 > 0:32:17Not yet.
0:32:18 > 0:32:20It's something I seriously need to think about.
0:32:20 > 0:32:22Yeah, location perfect.
0:32:22 > 0:32:23House is stunning.
0:32:25 > 0:32:27I've just got to work out which is...
0:32:27 > 0:32:32Location-wise, whether it's better to be near a nice community village,
0:32:32 > 0:32:36or out here, where I can just go out and walk at any time without a car.
0:32:36 > 0:32:38So it's... Yeah.
0:32:38 > 0:32:41- Well, you've got a little bit of time to think about it.- I have.
0:32:41 > 0:32:44And perhaps importantly, you need to find out the price, really,
0:32:44 > 0:32:46- don't you?- I do.- Yes.
0:32:46 > 0:32:48So, let's head out again...
0:32:48 > 0:32:49- Yeah.- ..I'm afraid into the rain.
0:32:49 > 0:32:53- OK. No problem.- And discuss how much this house would cost you.
0:32:53 > 0:32:54Thank you.
0:32:55 > 0:32:58So yet another positive house tour,
0:32:58 > 0:33:01and outside, the home comes with a private front garden
0:33:01 > 0:33:03as well as generous communal grounds
0:33:03 > 0:33:05looked after and used by all of the residents,
0:33:05 > 0:33:08with the option of renting allotment space.
0:33:09 > 0:33:14The current owner rents two little allotment plots
0:33:14 > 0:33:18in this walled garden from the residents' association,
0:33:18 > 0:33:19for a nominal £15 a year,
0:33:19 > 0:33:23which just covers little bits and bobs, like water.
0:33:23 > 0:33:24But it's also a beautiful space,
0:33:24 > 0:33:27there's covered space for a barbecue and...
0:33:27 > 0:33:31It's fabulous. Bring the family here for barbecues, which is...
0:33:31 > 0:33:32- Yeah.- Yeah. It's superb.
0:33:32 > 0:33:34Absolutely stunning.
0:33:35 > 0:33:36Lots to think about, I know.
0:33:36 > 0:33:41- I know.- The first thing I'd like you both to think about is the price.
0:33:41 > 0:33:43OK, I'll go first.
0:33:43 > 0:33:45Haven't really given it thought, but...
0:33:47 > 0:33:50- 280,000?- OK.
0:33:51 > 0:33:53- Oh, I'm going to go way above that.- OK.
0:33:53 > 0:33:55I think it's a least 315, 320.
0:33:56 > 0:33:59It's actually currently on the market for...
0:34:01 > 0:34:04..offers in excess of 270,000.
0:34:04 > 0:34:05- Oh, no!- Yes!
0:34:05 > 0:34:08So it's still 30,000 under your budget.
0:34:08 > 0:34:10Yes, yes.
0:34:10 > 0:34:11- Good.- Oh, dear.
0:34:11 > 0:34:13- Yes.- You've got a bit to discuss.
0:34:13 > 0:34:15Yeah, a lot to think about.
0:34:15 > 0:34:18But we don't have lots and lots of time, so go and do that.
0:34:18 > 0:34:21And then let's have a cup of tea and discuss.
0:34:21 > 0:34:23- Thank you.- Lovely, thank you. Will do.- Thank you!
0:34:25 > 0:34:29This mid-terrace 19th-century former mill manager's cottage
0:34:29 > 0:34:33offers Pat a large country kitchen/diner, two reception rooms
0:34:33 > 0:34:34and three bedrooms.
0:34:34 > 0:34:39It's in a peaceful rural location with country walks on the doorstep.
0:34:39 > 0:34:41So big, isn't it?
0:34:41 > 0:34:44- Oh, it's lovely.- I like that.
0:34:44 > 0:34:46Look at the style of the brickwork.
0:34:47 > 0:34:50Oh, it's perfect! Mystery House.
0:34:50 > 0:34:51Wow, what a place.
0:34:51 > 0:34:54Loved the house. The front and the stonework.
0:34:56 > 0:34:59Interior of the house is absolutely superb.
0:34:59 > 0:35:01You've put a real spanner in the work now.
0:35:01 > 0:35:02Loved the kitchen.
0:35:02 > 0:35:04That was excellent.
0:35:04 > 0:35:08Rural location is virtually what I've dreamt of, to be honest.
0:35:08 > 0:35:11And the whole grounds - the trees, the quiet.
0:35:11 > 0:35:14It's perfect. I think it's a great find,
0:35:14 > 0:35:20but I have to say all three have been fantastic finds.
0:35:20 > 0:35:21It's going to be hard.
0:35:22 > 0:35:25I think it's just what you like, Pat.
0:35:25 > 0:35:27- Yeah.- But we just have to see now,
0:35:27 > 0:35:32are you going to let your heart rule your head, or head rule your heart?
0:35:32 > 0:35:34Yeah. It's a big decision.
0:35:34 > 0:35:37Right, ladies. Let's go somewhere warmer.
0:35:37 > 0:35:41Because I'm dying to know what decision you might make.
0:35:41 > 0:35:44- Here you go.- Biggest decision of my life, I think, Sonali.
0:35:51 > 0:35:54From the fortified medieval manor house of Haddon Hall
0:35:54 > 0:35:58in the Peak District, to the stately Belvoir Castle in Leicestershire,
0:35:58 > 0:36:02the East Midlands showcases an impressive architectural legacy
0:36:02 > 0:36:05left by the nation's elite.
0:36:05 > 0:36:07But in Worksop, Nottinghamshire,
0:36:07 > 0:36:10there's an historic house of a very different class.
0:36:10 > 0:36:15Here, a modest semi remains virtually untouched since the 1920s,
0:36:15 > 0:36:19when a family of grocers named the Straws moved in.
0:36:19 > 0:36:23Left to the National Trust by the last surviving Straw in the 1990s,
0:36:23 > 0:36:27it now offers a chance to step back in time,
0:36:27 > 0:36:30immersed in thousands of everyday items amassed by the family
0:36:30 > 0:36:33over a period of 60 years.
0:36:33 > 0:36:37To find out more about this unique archive of social history,
0:36:37 > 0:36:40I'm meeting house manager Tori Crapper.
0:36:40 > 0:36:43Tori, I'm so intrigued about this house.
0:36:43 > 0:36:45Tell me all about the family who lived here.
0:36:45 > 0:36:48So the Straws themselves were grocers here in Worksop.
0:36:48 > 0:36:52And the parents died in the '30s, and the two brothers, the two sons,
0:36:52 > 0:36:55they kept it as it was and didn't throw anything away.
0:36:55 > 0:36:59It's what's left with us today.
0:36:59 > 0:37:03Why is preserving all of this so important?
0:37:03 > 0:37:06Houses like ours give such a breadth to history
0:37:06 > 0:37:09that you don't necessarily get in museums.
0:37:09 > 0:37:13The '50s cooker that when I brought my mum round, she was like,
0:37:13 > 0:37:15"Oh, my grandma used to have a cooker like that!"
0:37:15 > 0:37:18And being able to share that more recent history with our visitors is
0:37:18 > 0:37:21something that is really important, I think.
0:37:21 > 0:37:23I'm going to ask you a very difficult question now.
0:37:23 > 0:37:26- OK.- 30,000 items.- Yeah. - You have to pick your favourite.
0:37:26 > 0:37:28So I want you to show me your favourite.
0:37:28 > 0:37:29It's like choosing between your children,
0:37:29 > 0:37:31but you're going to have to do it.
0:37:31 > 0:37:33- Do you have favourites?- Yeah.
0:37:33 > 0:37:36I think we all do. I think any National Trust employee
0:37:36 > 0:37:39has their favourite bit of their property, so...
0:37:39 > 0:37:41- Lead the way.- OK.
0:37:41 > 0:37:44The family consisted of parents William Senior
0:37:44 > 0:37:45and his wife Florence.
0:37:45 > 0:37:49Their younger son Walter joined the successful family grocery business,
0:37:49 > 0:37:54whilst older son William Junior made his fortune investing.
0:37:54 > 0:37:57But despite their acquired wealth, they lived surprisingly modestly,
0:37:57 > 0:37:59and rarely threw things away.
0:38:01 > 0:38:03So, I love these hats and coats,
0:38:03 > 0:38:06because they epitomise for me the Straw family
0:38:06 > 0:38:08and their relationship with
0:38:08 > 0:38:10each other and their business.
0:38:10 > 0:38:13So the ones with the trilbies belong to Dad.
0:38:13 > 0:38:15The two with the flat caps on belong to the brothers,
0:38:15 > 0:38:17so William and Walter.
0:38:17 > 0:38:19And I think that there's something
0:38:19 > 0:38:23really lovely about having those very personal pieces.
0:38:23 > 0:38:28But part for me is that it's also about...we are looking after our
0:38:28 > 0:38:31family's history, and family's possessions.
0:38:31 > 0:38:32And there's something really nice
0:38:32 > 0:38:34about having them hanging in the hallway.
0:38:34 > 0:38:37The Straws were known as purveyors of fine tea,
0:38:37 > 0:38:38selling 28 different types
0:38:38 > 0:38:42from which customers could order tailor-made blends.
0:38:42 > 0:38:45When their business closed down in the 1960s,
0:38:45 > 0:38:48their "waste not, want not" ethos
0:38:48 > 0:38:52meant son Walter brought every single unsold item back home.
0:38:53 > 0:38:55So I love our tea caddies.
0:38:55 > 0:38:58You'd have gone into their grocer's shop and ordered your blend of tea.
0:38:58 > 0:39:00So that was the number 11 blend?
0:39:00 > 0:39:02It was. And they're scattered throughout the house.
0:39:02 > 0:39:05You'd have gone in and said, "I'd like half a..."
0:39:05 > 0:39:11Your blend. And they'd have done half a scoop of 11, or 28.
0:39:11 > 0:39:12- Wow.- For me,
0:39:12 > 0:39:16I think these were Walter's mementos of his life
0:39:16 > 0:39:19and the grocer's business that him and his dad had worked in.
0:39:19 > 0:39:21So things in the business
0:39:21 > 0:39:24actually ended up becoming ornaments and many of these mementos.
0:39:24 > 0:39:26As well as clothing and knick-knacks,
0:39:26 > 0:39:30there are reams of paper items, from old homework books,
0:39:30 > 0:39:33to shop ledgers and personal letters.
0:39:33 > 0:39:35The trust is currently undertaking
0:39:35 > 0:39:39the mammoth task of creating a digital catalogue of the entire
0:39:39 > 0:39:42collection so that visitors can learn even more online.
0:39:42 > 0:39:47Danielle Brown is part of the team who are now three and a half years
0:39:47 > 0:39:51into painstakingly photographing and recording each and every item.
0:39:51 > 0:39:54- What are you photographing now? Stamps.- So at the moment, yeah,
0:39:54 > 0:39:59we're working on one of several stamp albums in the collection.
0:39:59 > 0:40:02What we're doing is we're photographing each of the pages
0:40:02 > 0:40:04as a grouping, but then we're also photographing
0:40:04 > 0:40:05the stamps individually.
0:40:05 > 0:40:08What it means is in the future, with it being paper objects,
0:40:08 > 0:40:10they're incredibly fragile,
0:40:10 > 0:40:12so by recording them individually this way,
0:40:12 > 0:40:16what we're able to do is really keep a close eye on the collection,
0:40:16 > 0:40:17on their condition
0:40:17 > 0:40:21and how we can manage this particular object within the house.
0:40:21 > 0:40:24And in a way, anyone anywhere will now be able
0:40:24 > 0:40:26to see what the house contains.
0:40:26 > 0:40:29For us, being such a small property with so many items,
0:40:29 > 0:40:31we're never going to be able to put all the drawers,
0:40:31 > 0:40:33cupboards, wardrobes on display.
0:40:33 > 0:40:35For us, this is a way of doing that.
0:40:35 > 0:40:38How much longer will it take to finish the 30,000?
0:40:38 > 0:40:40So, it'll always be ongoing work.
0:40:40 > 0:40:43But to get the main body on and really get it in the public eye,
0:40:43 > 0:40:45we think another three or four years.
0:40:45 > 0:40:49Well, good luck for the next three years. 30,000 items!
0:40:49 > 0:40:51Thank you so much for showing me around.
0:40:51 > 0:40:52- Oh, you're welcome. Thank you. - Thank you.
0:40:58 > 0:41:00Well, I've got a good feeling about this,
0:41:00 > 0:41:02because we know Pat wants to move quickly,
0:41:02 > 0:41:04and we know she's found somewhere she loves.
0:41:04 > 0:41:06The question is, which property will she go for?
0:41:11 > 0:41:15- So, decisions, decisions, decisions. - Mm-hm.
0:41:15 > 0:41:16When you like three houses, what do you do?
0:41:18 > 0:41:19Think very hard.
0:41:19 > 0:41:22- Long and hard. - And what have you decided?
0:41:22 > 0:41:23Have you decided anything?
0:41:23 > 0:41:24I have.
0:41:25 > 0:41:27Your face looks like you've been up to something.
0:41:27 > 0:41:29What have you done?
0:41:29 > 0:41:31Don't keep us in suspense!
0:41:31 > 0:41:33I've put an offer in.
0:41:33 > 0:41:35- On...?- House number two.
0:41:35 > 0:41:38Oh, congratulations! And?
0:41:38 > 0:41:39And it's been accepted!
0:41:40 > 0:41:43- Amazing!- So I'm on the move.
0:41:43 > 0:41:45So excited. Fantastic.
0:41:45 > 0:41:50- Very hard decision.- But you felt very at home, I know, in number two.
0:41:50 > 0:41:51- Yeah.- And I know, Tula,
0:41:51 > 0:41:53you felt that that would be the right...for her,
0:41:53 > 0:41:54the right one going forward.
0:41:54 > 0:41:56I felt that would be the right decision.
0:41:56 > 0:41:59Yes. She's gone with her head.
0:41:59 > 0:42:04But except you do love it too, so maybe number two is heart AND head.
0:42:04 > 0:42:06Yes, I do. A stunning, stunning property.
0:42:07 > 0:42:10- Lovely village.- Well, that's really wonderful news.
0:42:10 > 0:42:12I'm so pleased for you. And it's already been accepted,
0:42:12 > 0:42:13- which is fantastic.- Yes, yes.
0:42:13 > 0:42:16- So... - Thank you so much for everything.
0:42:16 > 0:42:19Well, enjoy the new life with the grandkids up here, and...
0:42:19 > 0:42:21And I've got a new holiday home!
0:42:21 > 0:42:22LAUGHTER
0:42:22 > 0:42:24So I must say congratulations to you too.
0:42:24 > 0:42:26- Thank you.- Thank you so much.
0:42:26 > 0:42:28- Thank you.- It's been a pleasure.
0:42:32 > 0:42:34Well, how wonderful that Pat's offer
0:42:34 > 0:42:37has just been accepted on house number two.
0:42:37 > 0:42:41And it's easy to see why she ended up choosing the village property.
0:42:41 > 0:42:44Pat felt that it would be more practical as the years go by,
0:42:44 > 0:42:48and she didn't want to move again in a decade or so.
0:42:48 > 0:42:51So, we wish her luck and hope that the process runs smoothly.
0:42:51 > 0:42:55And we look forward to hearing just how happy she is in her new home
0:42:55 > 0:42:58here in the East Midlands. See you next time on Escape To The Country.
0:43:01 > 0:43:04If you'd like to escape to the country in England,
0:43:04 > 0:43:07Northern Ireland, Wales or Scotland and need our help,
0:43:07 > 0:43:09you can apply online at...