0:00:02 > 0:00:07At 1,237 feet above sea level, this is England's highest freshwater lake,
0:00:07 > 0:00:12but what's it called and where exactly am I?
0:00:12 > 0:00:14I'll reveal all in just a moment.
0:00:31 > 0:00:34Today's house-hunt is a feast for the eyes for two brothers.
0:00:34 > 0:00:36Wow.
0:00:36 > 0:00:37You just can't get away from that view.
0:00:37 > 0:00:40- It is quite something. - It's stunning.
0:00:40 > 0:00:43And, as they say, watch out for the quiet ones.
0:00:43 > 0:00:46Can you hear that? Yeah.
0:00:46 > 0:00:48Nothing.
0:00:48 > 0:00:49That's wonderful.
0:00:51 > 0:00:56Today, we are in Yorkshire and this body of water behind me is Malham Tarn,
0:00:56 > 0:01:02a freshwater lake that covers some 158 acres right here in the heart of
0:01:02 > 0:01:04the Yorkshire Dales.
0:01:04 > 0:01:08Designated a National Park back in 1954,
0:01:08 > 0:01:13the Dales are just one of 15 national parks around in the UK.
0:01:13 > 0:01:17Now, some 20,000 people are lucky enough to call this park home,
0:01:17 > 0:01:22and later on in the show I'll be meeting some of the rangers responsible
0:01:22 > 0:01:26for looking after this truly beautiful landscape.
0:01:27 > 0:01:29Located in the north of England,
0:01:29 > 0:01:34North Yorkshire spans some 3,340 square miles.
0:01:34 > 0:01:39It is England's largest county, with around 40% consisting of National Parks.
0:01:39 > 0:01:42Most of the Yorkshire Dales National Park is located
0:01:42 > 0:01:44within the county boundaries.
0:01:44 > 0:01:49Its vast network of footpaths makes it a haven for hill walkers and
0:01:49 > 0:01:53includes a long stretch of the 268 mile Pennine Way.
0:01:53 > 0:01:56The natural force of its rivers is evident
0:01:56 > 0:01:58at Aysgarth Falls, Wensleydale.
0:01:58 > 0:02:02This triple-flight waterfall stretches for almost a mile,
0:02:02 > 0:02:05providing a much-loved beauty spot.
0:02:05 > 0:02:09The market town of Skipton lies on the National Park boundary and boasts
0:02:09 > 0:02:14one of the most complete and best preserved medieval castles in England.
0:02:14 > 0:02:17The Leeds and Liverpool Canal also passes through Skipton.
0:02:17 > 0:02:22Completed in 1816 for transporting cargo from coal to cloth,
0:02:22 > 0:02:26it's the longest canal in Britain at 127 miles.
0:02:26 > 0:02:29The industrial heyday has long gone,
0:02:29 > 0:02:32but it provides a popular route for holiday-makers.
0:02:32 > 0:02:37So if you're seeking sublime solitude and beautiful landscapes,
0:02:37 > 0:02:41you can't go wrong with making a break for North Yorkshire.
0:02:43 > 0:02:47There are some 8,000 households within the National Park,
0:02:47 > 0:02:52but it is estimated up to a quarter of those aren't permanently occupied, as the area
0:02:52 > 0:02:57has become increasingly popular as a choice for second homes.
0:02:57 > 0:03:00And it's easy to see why when you take a look
0:03:00 > 0:03:04at the average price of a detached home across North Yorkshire,
0:03:04 > 0:03:10which at £282,000 is some £19,000 below the national figure.
0:03:10 > 0:03:14But today's buyer isn't looking for a temporary fix,
0:03:14 > 0:03:17he's after a permanent move here.
0:03:17 > 0:03:20So let's find out why he wants to call the Dales home.
0:03:22 > 0:03:26Today's buyer, Steve, has lived in Claygate, Surrey for almost three decades.
0:03:26 > 0:03:30His younger brother, Richard, is just four miles down the road in Surbiton.
0:03:30 > 0:03:32But despite living so close,
0:03:32 > 0:03:35the age gap meant the siblings didn't grow up together
0:03:35 > 0:03:38and were estranged for many years until finding each other
0:03:38 > 0:03:39through social media.
0:03:40 > 0:03:42We really are like peas in a pod.
0:03:42 > 0:03:45It's remarkable.
0:03:45 > 0:03:47I never saw Richard for over 20 years,
0:03:47 > 0:03:49and Richard saw me on Facebook
0:03:49 > 0:03:53and I received this e-mail notification and it was Richard.
0:03:53 > 0:03:57We met, having not seen each other for 20 years, and it was like 20 minutes.
0:03:57 > 0:03:59It was just absolutely amazing.
0:03:59 > 0:04:04We both know what we like, spookily similar in almost every way.
0:04:04 > 0:04:06We could be twins, even, in some respects.
0:04:06 > 0:04:08The resemblance and the likeness and everything,
0:04:08 > 0:04:12the personal traits that we have, it's quite uncanny,
0:04:12 > 0:04:13the amount of times we've gone,
0:04:13 > 0:04:17"Come on, you're joking, you don't really like corned beef, chips with egg on top?"
0:04:17 > 0:04:19His favourite meal. My favourite meal.
0:04:22 > 0:04:25Steve, like Richard, spent many years in the military.
0:04:25 > 0:04:29He now works for gas and oil company, but with retirement on the horizon,
0:04:29 > 0:04:33he is looking to leave the Surrey commuter belt to return to his Northern roots.
0:04:33 > 0:04:35I was born and bred in Yorkshire,
0:04:35 > 0:04:38and as a Yorkshire person, you always,
0:04:38 > 0:04:42you never lose the longing. Yorkshire never leaves you.
0:04:42 > 0:04:45And I just wish to go back there.
0:04:45 > 0:04:50And the part of Yorkshire that I'd most likely love to move to are the Dales.
0:04:50 > 0:04:54And there are several Areas of Outstanding Beauty, Natural Beauty, in the Dales, as well,
0:04:54 > 0:04:58so it's going to be good for Steve, I think, to live amongst that
0:04:58 > 0:05:01and to get out and about and visit places that he's never seen before.
0:05:01 > 0:05:03And when it comes to making the move,
0:05:03 > 0:05:06who better to help than his long lost brother?
0:05:06 > 0:05:09The reason I've asked Richard to help me out with the move to Yorkshire
0:05:09 > 0:05:15is that we are very much alike as far as our personalities go, our likes, our dislikes, etc.
0:05:15 > 0:05:18So I think he will be a great help to me
0:05:18 > 0:05:22making a decision. Should I be hesitant on something,
0:05:22 > 0:05:28he will be able to give his experience and his advice, which will help me
0:05:28 > 0:05:30make that correct decision.
0:05:31 > 0:05:36The hope is that Steve's new home in Yorkshire will offer a complete change of lifestyle.
0:05:36 > 0:05:42I need that little bit of isolation, and also I'm very much into self-sufficiency.
0:05:42 > 0:05:45If there is a wooded area that I can cut down and
0:05:45 > 0:05:49then re-plant, then I can use that with the heating in the house.
0:05:49 > 0:05:56If I have a stream, I may well construct a kind of water wheel, maybe, to generate some electricity.
0:05:56 > 0:06:00And probably plant my own vegetables and things like this.
0:06:00 > 0:06:07I envisage myself living a good life up there, a more natural life.
0:06:08 > 0:06:12Having found each other after all these years, Steve's move will leave the brothers further apart again,
0:06:12 > 0:06:17but they're certainly not planning on letting the distance grow between them.
0:06:17 > 0:06:21I intend to visit with my other half quite often, actually.
0:06:21 > 0:06:23It's a lovely part of the world.
0:06:23 > 0:06:25It's somewhere that I'd love to live as well.
0:06:25 > 0:06:28I'm really pleased that he's asked me to join him on this venture
0:06:28 > 0:06:30and journey of discovery in finding someone new to live.
0:06:30 > 0:06:33It's an area that I'd really love to live in as well,
0:06:33 > 0:06:37when I come to retire, which is obviously quite some time away!
0:06:37 > 0:06:39LAUGHTER
0:06:42 > 0:06:46Steve is keen to be within the Yorkshire Dales region of the county,
0:06:46 > 0:06:48but before we start looking at houses,
0:06:48 > 0:06:52I'm meeting him and Richard on Yorkshire soil
0:06:52 > 0:06:54to find out just what this move means.
0:06:54 > 0:06:58- Hello.- Hello, Steve, Richard, welcome to Yorkshire.
0:06:58 > 0:07:01- Hi.- Or should I say welcome back? Because this is home, isn't it?
0:07:01 > 0:07:03- Indeed.- You were both born here, weren't you?
0:07:03 > 0:07:07Yeah, we were born in the east of Yorkshire, which is still Yorkshire.
0:07:07 > 0:07:08- Yes.- Yes, absolutely.
0:07:08 > 0:07:11I left Yorkshire when I was 15 and I've hardly been back since,
0:07:11 > 0:07:13and to be back here now today is just,
0:07:13 > 0:07:16and where we are, is just absolutely fantastic.
0:07:16 > 0:07:19So, Richard, brother, best friend, confidant,
0:07:19 > 0:07:23is that the role you're going to be playing over the next few days?
0:07:23 > 0:07:26Indeed, yes. I'd like to think my presence here
0:07:26 > 0:07:28would be able to impart a little bit of advice
0:07:28 > 0:07:33and see him possibly in the right direction to making the correct purchase.
0:07:33 > 0:07:37So what is it exactly you're looking for in your next property?
0:07:37 > 0:07:41I'm looking for a detached property,
0:07:41 > 0:07:45with a little bit of isolation, because I'd like some privacy.
0:07:45 > 0:07:47I'd like a bit of land with it,
0:07:47 > 0:07:50maybe a wooded area, because I'm real fond of an open fire,
0:07:50 > 0:07:54so I can maybe chop my own wood and re-plant trees and things like this.
0:07:54 > 0:07:55Trying to be self-sufficient?
0:07:55 > 0:07:57Well, yes, a little bit, I think, yeah,
0:07:57 > 0:08:00because I think the more you can be, then the better it is for everybody.
0:08:00 > 0:08:03Ideally, how many bedrooms will you be after?
0:08:03 > 0:08:052-3 bedrooms, I guess.
0:08:05 > 0:08:09Just some space if my brother comes to visit with his partner,
0:08:09 > 0:08:12or my daughter and her husband and children come up.
0:08:12 > 0:08:14Right, I want you to remind us,
0:08:14 > 0:08:16how much have we got to spend on this move?
0:08:16 > 0:08:18Maybe 480,000-500,000.
0:08:18 > 0:08:20So, 500,000, ideally, is the top threshold?
0:08:20 > 0:08:22Pretty much, yes, pretty much, yes.
0:08:22 > 0:08:26Well, we do have some splendid properties to show you two,
0:08:26 > 0:08:28- so should we get started? - Yes, please.- Absolutely.
0:08:28 > 0:08:30- Come on, let's hit the road.- OK.
0:08:32 > 0:08:36Steve is looking to fulfil his dream of a return to Yorkshire
0:08:36 > 0:08:39with a budget of £500,000.
0:08:39 > 0:08:43He wants a detached property with some land, ideally partly wooded.
0:08:43 > 0:08:46He'd like 2-3 bedrooms and a secluded location
0:08:46 > 0:08:49within walking distance to a village community.
0:08:50 > 0:08:53We've picked three very different houses to show Steve,
0:08:53 > 0:08:55all with his wishlist in mind.
0:08:55 > 0:08:59After each tour, it'll be time to guess the asking price.
0:08:59 > 0:09:02Lastly, we will be viewing the Mystery House,
0:09:02 > 0:09:04which could be a lesson to us all.
0:09:10 > 0:09:13Our Yorkshire Dales house-hunt is kicking off
0:09:13 > 0:09:15in the village of Starbotton.
0:09:15 > 0:09:19Two miles away is the larger village of Kettlewell, located over the River Wharfe.
0:09:19 > 0:09:22Known as the start of some of the best walking in the Dales,
0:09:22 > 0:09:26this village is largely built from local limestone,
0:09:26 > 0:09:30and offers a great selection of ramblers' rest points, including a hotel,
0:09:30 > 0:09:34pubs and places to enjoy a welcome cup of tea.
0:09:35 > 0:09:37Two miles upstream is Starbotton.
0:09:37 > 0:09:41Here, the striking Dales backdrop includes a 400-year-old pub
0:09:41 > 0:09:43and quiet country lanes.
0:09:43 > 0:09:46And it's tucked away at the end of one of these
0:09:46 > 0:09:48that we find our first house.
0:09:48 > 0:09:52So, we've brought you to the heart of the Dales
0:09:52 > 0:09:56to show you our first property, and it's this one.
0:09:58 > 0:09:59- Amazing.- Nice.
0:09:59 > 0:10:03Well, it looks quite large, which is kind of what I was looking for.
0:10:04 > 0:10:06Proximity to other properties,
0:10:06 > 0:10:08a little bit closer than what I was expecting.
0:10:09 > 0:10:11But so far it's very quiet around here,
0:10:11 > 0:10:13so maybe that won't bother me too much.
0:10:13 > 0:10:16It looks a very traditional Yorkshire Dales house.
0:10:16 > 0:10:18It's off the beaten track, very quiet.
0:10:18 > 0:10:21I think this looks quite promising.
0:10:21 > 0:10:22Shall we start our first tour?
0:10:22 > 0:10:24- Let's do that.- Yes, please. - Thank you.
0:10:25 > 0:10:30Let's see if the outside promise is fulfilled inside this detached stone house,
0:10:30 > 0:10:35which was, in fact, built in 1965 on the site of a former barn.
0:10:35 > 0:10:38And perhaps reflecting its more modern origins,
0:10:38 > 0:10:42it has an unexpected layout, with stairs from the entrance hall
0:10:42 > 0:10:44leading up to the main living space.
0:10:46 > 0:10:48So, starting off upstairs,
0:10:48 > 0:10:51you've got this sort of big, open entrance which leads into...
0:10:52 > 0:10:56..our sitting room, that in a way, I think, dominates the whole house.
0:10:56 > 0:10:58It's lovely, isn't it? It's a fair sized room, isn't it?
0:10:58 > 0:11:01- And there's a fire. - Got a multi-fuel burner there.
0:11:01 > 0:11:04This is not what you'd expect, is it?
0:11:04 > 0:11:09- Not really.- No.- I didn't know quite what to expect, but I'm pleased with what I've seen.
0:11:09 > 0:11:12And the size of this room is quite deceptive from the outside.
0:11:12 > 0:11:14- Yeah.- I think the use of the large windows,
0:11:14 > 0:11:16as well, gives it lots of light,
0:11:16 > 0:11:18which is something I like, and the view.
0:11:18 > 0:11:20- Well, what else can you say?- Yeah.
0:11:20 > 0:11:24So, you've got this huge space as your sitting room,
0:11:24 > 0:11:26next door to that, you've got your kitchen.
0:11:26 > 0:11:29Quite like the open-plan feel. Do you?
0:11:29 > 0:11:31- Yes, I do. I'm very much open-plan. - Yeah.
0:11:31 > 0:11:37- Yes, yes.- On this level, you do have the master bedroom with a separate shower room.
0:11:37 > 0:11:38Well, this is fine.
0:11:38 > 0:11:41You need to be on this level to take advantage of the views.
0:11:41 > 0:11:43So, first impressions?
0:11:44 > 0:11:46- So far, so good.- Yeah?
0:11:46 > 0:11:49Yes. I think it's excellent so far.
0:11:49 > 0:11:51A great reaction,
0:11:51 > 0:11:57and back on the ground floor, we find a family bathroom and two further bedrooms,
0:11:57 > 0:12:00a good-sized guest double and a smaller room that is currently
0:12:00 > 0:12:04used as an office, making a total of three.
0:12:04 > 0:12:07Located below the upstairs living area is a further reception room.
0:12:09 > 0:12:11This is a perfect kind of office for me.
0:12:11 > 0:12:13- Absolutely.- Can you hear that?
0:12:13 > 0:12:15Yeah. Nothing.
0:12:15 > 0:12:17LAUGHTER
0:12:17 > 0:12:20- That's wonderful. - And that's what you want. - Absolutely.- That's what you want.
0:12:20 > 0:12:22And certainly, the quietness of this room
0:12:22 > 0:12:26would give you the perfect environment to work with a bit of a view.
0:12:27 > 0:12:32A promising response to the upside-down layout of this detached stone house.
0:12:32 > 0:12:34Outside, there is an attached garage,
0:12:34 > 0:12:39as well as a low-maintenance patio garden to the rear, with timber shed.
0:12:39 > 0:12:44Plus a large decked balcony giving elevated views out to the National Park.
0:12:44 > 0:12:47That's your view, that's your vista.
0:12:47 > 0:12:50- Beautiful.- Absolutely stunning.
0:12:50 > 0:12:53So, boys, this garden, this is enough for you, then?
0:12:53 > 0:12:56It's more than enough, yes.
0:12:56 > 0:12:59Occasional barbecue, something like this, I mean, that's sufficient.
0:12:59 > 0:13:01Yeah. Just one more thing to tell you,
0:13:01 > 0:13:05there is a parcel of land that is being sold separately to this property,
0:13:05 > 0:13:07it's literally just up the road.
0:13:07 > 0:13:12- Wow.- It's an acre, so if you did want to purchase that, it would be around the £3,000 mark.
0:13:12 > 0:13:17- OK.- So, we've got to talk money on this home, our first property.
0:13:17 > 0:13:19It is in the National Park.
0:13:19 > 0:13:22- It is.- What do we think it's on the market for?
0:13:23 > 0:13:25I'm inclined to say...
0:13:26 > 0:13:28- ..460.- OK.
0:13:28 > 0:13:31- Richard?- I was thinking 485.
0:13:31 > 0:13:33I think you're going to be surprised by this.
0:13:33 > 0:13:37The asking price is £425,000.
0:13:37 > 0:13:40- OK.- Wow, that's very, very good.
0:13:40 > 0:13:43I'm quite lost for words, actually, with the value of that.
0:13:43 > 0:13:45That makes a change. But...
0:13:45 > 0:13:47LAUGHTER
0:13:47 > 0:13:49Why don't you go and take a look at that land, first of all,
0:13:49 > 0:13:51just in case it might interest you?
0:13:51 > 0:13:53- Yes.- No, absolutely, that's a good idea.
0:13:53 > 0:13:55- And have a think and come back here.- Shall we?
0:13:55 > 0:13:57- Absolutely, Rich, yeah, absolutely. - Off you go, guys.
0:13:57 > 0:14:00- Thank you very much, Nicki.- You're welcome.- After you.- Thank you, Rich.
0:14:02 > 0:14:05At £75,000 below Steve's top budget,
0:14:05 > 0:14:09this detached 1960s house provides
0:14:09 > 0:14:13upside-down living with an open-plan area on the upper floor and a total
0:14:13 > 0:14:15of three bedrooms.
0:14:15 > 0:14:17There is a low-maintenance garden,
0:14:17 > 0:14:19plus the option of further land,
0:14:19 > 0:14:22and it's in a quiet spot in the heart of Yorkshire Dales.
0:14:24 > 0:14:26Not quite sure what I'd do with it, but...
0:14:26 > 0:14:27Quite a steep incline.
0:14:27 > 0:14:29It's worth consideration, absolutely.
0:14:29 > 0:14:31Yeah. But then if you look behind, look at the view.
0:14:31 > 0:14:33Well, it's stunning.
0:14:34 > 0:14:40I was very impressed, not only with the location, but also the amount of rooms. It is very well-kept,
0:14:40 > 0:14:44very well maintained and there is room for potential, as well.
0:14:44 > 0:14:45It's a possibility.
0:14:45 > 0:14:47I think this property is stunning.
0:14:47 > 0:14:51The features are lovely, it's decorated well throughout.
0:14:51 > 0:14:54If I had the choice, I'd probably live here myself.
0:14:54 > 0:14:58Well, that was certainly a good start, I think, here in the Dales.
0:14:58 > 0:15:00- All right, gentlemen?- Hi, Nicki.
0:15:00 > 0:15:01Happy? Have you seen enough?
0:15:01 > 0:15:03- Yes.- OK.- Yes.
0:15:03 > 0:15:05- Absolutely.- Head off?- Brilliant.
0:15:11 > 0:15:14The breathtaking terrain of the National Park
0:15:14 > 0:15:16is ideal rambler territory,
0:15:16 > 0:15:21with over 1,400 miles of public footpaths threading through the landscape.
0:15:21 > 0:15:23But for those wanting to experience
0:15:23 > 0:15:26an altogether different kind of tour,
0:15:26 > 0:15:29there is a more unusual and rather exhilarating way
0:15:29 > 0:15:32to absorb the scenery - on a motor trike.
0:15:33 > 0:15:37Proud Yorkshireman and trike enthusiast Jason Richards has been guiding
0:15:37 > 0:15:40tourists around the Dales for the past three years,
0:15:40 > 0:15:44and today he's offered to show Steve and Richard one of his favourite routes.
0:15:44 > 0:15:48Why a trike over any other form of transport?
0:15:48 > 0:15:51The trike is a vehicle I love, and I love to drive,
0:15:51 > 0:15:52it's an absolute pleasure.
0:15:52 > 0:15:58But we have a saying, "See, feel and experience the Yorkshire Dales like never before".
0:15:58 > 0:16:00When you're on a Yorkshire trike tour,
0:16:00 > 0:16:02you feel part of the environment,
0:16:02 > 0:16:05as you're not cocooned in a bubble, as you are in a car.
0:16:05 > 0:16:08So all your senses work in perfect harmony,
0:16:08 > 0:16:10and it's just an absolute delight.
0:16:10 > 0:16:12One more question, can we have a go?
0:16:12 > 0:16:14We certainly can.
0:16:14 > 0:16:18We're going to take you around this area, let's get you loaded up, saddled up, and let's go for a tour.
0:16:20 > 0:16:23The boom trike Jason rides is part of the Mustang family,
0:16:23 > 0:16:25and handbuilt in Germany.
0:16:25 > 0:16:28Tours range from full days to shorter trips, like today.
0:16:28 > 0:16:31They're heading south through picturesque Skyreholme,
0:16:31 > 0:16:33an old Norse name, meaning "bright water meadow".
0:16:35 > 0:16:39On one side of the valley is Appletreewick Pasture.
0:16:39 > 0:16:42On the other, the scarp face of Simon's Seat.
0:16:42 > 0:16:44Sites include Barden Tower,
0:16:44 > 0:16:48originally the location of a forest lodge belonging to the Norman lords
0:16:48 > 0:16:52who owned estates around Craven after the 11th-century Norman conquest.
0:16:52 > 0:16:56In the 15th century, it came into the hands of Henry Clifford,
0:16:56 > 0:16:58a member of the local landed gentry.
0:16:58 > 0:17:01He substantially remodelled it into a fortified house.
0:17:03 > 0:17:06The Clifford family own a castle at Skipton,
0:17:06 > 0:17:08about 10km from here.
0:17:08 > 0:17:11- OK.- Well, Henry wanted
0:17:11 > 0:17:13a place, a shooting lodge, on their land,
0:17:13 > 0:17:15where he could stay and enjoy his passions of hunting,
0:17:15 > 0:17:17shooting and fishing.
0:17:17 > 0:17:21So the Clifford family built Barden Tower, was completed in 1485,
0:17:21 > 0:17:24just at the side of the River Wharfe,
0:17:24 > 0:17:29and he stayed here through the season and enjoyed his passions of game shooting.
0:17:29 > 0:17:30But it's ruins now.
0:17:30 > 0:17:32What actually happened to it?
0:17:32 > 0:17:36Yeah, it just fell into disrepair, really, in the sort of late 1500s,
0:17:36 > 0:17:38going into the 1600s.
0:17:38 > 0:17:41It just became one of those white elephant properties
0:17:41 > 0:17:43that they didn't keep up,
0:17:43 > 0:17:45and it just fell into ruin. Which is a shame, really,
0:17:45 > 0:17:47because it's a beautiful house.
0:17:47 > 0:17:49- It is.- Beautiful towers and a beautiful location.
0:17:53 > 0:17:56Following the River Wharfe through the Duke of Devonshire's land,
0:17:56 > 0:17:57the route reaches Bolton Abbey.
0:17:59 > 0:18:01You'll see it through the trees here.
0:18:01 > 0:18:03- There you go.- Oh, right, OK.
0:18:03 > 0:18:04Wow.
0:18:04 > 0:18:07So here we are, guys, welcome to Bolton Abbey.
0:18:07 > 0:18:09- Very impressive building. - Yes, it's very nice, isn't it?
0:18:09 > 0:18:13- Who built it?- This was built by the Augustinian monks.
0:18:13 > 0:18:16When was it built? It looks pretty old to me.
0:18:16 > 0:18:19It was completed in 1154.
0:18:20 > 0:18:23They were on a pilgrimage, following the River Wharfe,
0:18:23 > 0:18:26and they stopped to refresh themselves in this area
0:18:26 > 0:18:30and they noticed the cleanliness of the water, of the river water,
0:18:30 > 0:18:32and also the abundance of trout in the river.
0:18:34 > 0:18:37So they said this would be a wonderful place to worship.
0:18:37 > 0:18:39So they enquired to who owned the land,
0:18:39 > 0:18:42and the land back then was owned by the De Romille family.
0:18:42 > 0:18:44So they approached the De Romille family,
0:18:44 > 0:18:50and said, if you grant us permission to build a place of worship on this green pasture land,
0:18:50 > 0:18:54we'll be able to guarantee your family has a direct stairway to heaven.
0:18:54 > 0:18:56- Masterstroke.- Really?
0:18:56 > 0:18:57- Indeed.- Fantastic.
0:18:58 > 0:19:01The Abbey survived until the 16th century,
0:19:01 > 0:19:05when it was destroyed under Henry VIII's dissolution of the monasteries,
0:19:05 > 0:19:08but today's three-wheeled tour does not end here.
0:19:08 > 0:19:14Jason is taking them to one of his own favourite spots in the Malhamdale village of Ayrton.
0:19:14 > 0:19:17- Go in and get a cup of tea and something to eat.- Shall we? - Absolutely.- Marvellous.
0:19:17 > 0:19:20And having been refreshed with a good Yorkshire brew...
0:19:20 > 0:19:24- Cheers, guys.- Cheers. - Cheers.- Welcome to the Yorkshire Dales.- Thank you.
0:19:24 > 0:19:28..the property search for Steve's dream Dales house continues.
0:19:31 > 0:19:33We're heading to the village of Elslack,
0:19:33 > 0:19:35close to the Lancashire border.
0:19:35 > 0:19:37Three and a half miles away,
0:19:37 > 0:19:41the village of Carleton in Craven offers facilities, including a shop,
0:19:41 > 0:19:44a choice of pubs, pharmacy and post office.
0:19:44 > 0:19:48There's also a former cotton mill, built in 1861,
0:19:48 > 0:19:50which is now residential.
0:19:50 > 0:19:51But back in Elslack,
0:19:51 > 0:19:55we're on a hill next to a reservoir at the outskirts of the village,
0:19:55 > 0:19:59where the property we're viewing also has a fascinating former use.
0:20:00 > 0:20:08So, gentlemen, we have our next house, with the most amazing view.
0:20:09 > 0:20:11What a stunning position.
0:20:11 > 0:20:12That's one heck of a swimming pool!
0:20:12 > 0:20:14Have we surprised you?
0:20:14 > 0:20:16You certainly have. Yeah.
0:20:16 > 0:20:18I didn't know what to expect, but this is great.
0:20:18 > 0:20:21This used to be the reservoir manager's house.
0:20:21 > 0:20:23- Oh, I see.- The reservoir was built in the 1920s.
0:20:23 > 0:20:28It's been decommissioned, so apart from the local fishermen that come for the brown trout,
0:20:28 > 0:20:31you only really have sheep as your neighbours here.
0:20:31 > 0:20:33- Wow.- What sort of score would you give it?
0:20:33 > 0:20:35- Nine out of ten.- Would you?
0:20:35 > 0:20:38- I think I'd be about there as well. - Would you?- Oh, yeah.- Very promising.
0:20:38 > 0:20:42- Let's see if the house is going to continue on that theme. - Let's.- Let's go.
0:20:45 > 0:20:47Originally built by Yorkshire Water,
0:20:47 > 0:20:51the current owners have renovated and extended this detached residence.
0:20:51 > 0:20:55An entrance at the far end of the drive takes us through a hall and into
0:20:55 > 0:20:58the country kitchen, opening into a garden room.
0:20:59 > 0:21:01This is nice. Look at that cooker.
0:21:01 > 0:21:03Well, it's bright.
0:21:03 > 0:21:04- Yeah.- Oh, wow, look at that.
0:21:04 > 0:21:05You've got your range.
0:21:05 > 0:21:09One of the things was a range, was a hope, anyway, but absolutely.
0:21:09 > 0:21:11But that view at the end...
0:21:11 > 0:21:12That's what I'm waiting to see.
0:21:12 > 0:21:14Yeah, I think it's nice, it's set out in, like,
0:21:14 > 0:21:16- a traditional farmhouse style kitchen.- Yes.
0:21:16 > 0:21:21I think it's great, and perfect for Steve's requirements.
0:21:21 > 0:21:23- Yeah.- Certainly.- And you've actually got a utility room next door,
0:21:23 > 0:21:25with a bit of a larder going on.
0:21:25 > 0:21:28- Oh, excellent.- Which is always good. So we have our kitchen.
0:21:28 > 0:21:30It's got everything you need in it.
0:21:30 > 0:21:34Leading us into this modern extension,
0:21:34 > 0:21:37which I think makes the downstairs of this property.
0:21:37 > 0:21:38Oh, it's beautiful.
0:21:38 > 0:21:40That is really nice.
0:21:40 > 0:21:45If this was going to be my house, I would spend most of my time in here, I think.
0:21:45 > 0:21:48How would you feel living here with no neighbours?
0:21:49 > 0:21:51- Very happy indeed.- Would you?
0:21:51 > 0:21:54Absolutely. To come here, with this tranquillity and the peace,
0:21:54 > 0:21:56would be pretty near-perfect.
0:21:56 > 0:22:01From what I've seen so far, I think, and knowing Steve as well as I do,
0:22:01 > 0:22:04I think this is impressing him to the max right now,
0:22:04 > 0:22:06and I could see him definitely living here.
0:22:06 > 0:22:10- Oh, right, well... - Let's see the rest! - ..let's hope the rest delivers!
0:22:10 > 0:22:13'No pressure, then,
0:22:13 > 0:22:16'but I have every confidence in the rest of the ground floor, where,
0:22:16 > 0:22:18'back from the entrance hall,
0:22:18 > 0:22:21'we find a classic reception room next to the kitchen.'
0:22:21 > 0:22:23So here is your sitting room, again,
0:22:23 > 0:22:28been built so you have these magnificent views.
0:22:28 > 0:22:31- That's something, isn't it? - That is a view to die for, yeah.
0:22:31 > 0:22:34You don't need a TV or anything in here, do you?
0:22:34 > 0:22:37- You don't, do you?- You can just look at the window. Wow.
0:22:37 > 0:22:40So bringing it back inside, you love a fire, don't you?
0:22:40 > 0:22:45- Oh, it's a beautiful fireplace. - And then next door to this, you've got another sitting room, smaller.
0:22:45 > 0:22:49They use it as an office, again with that aspect.
0:22:49 > 0:22:52So this is the downstairs, so are we still liking what we're seeing?
0:22:52 > 0:22:53Very much so, yeah, yeah, so far.
0:22:53 > 0:22:55Yeah? OK. All right.
0:22:55 > 0:22:57On that winning note, we'll continue.
0:22:57 > 0:22:59- OK.- Upstairs.
0:22:59 > 0:23:00- Thank you, Rich.- Thanks.
0:23:01 > 0:23:06All good so far, and I'm not expecting the upstairs to disappoint,
0:23:06 > 0:23:09with this house delivering three good-sized doubles,
0:23:09 > 0:23:12all served by a family bathroom and separate WC.
0:23:12 > 0:23:16A guest room above the kitchen enjoys double aspect windows,
0:23:16 > 0:23:21whilst another above the ground floor office has those splendid reservoir views,
0:23:21 > 0:23:26as does bedroom number three, a very well-positioned master.
0:23:26 > 0:23:28Wow!
0:23:28 > 0:23:30- You just can't get away from that view.- I know.
0:23:30 > 0:23:34- You wouldn't want to get away from that view.- You always look this way with this house, for that reason.
0:23:34 > 0:23:36- Yeah.- It is quite something.
0:23:36 > 0:23:38- It's stunning. - And a really good size.
0:23:38 > 0:23:40I was just about to say, it's a good-sized room, as well.
0:23:40 > 0:23:43- Yeah.- We keep talking about that vista.
0:23:43 > 0:23:46I think it's time to explore it a little further, don't you?
0:23:46 > 0:23:48- Yes, please.- Thank you.
0:23:49 > 0:23:53This former reservoir manager's house keeps on delivering,
0:23:53 > 0:23:57and outside there's all the splendid isolation Steve's could long for,
0:23:57 > 0:24:01with an extensive one and three quarter acres of grounds.
0:24:01 > 0:24:03It includes areas of woodland,
0:24:03 > 0:24:06where the current owner's hens enjoy their life outdoors,
0:24:06 > 0:24:07alongside seasonal bluebells.
0:24:09 > 0:24:12A garage sits next to the house, whilst at the edge of the plot,
0:24:12 > 0:24:16a disused works building has current planning permission to be turned into
0:24:16 > 0:24:18a one-bedroom holiday dwelling,
0:24:18 > 0:24:20giving Steve further scope for visitors,
0:24:20 > 0:24:22or even a source of income.
0:24:23 > 0:24:29They've had a quote, it's going to cost between £25,000 and £30,000 to convert it.
0:24:29 > 0:24:31And the view you'd have from that would be fantastic.
0:24:31 > 0:24:36It would be amazing. You could actually charge between £12,000 and £18,000 a year rent.
0:24:36 > 0:24:38That would be a great addition to your estate.
0:24:38 > 0:24:41- Yes, absolutely.- That's really got you thinking now, hasn't it?
0:24:41 > 0:24:44Well, it certainly has. Even more exciting, yes.
0:24:44 > 0:24:47How much would you say this house is on the market for?
0:24:47 > 0:24:50OK, um, 490.
0:24:51 > 0:24:53I was going to go with 485.
0:24:53 > 0:24:56Gosh, you're both very close.
0:24:56 > 0:24:59The asking price, and it has just gone on the market,
0:24:59 > 0:25:03is £495,000.
0:25:03 > 0:25:07- Very close. That's good. That is really good news.- That is. - For a property like this.
0:25:07 > 0:25:10- Yeah?- This is quite unique.
0:25:10 > 0:25:13- It is.- It's not just the home, it's where the home is. Yeah.
0:25:13 > 0:25:16And this is... Meets my criteria.
0:25:16 > 0:25:18Do you fancy having another look at the house?
0:25:18 > 0:25:21I think I'd like to do that. Shall we have another wander?
0:25:21 > 0:25:22Come on. OK, let's go.
0:25:22 > 0:25:24- Thanks, guys.- Thanks a lot, thank you.- See you in a minute.
0:25:27 > 0:25:33Yes! I don't want to say too much, but both of them love this property.
0:25:33 > 0:25:36Steve, as soon as he walked in, you could just see his face.
0:25:36 > 0:25:38The smile... He looks at home.
0:25:38 > 0:25:42I was a little worried at the beginning that we might be too isolated,
0:25:42 > 0:25:45but within seconds, no, this is where he wants to live,
0:25:45 > 0:25:48and this is the way he wants to live his life.
0:25:51 > 0:25:56This former reservoir manager's house offers Steve a country kitchen
0:25:56 > 0:25:58opening onto a garden room,
0:25:58 > 0:26:02three double bedrooms and a large plot of versatile land.
0:26:02 > 0:26:05With planning permission for a one-bedroom dwelling,
0:26:05 > 0:26:06there's scope for income as well
0:26:06 > 0:26:09as all the beautiful solitude Steve could hope for.
0:26:09 > 0:26:11It's certainly nice.
0:26:11 > 0:26:14- It's brilliant actually, yeah. - But look at the view.- Look at that.
0:26:14 > 0:26:16- It's beautiful.- That's stunning.
0:26:17 > 0:26:19It's a great place.
0:26:19 > 0:26:21I'm amazed by the location of this property.
0:26:21 > 0:26:24It's superb, absolutely superb.
0:26:24 > 0:26:26It's quiet. The scenery is beautiful.
0:26:26 > 0:26:28I couldn't really ask for anything more.
0:26:28 > 0:26:32This house is absolutely stunning.
0:26:32 > 0:26:36It's well appointed, it's well decorated, the layout's fantastic,
0:26:36 > 0:26:38the views are spectacular.
0:26:38 > 0:26:41I could see my brother, Steve, living in this house without a doubt.
0:26:41 > 0:26:45There is absolutely no doubt that myself and my partner would be coming up
0:26:45 > 0:26:49to visit Steve on quite an annoyingly regular basis!
0:26:50 > 0:26:52Look at these handsome fellas!
0:26:56 > 0:26:58Have you seen enough?
0:26:58 > 0:26:59We have, yes, absolutely.
0:26:59 > 0:27:01Have we ended the day on a high?
0:27:01 > 0:27:03- We have.- Totally.- Excellent.
0:27:03 > 0:27:04- Good.- Literally on a high.
0:27:04 > 0:27:06Good. Yeah, we're very high.
0:27:06 > 0:27:09But remember, I do have one more house to show you tomorrow.
0:27:09 > 0:27:11- Oh, I know.- Our Mystery House.
0:27:11 > 0:27:14- I know.- Right, let's hit the road.- OK.
0:27:27 > 0:27:31We're in North Yorkshire, where Steve from Claygate, Surrey,
0:27:31 > 0:27:36is hoping to return to his Yorkshire roots and find his dream house in the Dales.
0:27:36 > 0:27:39Brother Richard is on hand to help with the decision of spending
0:27:39 > 0:27:41his £500,000 budget.
0:27:41 > 0:27:45So far, we've seen two wonderful properties,
0:27:45 > 0:27:50but the Mystery House is still to come and promises to give us all an education.
0:27:50 > 0:27:53- Wow.- So, that's all of yours, yes.
0:27:53 > 0:27:55That's nice. OK.
0:27:55 > 0:27:57Plus, I'm finding out why, all in all,
0:27:57 > 0:28:00North Yorkshire is not another brick in the wall.
0:28:00 > 0:28:02That doesn't look too bad, does it?
0:28:02 > 0:28:04- Right, next one?- Possibly that.
0:28:04 > 0:28:07Look at me, offering stones to you here!
0:28:11 > 0:28:13Well, after yesterday,
0:28:13 > 0:28:17the Mystery House has a lot of work to do if it's to top our second property,
0:28:17 > 0:28:20but I think it's in with a chance.
0:28:20 > 0:28:24Now, although it does have neighbours and a style that perhaps Steve
0:28:24 > 0:28:26wouldn't consider normally,
0:28:26 > 0:28:30what it does offer is a sense of space and a real connection with the Dales
0:28:30 > 0:28:34that's going to be hard to ignore. So, let's see how we get on.
0:28:38 > 0:28:41So, how are we feeling, both of you, after yesterday?
0:28:42 > 0:28:45Um, tired, because I didn't sleep very well.
0:28:45 > 0:28:49And last night over dinner, I was giving Steve the benefit of my wisdom,
0:28:49 > 0:28:54trying to allay any fears that he may have over making what is a massive decision.
0:28:54 > 0:28:56What would be the nightmare scenario?
0:28:57 > 0:29:00If Steve didn't choose to move to one of the houses that we've seen.
0:29:00 > 0:29:03Oh!
0:29:03 > 0:29:06- Yeah.- I think we have to leave it there, don't we?
0:29:06 > 0:29:08I couldn't sum it up better myself.
0:29:08 > 0:29:09No.
0:29:12 > 0:29:15Our Mystery House is in the village of Greenhow Hill.
0:29:15 > 0:29:20Three miles away, the market town of Pateley Bridge provides a very traditional
0:29:20 > 0:29:24high street where bunting adorns shops from butchers to fishmongers and
0:29:24 > 0:29:28the sweet-toothed are catered for by the oldest sweet shop in England.
0:29:28 > 0:29:31A few minutes' drive away is Greenhow Hill,
0:29:31 > 0:29:34thought to be the first planned village in the country,
0:29:34 > 0:29:38with records from 1613 showing plans for miners' cottages
0:29:38 > 0:29:42as well as stabling for the oxen and horses working the local mines.
0:29:42 > 0:29:47Our Mystery House sits on the main route from the centre, opposite farmland.
0:29:47 > 0:29:52Gentlemen, we have our final house for you.
0:29:53 > 0:29:55It's very church-like.
0:29:55 > 0:29:57Well, you'd be right, there is a religious connection here.
0:29:57 > 0:30:02It's a former Sunday school, but you do have stained glass.
0:30:02 > 0:30:04It has a slightly religious feel to it, doesn't it?
0:30:04 > 0:30:06- It certainly does.- Is that a good thing or a bad thing?
0:30:06 > 0:30:08- It's not a bad thing.- No?
0:30:08 > 0:30:10- I like it.- It gives it character as well.
0:30:10 > 0:30:13- Definitely.- It separates it from the rest of the properties.
0:30:13 > 0:30:15It will be interesting to see what it looks like inside.
0:30:15 > 0:30:17Come on, then, let's start the tour.
0:30:19 > 0:30:22This former Sunday schoolhouse, built in 1885,
0:30:22 > 0:30:26has been converted in the past few decades.
0:30:26 > 0:30:31A porch front door takes us into an impressive open-plan interior.
0:30:32 > 0:30:33So, come on in.
0:30:35 > 0:30:38- You've got your dining room here, a kitchen and living space.- OK.
0:30:38 > 0:30:40This is the main body of the house.
0:30:40 > 0:30:42Quite unusual, the layout.
0:30:42 > 0:30:44You wouldn't think it would look like this
0:30:44 > 0:30:47when you walk through the front door. Not what I expected at all, to be honest.
0:30:47 > 0:30:51- I'm not blown away, but...- Right, OK.- ..but it's, it's pleasant.
0:30:51 > 0:30:57They've also incorporated the L-shaped seating area so that it is open-plan,
0:30:57 > 0:31:00but through the door is, in actual fact, the original kitchen
0:31:00 > 0:31:03when the house was converted, and it's huge,
0:31:03 > 0:31:05so you've got a massive utility room,
0:31:05 > 0:31:09plus you've actually got a downstairs bedroom with an en suite.
0:31:09 > 0:31:12- Oh, really?- And a boot room, so in actual fact,
0:31:12 > 0:31:14this is quite a substantial property.
0:31:14 > 0:31:16OK, sounds like it.
0:31:16 > 0:31:19- Interesting. - So-so in this room so far?
0:31:19 > 0:31:23- Yes, so-so, so far. - Let's show you the sitting room, which is actually behind us.
0:31:23 > 0:31:24Just through here.
0:31:26 > 0:31:29So, you've got the double doors opening up so you can have a bit of privacy if you wanted to.
0:31:29 > 0:31:34- Very cosy.- It's cosy, yes, and there's another fire as well, there.
0:31:34 > 0:31:36I think the room's got character.
0:31:36 > 0:31:38I think it's quite nice.
0:31:38 > 0:31:40Oh, that's good. I'm going to keep working on that one.
0:31:40 > 0:31:43- Let's head upstairs.- OK.
0:31:44 > 0:31:48In addition to that ground floor en suite bedroom, upstairs,
0:31:48 > 0:31:52a mezzanine has been added to provide space for three further bedrooms.
0:31:52 > 0:31:55To the front of the home, above the sitting room,
0:31:55 > 0:31:59a charming guest room sits under the eaves, with an outlook through an arched window.
0:32:01 > 0:32:03Looking out over the back is a further double,
0:32:03 > 0:32:05again with feature window.
0:32:05 > 0:32:08These are both served by a shower room.
0:32:08 > 0:32:11And then at the other end of the landing, above the kitchen,
0:32:11 > 0:32:14is bedroom number four, the master en suite.
0:32:14 > 0:32:17- Do you like the room? - Yeah, the room's nice.
0:32:17 > 0:32:19It's nice and airy, nice and bright.
0:32:20 > 0:32:22With the en suite as well, that's very useful.
0:32:22 > 0:32:26- Yeah.- I'm not blown away by it. I like the built-in wardrobes,
0:32:26 > 0:32:28they're great for saving space.
0:32:28 > 0:32:32Apart from that, I just see it as just a bedroom with an en suite.
0:32:32 > 0:32:36OK. All right, well there's still something else I'd like to show you
0:32:36 > 0:32:39before we do guess the price, but we are going to head outside.
0:32:39 > 0:32:42- OK.- OK.- Have I left the best till last?
0:32:42 > 0:32:44- Let's see.- Well, that would be my choice.
0:32:47 > 0:32:51A surprisingly lukewarm response to the very characterful
0:32:51 > 0:32:55and well-finished interior of this detached former schoolhouse.
0:32:56 > 0:33:00And outside, our mystery proposition gives Steve an outlook over glorious
0:33:00 > 0:33:05Dales vistas with the lion's share of the garden found to the rear of the property.
0:33:05 > 0:33:08There is a paved terrace and a large area of lawn,
0:33:08 > 0:33:11along with a chicken run and vegetable plot.
0:33:11 > 0:33:14A pathway leads to extensive off-road parking
0:33:14 > 0:33:16and a double garage.
0:33:16 > 0:33:18Next to the quarter-acre garden,
0:33:18 > 0:33:22there's a one-acre paddock surrounded by dry stonewalling and featuring
0:33:22 > 0:33:24two timber stables with power and lighting.
0:33:26 > 0:33:27Wow.
0:33:27 > 0:33:28So, that's all of yours.
0:33:28 > 0:33:30That's nice. OK.
0:33:30 > 0:33:33It's relatively low-maintenance, which is good. Excellent.
0:33:33 > 0:33:36So, we're now, for the final time,
0:33:36 > 0:33:39going to try and put a value on our Mystery House.
0:33:41 > 0:33:45OK. I'm thinking...410.
0:33:45 > 0:33:47OK. Richard?
0:33:47 > 0:33:48460.
0:33:49 > 0:33:55The asking price is actually slightly higher than that, £475,000.
0:33:57 > 0:34:00- OK.- I think the price reflects the size of the house,
0:34:00 > 0:34:04because it is quite a substantial house here, plus an acre of land.
0:34:04 > 0:34:06I think that's probably why it's in that bracket.
0:34:06 > 0:34:08Still under your budget, though.
0:34:08 > 0:34:12I'm still going to ask you to take a look again, just together this time,
0:34:12 > 0:34:13now you know the price.
0:34:13 > 0:34:16- Sure.- Then when you've seen enough,
0:34:16 > 0:34:18go and check out that view on the top of the Dale,
0:34:18 > 0:34:21- it is quite magnificent.- Indeed. - Then I'll meet you out the front.
0:34:21 > 0:34:23- OK, thank you.- Thank you.- Thank you.
0:34:25 > 0:34:28£25,000 below budget,
0:34:28 > 0:34:32our mystery property comes with an open-plan kitchen and living space,
0:34:32 > 0:34:37a further reception room and four bedrooms, two of which are en suite.
0:34:37 > 0:34:39There's over an acre of land
0:34:39 > 0:34:42and stunning views of the Yorkshire Dales.
0:34:43 > 0:34:45- Look at that!- That's pretty impressive, isn't it?
0:34:45 > 0:34:48That's a view. That is certainly a view.
0:34:48 > 0:34:51I could stand here all day and look at that.
0:34:51 > 0:34:54The Mystery House from the outside, for me, looked quite appealing.
0:34:54 > 0:34:57It's done up nicely, quite well appointed.
0:34:57 > 0:34:59Plenty of space, but didn't really do it for me.
0:34:59 > 0:35:02And I don't think it did it for Steve, either.
0:35:03 > 0:35:05A little bit disappointed, unfortunately.
0:35:05 > 0:35:08There's over an acre of ground at the back,
0:35:08 > 0:35:11there's quite an extensive garden,
0:35:11 > 0:35:14but it still didn't entice me into even
0:35:14 > 0:35:16thinking of purchasing this.
0:35:16 > 0:35:19Right, gentlemen, so that is it for today,
0:35:19 > 0:35:22so we're going to go somewhere quiet, have a chat and, Steve,
0:35:22 > 0:35:25you're going to tell us what your next move is going to be.
0:35:25 > 0:35:27- Absolutely. OK.- Exciting.
0:35:33 > 0:35:38The magnificent 680 square miles of the Yorkshire Dales National Park are
0:35:38 > 0:35:43looked after by a dedicated team of 18 rangers who work alongside a large
0:35:43 > 0:35:47number of volunteers to protect and conserve the environment
0:35:47 > 0:35:49for the benefit of both wildlife and visitors.
0:35:50 > 0:35:55Phil Richards is the area ranger for Wharfedale and Littendale, and I'm joining him on
0:35:55 > 0:36:00the job today to help out with one of the current restoration projects.
0:36:00 > 0:36:02- Hi, Phil.- Hi, Nicki.
0:36:02 > 0:36:05- Good to meet you.- Good to meet you. Welcome to the Yorkshire Dales.
0:36:05 > 0:36:07Thank you. Thanks for picking me up in the 4x4.
0:36:09 > 0:36:13One of the most distinctive and oldest man-made features of the Dales landscape
0:36:13 > 0:36:16are the dry-stone walls, all maintained by the team of rangers.
0:36:18 > 0:36:20Explain to me the role of a ranger.
0:36:20 > 0:36:26Our main focus is looking after the rights-of-way, public rights-of-way network.
0:36:26 > 0:36:33So that involves repairing the footpaths, stiles, bridges, all that type of work.
0:36:33 > 0:36:36And it's important that people can come out and enjoy this beautiful
0:36:36 > 0:36:38landscape, but at the same time,
0:36:38 > 0:36:41it's respecting that landscape, so we need to make sure that when people
0:36:41 > 0:36:44come out here, you know, they do both of those things.
0:36:44 > 0:36:47And what are you currently working on here in the park?
0:36:47 > 0:36:49One of the projects I'm working on is
0:36:49 > 0:36:54repairing the bridleway up on the moors, so it's a case of airlifting
0:36:54 > 0:36:57materials in aggregate, using a helicopter.
0:36:57 > 0:36:59- Oh!- Which is quite exciting.
0:36:59 > 0:37:01Yes, I'll say.
0:37:01 > 0:37:04But, of course, these areas are quite inaccessible,
0:37:04 > 0:37:08so the only way to get materials up there to these places is by using...
0:37:08 > 0:37:11using airlifting, airlifting them up.
0:37:13 > 0:37:17Another of Phil's projects that's nearing completion is the replacement of
0:37:17 > 0:37:19an old wooden stile with a stone one.
0:37:20 > 0:37:23So, Phil, what have we got going on here?
0:37:23 > 0:37:26Well, we're just repairing this stile.
0:37:26 > 0:37:30We've rebuilt most of it, actually, so it's a case now of finishing it off.
0:37:30 > 0:37:33We need some more stones just to finish the job off,
0:37:33 > 0:37:37so what we're trying to do is also improve access but at the same time,
0:37:37 > 0:37:42get back what would have been originally here, which was a stone stile.
0:37:42 > 0:37:45This looks a lot easier to get over than the wooden ladder behind me.
0:37:45 > 0:37:49So, how many a year would you need to replace the stiles?
0:37:49 > 0:37:52It can be well into the hundreds of stiles that are repaired.
0:37:52 > 0:37:56Can it, really? I've got my industrial gloves on and I'm ready.
0:37:56 > 0:37:58Which one shall we start off with first?
0:37:58 > 0:38:01Well, I think this looks a good candidate, actually.
0:38:01 > 0:38:04The idea is, is that when you're putting stones in,
0:38:04 > 0:38:06to make sure the joints are crossed.
0:38:06 > 0:38:08It keeps the wall firm and secure.
0:38:08 > 0:38:10These are sturdy, aren't they?
0:38:10 > 0:38:12They are sturdy, yeah.
0:38:12 > 0:38:15We mentioned before, it's like a jigsaw puzzle, so all these stones,
0:38:15 > 0:38:19they interlock with each other and they form a really strong boundary.
0:38:19 > 0:38:24There are around 2,000 miles of public rights-of-way within the park boundaries,
0:38:24 > 0:38:26all of which need maintaining.
0:38:28 > 0:38:31You see the idea is, Nicki, once we've put stones on this side,
0:38:31 > 0:38:33you would put some stones, like, a course of stones
0:38:33 > 0:38:36on the other side and then when you've done that,
0:38:36 > 0:38:39you fill all the middle in with the little filling stones, so you
0:38:39 > 0:38:41pack it all tight so it keeps it nice and strong.
0:38:41 > 0:38:42- Yeah.- And watertight, of course.
0:38:42 > 0:38:43That doesn't look too bad, does it?
0:38:43 > 0:38:45- No.- Right, next one?- Possibly that.
0:38:45 > 0:38:48Look at me, offering stones to you here!
0:38:50 > 0:38:54After lending a hand with an ancient building technique, next,
0:38:54 > 0:38:56I'm meeting Rachel Alderson,
0:38:56 > 0:39:01to learn how they're using 21st-century technology to encourage visitors to the park.
0:39:01 > 0:39:04So, Rachel, as a young rangers officer,
0:39:04 > 0:39:06what exactly is your role?
0:39:06 > 0:39:10So, I work with 12 to 16-year-olds, young people in the National Park,
0:39:10 > 0:39:12and get them outside doing practical work,
0:39:12 > 0:39:16so, conservation tasks and general work in the environment.
0:39:16 > 0:39:19- I've heard of a new thing called geocaching.- Yes.
0:39:19 > 0:39:21It's a first for me.
0:39:21 > 0:39:23Explain what it means.
0:39:23 > 0:39:27Geocaching is, simply put, treasure hunting.
0:39:27 > 0:39:33You use a GPS receiver and a map and go and find caches like treasure
0:39:33 > 0:39:34hidden all around you.
0:39:34 > 0:39:37There's about a million caches hidden all over the world.
0:39:37 > 0:39:39No, this all-important treasure, you've already
0:39:39 > 0:39:43- organised something for me to find, haven't you?- Absolutely, yes. - What do I need to do?
0:39:43 > 0:39:46So, the GPS is pointing into this corner here, Nicki,
0:39:46 > 0:39:49so if you want to have a little look.
0:39:49 > 0:39:52This is a typical type of cache that you might find.
0:39:52 > 0:39:54What would be in it?
0:39:54 > 0:39:57Always a logbook that you're meant to sign, and then inside,
0:39:57 > 0:39:58there'll be some treasures as well.
0:39:58 > 0:40:00Oh, there are, pens and everything.
0:40:00 > 0:40:03When people come, they can take an item from the box,
0:40:03 > 0:40:05but they also have to leave something, too.
0:40:05 > 0:40:07What about a bit of Escape To The Country rock?
0:40:07 > 0:40:09We don't usually suggest leaving food,
0:40:09 > 0:40:12just because it's outside, and wild animals,
0:40:12 > 0:40:15but I'm sure some walkers would really enjoy finding that.
0:40:15 > 0:40:17I wonder who's going to find that.
0:40:17 > 0:40:18Is it going to go back in the same spot?
0:40:18 > 0:40:21It's going to go back in the same spot for the next person to come and find it.
0:40:21 > 0:40:24- Rachel, thank you very much indeed. - No problem.
0:40:25 > 0:40:30I love a treasure hunt, and where better than in one of our gorgeous National Parks?
0:40:30 > 0:40:32But what of our property hunt today?
0:40:32 > 0:40:36Because I've got high hopes that we may have struck gold.
0:40:37 > 0:40:42Well, I think I know which house has stolen Steve's heart,
0:40:42 > 0:40:44but let's go and find out for sure.
0:40:47 > 0:40:51Well, chaps, it's a long way, isn't it, from Surrey to North Yorkshire,
0:40:51 > 0:40:52but is it going to be your home?
0:40:52 > 0:40:54That is the big question.
0:40:54 > 0:40:57Chances are that it will be my home.
0:40:57 > 0:40:59Steve was obviously hesitant
0:40:59 > 0:41:02because of the massive move from South to North,
0:41:02 > 0:41:07but I think Steve's been quite buoyed by what he's seen and that
0:41:07 > 0:41:10decision is going to be forthcoming sooner rather than later, I believe.
0:41:10 > 0:41:12So, let's talk about our properties that we showed you.
0:41:12 > 0:41:16One, I think, was the winner.
0:41:16 > 0:41:21- Am I right?- I think your intuition serves you well, if it's number two.
0:41:21 > 0:41:23- Yes.- Absolutely.
0:41:23 > 0:41:24Yes, yes, yes!
0:41:24 > 0:41:26A beautiful house by the reservoir.
0:41:26 > 0:41:30Absolutely stunning. It was just amazingly good.
0:41:30 > 0:41:33Everything about that house, as Steve has said, ticked all his boxes.
0:41:33 > 0:41:37- Yeah.- And I was really pleased to see the house, from my perspective,
0:41:37 > 0:41:39knowing what Steve's requirements were,
0:41:39 > 0:41:41because I instantly knew when I saw it
0:41:41 > 0:41:43that it was going to satisfy him entirely.
0:41:43 > 0:41:47I was extremely pleased and also with my supportive brother, Richard,
0:41:47 > 0:41:50his view as well is very important to me as well.
0:41:50 > 0:41:54It's exactly the same as mine, so I thank him for that.
0:41:54 > 0:41:56- It was stunning. - A splendid location.
0:41:56 > 0:41:58You've done a great job finding that.
0:41:58 > 0:42:01So, this is a good sign, this makes me think you might be going back
0:42:01 > 0:42:03and having another viewing?
0:42:03 > 0:42:05- I think you might be right.- Yeah? - Yes.
0:42:05 > 0:42:08It's got to be done soon, because it's a case of move or lose.
0:42:08 > 0:42:11I'm sure it's going to be very popular for other people viewing.
0:42:11 > 0:42:14- I think so.- It's only just gone on the market, hasn't it?
0:42:14 > 0:42:17It has, but I don't think it will be on the market for very long.
0:42:17 > 0:42:20Well, I hope it's not on the market for long, because it is your new home!
0:42:20 > 0:42:22That's what were hoping for.
0:42:22 > 0:42:25- Absolutely.- I hope you put an offer in and it's accepted and you're moving in very shortly.
0:42:25 > 0:42:27- Thank you both.- Thank you.
0:42:27 > 0:42:29And thank you.
0:42:35 > 0:42:37Well, we've had a fantastic time here
0:42:37 > 0:42:43and I'm delighted to tell you that Steve has put an offer in on our home down by the reservoir,
0:42:43 > 0:42:47and the even better news is, it's been accepted.
0:42:47 > 0:42:51The perfect way to end our time here in the Yorkshire Dales.
0:42:51 > 0:42:55I'll see you again soon on Escape To The Country.
0:42:56 > 0:43:01If you would like to escape to the country in England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland,
0:43:01 > 0:43:03and need our help, you can apply online at: