0:00:02 > 0:00:04This remote manor house sitting on the water's edge behind me
0:00:04 > 0:00:07might seem like the perfect escape, but there's a greater story here,
0:00:07 > 0:00:09hidden under the waves.
0:00:09 > 0:00:13Find out exactly what it is and where I am in moments.
0:00:31 > 0:00:35Today's house hunter is escaping her small London flat,
0:00:35 > 0:00:38but is she prepared to take on the great outdoors?
0:00:38 > 0:00:41Is this the kind of size of garden you'd like to maintain?
0:00:41 > 0:00:44- Oh, gosh.- Or would you need a little help here?
0:00:44 > 0:00:46I think I might need a bit of help from a gardener
0:00:46 > 0:00:47because it's very big.
0:00:47 > 0:00:52But inside, she is after a little extra space to fit visiting family.
0:00:52 > 0:00:55- Can you see yourself sitting in the conservatory?- Oh, yes - I'd like to
0:00:55 > 0:00:58- go in there now, actually.- Well, let's not waste any time, then!
0:01:00 > 0:01:01Today, I'm in Rutland,
0:01:01 > 0:01:05England's smallest county, and this is Rutland Water,
0:01:05 > 0:01:09a reservoir that's also the UK's largest man-made lake.
0:01:09 > 0:01:12When construction of the lake got underway in the early '70s,
0:01:12 > 0:01:16it caused massive disruption for local villages and communities,
0:01:16 > 0:01:19with many having to relocate their homes for the reservoir,
0:01:19 > 0:01:22which finally opened in 1976.
0:01:22 > 0:01:24The old hall behind me is all that remains
0:01:24 > 0:01:27of the village of Middle Hambleton -
0:01:27 > 0:01:29the rest of it is completely submerged.
0:01:29 > 0:01:34Today, the Hambledon peninsula is surrounded on three sides by water,
0:01:34 > 0:01:37but it does provide some of the most spectacular views
0:01:37 > 0:01:41across one of the highlights at the heart of this lovely county.
0:01:42 > 0:01:47Landlocked Rutland covers an area of just 151 square miles.
0:01:47 > 0:01:51Its longest distance from north to south is only 18 miles,
0:01:51 > 0:01:54and 17 miles from east to west.
0:01:54 > 0:01:57In 1974, the county merged with Leicestershire,
0:01:57 > 0:02:00but independence was restored in 1997.
0:02:01 > 0:02:04The main focal point is Rutland Water,
0:02:04 > 0:02:09whose southern bank features the Grade II listed Normington Church.
0:02:09 > 0:02:12Scheduled for demolition by the reservoir planners,
0:02:12 > 0:02:14it was saved after a public outcry
0:02:14 > 0:02:19and is now a popular venue for newlyweds to tie the knot.
0:02:19 > 0:02:21Today, the largest reservoir in England
0:02:21 > 0:02:24is used for more than just water storage.
0:02:24 > 0:02:28As well as being home to many species of wildlife,
0:02:28 > 0:02:33the 3,100 acres of expansive water are a big draw for sailors and
0:02:33 > 0:02:35fishermen alike. And on land,
0:02:35 > 0:02:40its perimeter offers 25 miles of track for walking and cycling.
0:02:42 > 0:02:46To the west of Rutland water is the county town of Oakham.
0:02:46 > 0:02:49With its quaint, narrow streets and traditional feel,
0:02:49 > 0:02:53this is a must-see place for many visitors.
0:02:53 > 0:02:56Oakham Castle is home to a fine collection
0:02:56 > 0:02:59of more than 200 horseshoes.
0:02:59 > 0:03:01Peers of the realm passing through the town
0:03:01 > 0:03:04must give a horseshoe to the Lord of the Manor -
0:03:04 > 0:03:09a custom started more than 500 years ago that continues to this day.
0:03:09 > 0:03:11Outside of the towns,
0:03:11 > 0:03:15Rutland is marked by acres of stunning countryside,
0:03:15 > 0:03:17which makes it an ideal rural escape.
0:03:20 > 0:03:23There is clearly a lot on offer in this beautiful county,
0:03:23 > 0:03:25despite its small size.
0:03:25 > 0:03:28In fact, the local motto is "Multum in parvo" -
0:03:28 > 0:03:31Latin for "Much in little".
0:03:31 > 0:03:33And there's a clue in that when it comes to searching for property
0:03:33 > 0:03:37in the area. The price of a detached house here in Rutland
0:03:37 > 0:03:41is around about £321,000.
0:03:41 > 0:03:45That's £23,000 above the national average.
0:03:45 > 0:03:47So what about today's buyer?
0:03:47 > 0:03:50What are they searching for in their little slice of
0:03:50 > 0:03:52England's smallest county?
0:03:52 > 0:03:56Management consultant Siobhan and her six-year-old daughter Eleanor
0:03:56 > 0:04:01are looking to swap the hustle and bustle of Croydon in South London
0:04:01 > 0:04:04for a much more tranquil life in Rutland,
0:04:04 > 0:04:07with a little bit of help from her mother, Jackie.
0:04:07 > 0:04:09Croydon's started to become quite run down
0:04:09 > 0:04:10in the last couple of years.
0:04:10 > 0:04:13The town centre, a lot of the shops have closed.
0:04:13 > 0:04:16We also have a very long school run,
0:04:16 > 0:04:18so we have a 50-minute round trip and partly,
0:04:18 > 0:04:21the property that we are in at the moment,
0:04:21 > 0:04:23as beautiful as it is, we've just grown out of it.
0:04:23 > 0:04:27A big driver for the move is Eleanor,
0:04:27 > 0:04:30who is a massive fan of all things wild.
0:04:30 > 0:04:34Eleanor adores being outside. She loves climbing trees,
0:04:34 > 0:04:37bug collecting is a favourite hobby of hers,
0:04:37 > 0:04:41fishing for bits and pieces in ponds,
0:04:41 > 0:04:43and those experiences are not so readily available
0:04:43 > 0:04:45in an urban environment.
0:04:45 > 0:04:49She's very keen on animals and cats and dogs.
0:04:49 > 0:04:51And she'd like a dog, she'd like a Labrador,
0:04:51 > 0:04:53although she's quite partial to border collies,
0:04:53 > 0:04:55and they need a lot of space.
0:04:56 > 0:04:59This move will herald some big changes
0:04:59 > 0:05:02in how Eleanor, and indeed Siobhan, currently live their lives.
0:05:02 > 0:05:05Plans are in place to spend more time working from home,
0:05:05 > 0:05:09which makes leaving the London base a really positive step.
0:05:09 > 0:05:15I think we'll really enjoy having fresh air,
0:05:15 > 0:05:18having access to wider spaces,
0:05:18 > 0:05:23being able to get out and do cycling more easily.
0:05:23 > 0:05:26Having access to more outdoor pursuits,
0:05:26 > 0:05:28things that possibly Eleanor hasn't even tried yet,
0:05:28 > 0:05:32like doing some more watersports we just can't do around this area.
0:05:33 > 0:05:38The biggest sacrifice, really, will be being further away from family.
0:05:38 > 0:05:41But mum Jackie is philosophical about the move.
0:05:41 > 0:05:44I shall be sorry that I won't see so much of them
0:05:44 > 0:05:48and it won't be so easy to pop in and say hello
0:05:48 > 0:05:50or for them to pop in and see us.
0:05:50 > 0:05:52I shall regret that, love,
0:05:52 > 0:05:56but if that's what you and Eleanor want to do, well...I wish you...
0:05:56 > 0:05:58you know, all the best, and Dad and I will support you
0:05:58 > 0:06:00and we'll come and see you, of course, and stay.
0:06:00 > 0:06:03- You'll have to have somewhere where we can stay!- Mm.
0:06:03 > 0:06:05And despite the heart-wrenching thought
0:06:05 > 0:06:07that Siobhan will be further away,
0:06:07 > 0:06:10Jackie has no doubts that this is the right move
0:06:10 > 0:06:14for both daughter and granddaughter.
0:06:14 > 0:06:16Well, I think they'll have a slower pace of life.
0:06:16 > 0:06:19I think they'll see a little bit more of each other.
0:06:19 > 0:06:22They'll have less time driving around in the car
0:06:22 > 0:06:24and more time just being together.
0:06:24 > 0:06:28They'll have more space, and I think that will be good for them.
0:06:32 > 0:06:34With Rutland being such a small county,
0:06:34 > 0:06:37Siobhan is happy for us to extend our search
0:06:37 > 0:06:41across the borders into Lincolnshire or Northamptonshire.
0:06:41 > 0:06:43I'm catching up with Siobhan and Jackie
0:06:43 > 0:06:45on the banks of Rutland Water
0:06:45 > 0:06:48to nail the right criteria for the perfect property.
0:06:49 > 0:06:51Jackie, Siobhan, lovely to see you.
0:06:51 > 0:06:53- Hello, hello. - So, tell me -
0:06:53 > 0:06:55what has brought us to this wonderful corner of the world?
0:06:55 > 0:06:58As you can see, it's a beautiful place,
0:06:58 > 0:07:00lots of cycling, foraging and tree climbing -
0:07:00 > 0:07:03all of the things that Eleanor loves to do.
0:07:03 > 0:07:05So, Jackie, supermum, here to support Siobhan.
0:07:05 > 0:07:08- How well do you know the area? - Well, I've been here several times,
0:07:08 > 0:07:13been on holidays with my husband and I know Siobhan's been here as well.
0:07:13 > 0:07:16And we think it's really nice, it's a nice place to live,
0:07:16 > 0:07:20it's good for bringing up a family and I'm retired now,
0:07:20 > 0:07:24I'm free to visit her and I shall be doing that, plenty of that!
0:07:24 > 0:07:27What are we searching for, in terms of property?
0:07:27 > 0:07:32Ideally a three-bedroom-plus house so my parents can come and visit.
0:07:32 > 0:07:34Got to have a room for me, yes!
0:07:34 > 0:07:37Yes! So we've got the built-in childcare!
0:07:37 > 0:07:40Some nice, open space, a nice garden,
0:07:40 > 0:07:44or at least good access straight into lovely walks
0:07:44 > 0:07:47in the fields and across the countryside.
0:07:47 > 0:07:48So when you're talking garden,
0:07:48 > 0:07:52are we talking postage stamp garden or are we talking a few acres?
0:07:52 > 0:07:55- What's the dream? - Well, somewhere in between!
0:07:55 > 0:07:58I love gardening and we need somewhere for the trampoline
0:07:58 > 0:08:00and maybe some rose beds.
0:08:00 > 0:08:02What kind of property are you looking for?
0:08:02 > 0:08:05Something with some nice character, but with some...
0:08:05 > 0:08:08Possibly with some modernisation.
0:08:08 > 0:08:12It's got to fit with access to the school
0:08:12 > 0:08:14and the possible commuting to London.
0:08:14 > 0:08:17So it's a decision I'm not going to take lightly,
0:08:17 > 0:08:20I will make sure we make the right decision.
0:08:20 > 0:08:21How much are we looking with today?
0:08:21 > 0:08:24Ideally, under 450,000.
0:08:24 > 0:08:26That's our absolute maximum budget,
0:08:26 > 0:08:29but I'd like to try and keep under that if I could.
0:08:29 > 0:08:32Well, we have three fantastic properties for you to see,
0:08:32 > 0:08:34- so let's get searching. - Lovely. Thank you.
0:08:39 > 0:08:42With a top budget of £450,000,
0:08:42 > 0:08:45Siobhan and daughter Eleanor are looking to escape
0:08:45 > 0:08:47their two-bed flat in Croydon
0:08:47 > 0:08:50in pursuit of a character home with a modern interior,
0:08:50 > 0:08:55a family kitchen-diner, three bedrooms and a good-sized garden.
0:08:55 > 0:08:57They'd also like to be close to a village
0:08:57 > 0:09:00with easy access to local schools.
0:09:01 > 0:09:05We've found some fantastic properties to tempt them with
0:09:05 > 0:09:07and at each one, I'll be asking them to guess the price
0:09:07 > 0:09:09before I reveal it.
0:09:09 > 0:09:13The last in our selection will be our Mystery House,
0:09:13 > 0:09:15which may challenge Siobhan's expectations
0:09:15 > 0:09:17when it comes to character,
0:09:17 > 0:09:20but could put her young daughter right in her element.
0:09:21 > 0:09:24So tell me a little bit more about what you love about this area.
0:09:24 > 0:09:27It's just a great part of the country to live in
0:09:27 > 0:09:31and to raise a family. It's a slower pace of life.
0:09:34 > 0:09:37As Siobhan doesn't mind us extending our search
0:09:37 > 0:09:38into Rutland's borderlands,
0:09:38 > 0:09:41Baston village in Lincolnshire is our first stop.
0:09:41 > 0:09:45At the centre is the village green, flanked by a local church
0:09:45 > 0:09:48with parts of the building dating back to the 12th century.
0:09:48 > 0:09:51Close by is a general store and post office.
0:09:51 > 0:09:53There's a real community feel here,
0:09:53 > 0:09:56with a village hall complete with children's playground
0:09:56 > 0:09:58and sports facilities.
0:09:58 > 0:10:00Six-year-old Eleanor will be spoilt for choice
0:10:00 > 0:10:02when it comes to her education,
0:10:02 > 0:10:06as both state and independent schools can be found in the village.
0:10:06 > 0:10:10And with our first property just a few minutes' drive away,
0:10:10 > 0:10:13those long school runs could be a thing of the past.
0:10:14 > 0:10:16Welcome to property one.
0:10:16 > 0:10:20Your 1800 mill-owner's cottage.
0:10:20 > 0:10:23- Well! - It's beautiful.
0:10:23 > 0:10:25This is where the mill workers would come and stay.
0:10:25 > 0:10:29This section of the cottage was built in 1800 and all this,
0:10:29 > 0:10:34which could also be yours, was added in 2005.
0:10:34 > 0:10:38- Huge! Really big. - Yes, it is.
0:10:38 > 0:10:39And very tastefully done.
0:10:39 > 0:10:41You can't necessarily notice straight away
0:10:41 > 0:10:43the difference in the brickwork.
0:10:43 > 0:10:46This early 19th-century mill worker's cottage
0:10:46 > 0:10:52offers nearly 2,200 square feet of generous living space.
0:10:52 > 0:10:55On the ground floor are three sitting rooms,
0:10:55 > 0:10:59and that 2005 extension added yet more accommodation space.
0:11:00 > 0:11:02We're entering through the front door,
0:11:02 > 0:11:05which takes us directly into a cosy snug.
0:11:08 > 0:11:11So here we are in the original part of the cottage.
0:11:11 > 0:11:14You've got your lovely snug and the fireplace to welcome you.
0:11:14 > 0:11:17It's lovely! Very warm and inviting.
0:11:17 > 0:11:19- Very good so far. - And this is just the start.
0:11:19 > 0:11:21- So much to see. - Yes!
0:11:23 > 0:11:26Also on this floor, there's a small study
0:11:26 > 0:11:29and a good-sized double bedroom, ideal for when Jackie visits.
0:11:31 > 0:11:33Crossing the dining room, we find what for many
0:11:33 > 0:11:35is the heart of the home.
0:11:36 > 0:11:38Into your nice spacious kitchen,
0:11:38 > 0:11:41which looks out onto your new conservatory.
0:11:41 > 0:11:43That was added to the property in about 2010,
0:11:43 > 0:11:46the latest bit of work that the owners did.
0:11:46 > 0:11:47We passed your lovely dining space...
0:11:47 > 0:11:50- That's beautiful.- ..as we came through into the kitchen.
0:11:50 > 0:11:52- What do you think? - It's lovely.
0:11:52 > 0:11:54It's really big and beautifully light,
0:11:54 > 0:11:56because it leads straight onto the conservatory.
0:11:56 > 0:11:59Gorgeous views of the garden, it's a beautiful space.
0:11:59 > 0:12:02I must say, the conservatory looks good, doesn't it?
0:12:02 > 0:12:04The space it gives you here.
0:12:04 > 0:12:06I know that's something you really love, isn't it?
0:12:06 > 0:12:08Light and airy, and a period property
0:12:08 > 0:12:11can be a little bit dark...
0:12:11 > 0:12:13There is a compromise between dark and cosy, isn't there?
0:12:13 > 0:12:16Absolutely. And the good thing is,
0:12:16 > 0:12:19Eleanor can sit and help prepare or while she's doing her homework,
0:12:19 > 0:12:22I can cook, which is something we can't do at the moment.
0:12:22 > 0:12:23Yes, this would work better.
0:12:23 > 0:12:25Can you see yourself sitting in the conservatory?
0:12:25 > 0:12:27Oh, yes. I would like to go in there now, actually.
0:12:27 > 0:12:29Well, let's not waste any time, then!
0:12:29 > 0:12:30Jackie, this way - come on!
0:12:32 > 0:12:34This house does have a lovely flow.
0:12:34 > 0:12:38Walking through the conservatory, we come into the main sitting room.
0:12:38 > 0:12:40- Gosh! - Wow.
0:12:40 > 0:12:43So what do you think about this in terms of a living space?
0:12:43 > 0:12:44Oh, it's a perfect space.
0:12:44 > 0:12:47It's not too big and it's certainly not too small.
0:12:47 > 0:12:50You still get that cosy feel.
0:12:50 > 0:12:51But the light flooding through...
0:12:51 > 0:12:53Oh, yes, it's lovely.
0:12:53 > 0:12:55So could you imagine some nice evenings
0:12:55 > 0:12:58chatting about what you and Eleanor have done in the day,
0:12:58 > 0:13:01- or the walks you've been on? - Yes! Yes, completely.
0:13:01 > 0:13:05I'm just wondering where the bathroom is and things like that?
0:13:05 > 0:13:08I will let you explore everything!
0:13:08 > 0:13:09She's always a step ahead!
0:13:09 > 0:13:11I'd like to show you the bedrooms upstairs first.
0:13:11 > 0:13:13- OK, yes, that's fine. - Let's go and have a look
0:13:13 > 0:13:15at those three and then you can come down...
0:13:15 > 0:13:18You want to check out your wing, that's what it is!
0:13:18 > 0:13:21- Yes! - She's making plans!
0:13:21 > 0:13:24I like your style! Come this way.
0:13:28 > 0:13:31Heading upstairs to the first floor, there's a generous landing.
0:13:31 > 0:13:35To one side, doors lead to two double bedrooms,
0:13:35 > 0:13:36both with ample storage,
0:13:36 > 0:13:40and situated next to the fully tiled family bathroom.
0:13:41 > 0:13:43Next for us is the master.
0:13:43 > 0:13:47And into what could be your main bedroom.
0:13:47 > 0:13:48Wow, it's lovely.
0:13:48 > 0:13:51Which doesn't have an en suite, but it has a bathroom just next door,
0:13:51 > 0:13:53which could be yours and there's a room off that
0:13:53 > 0:13:55which is currently used as a little bedroom,
0:13:55 > 0:13:57when the lady's granddaughter comes to stay,
0:13:57 > 0:13:59but it could become a dressing room for you,
0:13:59 > 0:14:01or maybe a little office as well.
0:14:01 > 0:14:04So what do you think about this size of room? Good for you?
0:14:04 > 0:14:06- Oh, yes. - It's fine, isn't it?
0:14:06 > 0:14:08Yeah, more than big enough. Absolutely.
0:14:08 > 0:14:10And you've got lots of storage space, which I know you love.
0:14:10 > 0:14:12- Yes, it's beautiful. - Lovely window.
0:14:12 > 0:14:14Yes, all the light flooding through.
0:14:14 > 0:14:16- Yeah, yeah. - It's a beautiful property.
0:14:16 > 0:14:18It is nice, beautifully done.
0:14:18 > 0:14:21Well, of course, we have to talk about price,
0:14:21 > 0:14:23which we'll do in the garden,
0:14:23 > 0:14:26and there is a beautiful garden to show you.
0:14:26 > 0:14:29So, much more still to see!
0:14:33 > 0:14:35The house is positioned on a good-sized plot
0:14:35 > 0:14:39which includes a very attractive gravelled patio area.
0:14:39 > 0:14:42The gravel theme continues around the side of the property
0:14:42 > 0:14:46with a spacious driveway and a separate double garage.
0:14:46 > 0:14:49At the back, there's a feature pond, well-established fruit trees,
0:14:49 > 0:14:51shrubs and a generous lawn,
0:14:51 > 0:14:55all of which should make an ideal adventure playground
0:14:55 > 0:14:57for Siobhan's daughter Eleanor.
0:14:59 > 0:15:01Siobhan, you said you wanted a garden somewhere between
0:15:01 > 0:15:04postage stamp and a few acres. Have we hit the mark here?
0:15:04 > 0:15:08Oh, almost certainly. I mean, it's beautiful.
0:15:08 > 0:15:10- Isn't it? - It is lovely.
0:15:10 > 0:15:11It's incredible. All you can hear...
0:15:11 > 0:15:14It's so tranquil, you just hear the birds.
0:15:14 > 0:15:18You can see the bees. And the garden itself is stunning.
0:15:18 > 0:15:22This garden has apple trees, pear trees, you've got blackberries,
0:15:22 > 0:15:24raspberries at the end of the garden.
0:15:24 > 0:15:26- I know! - As well as a trampoline!
0:15:26 > 0:15:30As well as a trampoline, that's a kind of Eleanor-size trampoline.
0:15:30 > 0:15:32A lot of fun to be had on that, I think.
0:15:32 > 0:15:34Is this the kind of size of garden you'd like to maintain,
0:15:34 > 0:15:36or would you need a little help here?
0:15:36 > 0:15:39I think I might need a bit of help from a gardener
0:15:39 > 0:15:44because it's very big, isn't it? Much bigger than I expected...
0:15:44 > 0:15:48- Yes, yes...- ..we'd be able to get. - Two or three times.- Yes, yes.
0:15:48 > 0:15:52So, time now to take the garden and the house into consideration.
0:15:52 > 0:15:54For this particular property,
0:15:54 > 0:15:56what do you think the current market price is?
0:15:56 > 0:16:00Um, I'm going to say 425.
0:16:00 > 0:16:01Jackie, what do you think?
0:16:01 > 0:16:03I'm going to go for 430.
0:16:03 > 0:16:06Well, Jackie, at £430,000,
0:16:06 > 0:16:09you are closer to the price of this property.
0:16:09 > 0:16:10Right.
0:16:10 > 0:16:13This property, with this gorgeous garden,
0:16:13 > 0:16:16is currently on the market for £450,000.
0:16:16 > 0:16:19- That's top. - So that's the top of your budget.
0:16:19 > 0:16:22Yes. Should have guessed that, shouldn't we, really?
0:16:22 > 0:16:23- Given how big it is. - Yes.
0:16:23 > 0:16:25Well, there is a lot of house to explore.
0:16:25 > 0:16:28Why don't I let you go and really take a look at all those bedrooms
0:16:28 > 0:16:30and all the rooms available to you?
0:16:30 > 0:16:33- We'll catch up in a bit. - Lovely, thank you.
0:16:38 > 0:16:41Right on budget at £450,000,
0:16:41 > 0:16:45this beautiful character home has large entertaining areas,
0:16:45 > 0:16:48four double bedrooms and a spacious garden for that dog
0:16:48 > 0:16:51that Eleanor is so keen to have.
0:16:51 > 0:16:54I think Eleanor would adore this property.
0:16:54 > 0:16:58The only thing she might miss out on is having neighbours and children
0:16:58 > 0:17:01in neighbouring properties that she could play with,
0:17:01 > 0:17:03which is something that we would like
0:17:03 > 0:17:05when we have our move to the country.
0:17:05 > 0:17:09I think the house is rather isolated from the local community.
0:17:09 > 0:17:12I believe it's about a mile from the nearest village
0:17:12 > 0:17:14and I do feel that's a bit far.
0:17:15 > 0:17:17Hello, ladies.
0:17:17 > 0:17:19Have you had a good look round everything now?
0:17:19 > 0:17:22- We have. - Fantastic.
0:17:22 > 0:17:24- Like what you've seen? - It's beautiful.
0:17:24 > 0:17:26Great. Good start.
0:17:26 > 0:17:29Property one. Let's go explore property two.
0:17:29 > 0:17:31Great. Let's go.
0:17:36 > 0:17:40Rutland and the surrounding area has long been a favourite
0:17:40 > 0:17:42for would-be country escapees.
0:17:42 > 0:17:46The impressive architecture, including stately homes and castles,
0:17:46 > 0:17:50is just one of many reasons Siobhan adores this part of the country.
0:17:50 > 0:17:55So we've arranged for her and Jackie to meet head guide David Shipton,
0:17:55 > 0:17:57who's going to tell them more about
0:17:57 > 0:18:01one of the area's grandest buildings, Rockingham Castle.
0:18:01 > 0:18:04The first castle was built here by William the Conqueror,
0:18:04 > 0:18:09around 1070, and that grew into a huge stone castle.
0:18:09 > 0:18:11You're standing in front of these wonderful drum towers
0:18:11 > 0:18:14built by Edward I in the 1270s.
0:18:14 > 0:18:18It was then a royal castle till the reign of Henry VIII.
0:18:18 > 0:18:20- He was the last king to visit here. - So when was that?
0:18:20 > 0:18:24That was in 1540, when he came here with Catherine Howard,
0:18:24 > 0:18:26about a year before he cut her head off.
0:18:26 > 0:18:28Oh, right! What happened after that?
0:18:28 > 0:18:30Who did he give the castle to?
0:18:30 > 0:18:32The castle by then was very dilapidated -
0:18:32 > 0:18:35the King hadn't been spending money maintaining it
0:18:35 > 0:18:37and it was falling down in places.
0:18:37 > 0:18:39And along comes a man called Edward Watson
0:18:39 > 0:18:42and he rented the castle from Henry VIII
0:18:42 > 0:18:44and gradually began to turn it into a family home.
0:18:45 > 0:18:48Today, Edward Watson's legacy lives on
0:18:48 > 0:18:52and the castle is now owned and maintained by his descendant,
0:18:52 > 0:18:54and much of the original renovation work
0:18:54 > 0:18:58carried out over subsequent years still exists.
0:18:58 > 0:19:00This is the Long Gallery,
0:19:00 > 0:19:03which was completed about the reign of Charles I.
0:19:03 > 0:19:05It was a superb room in which the family could come
0:19:05 > 0:19:09and take their leisure when the weather was inclement,
0:19:09 > 0:19:12- where they could show off the family portraits.- Yes.
0:19:12 > 0:19:14And it's a room which really came alive, though,
0:19:14 > 0:19:16again in the 19th century,
0:19:16 > 0:19:18when Richard and Lavinia Watson lived here.
0:19:18 > 0:19:21They were great friends of Charles Dickens.
0:19:21 > 0:19:22Oh!
0:19:22 > 0:19:24And he came here on several occasions
0:19:24 > 0:19:28and he puts on plays in other rooms and in this room.
0:19:29 > 0:19:31Beneath the lavish Venetian chandeliers,
0:19:31 > 0:19:34flock wallpaper and luxurious drapes,
0:19:34 > 0:19:37Dickens performed some of his most recognised works,
0:19:37 > 0:19:41and wasn't averse to treading the boards himself.
0:19:41 > 0:19:45In this cabinet, we've collected various objects to do with Dickens.
0:19:45 > 0:19:49This is the actual playbill for the plays
0:19:49 > 0:19:54that he put on in this room on January 18, 1851.
0:19:54 > 0:19:57As you can see, he starred in them - he played the lead role
0:19:57 > 0:19:59- in all three plays. - Sir Charles Coldstream...
0:19:59 > 0:20:01Oh, yes! A Day After The Wedding.
0:20:01 > 0:20:02Quite saucy, I should think!
0:20:02 > 0:20:04I wasn't here, so I don't know!
0:20:04 > 0:20:06THEY LAUGH
0:20:06 > 0:20:08We also have early copies of Bleak House.
0:20:08 > 0:20:10- Gosh. - A novel which he wrote
0:20:10 > 0:20:13in which features a great house called Chesley Wold,
0:20:13 > 0:20:17and many of the features of that great house are based on Rockingham,
0:20:17 > 0:20:20so the Long Gallery you're in becomes the long drawing-room.
0:20:20 > 0:20:25Rockingham Castle's extraordinary heritage seems to know no bounds.
0:20:25 > 0:20:30The Great Hall has played host to some very distinguished guests.
0:20:30 > 0:20:32So, David, what would the room have been used for?
0:20:32 > 0:20:34We know that when the kings came here, they lived here.
0:20:34 > 0:20:36There was a king's chamber off the end.
0:20:36 > 0:20:39They would have dined here and many of the people
0:20:39 > 0:20:43would have actually slept around the room when it came to night-time.
0:20:43 > 0:20:47Many of the objects here date back to the mid-17th century,
0:20:47 > 0:20:51including artefacts from the English Civil War.
0:20:51 > 0:20:54And if you would like to see what you would look like
0:20:54 > 0:20:58as a cavalryman from the English Civil War,
0:20:58 > 0:20:59so would you like to try it on?
0:20:59 > 0:21:02Which side would have worn this, then, David?
0:21:02 > 0:21:04Both parliamentarians and royalists
0:21:04 > 0:21:07wore much the same sort of helmets.
0:21:07 > 0:21:09- Heavy? - It's very heavy.
0:21:09 > 0:21:12It's heavy, it's got to protect you from sword cuts
0:21:12 > 0:21:13and other nasty things.
0:21:13 > 0:21:16What else might they have worn to protect their bodies?
0:21:16 > 0:21:20You would also have worn a breastplate and a backplate
0:21:20 > 0:21:24and also gauntlets like this on your wrists.
0:21:24 > 0:21:26It's so incredibly heavy.
0:21:26 > 0:21:32You just wonder how anybody could fight a good battle so weighed down.
0:21:33 > 0:21:38The hands of restoration can also be seen beyond the castle walls -
0:21:38 > 0:21:41outside, 18 acres of gardens surround the main house
0:21:41 > 0:21:44and boast an unmissable feature.
0:21:44 > 0:21:48Can you tell us something about that strange hedge?
0:21:48 > 0:21:52Well, this hedge, which is 400 years old, a yew hedge,
0:21:52 > 0:21:53we call it The Elephant Hedge.
0:21:53 > 0:21:55It looks a little bit like one, doesn't it?
0:21:55 > 0:21:57- That one, there. - When we have schoolchildren visit,
0:21:57 > 0:21:59we say, can you see any animals?
0:21:59 > 0:22:03And nearly always, some of them will identify them as elephants.
0:22:03 > 0:22:05Thanks so much, we have enjoyed it.
0:22:05 > 0:22:08Let's hope we can find Siobhan her own Rutland pile
0:22:08 > 0:22:11as we get back to our property search.
0:22:14 > 0:22:18Our second house is located in the Rutland village of Ridlington,
0:22:18 > 0:22:21just a couple of miles from the market town of Uppingham.
0:22:21 > 0:22:24With its pretty streets, traditional shops
0:22:24 > 0:22:28and attractive square overlooked by the 14th century church,
0:22:28 > 0:22:30Uppingham is one of the most picturesque towns
0:22:30 > 0:22:32in the county of Rutland.
0:22:32 > 0:22:36There should be everything here that Siobhan and Eleanor could hope for,
0:22:36 > 0:22:38including primary and secondary schools,
0:22:38 > 0:22:41one of which was established back in 1584.
0:22:41 > 0:22:44And the house we've come to see is within easy reach
0:22:44 > 0:22:48of all these amenities, back in the village of Ridlington.
0:22:50 > 0:22:52So, ladies...
0:22:52 > 0:22:55property number two, four bed, lovely, spacious house,
0:22:55 > 0:22:57built in the early '70s,
0:22:57 > 0:22:59updated just before the millennium and more recently
0:22:59 > 0:23:02- by the current owners. - Right.
0:23:02 > 0:23:04Initial thoughts?
0:23:04 > 0:23:07- Modern. - Hm, very modern.
0:23:07 > 0:23:08Large.
0:23:08 > 0:23:11Again, a beautiful, tranquil setting.
0:23:11 > 0:23:14- Nice.- Shall we get inside? - Yes!- Let's do it.
0:23:14 > 0:23:16Come this way.
0:23:16 > 0:23:17Just four decades old,
0:23:17 > 0:23:20this is a much more modern affair than our first house,
0:23:20 > 0:23:23but I'm hopeful this central village location
0:23:23 > 0:23:25has got us off to a good start.
0:23:25 > 0:23:28The front entrance takes us straight into
0:23:28 > 0:23:30the main living portion of the property.
0:23:34 > 0:23:37So, into your rather large kitchen-diner.
0:23:37 > 0:23:41- Right, that's beautiful. - It is spacious, isn't it?
0:23:41 > 0:23:44Off the main kitchen, you've got a lovely laundry room.
0:23:44 > 0:23:47The owners turned the current garage behind into a sort of
0:23:47 > 0:23:49- study-come-storage area. - Mm-hm.
0:23:49 > 0:23:50Diner behind you.
0:23:50 > 0:23:53There's also a little snug off the kitchen,
0:23:53 > 0:23:56which Eleanor could do homework in or set up a little computer room,
0:23:56 > 0:23:57or you could make into an office.
0:23:57 > 0:23:59This is a lovely family space.
0:23:59 > 0:24:01- It is. - Beautiful.
0:24:01 > 0:24:04And do you like having that separate dining area?
0:24:04 > 0:24:06- Oh, yes, I think that's... - Yes, I think that's really nice.
0:24:06 > 0:24:09And the light coming through from the garden is beautiful.
0:24:09 > 0:24:12- It is, isn't it?- Very warm. - It's just the right place.
0:24:12 > 0:24:15- Let me show you the living room before we head upstairs.- Lovely.
0:24:17 > 0:24:20And from the kitchen-diner into your living room,
0:24:20 > 0:24:22which opens out onto the garden.
0:24:22 > 0:24:24Would this space work for you?
0:24:24 > 0:24:27I think it's a good family room. It's a good size.
0:24:27 > 0:24:30I like the window here and the light coming in.
0:24:30 > 0:24:33I'm not sure if it's to Siobhan's taste, though.
0:24:33 > 0:24:36I mean, I like it, it's quite modern.
0:24:36 > 0:24:40- OK. Well, still lots more to see. - Yes, OK.- Lovely.
0:24:42 > 0:24:44I'm getting the feeling this style of house
0:24:44 > 0:24:46may not be working for Siobhan,
0:24:46 > 0:24:49but I hope the bright landing upstairs with great views
0:24:49 > 0:24:52over the surrounding countryside boosts her enthusiasm.
0:24:54 > 0:24:57Up here, there's a bright single and two double bedrooms,
0:24:57 > 0:25:01all of which are served by a modern family bathroom.
0:25:02 > 0:25:05Lastly, we find the largest room on this floor.
0:25:05 > 0:25:08And into the master bedroom, with en suite.
0:25:08 > 0:25:10A very large room!
0:25:10 > 0:25:13It is, isn't it? It's huge for a master bedroom.
0:25:13 > 0:25:15This was the part of the house that the owner -
0:25:15 > 0:25:17the current owners - extended,
0:25:17 > 0:25:19and they built the extra space and en suite,
0:25:19 > 0:25:22- that's what they've added most recently.- OK, yes.
0:25:22 > 0:25:25- And it's so tranquil.- It is. - A peaceful night's sleep.
0:25:25 > 0:25:27- Absolutely. - Gorgeous view to wake up to.
0:25:27 > 0:25:31An amazing amount of storage, as well, with the built-in wardrobes.
0:25:31 > 0:25:33Of course, the garden to explore as well
0:25:33 > 0:25:35and then we've got to talk about price.
0:25:35 > 0:25:37- SIOBHAN LAUGHS - Great.
0:25:39 > 0:25:42Outside, I'm hoping we are onto a winner with a low-maintenance,
0:25:42 > 0:25:44manageable garden.
0:25:44 > 0:25:47To the rear, sliding doors from the dining and sitting room
0:25:47 > 0:25:52lead to a patio area flanked by hedges and established planting.
0:25:52 > 0:25:56A beautiful lawn extends to a summerhouse for those long,
0:25:56 > 0:25:58lazy summer evenings.
0:25:59 > 0:26:04A really good size, and beautiful as well, lots of mature shrubs.
0:26:04 > 0:26:06A beautiful summerhouse, the evening sun, it's delightful.
0:26:06 > 0:26:08And do you think it would work for Eleanor?
0:26:08 > 0:26:11- Would she approve? - Oh, I do think she'd approve, yes.
0:26:11 > 0:26:12It's a lovely garden.
0:26:12 > 0:26:15Well, you've seen the garden, you've taken a look at the house...
0:26:15 > 0:26:18Time to talk about money.
0:26:18 > 0:26:21How much do you think this property is on the market for?
0:26:21 > 0:26:25I'm going to say £410,000.
0:26:25 > 0:26:28I'll say 445.
0:26:28 > 0:26:30£445,000.
0:26:30 > 0:26:32- £410,000. - Yes.
0:26:32 > 0:26:35- Quite a difference! - Indeed!
0:26:35 > 0:26:39Well, this property is currently
0:26:39 > 0:26:43on the market for £439,950.
0:26:43 > 0:26:44I was way out. You were nearer.
0:26:44 > 0:26:47So it gives you a little wiggle room in that budget.
0:26:47 > 0:26:48- That's great. - And a lot of property
0:26:48 > 0:26:51- for your money, again. - Absolutely, so much space.
0:26:51 > 0:26:53Well, now you know the price, why don't you have
0:26:53 > 0:26:56a bit more of an explore and we'll catch up in a bit?
0:26:56 > 0:26:58- Lovely, thank you. - Thanks.
0:27:01 > 0:27:04Coming in around £10,000 under budget,
0:27:04 > 0:27:07this modern house gives high returns for the money,
0:27:07 > 0:27:10with a great kitchen-diner, four bedrooms,
0:27:10 > 0:27:14a manageable garden and a central village location.
0:27:14 > 0:27:17I think it's a very large house.
0:27:17 > 0:27:20I think it's very modern and from that point of view,
0:27:20 > 0:27:23I think it's too modern for Siobhan,
0:27:23 > 0:27:27but I must say that it's a very good family house.
0:27:27 > 0:27:29I love the size of the property,
0:27:29 > 0:27:31it's beautiful, it's a great location.
0:27:31 > 0:27:33On reflection, I do think that possibly
0:27:33 > 0:27:36it's a bit too big for myself and for Eleanor.
0:27:36 > 0:27:40The garden is lovely - I could really see us enjoying the space.
0:27:40 > 0:27:44But it's probably also too modern for us.
0:27:44 > 0:27:47- How are you? - Fine, thanks.
0:27:47 > 0:27:51- Have you had a good scoot right across the house?- We have.- We have.
0:27:51 > 0:27:53Well, that's it for day one of our property search.
0:27:53 > 0:27:55Mystery House tomorrow.
0:27:55 > 0:27:57- Exciting! - What have you got in store for us?
0:27:57 > 0:28:01You'll have to wait and see. Homeward bound now, though.
0:28:15 > 0:28:18Siobhan, with the help of her mum Jackie,
0:28:18 > 0:28:21is looking to escape her Croydon-based two-bed flat
0:28:21 > 0:28:24in South London with her six-year-old daughter, Eleanor.
0:28:24 > 0:28:27They're looking for a more peaceful life in Rutland
0:28:27 > 0:28:31with a top budget of £450,000.
0:28:31 > 0:28:34Still to come, we've got the Mystery House,
0:28:34 > 0:28:39which offers country living with a twist of retro styling.
0:28:39 > 0:28:43So, out of your Mystery House to a mystery feature.
0:28:43 > 0:28:46That is sensational. It's beautiful.
0:28:46 > 0:28:50And I'll be switching my attention from house-hunting to the open water
0:28:50 > 0:28:53for a very different kind of search.
0:28:53 > 0:28:55- We've done it! - Oh!
0:28:55 > 0:28:57THEY LAUGH
0:29:00 > 0:29:03I was sure property one yesterday was going to be a winner
0:29:03 > 0:29:05with that fabulous garden,
0:29:05 > 0:29:07but it didn't quite have the village location
0:29:07 > 0:29:10that Siobhan was searching for. And property two had the village,
0:29:10 > 0:29:14but the house itself didn't have quite enough character for Siobhan,
0:29:14 > 0:29:17so where does that leave us with the Mystery House?
0:29:17 > 0:29:19Well, it's in the heart of a village,
0:29:19 > 0:29:22and it certainly has a unique character,
0:29:22 > 0:29:25but will it be the one to tempt Siobhan to make the move?
0:29:25 > 0:29:27Let's find out.
0:29:29 > 0:29:32So how are you feeling about the Mystery House today?
0:29:32 > 0:29:36Possibly a new build, because I haven't completely ruled them out.
0:29:36 > 0:29:38Or I suppose it could be...
0:29:38 > 0:29:40a new build with character.
0:29:40 > 0:29:43Because there's quite a few properties that are around
0:29:43 > 0:29:48that are newer, but are done so sympathetically.
0:29:51 > 0:29:52Our final destination is
0:29:52 > 0:29:55the Northamptonshire village of King's Cliffe,
0:29:55 > 0:29:58around five miles from the Rutland county border.
0:29:59 > 0:30:01But before we get to our Mystery House,
0:30:01 > 0:30:03we're taking a pit stop in the village
0:30:03 > 0:30:06to show our ladies all that King's Cliffe can offer.
0:30:08 > 0:30:11Siobhan, Jackie, you might be wondering why I've brought you here.
0:30:11 > 0:30:14Well, this is the village of King's Cliffe,
0:30:14 > 0:30:17and it's the village that's home to our Mystery House.
0:30:17 > 0:30:19Local parish church is behind you,
0:30:19 > 0:30:22All Saints and St James', and the village has all the amenities
0:30:22 > 0:30:24that you're searching for - that local village shop,
0:30:24 > 0:30:26pop out for that pint of milk,
0:30:26 > 0:30:28you've got a village pub, doctor's surgery,
0:30:28 > 0:30:31baker's, village store, and a local school
0:30:31 > 0:30:35five minutes from the front door of the Mystery House.
0:30:35 > 0:30:36Sounds lovely.
0:30:36 > 0:30:38Your village and the Mystery House are just 20 minutes from
0:30:38 > 0:30:40Rutland Water, which I know you really wanted to explore
0:30:40 > 0:30:43- with Eleanor. - It's a delightful village.
0:30:43 > 0:30:44It's beautiful.
0:30:44 > 0:30:48The architecture, the properties, the church...
0:30:48 > 0:30:51- It's got a lovely atmosphere.- I can't wait to see the Mystery House.
0:30:51 > 0:30:54Well, let's not waste any time! Come on, head this way.
0:30:57 > 0:30:59Our architect-designed Mystery House
0:30:59 > 0:31:03is just a stone's throw from the village centre.
0:31:06 > 0:31:08Designed by the architect Lionel Ebury,
0:31:08 > 0:31:12who's also designed two other properties in the village,
0:31:12 > 0:31:19it's detached, four-bed, originally built in 1971 and extended in 1980.
0:31:20 > 0:31:22- Very unusual! - It is.
0:31:22 > 0:31:24- OK, let's get in and see more. - OK.
0:31:26 > 0:31:28The entrance takes us to a hallway
0:31:28 > 0:31:31that leads through into the main sitting room,
0:31:31 > 0:31:36which is full of vintage character, albeit 1970s-style.
0:31:36 > 0:31:41So, here we are, into your split-level living space.
0:31:41 > 0:31:44Room for a dining room, you've got your wood burner there,
0:31:44 > 0:31:47which I know you really like. And then some extra space,
0:31:47 > 0:31:49you could pull a desk up there if you wanted.
0:31:49 > 0:31:52A little bit of work late at night or a desk for Eleanor, as well.
0:31:52 > 0:31:55- What strikes you about this room? - Strange!
0:31:55 > 0:31:58THEY LAUGH
0:31:58 > 0:31:59It's quite unusual.
0:31:59 > 0:32:04The style of the property and the Windows...
0:32:04 > 0:32:06I don't really like metal frames, particularly.
0:32:06 > 0:32:08Obviously, those can be changed.
0:32:08 > 0:32:10Well, there's more of the house to see.
0:32:10 > 0:32:12- Great.- Let's head into the kitchen. - Lovely.
0:32:15 > 0:32:17Heading out of the main living area,
0:32:17 > 0:32:20we pass through a utility and boot room and on into the kitchen.
0:32:21 > 0:32:24- Lovely space. - Like the size of this?
0:32:24 > 0:32:25Yes, yes, I do.
0:32:25 > 0:32:28It's perfect for family living, this space, as well.
0:32:28 > 0:32:31And can you see Siobhan and Eleanor living in here,
0:32:31 > 0:32:33- the more you look round? - I'm not sure about that!
0:32:35 > 0:32:39Well, there is one special feature that I really want to show you
0:32:39 > 0:32:42that I think Eleanor in particular will love.
0:32:42 > 0:32:43Come this way.
0:32:47 > 0:32:49Also on this floor is a snug,
0:32:49 > 0:32:52or formal dining room, and a small cloakroom.
0:32:52 > 0:32:55Up on the first floor are four double bedrooms...
0:32:55 > 0:32:57Good-size room.
0:32:57 > 0:32:59..one of which is being used as an office.
0:32:59 > 0:33:04The generous, bright, airy master comes with its own en suite.
0:33:04 > 0:33:07There's also a large, modern family bathroom
0:33:07 > 0:33:09with a separate shower cubicle.
0:33:09 > 0:33:11As we head outside,
0:33:11 > 0:33:14it's clear that this house is not quite what Siobhan is looking for,
0:33:14 > 0:33:17but she's yet to see the real highlight here,
0:33:17 > 0:33:20which is just outside the living room.
0:33:20 > 0:33:24So, out of your Mystery House, to a mystery feature -
0:33:24 > 0:33:28the beautiful babbling brook at the edge of your property.
0:33:28 > 0:33:31It's sensational. It's beautiful.
0:33:31 > 0:33:33- Really. - It's really lovely.
0:33:33 > 0:33:36You really do have Mother Nature on your doorstep here.
0:33:36 > 0:33:39I really can see Eleanor just sitting on the steps,
0:33:39 > 0:33:41- feeding the ducks... - Jumping in!
0:33:41 > 0:33:44Oh, yes, jumping in!
0:33:44 > 0:33:46- It's really lovely. - It is.
0:33:46 > 0:33:49I see there's somewhere for me to sit, too, I think. Yes.
0:33:49 > 0:33:51You've got a little space there - table and chairs,
0:33:51 > 0:33:53glass of wine at the end of the day.
0:33:53 > 0:33:56- Suit me.- Catch the sun.- Lovely!
0:33:56 > 0:33:58Who has a brook at the end of the garden?
0:33:58 > 0:34:01It's not very everyday, is it?
0:34:01 > 0:34:05Siobhan seems enthusiastic about this special garden feature,
0:34:05 > 0:34:10as it could be an ideal environment for wildlife fan Eleanor.
0:34:10 > 0:34:14And what's on offer outside doesn't stop here.
0:34:14 > 0:34:15To the rear of the property
0:34:15 > 0:34:18is a large patio and a substantial lawned area
0:34:18 > 0:34:20bordered with a stone wall.
0:34:20 > 0:34:23Mature trees and shrubs pepper the garden,
0:34:23 > 0:34:27completing the grounds of this one-off Mystery House.
0:34:27 > 0:34:31The more you've had a look around, have your views on it changed?
0:34:31 > 0:34:35It's really grown on me, actually. To come out into the garden area
0:34:35 > 0:34:38and to have the brook at the end of the garden,
0:34:38 > 0:34:42I could really see Eleanor and I enjoying this space.
0:34:42 > 0:34:43Time to talk about price.
0:34:43 > 0:34:47What do you think this Mystery House with its babbling brook
0:34:47 > 0:34:48is on the market for?
0:34:48 > 0:34:52It's got to be above my upper limit,
0:34:52 > 0:34:55so I would say £460,000.
0:34:55 > 0:34:59Jackie, how much do you think the house is on the market for?
0:34:59 > 0:35:02Well, I'm going to say it's £450,000.
0:35:03 > 0:35:07The Mystery House is currently on the market for
0:35:07 > 0:35:10£450,000.
0:35:10 > 0:35:13- Oh! - Jackie, you are spot on!
0:35:15 > 0:35:17Now you know the price, why don't you have a look around once more
0:35:17 > 0:35:19and then we've got some talking to do.
0:35:19 > 0:35:20- OK. - OK!
0:35:24 > 0:35:27They love the location, the babbling brook, the gardens...
0:35:27 > 0:35:31But perhaps the unique design - just a step too far?
0:35:32 > 0:35:36This architect-designed house comes in bang on budget
0:35:36 > 0:35:39and would certainly offer Siobhan and daughter Eleanor
0:35:39 > 0:35:40a different style of living
0:35:40 > 0:35:43with its generous open-plan ground floor,
0:35:43 > 0:35:45four good-sized bedrooms, a beautiful garden,
0:35:45 > 0:35:49complete with babbling brook and a central village location.
0:35:49 > 0:35:54This property offers the right buyer a perfect country escape,
0:35:54 > 0:35:56but has it been enough to inspire Siobhan?
0:35:59 > 0:36:01- Lovely, isn't it? - A really nice room.
0:36:01 > 0:36:02A good size.
0:36:02 > 0:36:06Mum and I have very similar taste, we both like character properties.
0:36:06 > 0:36:10It's just not the style and the age of property and design
0:36:10 > 0:36:13that we particularly like and I don't think Mum would think
0:36:13 > 0:36:16that this is the right property for us.
0:36:16 > 0:36:19Siobhan is attracted to the garden and to the brook at the bottom,
0:36:19 > 0:36:26and the possibilities of enjoying the wildlife and the countryside.
0:36:26 > 0:36:30But as for the house itself, I think she feels that
0:36:30 > 0:36:32it's not to her taste and that means that
0:36:32 > 0:36:35she wouldn't feel completely comfortable.
0:36:35 > 0:36:38Hello! Have you had a good explore around the Mystery House?
0:36:38 > 0:36:40- We have. - Great.
0:36:40 > 0:36:43Shall we find somewhere lovely for a cuppa and a good chat?
0:36:43 > 0:36:44- Sounds good. - Yes.
0:36:44 > 0:36:46Lots to talk about - come on.
0:36:51 > 0:36:55Rutland may be the smallest county in the UK,
0:36:55 > 0:36:59but it certainly lives up to its local motto, "Much in little".
0:36:59 > 0:37:03And nowhere else is this more apparent than on Rutland Water,
0:37:03 > 0:37:07a big attraction for wildlife and watersports enthusiasts.
0:37:07 > 0:37:12But it's fly fishing that's found particular renown in recent years.
0:37:12 > 0:37:16To find out more about why, I've come to meet Rob Waddington.
0:37:16 > 0:37:20Hopefully he's going to help me land my first fish.
0:37:20 > 0:37:21Rob, great to see you!
0:37:21 > 0:37:25Hi, welcome. Welcome to my shed on the banks of Rutland Water!
0:37:25 > 0:37:27So, how long have you been fly fishing here?
0:37:27 > 0:37:29I've been fishing here for 20 years,
0:37:29 > 0:37:32but I've been fly fishing a bit longer than that!
0:37:33 > 0:37:35- 21! - Yeah, maybe!
0:37:35 > 0:37:39What makes fly fishing on Rutland Water so special?
0:37:39 > 0:37:42Rutland water here is probably one of the best fly fishing lakes
0:37:42 > 0:37:45in the UK and it's for two reasons, really.
0:37:45 > 0:37:47The size of the place - it's huge out there.
0:37:47 > 0:37:50It's the biggest man-made lake in Western Europe.
0:37:50 > 0:37:53We've got about 26 miles of shoreline
0:37:53 > 0:37:56and about 3,500 acres of water, and it's massive, yeah?
0:37:58 > 0:38:01Today, we're going to be targeting the Rutland Trout
0:38:01 > 0:38:03and to attract these local beauties,
0:38:03 > 0:38:07Rob uses an artificial fly as bait.
0:38:07 > 0:38:10At the moment, the fish are feeding heavily on the natural insects,
0:38:10 > 0:38:14so we're going to imitate some tiny little midges
0:38:14 > 0:38:17that you perhaps saw as you toured the lake.
0:38:17 > 0:38:20We're going to use these tiny little things here...
0:38:20 > 0:38:22They're small, wow.
0:38:22 > 0:38:25..and these tiny little things here.
0:38:25 > 0:38:29We find that if we use the more natural, imitative flies,
0:38:29 > 0:38:32that we do catch the better fish.
0:38:32 > 0:38:34Before Rob will let me loose on the lake,
0:38:34 > 0:38:36I need a crash course in how to cast.
0:38:38 > 0:38:40- Right, up... - Back.
0:38:40 > 0:38:42- Back. - Bit sharper, then forward.
0:38:42 > 0:38:44- Real sharp. - Real sharp.
0:38:44 > 0:38:48Bang. Lovely. Back and forward.
0:38:48 > 0:38:50Get it snappy and sharp - tick-tock.
0:38:50 > 0:38:52Tick-tock.
0:38:52 > 0:38:54Release. Into the distance...
0:38:54 > 0:38:56Next one. Tick...
0:38:56 > 0:38:58Tock. Release.
0:38:58 > 0:39:01- We've done it! - Oh!
0:39:01 > 0:39:03Love it!
0:39:04 > 0:39:07- Was that, sort of, 5/10, or...? - No, pretty good.
0:39:07 > 0:39:09We stand a good chance of catching a fish, there.
0:39:09 > 0:39:12Maybe even enough to get out on the water!
0:39:12 > 0:39:16With rod and fly in hand, we head for the open water.
0:39:18 > 0:39:20At nearly 100 feet deep in places,
0:39:20 > 0:39:24there is ample space for species like perch, pike,
0:39:24 > 0:39:27zander and carp to happily thrive,
0:39:27 > 0:39:29but the trout are stocked from outside,
0:39:29 > 0:39:32so there's no danger of destroying breeding pairs.
0:39:32 > 0:39:36Anglers can fish for their supper, but, if I'm lucky,
0:39:36 > 0:39:39I'll be putting my catch back to fight another day.
0:39:41 > 0:39:44- Good day for it! - Perfect.
0:39:46 > 0:39:48- So you're lined up... - Oh! It's gone down!
0:39:48 > 0:39:50- It's gone down. - Pull it up!
0:39:50 > 0:39:52- Stop, I missed it. - Oh!
0:39:52 > 0:39:55'It's definitely feeling like my lucky day.
0:39:55 > 0:39:57'A few minutes later, and...'
0:39:57 > 0:39:58- Oh, you've got a fish! - Oh!
0:39:58 > 0:40:00OK, start reeling, reeling, reeling.
0:40:00 > 0:40:03- Ooh, I've got a pull! - Let it out, let go of the reel.
0:40:03 > 0:40:05- Let it out a bit. OK. - Now reel it again.
0:40:05 > 0:40:07- Reel it in. - Just raise the rod, now.
0:40:07 > 0:40:08Raise the rod.
0:40:10 > 0:40:12And we've got it!
0:40:12 > 0:40:15We've got a lovely fish!
0:40:15 > 0:40:17Thanks, coach!
0:40:17 > 0:40:19THEY LAUGH
0:40:19 > 0:40:21- Well done. - What have I got?
0:40:21 > 0:40:23You've got a lovely Rutland rainbow trout.
0:40:23 > 0:40:25Well done. I'm proud of you!
0:40:25 > 0:40:27THEY LAUGH
0:40:27 > 0:40:31Rob, it's been a joy to learn about fishing, thank you so much.
0:40:33 > 0:40:36Do we let this little fellow, or big fellow, back in, now?
0:40:36 > 0:40:39What a great end to the day. But it remains to be seen
0:40:39 > 0:40:43if we've made the perfect catch when it comes to houses.
0:40:46 > 0:40:49I'm sensing we haven't quite found Siobhan the property of her dreams,
0:40:49 > 0:40:52but now she's had the chance to think about all three,
0:40:52 > 0:40:54lets see how she's feeling.
0:40:59 > 0:41:01So, the question - what's next?
0:41:01 > 0:41:04It's given us a lot to think about, hasn't it?
0:41:04 > 0:41:06Yes, it has. It has indeed.
0:41:06 > 0:41:08I still love Rutland as a county
0:41:08 > 0:41:11and they have some beautiful properties
0:41:11 > 0:41:15that we'd like to explore and look around a little bit more,
0:41:15 > 0:41:17but I think I'm also going to widen my search
0:41:17 > 0:41:20to include some of the areas that we've looked at,
0:41:20 > 0:41:22particularly for property number three,
0:41:22 > 0:41:25the mystery property, the Mystery House.
0:41:25 > 0:41:27The village was so beautiful.
0:41:27 > 0:41:30That was in such a lovely village, it really was.
0:41:30 > 0:41:32So you really took to King's Cliffe?
0:41:32 > 0:41:34- Oh, it was lovely. - Absolutely.
0:41:34 > 0:41:36So it really showed us that...
0:41:37 > 0:41:41..we need to look across the county boundary
0:41:41 > 0:41:43and explore some of those smaller villages
0:41:43 > 0:41:46and even possibly some of the smaller towns.
0:41:46 > 0:41:48So has the search helped crystallise for you
0:41:48 > 0:41:51the type of property you're searching for?
0:41:51 > 0:41:55I really feel that now I'm looking for something with...
0:41:55 > 0:41:57you know, more original features.
0:41:57 > 0:41:59A nice fireplace,
0:41:59 > 0:42:02possibly some nooks and crannies like we saw in property one.
0:42:02 > 0:42:04Something a bit more traditional, Siobhan?
0:42:04 > 0:42:07- Something a bit more traditional. - Well, listen, we wish you well.
0:42:07 > 0:42:10It's been a joy to search with you over these last few days
0:42:10 > 0:42:15and do let us know what decision you and little Eleanor finally make.
0:42:15 > 0:42:17Thank you. It's been enormously helpful.
0:42:22 > 0:42:25Well, our search has definitely confirmed for Siobhan
0:42:25 > 0:42:27that Rutland and the surrounding areas
0:42:27 > 0:42:30are the place she wants to search for that new home for herself
0:42:30 > 0:42:31and her little girl Eleanor,
0:42:31 > 0:42:34and finding a village that she can be right at the heart of
0:42:34 > 0:42:36is essential to that search.
0:42:36 > 0:42:39I hope it won't be too long before we're hearing from Siobhan
0:42:39 > 0:42:41that she has found that dream property.
0:42:41 > 0:42:44And I'll see you next time on Escape To The Country.
0:42:47 > 0:42:49If you would like to escape to the country
0:42:49 > 0:42:52in England, Northern Ireland, Wales or Scotland,
0:42:52 > 0:42:56and need our help, you can apply online at...