0:00:02 > 0:00:05This exquisite 16th-century Elizabethan mansion was built
0:00:05 > 0:00:07back in 1590 by Sir Edward Culpeper.
0:00:07 > 0:00:11But today these gardens are being celebrated for their pioneering
0:00:11 > 0:00:1321st-century achievements.
0:00:13 > 0:00:15So where am I?
0:00:15 > 0:00:19And how is this 400-year-old estate making such a name for itself?
0:00:19 > 0:00:21Find out in just a moment.
0:00:41 > 0:00:45Today's country property search has moments of light and shade.
0:00:46 > 0:00:49I think it's fairly dark and it is a very bright day today.
0:00:49 > 0:00:51That would be a concern for me.
0:00:51 > 0:00:54'So can we leave our home hunters looking on the bright side?'
0:00:56 > 0:00:58- It's amazing.- Go and fetch my bags.
0:01:02 > 0:01:06Today I'm in West Sussex and this is Wakehurst Place.
0:01:06 > 0:01:12Surrounded by 465 acres of beautiful country estate,
0:01:12 > 0:01:15featuring an internationally renowned collection of trees,
0:01:15 > 0:01:19shrubs and plants and managed by the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew.
0:01:19 > 0:01:24But as well as a diverse range of mature species, in the year 2000,
0:01:24 > 0:01:28this site saw the opening of the Millennium Seed Bank,
0:01:28 > 0:01:31a conservation project aiming to conserve 25%
0:01:31 > 0:01:37of the entire world's plant species by 2020.
0:01:37 > 0:01:40It is certainly reassuring to think that here in the West Sussex
0:01:40 > 0:01:45countryside, an integral part of our global heritage is being safeguarded
0:01:45 > 0:01:47for future generations.
0:01:49 > 0:01:52West Sussex is a county on the south coast of England,
0:01:52 > 0:01:56lying alongside the English Channel and bordered by three counties -
0:01:56 > 0:01:58Hampshire, Surrey and East Sussex.
0:02:01 > 0:02:05The county features the rolling hills of the South Downs National Park,
0:02:05 > 0:02:08the tapestry of quintessential English countryside
0:02:08 > 0:02:13with glimpses of pretty spires, majestic castles and fields of sheep.
0:02:15 > 0:02:19The varied coast is home to towns such as the once-wealthy Victorian
0:02:19 > 0:02:23resort of Bognor Regis, and beaches ranging from sand to pebbles.
0:02:24 > 0:02:28There are also natural harbours including the one at Chichester,
0:02:28 > 0:02:31whose sheltered waters are a popular stop for yachts.
0:02:33 > 0:02:38Market towns include Petworth, once voted antiques town of the year,
0:02:38 > 0:02:42where the cobbled streets are pounded by regular collectors and day-trippers alike,
0:02:42 > 0:02:45hoping to discover a hidden gem or two.
0:02:46 > 0:02:49So whether it's to find glorious landscape,
0:02:49 > 0:02:52coastal vistas or charming towns and villages,
0:02:52 > 0:02:56it's clear West Sussex is an excellent choice for a rural relocation.
0:02:58 > 0:03:00As well as impressive countryside,
0:03:00 > 0:03:04West Sussex also has some impressive property stats.
0:03:04 > 0:03:08Easy access to the coast and to London has pushed the average
0:03:08 > 0:03:13detached house price up to around £433,000.
0:03:13 > 0:03:15Now that's over £140,000
0:03:15 > 0:03:17above the national figure.
0:03:17 > 0:03:20But for something more affordable,
0:03:20 > 0:03:22try heading to the centre of the county.
0:03:22 > 0:03:25Towns such as Storrington offer a good property mix,
0:03:25 > 0:03:29while villages such as Fittleworth may lack in amenities
0:03:29 > 0:03:32but more than make up for it with the surrounding countryside.
0:03:32 > 0:03:37So which part of this gorgeous county have today's buyers set their heart on?
0:03:37 > 0:03:39Well, let's meet them and find out.
0:03:41 > 0:03:44Chris, an accountant, and Jackie, who makes bespoke stationery,
0:03:44 > 0:03:48had been working together in London for a few years
0:03:48 > 0:03:51when an incident at an office party sparked a romance.
0:03:53 > 0:03:55It was in the very late '90s. '99 actually.
0:03:56 > 0:03:58Christmas party came around.
0:03:58 > 0:04:01It was held in an old Victorian prison.
0:04:01 > 0:04:04It was a bit like a Madame Tussaud's-type thing.
0:04:04 > 0:04:08And I was kind of looking at some pretty horrific scene there
0:04:08 > 0:04:12and Chris came over, and an extremity fell off the wax thing
0:04:12 > 0:04:14so it broke the ice, if you like.
0:04:14 > 0:04:16That was the icebreaker.
0:04:18 > 0:04:21The couple went on to marry and set up home together in Clapham,
0:04:21 > 0:04:25a south-west district of the capital.
0:04:25 > 0:04:29But 15 years on, they are finding London life no longer meets their needs.
0:04:29 > 0:04:32Originally Clapham was...not quite a backwater but it was much quieter.
0:04:32 > 0:04:35Nowadays there is a lot more development gone on,
0:04:35 > 0:04:38a lot more people have moved to the area, a lot of young people,
0:04:38 > 0:04:41and so the profile of the area has changed quite a lot.
0:04:41 > 0:04:42The properties have got dearer,
0:04:42 > 0:04:47the bars become more numerous and the socialising in Clapham
0:04:47 > 0:04:49has really become a youngster's sport.
0:04:50 > 0:04:53So with retirement on the horizon,
0:04:53 > 0:04:56they are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city
0:04:56 > 0:04:59for a calmer pace of life.
0:04:59 > 0:05:01It can get very noisy in this part of the world,
0:05:01 > 0:05:03especially in the location we are here.
0:05:03 > 0:05:06My lifestyle at the moment is basically going to bed Sunday nights,
0:05:06 > 0:05:09getting up Monday morning, going to work.
0:05:09 > 0:05:12I really only have a work-life balance over the weekend.
0:05:12 > 0:05:15By moving to the country and eventually retiring,
0:05:15 > 0:05:18it will definitely change my lifestyle a lot.
0:05:18 > 0:05:22The current house doesn't provide the peace and quiet that I would like.
0:05:22 > 0:05:25We live in a really built-up area.
0:05:25 > 0:05:28We just want to feel we have our own space around us.
0:05:28 > 0:05:32You know, I am attracted to the countryside really because of the views,
0:05:32 > 0:05:36and you sort of associate the peace and tranquillity with that.
0:05:37 > 0:05:39They may agree that London is no longer for them,
0:05:39 > 0:05:42but when it comes to selecting a place to move to,
0:05:42 > 0:05:44there is some difference of opinion.
0:05:44 > 0:05:47I would like to live nearer the coast.
0:05:47 > 0:05:49I have a requirement for being close to the sea.
0:05:49 > 0:05:51I don't want to live in a seaside town.
0:05:51 > 0:05:56I am erring on the countryside as being my ideal.
0:05:56 > 0:05:59We have been thinking of places to move,
0:05:59 > 0:06:02so we have this dichotomy of wanting a little bit of coast and a little
0:06:02 > 0:06:05bit of country. So West Sussex has been one of the areas
0:06:05 > 0:06:08we've been considering.
0:06:08 > 0:06:10Whether they settle by the sea or further inland,
0:06:10 > 0:06:15the hope is a new rural home in Sussex will offer them the chance
0:06:15 > 0:06:16to enjoy new pastimes.
0:06:16 > 0:06:18The one thing I would really, really,
0:06:18 > 0:06:22really like to be able to do is to grow our own fruit and vegetables.
0:06:22 > 0:06:27I am a really, really keen cook and to be able to grow the produce and
0:06:27 > 0:06:30cook it, that is something I would dream of doing.
0:06:30 > 0:06:33Moving to the country will also afford me the opportunity
0:06:33 > 0:06:36to develop my, you know, desire to do some more walking, and also get on my bike.
0:06:36 > 0:06:39And find some new different beers to drink.
0:06:39 > 0:06:43Chris is a real fan of real ale and, you know,
0:06:43 > 0:06:46you should list that as one of your hobbies.
0:06:46 > 0:06:49As well as access to a nice country pub,
0:06:49 > 0:06:52Chris is seeking something else from the move.
0:06:52 > 0:06:55One thing that I would like is my own man cave.
0:06:55 > 0:06:57I don't seem to have one here at the moment.
0:06:57 > 0:06:59They are all occupied with other
0:06:59 > 0:07:01activities run by Jackie.
0:07:03 > 0:07:08But most of all, it's about a new chapter together in new surroundings.
0:07:08 > 0:07:11A new challenge actually - that's what excites me most about the move.
0:07:12 > 0:07:15I'm really looking forward just to having new surroundings,
0:07:15 > 0:07:18new things to get involved in.
0:07:18 > 0:07:21The quieter way of life, doing the things that we can't do here.
0:07:21 > 0:07:25Meeting new people, you know, see what that brings.
0:07:25 > 0:07:27It opens up new horizons.
0:07:32 > 0:07:35Jackie is drawn to the heart of the countryside,
0:07:35 > 0:07:39but Chris is keen to be close to the coast with an easy commute to London,
0:07:39 > 0:07:42meaning the net is cast wide on our West Sussex house hunt.
0:07:44 > 0:07:47But before we set about looking at houses,
0:07:47 > 0:07:48we're meeting up in the county
0:07:48 > 0:07:51to hear more about the property they are hoping to find.
0:07:52 > 0:07:54Well, Chris and Jackie,
0:07:54 > 0:07:58welcome to the most gorgeous day here in West Sussex.
0:07:58 > 0:08:02- Amazing.- Let's talk about the actual property itself that you would like.
0:08:02 > 0:08:05- Talk me through it.- Well, the property I think we would like
0:08:05 > 0:08:08would be certainly detached, because we live in a terrace at the minute.
0:08:08 > 0:08:10And we'd also like to have sort of the
0:08:10 > 0:08:14normal...reception room, dining room, four bedrooms, garage,
0:08:14 > 0:08:15driveway and things like that.
0:08:15 > 0:08:17What about the style?
0:08:17 > 0:08:19Do you like old, do you like new?
0:08:19 > 0:08:21What's the preference?
0:08:21 > 0:08:24I think we like older properties and certainly light and airy properties.
0:08:24 > 0:08:26So something with character.
0:08:26 > 0:08:27Yeah, exactly, character.
0:08:27 > 0:08:29And, Jackie, you have got your own business, I believe?
0:08:29 > 0:08:32Yes, I have. I make handmade stationery.
0:08:32 > 0:08:34I suppose, really, you know,
0:08:34 > 0:08:38one of the things I have to have half an eye on when we look at any property
0:08:38 > 0:08:39is space where I can operate out of.
0:08:39 > 0:08:41A room, basically, a craft room.
0:08:41 > 0:08:43And obviously to keep it fair, Chris,
0:08:43 > 0:08:46we are looking for a man cave at all or...?
0:08:46 > 0:08:47I would like a room of my own.
0:08:47 > 0:08:49- I don't have one at the moment. - Do you not?
0:08:49 > 0:08:51OK. And location -
0:08:51 > 0:08:54are you looking to be part of a village community or do you want
0:08:54 > 0:08:56to be near a market town ideally?
0:08:56 > 0:08:57What works for the two of you?
0:08:57 > 0:09:01I don't mind personally, but we want to be near something.
0:09:01 > 0:09:03I think having some access to...
0:09:03 > 0:09:06As we are getting older and we're thinking about retiring,
0:09:06 > 0:09:08you can't live in the middle of nowhere because
0:09:08 > 0:09:10you have to think longer term.
0:09:10 > 0:09:13Remind us of how much you've got to spend with this move, please.
0:09:13 > 0:09:17OK, we're looking to spend around 900,000.
0:09:18 > 0:09:20If the forever home, the ideal property,
0:09:20 > 0:09:23came along we could probably go up to 1.1 million.
0:09:23 > 0:09:26We do have some splendid homes to show you
0:09:26 > 0:09:30in this rather gorgeous part of the UK so shall we get started?
0:09:30 > 0:09:33- Yes, please.- Ready? If you'd like to follow me.
0:09:37 > 0:09:41For a maximum budget of £1.1 million,
0:09:41 > 0:09:43Chris and Jackie are looking for a detached property
0:09:43 > 0:09:46with a minimum of four bedrooms.
0:09:46 > 0:09:48Jackie needs space for her stationery business
0:09:48 > 0:09:51and Chris would also like a room of his own.
0:09:51 > 0:09:52They prefer period character,
0:09:52 > 0:09:55as long as it is bright and airy,
0:09:55 > 0:09:58and the location needs to provide good transport links
0:09:58 > 0:10:00for Chris's commute back into London.
0:10:01 > 0:10:05We've got a selection of great homes to tempt our buyers with,
0:10:05 > 0:10:08and at each one, I will be asking them to guess the price
0:10:08 > 0:10:10before I reveal it.
0:10:10 > 0:10:13The final property will of course be our Mystery House,
0:10:13 > 0:10:15which may cause something of a stir.
0:10:23 > 0:10:26Our house search is starting in the small village of Madehurst,
0:10:26 > 0:10:31two and a half miles north-west of the vibrant historic market town of Arundel.
0:10:31 > 0:10:35As well as a plethora of pretty and historic buildings,
0:10:35 > 0:10:40Arundel provides many useful shops, transport links and amenities.
0:10:42 > 0:10:46The town's impressive castle was built in the 11th century by Roger de Montgomerie,
0:10:46 > 0:10:47Earl of Arundel,
0:10:47 > 0:10:50and heavily restored in Victorian times.
0:10:50 > 0:10:54It was one of the first English country houses to be fitted with
0:10:54 > 0:10:56electric lighting.
0:10:56 > 0:10:59And two and a half miles away back in Madehurst,
0:10:59 > 0:11:00the house we are going to see
0:11:00 > 0:11:03has a rather quirky history of its own.
0:11:04 > 0:11:07Now, if you can guess what this building was originally used for,
0:11:07 > 0:11:10I may even consider buying it for you.
0:11:10 > 0:11:13Part of an estate and therefore it was the estate keeper's house.
0:11:13 > 0:11:16Oh, thank goodness you didn't get it right, but you're close.
0:11:16 > 0:11:18Because it is part of a larger estate.
0:11:18 > 0:11:20The huge manor house which was next door,
0:11:20 > 0:11:24this was built as a squash court for the estate.
0:11:24 > 0:11:26- No!- Yes.- Wow.
0:11:26 > 0:11:28Amazing.
0:11:28 > 0:11:32- Totally unexpected. - What do you think, Chris?
0:11:32 > 0:11:35My thought is I'm intrigued to go inside to see how the light reflects
0:11:35 > 0:11:38through the windows because there aren't that many windows at the front at the moment.
0:11:38 > 0:11:40The porch does overhang a little bit.
0:11:40 > 0:11:42That is a fair comment. Shall we step inside and see how it goes?
0:11:42 > 0:11:44- Oh, yes, please.- Super.
0:11:44 > 0:11:47'Thought to be built around the 1930s
0:11:47 > 0:11:49'but converted to a home in the 1980s,
0:11:49 > 0:11:53'we're taking the door from the veranda at the back of the property and
0:11:53 > 0:11:55'going straight into the kitchen/ breakfast room.'
0:11:58 > 0:12:03So let's start off with our country kitchen.
0:12:03 > 0:12:05It's very stylish.
0:12:05 > 0:12:08For me, if I was completely honest, it is awfully a little bit low.
0:12:08 > 0:12:14It's done very nicely, you know, it's...bright modern units.
0:12:14 > 0:12:17It just feels a little bit on the cramped side.
0:12:17 > 0:12:20I would be inclined to remove the island and open the whole thing up
0:12:20 > 0:12:23and make it one big sort of kitchen/living space.
0:12:23 > 0:12:26- It would be huge then, wouldn't it? - It would be great in that format.
0:12:26 > 0:12:28Let's see what you make of the next room.
0:12:30 > 0:12:32'Exiting the kitchen into the hall,
0:12:32 > 0:12:36'the other side of the ground floor features the largest reception room.'
0:12:36 > 0:12:40So off our hallway, this is your sitting room.
0:12:40 > 0:12:43OK. It's actually a very spacious room.
0:12:43 > 0:12:47- It is a big room.- Dare I broach the subject of the windows and the light?
0:12:47 > 0:12:51I think it is fairly dark and it is a very bright day today.
0:12:51 > 0:12:52That would be a concern for me.
0:12:52 > 0:12:56- Right, OK.- I agree, it is a little on the dark side.
0:12:56 > 0:13:00Probably compared to what we are used to as well, and it is a bright day.
0:13:00 > 0:13:02So that is something, you know.
0:13:02 > 0:13:03Let's head upstairs.
0:13:03 > 0:13:05See what you make of that.
0:13:05 > 0:13:06OK.
0:13:08 > 0:13:13'So some doubts expressed by Chris and Jackie over the ground floor but
0:13:13 > 0:13:16'there is additional space in a separate dining room next to the kitchen,
0:13:16 > 0:13:19'as well as the convenience of a downstairs toilet.
0:13:20 > 0:13:23'Perhaps the generous four-bedroom accommodation upstairs
0:13:23 > 0:13:25'will be more to their liking.'
0:13:27 > 0:13:30Over the sitting room, there's a large double with pretty views
0:13:30 > 0:13:33from two aspects. Another room currently has a daybed
0:13:33 > 0:13:36but is large enough to take a double.
0:13:36 > 0:13:38And the smallest of the bedrooms,
0:13:38 > 0:13:41which is presently used as an office.
0:13:41 > 0:13:44These are all served by a family bathroom,
0:13:44 > 0:13:47and that just leaves the final room.
0:13:47 > 0:13:50So here is the master bedroom.
0:13:50 > 0:13:52Complete with en-suite.
0:13:52 > 0:13:54Yes. Oh, perfect.
0:13:54 > 0:13:57This is a really much lighter room, brighter room.
0:13:57 > 0:14:00So getting a slightly better reaction from upstairs.
0:14:00 > 0:14:03Yeah, it is a lovely room and it's lighter, it's brighter,
0:14:03 > 0:14:05the ceiling is higher.
0:14:05 > 0:14:06Yeah, I like this room.
0:14:06 > 0:14:07Yes, definitely.
0:14:07 > 0:14:10And you've got your sunshine streaming through.
0:14:10 > 0:14:13- And a beautiful view, actually. - You do. You're not overlooked,
0:14:13 > 0:14:15which you will see in more detail
0:14:15 > 0:14:17because I'm going to take you outside.
0:14:20 > 0:14:22A good finish for the interior,
0:14:22 > 0:14:27but there is more outside, where this property really shines.
0:14:27 > 0:14:30With lawns and terraces plus beautifully stocked flowerbeds,
0:14:30 > 0:14:34the surprise feature in the garden is a large heated pool.
0:14:35 > 0:14:38Outbuildings include a barn with storage and workshop
0:14:38 > 0:14:42that could give Chris a super-sized man den.
0:14:42 > 0:14:45And there is also a double garage.
0:14:45 > 0:14:49What's more, light-loving Chris and Jackie should warm to the garden's aspect.
0:14:49 > 0:14:51South-west facing garden,
0:14:51 > 0:14:54so you're going to get the sunlight for most of the day, aren't you,
0:14:54 > 0:14:55- into the evening?- It is a stunning space.
0:14:55 > 0:14:57It's quite amazing compared to the house.
0:14:57 > 0:15:00You wouldn't think the house would have a thing like this attached to it.
0:15:00 > 0:15:03No. It is certainly a bonus, isn't it?
0:15:03 > 0:15:05Yeah, and adds more potential.
0:15:05 > 0:15:08Let's see what it's on the market for.
0:15:08 > 0:15:11It will be interesting to see what you two think.
0:15:12 > 0:15:14925.
0:15:14 > 0:15:17- What about you, Jackie? - I would say 875.
0:15:17 > 0:15:20The asking price is £975,000.
0:15:20 > 0:15:22Right, OK. I am pleasantly surprised.
0:15:22 > 0:15:24But it is a lovely property.
0:15:24 > 0:15:26Well, I think this is the opportunity for you two
0:15:26 > 0:15:29to take another look, on your own this time. Have a full explore.
0:15:29 > 0:15:31I must admit, with weather like this,
0:15:31 > 0:15:34I am quite happy to wait for you in the garden, if you don't mind.
0:15:34 > 0:15:36- OK.- Be my guest.
0:15:41 > 0:15:45Significantly under their £1.1 million top budget,
0:15:45 > 0:15:49our first property meets many of the requirements on Chris and Jackie's
0:15:49 > 0:15:54wish list. It's detached with bags of individuality.
0:15:54 > 0:15:59There are four bedrooms, and there is the garage Chris asked for.
0:16:00 > 0:16:04In addition, there are good-sized grounds with entertaining spaces
0:16:04 > 0:16:06as well as that large heated pool.
0:16:06 > 0:16:12Plus it's a 90-minute commute to London from nearby Arundel station.
0:16:12 > 0:16:14I think it is an amazing property.
0:16:14 > 0:16:18The amount of land surrounding it and the gardens are just beautiful.
0:16:18 > 0:16:22I think the house itself may be a little bit small
0:16:22 > 0:16:24for our requirements.
0:16:24 > 0:16:25Probably I would give it a 50-50
0:16:25 > 0:16:27because the house may be...
0:16:27 > 0:16:30so-so, but the garden is very much so.
0:16:35 > 0:16:37You've caught me enjoying the rays of sunshine.
0:16:37 > 0:16:39I do love this garden.
0:16:39 > 0:16:41It is gorgeous, isn't it?
0:16:41 > 0:16:43It is an amazing garden, yes.
0:16:43 > 0:16:45It is. So have you seen enough of the house?
0:16:45 > 0:16:46- Yes, I think we have.- Yes.
0:16:46 > 0:16:49OK. That is the end of this house tour.
0:16:49 > 0:16:50Let's hit the road.
0:16:58 > 0:17:02Winemaking was first introduced to England by the Romans,
0:17:02 > 0:17:04and as one of the sunniest spots in the country,
0:17:04 > 0:17:08with a similar subsoil to the Champagne region of France,
0:17:08 > 0:17:11West Sussex is a wonderful location for vineyards.
0:17:11 > 0:17:15In fact, there are no fewer than 31 in the county,
0:17:15 > 0:17:19producing a selection of world-class wines.
0:17:19 > 0:17:22We've arranged for Chris and Jackie to visit one of the county's oldest
0:17:22 > 0:17:26vineyards on the very first day of this year's harvest.
0:17:26 > 0:17:28They're meeting Sam Linter,
0:17:28 > 0:17:32whose parents established the Bolney Wine Estate in 1972.
0:17:32 > 0:17:36So, your parents founded this estate.
0:17:36 > 0:17:38What made them choose this area?
0:17:38 > 0:17:41Bolney has a really good microclimate.
0:17:41 > 0:17:44It actually has sandstone soils and that soil is really good for vines.
0:17:44 > 0:17:47It keeps the vineyard warmer, which is vital, but also it's free-draining,
0:17:47 > 0:17:49as vines don't like getting wet roots.
0:17:51 > 0:17:54Warmer weather at the end of the summer has meant bumper crops
0:17:54 > 0:17:58in recent years. And this is looking to be another excellent season for
0:17:58 > 0:18:00grape-growing.
0:18:00 > 0:18:05It takes 75-100 berries to make a single glass of wine.
0:18:05 > 0:18:09And with 128,000,000 to collect over the next three weeks,
0:18:09 > 0:18:11Chris and Jackie are joining Aimee Knight from the estate
0:18:11 > 0:18:13to get the harvest started.
0:18:14 > 0:18:17So what makes a good bunch of grapes?
0:18:17 > 0:18:19So what we look for is even fruit,
0:18:19 > 0:18:23so we want the berries to all be of a similar sort of size,
0:18:23 > 0:18:25and we also want them to be of a similar colour.
0:18:25 > 0:18:29So we don't want any green berries in our nice black bunch here.
0:18:30 > 0:18:33Several varieties of grape are grown here,
0:18:33 > 0:18:36but the one our couple are helping to harvest is called Rondo,
0:18:36 > 0:18:41a dark-skinned hybrid developed to mature early as well as cope with a
0:18:41 > 0:18:43slightly cooler and wetter climate.
0:18:46 > 0:18:48So, Aimee, what do these grapes taste like?
0:18:48 > 0:18:51Have a taste and see what you think.
0:18:53 > 0:18:55Yeah, they are actually quite sweet.
0:18:55 > 0:18:58Shall we head down to the tasting room so you can try the final product?
0:18:58 > 0:19:00- Sounds good to me.- And me.
0:19:02 > 0:19:06The yield from the estate's 42,000 vines will be pressed to produce
0:19:06 > 0:19:11a juice, and sugar and yeast added to start the fermentation process.
0:19:11 > 0:19:13It will take up to four years
0:19:13 > 0:19:14before this season's harvest
0:19:14 > 0:19:17turns into wines that are ready to drink.
0:19:18 > 0:19:21Fortunately for Chris and Jackie, Aimee has some they made earlier.
0:19:22 > 0:19:25So have you ever tried any English wines?
0:19:25 > 0:19:27- No, never.- OK.
0:19:27 > 0:19:30Well, let's start with our 2009 Blanc de Blancs.
0:19:30 > 0:19:33So this is 100% Chardonnay, this wine.
0:19:33 > 0:19:36It's made in the traditional method, so the same way as Champagne.
0:19:36 > 0:19:39It spends a minimum of two and a half years ageing
0:19:39 > 0:19:44which gives it sort of some yeasty, honeyed, autolytic sort of flavours.
0:19:44 > 0:19:47But because Chardonnay is quite an acidic grape,
0:19:47 > 0:19:49you should also get quite a lot of lemons, green apple,
0:19:49 > 0:19:53quite a clean refreshing mouth feel with this one.
0:19:53 > 0:19:55- Cheers.- Cheers.
0:19:58 > 0:20:00So what do you think?
0:20:00 > 0:20:01That is lovely.
0:20:01 > 0:20:04Light, very crisp.
0:20:04 > 0:20:05I can drink this one.
0:20:06 > 0:20:08So moving on to our white wine.
0:20:08 > 0:20:10The grape variety is Bacchus.
0:20:10 > 0:20:11It is of Germanic origin.
0:20:11 > 0:20:14It is very floral, very fruity.
0:20:14 > 0:20:16It is ever so slightly sweeter as well.
0:20:17 > 0:20:20Well, the fruit really comes through in that.
0:20:20 > 0:20:21Very fruity, very pleasant.
0:20:22 > 0:20:24And finally our red wine.
0:20:24 > 0:20:27So this is our Bolney Pinot Noir.
0:20:27 > 0:20:30It's a cool climate red wine, so it is very, very light.
0:20:30 > 0:20:33You will be able to see from the colour, you can see through the wine.
0:20:33 > 0:20:36You get a lot of kind of sweet red berries on the nose,
0:20:36 > 0:20:38and on the palate you should get
0:20:38 > 0:20:40only a low amount of tannin in this wine.
0:20:40 > 0:20:41Wow.
0:20:42 > 0:20:46Very surprising. That would be lovely chilled in the summer.
0:20:46 > 0:20:48Very good summer wine, I think.
0:20:48 > 0:20:50Yes, I get the berries - very light as well.
0:20:50 > 0:20:53Very sort of similar to the sort of reds I like.
0:20:53 > 0:20:55Yeah, great summer wine, as you said.
0:20:55 > 0:20:56So what do you think about English wine?
0:20:56 > 0:20:59It's certainly opened my eyes, I can tell you.
0:20:59 > 0:21:01The wines we have tasted here are fantastic.
0:21:01 > 0:21:02- Cheers.- Cheers.- Cheers.
0:21:07 > 0:21:08Well, let's hope Chris and Jackie
0:21:08 > 0:21:11soon have a new country address to toast to
0:21:11 > 0:21:13when their house hunt continues tomorrow.
0:21:20 > 0:21:22It's day two of our property search
0:21:22 > 0:21:25with Chris and Jackie from Clapham, South London,
0:21:25 > 0:21:28who have a top budget of £1.1 million
0:21:28 > 0:21:31to buy their dream forever home in West Sussex.
0:21:32 > 0:21:36So far, we've shown them some great property but there is more to see,
0:21:36 > 0:21:40and our Mystery House could be just what they are looking for.
0:21:40 > 0:21:42Literally walked though the door and went, wow.
0:21:42 > 0:21:43And I'm still saying wow.
0:21:43 > 0:21:47So it's all good.
0:21:47 > 0:21:50And I'm visiting somewhere in West Sussex that really rings a bell.
0:21:52 > 0:21:54I'm a good trainee campanologist.
0:21:54 > 0:21:57I would love to have you as a trainee.
0:22:00 > 0:22:03Well, it's a new day and of course it is the Mystery House day.
0:22:03 > 0:22:06This time we are going to be taking our couple further away
0:22:06 > 0:22:09down to the coast, something we know Chris adores.
0:22:09 > 0:22:14However, it will mean a longer commute back to the capital.
0:22:14 > 0:22:18But first, a property that is closer to the city but still has all the
0:22:18 > 0:22:21wonderful countryside views. Let's see what they make of it.
0:22:24 > 0:22:28Our house-hunt is taking us further inland and across the county border
0:22:28 > 0:22:30to the Surrey village of Walliswood,
0:22:30 > 0:22:35three and a half miles west of the village of Ockley.
0:22:35 > 0:22:38Ockley station provides a regular train service to London Victoria,
0:22:38 > 0:22:41with travel times of around an hour and a quarter.
0:22:41 > 0:22:43There is also a pretty farm shop here.
0:22:45 > 0:22:47Three and a half miles west, back in Walliswood,
0:22:47 > 0:22:50the pump on the village green has a tiled roof,
0:22:50 > 0:22:55stone pillars and carved wooden gables that typify the local style.
0:22:55 > 0:22:59The 17th-century village pub takes its name from the Scarlett family,
0:22:59 > 0:23:02who once owned much of the land here.
0:23:02 > 0:23:07And it's a 10-minute walk from the house we've come to see.
0:23:07 > 0:23:08What do we think of the house?
0:23:08 > 0:23:10Actually it looks really interesting.
0:23:10 > 0:23:12- It is lovely.- It looks very large as well.
0:23:12 > 0:23:15A promising start, do we feel?
0:23:15 > 0:23:17Yes. Quietly optimistic.
0:23:17 > 0:23:19Wood-boarded, very attractive.
0:23:19 > 0:23:20On a very quiet road.
0:23:20 > 0:23:23Let's see what you make of the inside.
0:23:24 > 0:23:28Thought to be built around the 1850s,
0:23:28 > 0:23:32this detached Victorian country home retains many period features
0:23:32 > 0:23:36including the high ceilings Chris and Jackie love.
0:23:36 > 0:23:40We're entering via a back door in a sympathetically done extension
0:23:40 > 0:23:43which houses the big and bright kitchen/breakfast room.
0:23:45 > 0:23:47I do love it when you start a house tour
0:23:47 > 0:23:50with a really generous-sized kitchen.
0:23:50 > 0:23:51Really lovely.
0:23:51 > 0:23:53It's very nice, very large.
0:23:53 > 0:23:55Then you have those wonderful patio doors
0:23:55 > 0:23:58- looking out on to your garden. - It's a lovely aspect.
0:23:58 > 0:24:00- It really is.- I appreciate it will be very light.
0:24:02 > 0:24:05This is my idea of a kitchen/dining space.
0:24:05 > 0:24:09- Is it?- Especially looking out over the garden like that.
0:24:09 > 0:24:11Yeah, it's perfect.
0:24:11 > 0:24:14Yes? Can you see both of you in here over the weekend?
0:24:14 > 0:24:16Yes. You'll be out there digging up the vegetables
0:24:16 > 0:24:18and I'll be in here cooking them.
0:24:19 > 0:24:22Already got the roles sorted out, OK.
0:24:22 > 0:24:24Let's keep going.
0:24:25 > 0:24:31'Off the kitchen we also find a utility, downstairs cloakroom
0:24:31 > 0:24:33'and snug.
0:24:33 > 0:24:35'Then heading out through the main entrance hall,
0:24:35 > 0:24:38'we arrive at the sitting room.'
0:24:38 > 0:24:40We actually passed the front door.
0:24:40 > 0:24:43But we never use that, do we?
0:24:43 > 0:24:44It is a nice-shaped room.
0:24:44 > 0:24:46It is very good having a square room
0:24:46 > 0:24:48when it comes to laying out furniture and
0:24:48 > 0:24:50- TVs and whatnot.- True.
0:24:50 > 0:24:53And it is a higher ceiling. It is higher ceilings, which is good.
0:24:53 > 0:24:56- It is a nice room.- Chris, big fan of the fire?
0:24:56 > 0:24:59If someone makes it, yes.
0:24:59 > 0:25:01Would you like to see a little bit more?
0:25:01 > 0:25:03- We certainly would. - Right, I'll squeeze past you.
0:25:03 > 0:25:04Thank you.
0:25:06 > 0:25:09'They both seem to be warming to the character and proportions
0:25:09 > 0:25:11'of this home so far
0:25:11 > 0:25:15'and opposite the sitting room, a similarly square-shaped elegant
0:25:15 > 0:25:17'dining room boasts another feature fireplace.'
0:25:20 > 0:25:23The classic staircase leads up to four bedrooms,
0:25:23 > 0:25:25all fanning off the landing.
0:25:26 > 0:25:29There is a good-sized guest double above the dining room,
0:25:29 > 0:25:30and two smaller rooms,
0:25:30 > 0:25:33each currently arranged with single beds.
0:25:33 > 0:25:37The compact family bathroom has both a shower and bath,
0:25:37 > 0:25:39and then to the rear of this floor,
0:25:39 > 0:25:42there is the generously sized master en-suite.
0:25:43 > 0:25:46Another lovely room. Amazing ceiling.
0:25:46 > 0:25:48Now you do have the height.
0:25:48 > 0:25:50We won't be ducking these beams.
0:25:53 > 0:25:55Behind me, a good-sized wardrobe.
0:25:55 > 0:25:58- Yeah.- And behind that, just walk through,
0:25:58 > 0:26:01a really good en-suite bathroom with a bath.
0:26:02 > 0:26:06It's lovely. The windows actually give the room character as well.
0:26:06 > 0:26:09Great. All right. Let's see what we think of outside.
0:26:12 > 0:26:17What a wonderful reception for the interior of this charming home.
0:26:17 > 0:26:20Outside, in the half-acre of grounds,
0:26:20 > 0:26:22there is a ready-made vegetable patch
0:26:22 > 0:26:26right outside the kitchen, as well as a pleasant terrace with seating.
0:26:26 > 0:26:29There is also a barn-style garage and tranquil country views.
0:26:31 > 0:26:33How green-fingered do you want to be when you make this move?
0:26:33 > 0:26:37It is something I'm interested in doing because I want to grow herbs and vegetables.
0:26:37 > 0:26:40So the area closer to the house would be perfect for that.
0:26:40 > 0:26:43You know, and your man cave could be at the end here
0:26:43 > 0:26:46somewhere under an oak tree.
0:26:46 > 0:26:48Well, let's see, shall we, if the price is pleasant?
0:26:48 > 0:26:51Well, I think it's probably top end of our budget.
0:26:51 > 0:26:53I would say around the 1.1 mark.
0:26:53 > 0:26:57- OK.- To be different, I will say 1,075.
0:26:57 > 0:26:59OK. Well, you're both out.
0:27:01 > 0:27:03- By quite a lot.- Really?
0:27:03 > 0:27:06The asking price is under a million pounds.
0:27:06 > 0:27:09- Wow!- It's £995,000.
0:27:09 > 0:27:10- OK.- That is surprising.
0:27:10 > 0:27:13- Very surprising.- I'm glad.
0:27:13 > 0:27:15That is a positive reaction with our price.
0:27:15 > 0:27:19So now you know I think you should go and have another look around.
0:27:19 > 0:27:21Yes. I'd love to.
0:27:21 > 0:27:22Good, go on, then.
0:27:22 > 0:27:24- Thank you.- Thank you.
0:27:28 > 0:27:29Well under budget,
0:27:29 > 0:27:33this Victorian country residence has all the accommodation Chris and
0:27:33 > 0:27:37Jackie require. It comes with a large kitchen/breakfast room,
0:27:37 > 0:27:41four bedrooms including that generous master en-suite,
0:27:41 > 0:27:45a well-stocked garden with beautiful countryside on the doorstep,
0:27:45 > 0:27:50and all with the added convenience of London transport links nearby.
0:27:50 > 0:27:53I'm actually very surprised at how big the house is
0:27:53 > 0:27:56and I think it could offer us the type of accommodation
0:27:56 > 0:27:58we have been looking for.
0:27:58 > 0:28:03Locationally, it looks to be well situated for us.
0:28:03 > 0:28:06You know, to have this lifestyle that we are looking for.
0:28:06 > 0:28:08It offers us the period features
0:28:08 > 0:28:11that we have wanted and the character
0:28:11 > 0:28:13that we really wanted as well.
0:28:13 > 0:28:17It ticks a lot of the boxes in terms of the features, the space, the size.
0:28:17 > 0:28:21It is a great house and I could see us living in it.
0:28:21 > 0:28:22How are we?
0:28:23 > 0:28:25- Impressed.- Yes.
0:28:25 > 0:28:28A very positive house tour this time, in Surrey.
0:28:28 > 0:28:30- Seen enough?- Yes, I think so.
0:28:30 > 0:28:32OK, let's go.
0:28:39 > 0:28:42As well as the beauty of its countryside,
0:28:42 > 0:28:45West Sussex is rich in history and architectural heritage.
0:28:45 > 0:28:49Located at the south-western tip of the county,
0:28:49 > 0:28:53the cathedral city of Chichester was once a Roman settlement and there is
0:28:53 > 0:28:56still evidence of the Roman influence to this day,
0:28:56 > 0:29:00with the city walls standing as the most intact circuit of Roman town
0:29:00 > 0:29:02defences in southern England.
0:29:03 > 0:29:07Elsewhere, one of the most striking sights is the cathedral,
0:29:07 > 0:29:10which has stood at the heart of Chichester for 900 years.
0:29:11 > 0:29:15Subsequent generations have also left their mark here,
0:29:15 > 0:29:16for it's possible to admire
0:29:16 > 0:29:19both exterior medieval architecture and
0:29:19 > 0:29:21interior 20th-century art works.
0:29:22 > 0:29:26Today, I'm finding out about the history and continuing work in this
0:29:26 > 0:29:29impressive ecclesiastical building,
0:29:29 > 0:29:33starting with a welcome from the Dean of the Cathedral, Stephen Waine.
0:29:33 > 0:29:38This is my first time here at Chichester Cathedral.
0:29:38 > 0:29:41And it really is magnificent.
0:29:41 > 0:29:43It is the jewel in the crown of Chichester.
0:29:43 > 0:29:47It is just beautiful. It was begun in the year 1076 and although it was
0:29:47 > 0:29:48finished relatively quickly,
0:29:48 > 0:29:50there were a couple of disastrous fires,
0:29:50 > 0:29:54which means that it was dedicated for the second time in the year 1199.
0:29:54 > 0:29:57Since then it has been added to and beautified and restored at various
0:29:57 > 0:29:59times throughout the history.
0:29:59 > 0:30:03Scarcely a century in which something important hasn't happened here in
0:30:03 > 0:30:05- terms of the building.- Out of the whole of the West Sussex countryside,
0:30:05 > 0:30:09why did they decide that Chichester should be its home?
0:30:09 > 0:30:12Originally, there was a cathedral in Selsey but at the particular period
0:30:12 > 0:30:16they were bringing bishops from the countryside into centres of population
0:30:16 > 0:30:18and the old Roman town of Chichester
0:30:18 > 0:30:21- was one of the major centres of population.- Standing here, you know,
0:30:21 > 0:30:23you can see the building in all its glory -
0:30:23 > 0:30:27what's it like trying to maintain a historic building like this?
0:30:27 > 0:30:30It is a constant task with a building of this age.
0:30:30 > 0:30:32If you don't attend to the small things
0:30:32 > 0:30:34very, very quickly, they become large things.
0:30:34 > 0:30:37Just at the moment, behind us here, we've got some scaffolding.
0:30:37 > 0:30:39We're fixing the historic roof up there.
0:30:39 > 0:30:42Is that ongoing? Is that something I could perhaps take a look at?
0:30:42 > 0:30:44It is ongoing. Why don't you go and have a look?
0:30:44 > 0:30:47You will find it absolutely fascinating when you get up there.
0:30:47 > 0:30:49- I'm looking forward to this. - Good.
0:30:50 > 0:30:54This is certainly one building site I am keen to look around
0:30:54 > 0:30:57and acting clerk of works, Tony Allen,
0:30:57 > 0:31:01has offered to show me the latest projects and the incredible view.
0:31:01 > 0:31:03What can we see?
0:31:03 > 0:31:07Well, over there you have got the Isle of Wight, Portsmouth,
0:31:07 > 0:31:09and in the far distance Southampton.
0:31:09 > 0:31:15A height of 274 feet to the top of the spire may offer panoramic views
0:31:15 > 0:31:17but the exposed coastal location
0:31:17 > 0:31:21takes its toll on the fabric of the building.
0:31:23 > 0:31:25I mean, we can feel the wind today.
0:31:25 > 0:31:29And where we are stood, we suffer predominantly from south-west winds.
0:31:29 > 0:31:33So it comes across here, across the Solent and it batters
0:31:33 > 0:31:34all the stone, if you wish,
0:31:34 > 0:31:38so it is eroding the stone as you look at it.
0:31:38 > 0:31:41- Is this what this is? All these ridges?- Correct.
0:31:41 > 0:31:43And this will have to be repaired in time?
0:31:43 > 0:31:46In time, each piece will have to be replaced.
0:31:46 > 0:31:49This is also the only medieval cathedral
0:31:49 > 0:31:52with a separate bell tower or campanile.
0:31:52 > 0:31:56It's a 15th-century structure that is, sadly, showing its age.
0:31:56 > 0:32:00That is in a very bad state of repair.
0:32:00 > 0:32:04We're going to be looking at refurbishing that in the next couple of years,
0:32:04 > 0:32:06so we will be trying to raise funds for that.
0:32:06 > 0:32:11We're talking in the region of £4 million just to restore the stonework
0:32:11 > 0:32:12externally.
0:32:12 > 0:32:16Meanwhile, the bell tower is very much a living building.
0:32:16 > 0:32:20The bell-ringers, also known as campanologists,
0:32:20 > 0:32:24have the task of pealing out a ring from up to eight bells in the lantern.
0:32:24 > 0:32:29Regular ringer Hamish has agreed to give me some instruction at a practice session.
0:32:29 > 0:32:32- Hello, Hamish.- Hello, Nicki. Welcome to Chichester.
0:32:32 > 0:32:35Thank you. Now, I am looking forward to this because this is a first.
0:32:35 > 0:32:36I have never rung a bell before.
0:32:36 > 0:32:38I want you to look after me
0:32:38 > 0:32:41- because I'm not going to end up in the rafters, am I? - You certainly won't.- OK.
0:32:41 > 0:32:43- I'll make sure of that.- Thank you.
0:32:43 > 0:32:47The rope will take your hands up, keep the rope tight.
0:32:47 > 0:32:51OK. I'm going to put my hand on top of yours the first few times.
0:32:51 > 0:32:53- OK.- To make sure your hands do come down.
0:32:53 > 0:32:56- OK.- Here we go. - I'm concentrating now.
0:32:56 > 0:32:59BELL CLANGS Oh.
0:32:59 > 0:33:01That sounds amazing.
0:33:01 > 0:33:03Straight down, perfect.
0:33:03 > 0:33:05That was a really good pull down.
0:33:05 > 0:33:08I am a good trainee campanologist.
0:33:08 > 0:33:10I would love to have you as a trainee, Nicki.
0:33:10 > 0:33:13Yeah? Hand over the rope.
0:33:13 > 0:33:15- Take it away. Thank you.- OK.
0:33:15 > 0:33:18'Well, time for me to leave bell number four
0:33:18 > 0:33:21'in the capable hands of the regular ringers,
0:33:21 > 0:33:25'as they peal out a ring that has been sounded out for more than half a millennium.'
0:33:36 > 0:33:41Our mystery proposition sees us leave behind the depths of rural life to
0:33:41 > 0:33:45tempt Chris to the coast, but at the cost of a longer commute.
0:33:45 > 0:33:49We are five miles west of Brighton, in the small seaside town of Southwick.
0:33:50 > 0:33:53Here there are pretty harbours and marinas
0:33:53 > 0:33:56with views across the English Channel.
0:33:56 > 0:33:59The town has plenty of easy-to-reach amenities
0:33:59 > 0:34:02including pubs and a train station,
0:34:02 > 0:34:04giving Chris those all-important links to London.
0:34:08 > 0:34:12Now, I think you might have guessed why we picked this property.
0:34:12 > 0:34:15- I think because it might be on the coast.- It is on the coast.
0:34:15 > 0:34:18It is also on a road, that we have to be aware of,
0:34:18 > 0:34:22with a little bit more traffic than you might be used to in the country.
0:34:22 > 0:34:25But we are about 15 minutes from the marina here in Southwick.
0:34:26 > 0:34:30So on first impressions, what do we think?
0:34:30 > 0:34:33- An impressive house. - A very large house.
0:34:33 > 0:34:36So shall we step inside and see what you make of it?
0:34:36 > 0:34:37Yes, please.
0:34:39 > 0:34:42Despite not being in the heart of the countryside,
0:34:42 > 0:34:47the exterior appeal of our Mystery House seems to be of interest to Chris and Jackie.
0:34:47 > 0:34:49Built in the 1900s,
0:34:49 > 0:34:53the Edwardian home was recently extended by the current owners
0:34:53 > 0:34:56to create a very grand space with a large entrance hall
0:34:56 > 0:34:59leading into an elegant dining room.
0:34:59 > 0:35:02This isn't a small house.
0:35:02 > 0:35:03Certainly not.
0:35:04 > 0:35:06So here is your hallway.
0:35:06 > 0:35:08Larger than some people's homes.
0:35:08 > 0:35:11In here...I like the way it is open.
0:35:11 > 0:35:13- Dining room.- Fantastic.
0:35:13 > 0:35:14But then...
0:35:15 > 0:35:18..what do we make of this?
0:35:18 > 0:35:20- Just amazing.- Go and fetch my bags.
0:35:22 > 0:35:24This is fantastic.
0:35:24 > 0:35:27- Seriously.- Amazing.
0:35:27 > 0:35:30It is out of a homes magazine, you know, one of those glossy magazines.
0:35:30 > 0:35:32It is fantastic.
0:35:32 > 0:35:36Let's take a look at the sitting room next door.
0:35:36 > 0:35:38'A well-designed utility lies off the kitchen
0:35:38 > 0:35:40'whilst back through the hall,
0:35:40 > 0:35:44'the first of two sitting rooms again boasts those Edwardian high ceilings.'
0:35:46 > 0:35:48This is just another big room.
0:35:48 > 0:35:53Yeah. Definitely a very comfortable sitting room and the window lets in
0:35:53 > 0:35:55loads of light, it is so huge.
0:35:55 > 0:35:57- That is an original fireplace.- Yeah.
0:35:57 > 0:35:59Certainly feels I could live here.
0:35:59 > 0:36:00Yeah, yeah.
0:36:00 > 0:36:02So far it has the wow factor.
0:36:02 > 0:36:04I literally walked through the door and went, wow,
0:36:04 > 0:36:07and I'm still saying wow. So it is all good.
0:36:07 > 0:36:10If you can keep saying it, I will be very happy.
0:36:10 > 0:36:13Well, I take it you would like to see upstairs, then?
0:36:13 > 0:36:14- Yes, please.- OK.- Thank you.
0:36:16 > 0:36:19This impeccably presented Edwardian home
0:36:19 > 0:36:21has certainly enchanted our couple.
0:36:21 > 0:36:25The ground floor also offers the first of three bathrooms plus
0:36:25 > 0:36:27there's the second sitting room.
0:36:27 > 0:36:30But there's still a lot more to see.
0:36:30 > 0:36:33A wide staircase takes us to the first of two upper floors
0:36:33 > 0:36:35with a total of five bedrooms.
0:36:35 > 0:36:38A good-sized double to the front of the house,
0:36:38 > 0:36:41next to which is a slightly smaller bedroom.
0:36:42 > 0:36:45And another spacious double to the side.
0:36:46 > 0:36:48There is also a family bathroom
0:36:48 > 0:36:51with separate WC, typical of this period of home.
0:36:51 > 0:36:57And finally at the back of the house is a very large bedroom with en-suite.
0:36:59 > 0:37:03Try your master bedroom out for size.
0:37:03 > 0:37:04Oh, crikey.
0:37:05 > 0:37:07Another very, very large room.
0:37:07 > 0:37:12The most beautiful en-suite walk-in shower in their bathroom.
0:37:12 > 0:37:16- Absolutely gorgeous.- This would certainly work for us, wouldn't it?
0:37:16 > 0:37:19Certainly as a master bedroom, certainly.
0:37:19 > 0:37:20Walk around space.
0:37:20 > 0:37:22We are on course, aren't we?
0:37:22 > 0:37:24But we haven't got the man den.
0:37:25 > 0:37:28How would you feel about having a man attic?
0:37:28 > 0:37:29I could cope with that, yes.
0:37:29 > 0:37:31You nearly broke into a smile there, Chris.
0:37:31 > 0:37:34- That is very unusual.- Break into a sweat.
0:37:34 > 0:37:38Because above us they have actually gone into the loft
0:37:38 > 0:37:39and it is huge up there.
0:37:39 > 0:37:41Certainly food for thought.
0:37:42 > 0:37:47The house has far more positives than negatives, so, yeah.
0:37:47 > 0:37:49Super.
0:37:49 > 0:37:51Well, let's see if our Mystery House
0:37:51 > 0:37:53can build on those positives outside,
0:37:53 > 0:37:57where the enclosed gardens have been professionally landscaped whilst
0:37:57 > 0:38:00retaining many mature shrubs and trees.
0:38:00 > 0:38:02There are a couple of greenhouses and a shed,
0:38:02 > 0:38:05as well as large areas of well-maintained lawn.
0:38:06 > 0:38:10So here we have our beautiful long garden.
0:38:10 > 0:38:13- Very neat, very tidy.- Yeah, and it is a mature garden.
0:38:13 > 0:38:15Lots of interesting things to look at.
0:38:15 > 0:38:17Yeah, yeah.
0:38:17 > 0:38:20You're looking at an hour 40 to Victoria from here,
0:38:20 > 0:38:23then obviously you've got to get to the train station, which isn't too far.
0:38:23 > 0:38:24It is walking distance.
0:38:24 > 0:38:27But a little more on your journey every day.
0:38:27 > 0:38:29And I know you work pretty long hours...
0:38:29 > 0:38:32It would certainly be a very big consideration in any decision
0:38:32 > 0:38:34to buy something like this.
0:38:34 > 0:38:35So what do we think?
0:38:35 > 0:38:38How much do you think it is on the market for?
0:38:38 > 0:38:40- 950.- OK.
0:38:40 > 0:38:42I think maybe 995.
0:38:42 > 0:38:46The asking price is bang on a million pounds.
0:38:46 > 0:38:49If it was the house for us, I would be happy to pay that.
0:38:49 > 0:38:51Oh, that is quite telling.
0:38:51 > 0:38:54That is the big question mark, isn't it?
0:38:54 > 0:38:58- Well, go and have another look around and I will find you in a little while.- Thank you.
0:38:59 > 0:39:02It is such a beautiful home.
0:39:02 > 0:39:06Exquisite garden but I think the penny is dropping with Chris.
0:39:06 > 0:39:11I think even if I found the most amazing house right near the coast
0:39:11 > 0:39:13with a very quick commute to London,
0:39:13 > 0:39:15I still think it would be too far for him.
0:39:15 > 0:39:17It makes it such a long working day
0:39:17 > 0:39:22and that's, I think, in their heads what they've got to work out where the priority is.
0:39:24 > 0:39:27This impressive Edwardian property
0:39:27 > 0:39:29has wowed Chris and Jackie and leaves
0:39:29 > 0:39:32them £100,000 in their budget.
0:39:32 > 0:39:35There is a stunning kitchen/diner,
0:39:35 > 0:39:37three additional reception rooms,
0:39:37 > 0:39:41five bedrooms including that attic room that could make a man cave
0:39:41 > 0:39:44and the coastal location is close to amenities
0:39:44 > 0:39:47including rail links to London.
0:39:47 > 0:39:49The Mystery House is stunning.
0:39:49 > 0:39:52The high ceilings and all the period features
0:39:52 > 0:39:56are exactly what I want to see in my next house.
0:39:56 > 0:39:59It's just the wow factor.
0:39:59 > 0:40:01It really has the wow factor.
0:40:01 > 0:40:04I think the Mystery House is actually great.
0:40:04 > 0:40:06The footprint, the size, the space -
0:40:06 > 0:40:08what I really like is the light airy spacious feel you get from walking
0:40:08 > 0:40:10from room to room.
0:40:10 > 0:40:13I think the commute of an hour and 40 on the train,
0:40:13 > 0:40:15if you're doing ten-plus-hour days,
0:40:15 > 0:40:17it becomes untenable for a long period of time.
0:40:20 > 0:40:24So that is it. You've seen all our properties.
0:40:24 > 0:40:26You two need to have a little bit of a chat
0:40:26 > 0:40:28and then we will find out what your next move is going to be.
0:40:36 > 0:40:39Well, we've certainly ended on a high note here in West Sussex
0:40:39 > 0:40:43with our Mystery House but the question is how high?
0:40:43 > 0:40:44Let's go and ask them.
0:40:51 > 0:40:54Well, Chris and Jackie. We're desperate to get you away
0:40:54 > 0:40:57from the Big Smoke for a new life in the country.
0:40:57 > 0:40:59Have we got close, I wonder?
0:41:00 > 0:41:03I think you got close to a property that we really do like.
0:41:03 > 0:41:06Two properties we really do like.
0:41:06 > 0:41:11Yeah. It is the location I think is the sort of sticking point.
0:41:11 > 0:41:15Well, let's talk about the actual properties themselves.
0:41:15 > 0:41:18Put me out of my misery, then. Which were the two that you loved?
0:41:19 > 0:41:22We liked the house in Southwick
0:41:22 > 0:41:25and we also liked the house in...
0:41:25 > 0:41:28- Walliswood.- Yes.
0:41:28 > 0:41:32I think they're very different houses themselves...
0:41:33 > 0:41:40..but each had so much to offer and ticked an awful lot of boxes.
0:41:40 > 0:41:42I think it is the commute aspect of life is the one
0:41:42 > 0:41:44that is really sinking...
0:41:44 > 0:41:48come into the forefront of my mind at the moment.
0:41:48 > 0:41:51And obviously that is very key while I'm still working in the City.
0:41:51 > 0:41:53It's really helped us now to...
0:41:53 > 0:41:56We can see what we like and what we don't like.
0:41:56 > 0:41:58Well, I'm glad we have been able to help.
0:41:58 > 0:42:00No, I definitely think we are much closer,
0:42:00 > 0:42:03you know, than we were a few days ago, even.
0:42:03 > 0:42:05You know, I feel very positive.
0:42:05 > 0:42:08It has been great. We have loved showing you around, so all the very best.
0:42:08 > 0:42:10And I hope you get to move very soon.
0:42:10 > 0:42:12- Thank you.- Thank you.- Thank you.
0:42:17 > 0:42:20We may not have finalised a house sale with Chris and Jackie
0:42:20 > 0:42:24but what we did do was find them the perfect home.
0:42:24 > 0:42:27Just frustratingly, in the wrong location.
0:42:27 > 0:42:31But I think the last few days has really helped them fine-tune
0:42:31 > 0:42:34what it is they want from this new country lifestyle
0:42:34 > 0:42:36that they so crave.
0:42:36 > 0:42:38They've just got to decide on the exact location
0:42:38 > 0:42:40and the rest will fall into place.
0:42:40 > 0:42:44We wish them all the very best, wherever they end up.
0:42:44 > 0:42:48And I will see you again on Escape To The Country.
0:42:49 > 0:42:52If you would like to escape to the country in Northern Ireland,
0:42:52 > 0:42:56Scotland, Wales or England and need our help, please apply online at...