0:00:02 > 0:00:04At first glance, it's hard to believe this
0:00:04 > 0:00:06picture-perfect village, with all these thatched cottages,
0:00:06 > 0:00:09was built just a couple of centuries ago when a whole community
0:00:09 > 0:00:11was uprooted and moved here.
0:00:11 > 0:00:13Find out why and where I am in just a moment.
0:00:31 > 0:00:35Today's property search is all about having the right outlook.
0:00:35 > 0:00:36That's what this house is about.
0:00:36 > 0:00:38- Yes.- That picture.
0:00:38 > 0:00:41We asked for a sea view but didn't think you would find it.
0:00:41 > 0:00:43How you did it, I don't know.
0:00:43 > 0:00:45But will we be able to find our home hunters
0:00:45 > 0:00:48the dream location for a country retirement?
0:00:48 > 0:00:50I feel quite emotional about it.
0:00:50 > 0:00:53It's really, really fabulous.
0:00:53 > 0:00:54It's a great start.
0:00:56 > 0:01:00Today I'm in Dorset and this is the village of Milton Abbas.
0:01:00 > 0:01:03It was built in the 1770s by the Earl of Dorchester,
0:01:03 > 0:01:06who brought on board the famous landscape designer
0:01:06 > 0:01:11Lancelot "Capability" Brown and architect Sir William Chambers.
0:01:11 > 0:01:14But this was no great philanthropic mission.
0:01:14 > 0:01:18The Earl actually moved the village here from its original spot nearby
0:01:18 > 0:01:21because it was spoiling the view from his newly built mansion,
0:01:21 > 0:01:25so he completely demolished it and created this village here
0:01:25 > 0:01:28over the hill and out of sight.
0:01:28 > 0:01:31That said, the end result certainly possesses that authentic
0:01:31 > 0:01:35Dorset character that you will find in many places across the county.
0:01:37 > 0:01:40Dorset is found on the south coast of England and is bordered
0:01:40 > 0:01:43by Hampshire to the east, Wiltshire to the north
0:01:43 > 0:01:46and Somerset and Devon to the west.
0:01:46 > 0:01:50Its 95 miles of coastline offer striking geological features
0:01:50 > 0:01:53such as Durdle Door, a natural limestone arch,
0:01:53 > 0:01:56thought to be named from the old English word, "thirl",
0:01:56 > 0:01:59meaning to pierce or bore.
0:01:59 > 0:02:04Man-made coastal landmarks include the Cobb at Lyme Regis,
0:02:04 > 0:02:09a curved stone pier which has formed a harbour since at least 1313.
0:02:09 > 0:02:13It featured in the 1981 film, The French Lieutenant's Woman,
0:02:13 > 0:02:17starring Meryl Streep, based on the novel written by John Fowles,
0:02:17 > 0:02:20who drew inspiration from the Dorset landscape around him.
0:02:21 > 0:02:25Close to the town of Bridport, a near-conical sandstone hill
0:02:25 > 0:02:30is eye-catchingly topped by a smattering of pine trees.
0:02:30 > 0:02:33In the 19th century it was named after the then landowner,
0:02:33 > 0:02:34the Rev Colmer.
0:02:34 > 0:02:38Indeed, hills are very much a feature of the landscape here,
0:02:38 > 0:02:42where fertile pastures have made an ideal sheep-farming location,
0:02:42 > 0:02:46providing trade in both wool and meat.
0:02:46 > 0:02:49Dorset is also rich in ecclesiastical buildings,
0:02:49 > 0:02:52although its religious history is rather more turbulent
0:02:52 > 0:02:55than the serenity of the resultant architecture.
0:02:55 > 0:02:58The village of Chideock was once known for
0:02:58 > 0:03:01clandestine Catholic worship after the Civil War.
0:03:01 > 0:03:04In the late 16th century, four local Catholics,
0:03:04 > 0:03:06now known as the Chideock Martyrs,
0:03:06 > 0:03:10were tried in the village and consequently executed in the county.
0:03:10 > 0:03:14The Weld Memorial Chapel is an important landmark in the story
0:03:14 > 0:03:16of Catholic emancipation.
0:03:18 > 0:03:21The county is also home to around 150 villages,
0:03:21 > 0:03:24peppered with traditional thatched cottages.
0:03:24 > 0:03:28But perhaps the most picturesque row of houses in the county is at
0:03:28 > 0:03:32the cobbled street of Gold Hill in Shaftesbury. It once provided
0:03:32 > 0:03:36the backdrop to Britain's favourite advertisement of all time.
0:03:36 > 0:03:40So whether it's picture-postcard towns and villages,
0:03:40 > 0:03:44wild coastlines or local history, Dorset really does offer
0:03:44 > 0:03:48a great choice for those seeking a country escape.
0:03:48 > 0:03:52All of this beauty and history does of course come at a price.
0:03:52 > 0:03:58The average cost of a detached home here in Dorset is around £321,000 -
0:03:58 > 0:04:01that's about 55,000 above the national figure.
0:04:01 > 0:04:05That does include the super-expensive Sandbanks
0:04:05 > 0:04:08near Poole, where price tags are routinely in their millions.
0:04:08 > 0:04:12As a general rule of thumb, if you move away from coastal hotspots,
0:04:12 > 0:04:14your money will go that little bit further,
0:04:14 > 0:04:17especially if you move towards the north of the county.
0:04:17 > 0:04:22So which part of Dorset are today's buyers inspired to move to?
0:04:22 > 0:04:23Let's meet them and find out.
0:04:25 > 0:04:27Life has been an adventure for Diana and Jonathan,
0:04:27 > 0:04:29from Burgess Hill, Sussex,
0:04:29 > 0:04:33since they first got together over three decades ago.
0:04:33 > 0:04:38We met when Jonathan was in the police force
0:04:38 > 0:04:40and I was a stewardess.
0:04:40 > 0:04:43After knowing each other for ten days, we decided to get married
0:04:43 > 0:04:45and that was 33 years ago.
0:04:45 > 0:04:47Yes.
0:04:47 > 0:04:52I think excitement sums up our relationship and our life together.
0:04:52 > 0:04:55We are quite impulsive. Well, very impulsive.
0:04:55 > 0:05:00We enjoy travel, we enjoy coming out of our comfort zone.
0:05:00 > 0:05:02We have good fun.
0:05:02 > 0:05:05- We're energetic. - Yes, we are.
0:05:05 > 0:05:07- And we like doing things together. - Yeah.
0:05:07 > 0:05:10As well as packing in plenty of round-the-world travel,
0:05:10 > 0:05:14Diana and Jonathan also had two sons.
0:05:14 > 0:05:17Now the couple are in their mid-60s and their kids have moved away
0:05:17 > 0:05:19to have families of their own.
0:05:19 > 0:05:22But life hasn't stopped with retirement,
0:05:22 > 0:05:24particularly for former police officer Jonathan,
0:05:24 > 0:05:26who has become a published author.
0:05:26 > 0:05:31My writing, I started about five years ago.
0:05:31 > 0:05:35Crime thriller, based using my experience.
0:05:35 > 0:05:37I'm on my third book at the moment.
0:05:37 > 0:05:40But that's not all Diana and Jonathan are seeking -
0:05:40 > 0:05:44they're also looking for more new experiences and want to move away
0:05:44 > 0:05:47from their hometown of 23 years to start a new life
0:05:47 > 0:05:50in more rural surroundings.
0:05:50 > 0:05:53We are enclosed on the edge of an estate
0:05:53 > 0:05:57with a main road 50 yards away.
0:05:57 > 0:06:01There is a constant noise, a constant traffic jam,
0:06:01 > 0:06:03there is building going on.
0:06:03 > 0:06:07Every day, there is someone nearby drilling,
0:06:07 > 0:06:10cutting down a tree or hedge-cutting.
0:06:10 > 0:06:14We would like somewhere that had just that little bit of extra space,
0:06:14 > 0:06:18a little bit quieter, a little bit more of a view.
0:06:18 > 0:06:22And there's one part of the country in particular that is calling them.
0:06:22 > 0:06:26An area that we really do like and we have visited
0:06:26 > 0:06:29and travelled through quite a bit is west Dorset.
0:06:29 > 0:06:32I think it's a very pretty area,
0:06:32 > 0:06:34it's got fascinating history,
0:06:34 > 0:06:36the coastline is quite dramatic.
0:06:36 > 0:06:39Even during the summer, out on the headlands,
0:06:39 > 0:06:41it's got that little bit of wildness about it.
0:06:41 > 0:06:46What is drawing me to west Dorset is the relaxed pace of life.
0:06:46 > 0:06:48I like the scenery,
0:06:48 > 0:06:50I like the fact that the sea is there.
0:06:50 > 0:06:54I think there's a lot of energy going on there - it's becoming
0:06:54 > 0:06:58an interesting, lively place as well as a peaceful place.
0:06:58 > 0:07:00I feel quite at home in that area,
0:07:00 > 0:07:02I think I could settle down there.
0:07:04 > 0:07:07Of course, settling down for this energetic duo doesn't really mean
0:07:07 > 0:07:08putting their feet up.
0:07:09 > 0:07:12I want to take up sailing,
0:07:12 > 0:07:16maybe get a small boat to go up and down rivers or that type of thing.
0:07:16 > 0:07:19There's a sewing group that I started a year ago.
0:07:19 > 0:07:22There was a few ladies that said they couldn't sew,
0:07:22 > 0:07:26didn't know how to sew, didn't know one end of a needle from the other.
0:07:26 > 0:07:29I just wanted them to have fun, get confidence in sewing,
0:07:29 > 0:07:32enjoy it and take away something from the process.
0:07:32 > 0:07:34I want to meet new people.
0:07:34 > 0:07:36Perhaps running a sewing group there.
0:07:36 > 0:07:39I think we'll turn out to be very busy.
0:07:39 > 0:07:41I think so too.
0:07:41 > 0:07:45Although the move means leaving behind the location of many
0:07:45 > 0:07:47happy memories, they know there are
0:07:47 > 0:07:50plenty of new ones to look forward to.
0:07:50 > 0:07:53I will be sad, in a way, to leave here,
0:07:53 > 0:07:55because we've had a happy time here.
0:07:55 > 0:07:58The boys were young when we moved in here.
0:07:58 > 0:08:03It will be sad because we have been happy and we've got lots of friends,
0:08:03 > 0:08:06but they'll have to come and visit us.
0:08:10 > 0:08:13Diana and Jonathan want to concentrate their search
0:08:13 > 0:08:16in the south-west of the county, close to the coast between Bridport
0:08:16 > 0:08:18and the Devon border.
0:08:18 > 0:08:20But before we start our house hunt,
0:08:20 > 0:08:23I want to know more about the type of home they are hoping to find.
0:08:25 > 0:08:27Diana and Jonathan, welcome to Dorset.
0:08:27 > 0:08:29- Thank you very much.- Thank you.
0:08:29 > 0:08:33Is it those fabulous sea views that are attracting you to this county?
0:08:33 > 0:08:38The sea views, the countryside, the way of life, yes.
0:08:38 > 0:08:40It really does have a little bit of everything.
0:08:40 > 0:08:45It's got everything and it's just so peaceful yet there is that vibrancy
0:08:45 > 0:08:47that you get next to the sea.
0:08:47 > 0:08:49How well do you know this area?
0:08:49 > 0:08:54Well, we've driven through the area for over 30 years to go
0:08:54 > 0:08:56and visit my parents in Devon.
0:08:56 > 0:09:00We've always taken the route from Lyme Regis along the coast
0:09:00 > 0:09:03down to Sidmouth and Budleigh Salterton.
0:09:03 > 0:09:05And we've slowed down, actually, coming through Dorset.
0:09:05 > 0:09:10- We've stopped for coffee breaks and things like that.- Yeah.- Yeah.
0:09:10 > 0:09:14We've had a look over the years. And it's such a beautiful county.
0:09:14 > 0:09:16It's got everything you want, really.
0:09:16 > 0:09:18What do you want from the house itself?
0:09:18 > 0:09:21We're looking for somewhere bright and airy.
0:09:21 > 0:09:24We'd probably like three bedrooms and we would like a room
0:09:24 > 0:09:27where I could do my sewing and you could perhaps do your writing.
0:09:27 > 0:09:29That's really quite important.
0:09:29 > 0:09:32The view's most important to us, and the location.
0:09:32 > 0:09:36So, location-wise, what sort of setting would you like?
0:09:36 > 0:09:39I'd like a view,
0:09:39 > 0:09:42proximity to the sea,
0:09:42 > 0:09:45and not too far away from a town.
0:09:45 > 0:09:49Is there anything you both don't want?
0:09:49 > 0:09:51I think from experience, a thatched cottage.
0:09:51 > 0:09:52Yes, I agree, really.
0:09:52 > 0:09:56That's probably, as we say, a thatch, we don't want a thatch.
0:09:56 > 0:09:57Remind me of your budget.
0:09:57 > 0:09:58Go ahead.
0:09:58 > 0:10:01- Well, our budget is £500,000.- OK.
0:10:01 > 0:10:05We could just go a little bit above that if we needed to.
0:10:05 > 0:10:08I like hearing that because it is a popular county, of course,
0:10:08 > 0:10:12so it's always nice to know that you might have a little bit extra.
0:10:12 > 0:10:14Yes.
0:10:14 > 0:10:19And we have got some fantastic properties already waiting for you.
0:10:19 > 0:10:20- Lovely.- So, let's get going.
0:10:20 > 0:10:21Lovely, thank you very much.
0:10:24 > 0:10:26For a budget of £500,000,
0:10:26 > 0:10:29but some leeway if necessary,
0:10:29 > 0:10:31Diana and Jonathan are looking for
0:10:31 > 0:10:32a bright and airy property with
0:10:32 > 0:10:34a minimum of three bedrooms.
0:10:34 > 0:10:36They'd like a sewing room for Diana
0:10:36 > 0:10:38as well as a separate space
0:10:38 > 0:10:39for Jonathan to write.
0:10:39 > 0:10:41The location is important and should
0:10:41 > 0:10:43offer them views as well as
0:10:43 > 0:10:46proximity to the coast and a town.
0:10:46 > 0:10:48While they are flexible over style,
0:10:48 > 0:10:49neither of them is keen
0:10:49 > 0:10:51on thatched houses.
0:10:52 > 0:10:56We have an exciting variety of homes to present, and at each one,
0:10:56 > 0:10:59I will be asking them to guess the price before I reveal it.
0:10:59 > 0:11:03Our final property will be the Mystery House, which may be
0:11:03 > 0:11:07a naughty choice, but could turn out to be surprisingly nice.
0:11:10 > 0:11:12But before that, we're off to view house number one.
0:11:16 > 0:11:19Our property search is kicking off just a five-minute drive
0:11:19 > 0:11:23from Charmouth Beach, in the small village of Morcombelake.
0:11:23 > 0:11:26With its outlook across rolling fields to the sea,
0:11:26 > 0:11:29it's a great starting point for several walks.
0:11:29 > 0:11:32The village is home to the savoury Dorset knob biscuit,
0:11:32 > 0:11:35made here since late Victorian times.
0:11:35 > 0:11:39Amenities include a post office and store as well as a farm shop.
0:11:40 > 0:11:44The simple chapel-style church, built in 1841,
0:11:44 > 0:11:48replaced a 13th-century one that had fallen into ruins.
0:11:48 > 0:11:50'Our first house is idyllically located
0:11:50 > 0:11:53'just a five-minute walk away.'
0:11:53 > 0:11:56This is our first property, the house on the hill.
0:11:56 > 0:11:59- Wow.- It's just lovely. - Isn't it gorgeous?
0:11:59 > 0:12:01Absolutely gorgeous, the trees...
0:12:01 > 0:12:04This is the location you were looking for? Am I right?
0:12:04 > 0:12:06Yes, lovely, it really is lovely.
0:12:06 > 0:12:07Do we need to go in?
0:12:07 > 0:12:10Look, the house is ideal already.
0:12:10 > 0:12:11It's ticking a lot of boxes already.
0:12:11 > 0:12:13It's lovely, yes, really nice.
0:12:13 > 0:12:16Let's see if the inside charms you.
0:12:16 > 0:12:18- OK.- Yes, lovely.
0:12:19 > 0:12:23This hillside home was originally built in the 1930s,
0:12:23 > 0:12:27but has been fully renovated by the current owners over the past decade.
0:12:27 > 0:12:31The property is accessed via a decked frontage with French doors
0:12:31 > 0:12:35that lead straight into the large country kitchen.
0:12:35 > 0:12:38- Come in.- Wow.
0:12:38 > 0:12:41It's a really good-sized kitchen, nice and light.
0:12:41 > 0:12:44You come straight in, so the balcony is part of the kitchen?
0:12:44 > 0:12:46Absolutely, so you can throw open the doors
0:12:46 > 0:12:49- and that's your little champagne balcony.- Yes.
0:12:49 > 0:12:52And even when it's cold, raining,
0:12:52 > 0:12:55you've still got that fabulous view.
0:12:55 > 0:12:56- A-ha! - THEY LAUGH
0:12:56 > 0:12:58I never noticed that!
0:12:58 > 0:12:59Oh, yes.
0:12:59 > 0:13:02I'd say that was a fantastic element.
0:13:02 > 0:13:04Oh, I think it's gorgeous.
0:13:04 > 0:13:06- It's lovely, isn't it?- Beautiful.
0:13:06 > 0:13:09- Really lovely.- You've got a conservatory just through there,
0:13:09 > 0:13:11- which again makes use of the views. - Yes.
0:13:11 > 0:13:14You've got a really lovely-sized utility room,
0:13:14 > 0:13:17so this isn't where everything is.
0:13:17 > 0:13:21Even as you're washing up in the utility room or doing the laundry,
0:13:21 > 0:13:22you've got the views.
0:13:22 > 0:13:24- Fantastic.- Lovely.
0:13:24 > 0:13:27Also off the kitchen is a ground floor family bathroom,
0:13:27 > 0:13:29and on the other side, the main reception,
0:13:29 > 0:13:32once again with charming country features
0:13:32 > 0:13:34including a log-burning stove.
0:13:35 > 0:13:39Again, in here, the owners have really made use of the setting.
0:13:39 > 0:13:42A really nice-sized room, a door that goes outside.
0:13:42 > 0:13:46And you've still got the view and it is so light and bright.
0:13:46 > 0:13:47It's got a lovely feel to it.
0:13:47 > 0:13:50So you can imagine yourself relaxing in here?
0:13:50 > 0:13:52- Absolutely.- I can, actually.
0:13:52 > 0:13:55I can, actually, it is really nice.
0:13:55 > 0:13:58The two doors that you can see there are bedrooms.
0:13:58 > 0:14:00- Oh.- So they are matching bedrooms,
0:14:00 > 0:14:03they've each got a working fireplace in each of the bedrooms.
0:14:03 > 0:14:08Both can fit double beds in so really, those are your guest rooms.
0:14:08 > 0:14:11- Yes, lovely.- Let me show you your bedroom, though.
0:14:11 > 0:14:13Thank you.
0:14:13 > 0:14:16A really heartening reaction to the welcoming spaces on offer
0:14:16 > 0:14:19in this beautifully located home.
0:14:19 > 0:14:22But there's even more to impress Jonathan and Diana upstairs,
0:14:22 > 0:14:24where the converted loft space is
0:14:24 > 0:14:27entirely devoted to the master accommodation,
0:14:27 > 0:14:32with its own dressing room and en suite featuring a modern bathtub
0:14:32 > 0:14:34and separate shower.
0:14:34 > 0:14:38Up here, you've got your own private suite, really.
0:14:38 > 0:14:40- Wow.- I like the lightness, it's really bright.
0:14:40 > 0:14:42Look at the views across there.
0:14:42 > 0:14:45You could wake up to that view.
0:14:45 > 0:14:46Wow.
0:14:46 > 0:14:50That is like a picture, it's absolutely lovely.
0:14:50 > 0:14:53This floor is your own, not really for guests, unless in the future
0:14:53 > 0:14:56you chose to stay in the bedrooms on the ground floor.
0:14:56 > 0:14:58It's a perfect house for a couple.
0:14:58 > 0:15:00- It is, yes.- Perfect.
0:15:00 > 0:15:02I like the way they have shaped the ceiling to get the light in.
0:15:02 > 0:15:04- Beautifully done. - It's been done very nicely.
0:15:04 > 0:15:07Great. Let's go and see what else is in store.
0:15:07 > 0:15:09- Exciting. - Lead us back out to the garden.
0:15:11 > 0:15:15Well, the interior has delivered everything Diana and Jonathan
0:15:15 > 0:15:19had hoped for, and I don't think the outside will disappoint.
0:15:19 > 0:15:23Extensive gardens boast many mature shrubs and trees,
0:15:23 > 0:15:26plus outbuildings including a former housekeeper's annexe
0:15:26 > 0:15:29with recently lapsed planning permission.
0:15:29 > 0:15:30Subject to a fresh application,
0:15:30 > 0:15:33it could be turned into extra guest accommodation,
0:15:33 > 0:15:37or they could use it as a writing or sewing space.
0:15:37 > 0:15:39There's also a large paddock,
0:15:39 > 0:15:42currently kept in check by the owner's small flock of sheep.
0:15:42 > 0:15:46So you've got three-quarters of an acre, really.
0:15:46 > 0:15:48That's a joy. I like gardening,
0:15:48 > 0:15:50I like working outside.
0:15:50 > 0:15:54So, what would this beautiful house cost you?
0:15:54 > 0:15:58Well, I would say certainly top end,
0:15:58 > 0:16:00so I would say...525.
0:16:00 > 0:16:03I'm not going to argue too much with that.
0:16:03 > 0:16:05I will be optimistic and go 520.
0:16:06 > 0:16:10It's actually on the market for just under your budget,
0:16:10 > 0:16:14£499,950.
0:16:14 > 0:16:16- Good gracious.- Unbelievable.
0:16:16 > 0:16:18It's just absolutely gorgeous.
0:16:18 > 0:16:20I feel quite emotional about it.
0:16:20 > 0:16:23It's really, really fabulous.
0:16:23 > 0:16:25It's a great start. Go and have another look around,
0:16:25 > 0:16:27- now that you know the price.- OK.
0:16:27 > 0:16:28I will meet you out front in a bit.
0:16:28 > 0:16:30- Thank you very much. - Thank you very much.
0:16:33 > 0:16:35Coming in slightly under budget,
0:16:35 > 0:16:37this hillside property has
0:16:37 > 0:16:39everything our buyers want from
0:16:39 > 0:16:41their new home in the country.
0:16:41 > 0:16:43The three double bedrooms include
0:16:43 > 0:16:45a master suite on the entire upper
0:16:45 > 0:16:47floor. Plus there is a large kitchen
0:16:47 > 0:16:49diner and spacious sitting room,
0:16:49 > 0:16:51as well as wonderful countryside views
0:16:51 > 0:16:53from almost every room.
0:16:54 > 0:16:56The large plot gives keen gardener
0:16:56 > 0:16:58Jonathan plenty to work with
0:16:58 > 0:17:00and an annexe offers potential
0:17:00 > 0:17:01as a writing or sewing room.
0:17:03 > 0:17:05- Nice, isn't it?- Yes, really.
0:17:05 > 0:17:08Again, it is an extension of the house into the garden.
0:17:08 > 0:17:10Everything is joined up. It's really lovely.
0:17:10 > 0:17:12Yes, gorgeous.
0:17:12 > 0:17:16The house inside - lovely open plan, beautifully done,
0:17:16 > 0:17:17nice soft wood everywhere.
0:17:17 > 0:17:21I wouldn't want to change anything, I think it's really gorgeous.
0:17:21 > 0:17:25We'd like to have the grandchildren and the family down to visit.
0:17:25 > 0:17:27It'll be perfect.
0:17:27 > 0:17:28Nice big area where we can eat
0:17:28 > 0:17:31and of course the garden would be lovely
0:17:31 > 0:17:33for the two grandchildren,
0:17:33 > 0:17:36they'd have a whale of a time making camps and running around.
0:17:36 > 0:17:40I think that views were our number one priority and it is
0:17:40 > 0:17:43beautifully situated. The rooms are so nicely done.
0:17:43 > 0:17:46It feels as though the outside and inside are almost joined together.
0:17:46 > 0:17:49I really like gardens, I like working outside,
0:17:49 > 0:17:53and to have this amount of land I can play with and really enjoy,
0:17:53 > 0:17:55really delighted and pleased with it.
0:17:55 > 0:17:58When the price was given to us,
0:17:58 > 0:18:00I was really pleased about that.
0:18:00 > 0:18:04That certainly made us think about it very seriously.
0:18:05 > 0:18:09Beaming smiles, that's what I like to see.
0:18:09 > 0:18:10I don't think we could have asked
0:18:10 > 0:18:12for a better start to our house hunt.
0:18:12 > 0:18:14No, no.
0:18:14 > 0:18:16It really does tick all the boxes.
0:18:16 > 0:18:18It's lovely. It really is lovely.
0:18:18 > 0:18:20Great, I can't ask for more than that.
0:18:20 > 0:18:22- Let's go.- Thank you.
0:18:26 > 0:18:30The fertile lands of Dorset have a long tradition of food production,
0:18:30 > 0:18:35but historically, they were also an important source of clothing.
0:18:35 > 0:18:38Arable and livestock farming supported the making of lace
0:18:38 > 0:18:42and wool, whilst the county's sheep also provided discs of horn
0:18:42 > 0:18:45to be turned into early cloth-covered buttons.
0:18:47 > 0:18:48In the 17th century,
0:18:48 > 0:18:51button-making really took off here when an English soldier,
0:18:51 > 0:18:53returning from battles in Europe,
0:18:53 > 0:18:57realised the growing popularity of buttoned clothing and set up
0:18:57 > 0:19:01a commercial makers in the town of Shaftesbury.
0:19:01 > 0:19:05And that's where we are sending Jonathan and keen seamstress Diana -
0:19:05 > 0:19:09they are meeting local button maker and historian Anna McDowell
0:19:09 > 0:19:12to find out about this Dorset form of haberdashery.
0:19:13 > 0:19:15Hello and welcome to Shaftesbury.
0:19:15 > 0:19:18- Thank you very much.- You are now visiting the birthplace
0:19:18 > 0:19:19of the Dorset button industry.
0:19:19 > 0:19:21- So, I understand you are a sewer? - I am indeed.
0:19:21 > 0:19:24Why don't we go into the Gold Hill Museum and have a look?
0:19:24 > 0:19:27- We'd love to.- Thank you very much.
0:19:27 > 0:19:30With women typically able to earn more from making buttons
0:19:30 > 0:19:33from home than from working on the land,
0:19:33 > 0:19:36it was a popular endeavour that supported many families
0:19:36 > 0:19:38for around 200 years.
0:19:38 > 0:19:42Gold Hill Museum has several examples of the different designs
0:19:42 > 0:19:43produced over that time.
0:19:45 > 0:19:49As you can imagine, there are a lot of other people making buttons,
0:19:49 > 0:19:53especially thread buttons, which is basically what a Dorset button is.
0:19:53 > 0:19:55Up in Macclesfield you had the silk buttons,
0:19:55 > 0:20:01you had button makers in London, but here in Dorset, we're unique,
0:20:01 > 0:20:05because our buttons are actually made originally with linen,
0:20:05 > 0:20:09linen fabric and also the natural sheep's horn.
0:20:09 > 0:20:13But the original buttons were the high tops and the Dorset knobs,
0:20:13 > 0:20:17which you can see a little Dorset knob in here, with a flatter button
0:20:17 > 0:20:19they say was more undergarments.
0:20:19 > 0:20:22Was it just the women at home that made the buttons?
0:20:22 > 0:20:25No, the children would have been involved.
0:20:25 > 0:20:30These buttons here are made from a wire ring and small boys were used
0:20:30 > 0:20:33to dip the wire to seal them.
0:20:33 > 0:20:34There would have been the men -
0:20:34 > 0:20:38they were agents and used to sell the buttons.
0:20:38 > 0:20:44It was actually a very well organised industry or business.
0:20:44 > 0:20:47Were there markets or special events to sell the buttons?
0:20:47 > 0:20:51Agents used to go and collect them from the cottages.
0:20:51 > 0:20:52They were taken to the depots
0:20:52 > 0:20:55and there they would have been washed and graded.
0:20:55 > 0:20:56To set the scene,
0:20:56 > 0:21:00the cottages would have been, shall we say, not the cleanest,
0:21:00 > 0:21:04so the buttons used to be, you know, not the cleanest.
0:21:04 > 0:21:08These handmade thread buttons were to provide a viable income
0:21:08 > 0:21:12for many Dorset families until the middle of the 19th century
0:21:12 > 0:21:16when machines capable of doing the job much faster and more cheaply
0:21:16 > 0:21:19cut the cottage industry dead.
0:21:19 > 0:21:22But just a short distance from the museum, Anna is bringing
0:21:22 > 0:21:25the old-fashioned techniques back to life in her workshop.
0:21:26 > 0:21:30I thought we would have a go at just doing something simple,
0:21:30 > 0:21:32a larger version of one of these.
0:21:32 > 0:21:34You call that a simple one, do you(?)
0:21:34 > 0:21:37Yes, that is a simple cartwheel button.
0:21:37 > 0:21:38Lovely.
0:21:38 > 0:21:41As there are no written records of how the original buttons
0:21:41 > 0:21:45were made, Anna has had to work the methods out for herself,
0:21:45 > 0:21:47starting with measuring out the thread.
0:21:47 > 0:21:50Three lengths like that.
0:21:50 > 0:21:51Yes.
0:21:51 > 0:21:53Is this the old-fashioned yard?
0:21:53 > 0:21:55It is the old-fashioned yard.
0:21:56 > 0:21:58Next, the thread is used to cover
0:21:58 > 0:22:02a small metal ring with a series of blanket stitches.
0:22:02 > 0:22:07Throw the thread over the back of your hand and you form a loop.
0:22:07 > 0:22:10Right? You're going to put the needle through that loop.
0:22:10 > 0:22:13The most difficult thing is, it keeps getting tangled up,
0:22:13 > 0:22:14or is it just me?
0:22:16 > 0:22:18Go through the loop,
0:22:18 > 0:22:21the centre of the ring and pull it tight.
0:22:21 > 0:22:24- It's not as easy as it looks. - No, it's not.
0:22:24 > 0:22:28It now takes Anna around 40 minutes to make a single button,
0:22:28 > 0:22:30but in the 1730s,
0:22:30 > 0:22:33women workers were earning around two shillings a day
0:22:33 > 0:22:36with averages of six or seven dozen buttons.
0:22:36 > 0:22:41I was told that a local farmer, at harvest time,
0:22:41 > 0:22:45said he couldn't get the women to help harvest because they could
0:22:45 > 0:22:49actually earn more making buttons than they could on the land.
0:22:49 > 0:22:52Once the ring is tightly covered with the blanket stitching,
0:22:52 > 0:22:55Anna creates an effect like the spokes of a wheel
0:22:55 > 0:22:57by taking turns around the entire button.
0:22:57 > 0:23:00Sometimes I put more spokes,
0:23:00 > 0:23:03sometimes I put in less spokes.
0:23:03 > 0:23:07And then draws these all together with a crossed stitch at the centre.
0:23:07 > 0:23:10- Watch this.- Oh.
0:23:10 > 0:23:12How clever.
0:23:12 > 0:23:15Finally, a back stitch is used over each of the spokes
0:23:15 > 0:23:17to cover the gaps.
0:23:17 > 0:23:19Eventually, you will fill up the button.
0:23:19 > 0:23:21Right, we're nearly there,
0:23:21 > 0:23:23and you've got something like that.
0:23:23 > 0:23:26Good gracious. It looks really lovely.
0:23:26 > 0:23:30It's fabulous. It looks like a really intricate spider's web.
0:23:30 > 0:23:33There you have it, a Dorset button.
0:23:33 > 0:23:35It's lovely, thank you very much indeed, it's really lovely.
0:23:35 > 0:23:38Why don't you take that home?
0:23:38 > 0:23:40That's fabulous.
0:23:40 > 0:23:44Take those two you have been working on and finish them off.
0:23:44 > 0:23:46- Thank you very much for showing us. - Good luck.
0:23:46 > 0:23:49It has been wonderful to see a cottage craft being revived
0:23:49 > 0:23:53in its original surroundings. But now for Diana and Jonathan
0:23:53 > 0:23:56to find out if they can get their property search all sewn up
0:23:56 > 0:23:59as we continue with their house hunt.
0:24:02 > 0:24:07Our next property is taking the search ten miles inland,
0:24:07 > 0:24:09close to the borders of Devon and Somerset
0:24:09 > 0:24:11and the village of Thorncombe.
0:24:11 > 0:24:16Set in verdant, undulating hills, it was once home and inspiration
0:24:16 > 0:24:20to the French landscape painter Lucien Pissarro.
0:24:20 > 0:24:23There's a strong sense of community here,
0:24:23 > 0:24:26with a shop and post office run by locals,
0:24:26 > 0:24:30a village hall offering activities, and a primary school.
0:24:30 > 0:24:33In the 18th century the area became a thriving centre
0:24:33 > 0:24:35for wool and lace-making,
0:24:35 > 0:24:37with the resulting population growth
0:24:37 > 0:24:40such that a century later, a new church had to be built
0:24:40 > 0:24:44to house the now 1,500-strong parish congregation.
0:24:44 > 0:24:46The property we've come to see
0:24:46 > 0:24:49is located at the end of a no-through-road
0:24:49 > 0:24:51at the edges of the village.
0:24:51 > 0:24:54The stone house in the corner.
0:24:54 > 0:24:58- Oh!- Is our offering.- OK.- Oh, yes.
0:24:58 > 0:25:00- What do you think? - The house looks nice.
0:25:00 > 0:25:03The view's really quite stunning. On the edge of the village.
0:25:03 > 0:25:07You are inland here a little bit more than perhaps you wanted.
0:25:07 > 0:25:08How do you feel about that?
0:25:08 > 0:25:13- Maybe it's a compromise.- Yeah. - Yeah, open mind.- Yes, absolutely.
0:25:13 > 0:25:15What about the house itself?
0:25:15 > 0:25:17It looks nice. It's in nice condition,
0:25:17 > 0:25:20nice windows, nice outlook from the windows.
0:25:20 > 0:25:22Really open to have a look.
0:25:22 > 0:25:25- Let's go and have a look.- Lovely. - Thank you.
0:25:25 > 0:25:28This stone house was only built in the year 2000
0:25:28 > 0:25:32and has even more recently been extended and improved.
0:25:32 > 0:25:36Set into the corner of the property, the main door leads to a hallway
0:25:36 > 0:25:38and onto the heart of the home.
0:25:40 > 0:25:44Just come through into the kitchen-diner.
0:25:44 > 0:25:49- Ooh! Very nice.- Oh, yes. - Isn't that lovely?
0:25:49 > 0:25:53- Nice centre.- Yeah, lovely island, really nice size.
0:25:53 > 0:25:56I mean, I feel this is like a family entertaining kitchen.
0:25:56 > 0:25:59- Yeah, it is, yes, yes.- Yeah.
0:25:59 > 0:26:02And that little space, you could almost have it as a little TV corner
0:26:02 > 0:26:06or, you know, you could do whatever you wanted,
0:26:06 > 0:26:08or leave it open like that, or...
0:26:08 > 0:26:11If you had guests, this is where you'd be eating dinner too.
0:26:11 > 0:26:12- Yes.- Yeah.
0:26:12 > 0:26:15It's really lovely, really nicely done.
0:26:17 > 0:26:20'Adjoining the kitchen, there's a utility room,
0:26:20 > 0:26:23'and further along the hall at the rear of the property
0:26:23 > 0:26:25'are the main reception rooms.'
0:26:25 > 0:26:30Now, this used to be the main living area of the house,
0:26:30 > 0:26:33with the fireplace, you've got double aspect.
0:26:33 > 0:26:37But this is the real asset downstairs, I think.
0:26:37 > 0:26:40- This summer room.- Oh, yes, it's lovely.- Yes. Lovely.
0:26:40 > 0:26:44You can see this has been added on a little bit later,
0:26:44 > 0:26:47but it's just so well done.
0:26:47 > 0:26:49Yes, absolutely lovely. Lovely room.
0:26:49 > 0:26:53You don't feel as though you're in an extension, as such.
0:26:53 > 0:26:55- Really beautiful. - It's been done so nicely.
0:26:55 > 0:26:59But this room is the advantage of being at the end of this cul-de-sac
0:26:59 > 0:27:02because really, I think, you've got the prime views here.
0:27:02 > 0:27:04Best location, I would think.
0:27:04 > 0:27:09Nods of approval all round for the well-proportioned ground floor
0:27:09 > 0:27:11with countryside views.
0:27:11 > 0:27:12Let's see what they make of
0:27:12 > 0:27:16the three-bedroom accommodation upstairs.
0:27:16 > 0:27:18Over the reception room sit two doubles,
0:27:18 > 0:27:21one of which is currently used as a study,
0:27:21 > 0:27:25and both benefitting from extensive views and built-in wardrobes.
0:27:25 > 0:27:28There's also a well-appointed family bathroom.
0:27:28 > 0:27:32Then, across the front of the upper floor,
0:27:32 > 0:27:34is the largest bedroom - the master en-suite.
0:27:34 > 0:27:38- It's a nice sized master, isn't it? - It's very big.- Yeah, very big.
0:27:38 > 0:27:42So the master looks out onto the courtyard and the garden,
0:27:42 > 0:27:47and there are some views. But the real views are to be had in here.
0:27:47 > 0:27:49That is an en-suite, isn't it?!
0:27:49 > 0:27:52That is! Oh...
0:27:52 > 0:27:54Well, I mean, you have got lovely views.
0:27:54 > 0:27:57- Bath, glass of wine, views. - What more can you want?
0:27:57 > 0:27:59What more is there to say?
0:27:59 > 0:28:00Yeah, lovely.
0:28:00 > 0:28:04Well, let's go and see more of those views outside, I think.
0:28:06 > 0:28:10The space and views on offer here seem to be convincing our couple,
0:28:10 > 0:28:12but there's even more outside.
0:28:12 > 0:28:15An upper-storey addition to the large double garage
0:28:15 > 0:28:18could be used as a writing den for Jonathan
0:28:18 > 0:28:20or a sewing space.
0:28:20 > 0:28:24Wraparound and varied grounds provide tranquil spots
0:28:24 > 0:28:25from which to soak up the surroundings.
0:28:25 > 0:28:28The garden also features flower beds,
0:28:28 > 0:28:31a vegetable patch, orchard
0:28:31 > 0:28:33and a part-share in a one-acre paddock.
0:28:35 > 0:28:39Can you imagine sitting here looking out onto those views?
0:28:39 > 0:28:41- Very nice indeed.- They are lovely.
0:28:41 > 0:28:43Really lovely.
0:28:43 > 0:28:45And there's not a pylon in sight.
0:28:45 > 0:28:48The scenery will change as the seasons pass.
0:28:49 > 0:28:51It's really nice.
0:28:51 > 0:28:53Something that won't change, though,
0:28:53 > 0:28:58is there's no risk of things being built
0:28:58 > 0:28:59on this bit of land here
0:28:59 > 0:29:02because what the owner of this house, along with his neighbours,
0:29:02 > 0:29:06what they've done is they've bought that bit of land
0:29:06 > 0:29:09and a third of an acre goes to each house,
0:29:09 > 0:29:12and so they've sort of ensured that no-one can build on it.
0:29:12 > 0:29:14So to protect the view.
0:29:14 > 0:29:17I think the grandkids would quite like this.
0:29:17 > 0:29:18Shall we talk price?
0:29:18 > 0:29:21How much do you think this property is on the market for?
0:29:21 > 0:29:23Er, 510.
0:29:24 > 0:29:27- Diana?- I'll say 505.
0:29:27 > 0:29:30It is an immaculate house.
0:29:30 > 0:29:33Top end again, absolute top end, I would say.
0:29:33 > 0:29:35Jonathan was spot-on.
0:29:35 > 0:29:39It is on the market for £510,000.
0:29:39 > 0:29:40Very good value for money, I think.
0:29:40 > 0:29:42It's a really lovely house for that money.
0:29:42 > 0:29:45- Do you want to have another look around?- Yes, I'd like to.
0:29:45 > 0:29:47- There's so much to explore.- Yep.
0:29:47 > 0:29:49- And I'll meet you in a bit.- Lovely. Thank you very much.
0:29:53 > 0:29:55Although this recently built detached stone house
0:29:55 > 0:29:58would require a stretch of the budget,
0:29:58 > 0:30:01our couple have said they'd be willing to do so
0:30:01 > 0:30:02for the right property.
0:30:02 > 0:30:06A large kitchen-diner is perfect for getting the whole family together
0:30:06 > 0:30:09and the sun room means they could enjoy the country setting
0:30:09 > 0:30:11whatever the weather.
0:30:11 > 0:30:15There are three good-sized bedrooms, including a master en suite,
0:30:15 > 0:30:19plus an annexe that could be used for writing or sewing,
0:30:19 > 0:30:23and the house is located on the edge of a thriving and popular village.
0:30:23 > 0:30:26- So, this is the field.- Yeah. - Actually, it's lovely, isn't it?
0:30:26 > 0:30:28- It is lovely. - Look up at the house now.
0:30:28 > 0:30:30Yeah, the house looks lovely.
0:30:30 > 0:30:32- The house looks lovely. - And the view.
0:30:33 > 0:30:37I think the stone house property is really lovely.
0:30:37 > 0:30:41So comfortable, so well finished, inside and out.
0:30:41 > 0:30:46The location is lovely, presented just superbly with the views.
0:30:46 > 0:30:49Really, really spectacular views.
0:30:49 > 0:30:52On the edge of the village and the village itself looked really nice.
0:30:52 > 0:30:57This house is lovely and everything about the spec is good quality
0:30:57 > 0:31:00and the extension is perfect.
0:31:00 > 0:31:03It's a very, very comfortable house,
0:31:03 > 0:31:06but probably not what we're looking for.
0:31:06 > 0:31:09Perhaps something a little bit more of a challenge,
0:31:09 > 0:31:11a little bit more quirky.
0:31:11 > 0:31:14There isn't a job that needs to be done, to be perfectly honest.
0:31:14 > 0:31:17Just probably looking for a retirement home
0:31:17 > 0:31:20with something to do, something to take up my time.
0:31:20 > 0:31:24It feels like a family home and everything has been done to it.
0:31:24 > 0:31:27If I were moving in with the family,
0:31:27 > 0:31:30with our two sons as they were younger, it would have been perfect.
0:31:32 > 0:31:35- It is a nice house, isn't it? - It is, really nice.
0:31:35 > 0:31:37- Shall we hit the road?- Yes.- Lovely.
0:31:46 > 0:31:50Diana and Jonathan from Burgess Hill, West Sussex
0:31:50 > 0:31:54have a budget of £500,000 to find their dream home
0:31:54 > 0:31:56near the coast of west Dorset.
0:31:56 > 0:32:00We've already shown them some tantalising property,
0:32:00 > 0:32:03but there's still more to look at and our Mystery House
0:32:03 > 0:32:06may just confound expectations.
0:32:07 > 0:32:10- What a surprise.- I take it all back, it's really bright.
0:32:11 > 0:32:14Plus, I get back to basics with a pair of printmakers
0:32:14 > 0:32:18who left London life for the rural delights of Dorset.
0:32:18 > 0:32:21It's caveman technology. It's not that difficult, really.
0:32:23 > 0:32:25We have two more properties to view today -
0:32:25 > 0:32:29later on we'll be visiting our Mystery House, which gives me
0:32:29 > 0:32:32the opportunity to show Diana and Jonathan something
0:32:32 > 0:32:34they'd never have gone to see themselves.
0:32:34 > 0:32:37But first, we have another house to look at
0:32:37 > 0:32:41and this one really makes the most of being by the coast.
0:32:42 > 0:32:45For our next house, we are walking distance from the sea
0:32:45 > 0:32:48in the historic market town of Bridport.
0:32:49 > 0:32:53Used as the basis for Port Bredy in Thomas Hardy's fictional Wessex,
0:32:53 > 0:32:56it has a lively arts scene as well as a broad selection
0:32:56 > 0:32:59of shops and services.
0:32:59 > 0:33:00Within the town's boundary,
0:33:00 > 0:33:04West Bay features spectacular cliff walks and sandy beaches.
0:33:05 > 0:33:09Once known as Bridport Harbour, would-be sailor Jonathan
0:33:09 > 0:33:13could whet his nautical appetite at the attractive marina.
0:33:13 > 0:33:16The next house enjoys this magnificent coastal outlook
0:33:16 > 0:33:20from less than a mile away. We're starting our tour at the rear
0:33:20 > 0:33:25of the property, where the seaside setting is really maximised.
0:33:25 > 0:33:30Now, as you both do want to live by the coast,
0:33:30 > 0:33:33here is a house by the sea.
0:33:33 > 0:33:37Bringing you in this way, you really get to appreciate the views
0:33:37 > 0:33:40- which is what you're after and what you have requested.- Yes.
0:33:40 > 0:33:42What do you think about the house itself?
0:33:42 > 0:33:44A good size, nice windows.
0:33:44 > 0:33:47Immediately, I see those big glass doors,
0:33:47 > 0:33:50which is showing us the view again and making the most of it.
0:33:51 > 0:33:53- Let's go in.- Lovely, thank you.
0:33:55 > 0:33:57Built in 1936,
0:33:57 > 0:34:01this seaside home was given a two-storey extension to the front
0:34:01 > 0:34:04by the current owners in 2013.
0:34:04 > 0:34:08A conservatory entrance to the side of the property takes us through
0:34:08 > 0:34:13to this newer section of the home and the large kitchen-diner.
0:34:13 > 0:34:14A really good size.
0:34:14 > 0:34:15Really nice.
0:34:15 > 0:34:17Bright. I like the fixtures and fittings.
0:34:17 > 0:34:19- They look good.- Loads of colours.
0:34:19 > 0:34:22It has been nicely done.
0:34:22 > 0:34:24Would this kind of space work for you in the way you live?
0:34:24 > 0:34:27- Yes.- Yes, definitely.
0:34:27 > 0:34:28And this is a big area, too.
0:34:28 > 0:34:32- Yes, I think this is quite a flexible space.- Really nicely done.
0:34:32 > 0:34:33This is the front of the house -
0:34:33 > 0:34:37- let's go to the view side of the house.- Lovely.
0:34:37 > 0:34:39Back at the rear of the property,
0:34:39 > 0:34:42past a useful downstairs cloakroom, the spacious reception room
0:34:42 > 0:34:45has sliding patio doors to soak up the setting.
0:34:45 > 0:34:47This used to be two rooms.
0:34:47 > 0:34:49It works well as a big room, really.
0:34:49 > 0:34:52A really good-sized room, log-burning stove.
0:34:52 > 0:34:53It's lovely, isn't it?
0:34:53 > 0:34:57Nice, bright and the views are really gorgeous.
0:34:57 > 0:34:59Huge, huge doors.
0:34:59 > 0:35:03- It feels like a lovely Dorset picture, doesn't it?- Yes.
0:35:03 > 0:35:07Let's go higher because of course that sea view can only get better.
0:35:10 > 0:35:14Jonathan and Diana barely dared to wish for a view of the sea,
0:35:14 > 0:35:17but the one on offer from this immaculate detached home
0:35:17 > 0:35:19is certainly winning them over.
0:35:19 > 0:35:22Upstairs, there are four bedrooms -
0:35:22 > 0:35:25the two smallest rooms are located in the top floor
0:35:25 > 0:35:28of the front extension, both with single beds.
0:35:28 > 0:35:30Then, to the rear of the property,
0:35:30 > 0:35:34a large double enjoys that coastal outlook.
0:35:34 > 0:35:38The family bathroom provides a roll-top bath and separate shower.
0:35:38 > 0:35:40And then, also to the rear of the property,
0:35:40 > 0:35:44bedroom number four is the master en suite.
0:35:44 > 0:35:46You could have next door as a master,
0:35:46 > 0:35:48but this had the space for the en suite.
0:35:48 > 0:35:50Yes, and you've got the view.
0:35:50 > 0:35:52It's lovely.
0:35:52 > 0:35:54That's what this house is about -
0:35:54 > 0:35:56- that picture.- Yes.
0:35:56 > 0:35:59And lovely big windows to show it off.
0:35:59 > 0:36:02If that's what you want, this is the place to go for.
0:36:02 > 0:36:05We asked for a sea view, but didn't think you would find it.
0:36:05 > 0:36:07How you did it, I don't know.
0:36:07 > 0:36:10And you've got the hills as well, so you've got everything.
0:36:10 > 0:36:14Nicely decorated. I like the colours and it means no decorating.
0:36:14 > 0:36:16Yes. I'm really impressed.
0:36:16 > 0:36:18It's lovely. Really, really lovely.
0:36:18 > 0:36:20Yes.
0:36:20 > 0:36:24The appeal of this home seems to be growing stronger and stronger.
0:36:24 > 0:36:28Outside to the front of the property is a block-paved driveway
0:36:28 > 0:36:31with parking for several cars.
0:36:31 > 0:36:35A garage is found at the rear and is reached via a service road.
0:36:35 > 0:36:39What's more, it has planning permission to be redeveloped,
0:36:39 > 0:36:42so could provide options for their creative pastimes.
0:36:42 > 0:36:45There's also a greenhouse and small vegetable patch
0:36:45 > 0:36:48as well as a raised terrace and an ample lawn
0:36:48 > 0:36:51from which to enjoy the views across to the bay.
0:36:53 > 0:36:56I think this garden is a bit of a blank canvas for you.
0:36:56 > 0:37:00Absolutely, and, actually, not a bad place to be working, is it?
0:37:00 > 0:37:02- No.- It needs work doing.
0:37:02 > 0:37:04But the view's still here, it's lovely.
0:37:04 > 0:37:07You strike me as people that want to do a little something.
0:37:07 > 0:37:11I like messing around in the garden and creating new ones,
0:37:11 > 0:37:13so this would be a nice one to create.
0:37:13 > 0:37:16- What do you think of the overall proposition, then?- I like it.
0:37:16 > 0:37:18I think the house is very nice.
0:37:18 > 0:37:20And we've got the location, of course,
0:37:20 > 0:37:22which is again what we asked for.
0:37:22 > 0:37:24Close to West Bay, so...
0:37:24 > 0:37:27How much is this property on the market for?
0:37:27 > 0:37:30How much is that sea view going to cost you?
0:37:30 > 0:37:32Again, it's going to be top-end.
0:37:32 > 0:37:35- An optimistic 515.- OK.
0:37:37 > 0:37:39Still some gardening to be done -
0:37:39 > 0:37:41I'm going to be really optimistic
0:37:41 > 0:37:43and go for 495.
0:37:45 > 0:37:48You both are being very optimistic.
0:37:48 > 0:37:52It is actually on the market for £540,000.
0:37:52 > 0:37:54Is it really?
0:37:54 > 0:37:57I know I've been naughty by going over budget, but you did say
0:37:57 > 0:38:01that you might have a little bit extra over the half a million,
0:38:01 > 0:38:03and there is always room to negotiate -
0:38:03 > 0:38:05540 is the guide price.
0:38:05 > 0:38:08- OK, yes. - Go and have another look around.
0:38:08 > 0:38:10Lovely, thank you very much.
0:38:12 > 0:38:14I think they love the sea view
0:38:14 > 0:38:16and I'm so pleased they like the house, too.
0:38:16 > 0:38:18It's not a bad situation to be in,
0:38:18 > 0:38:22to have more than one house that you like.
0:38:22 > 0:38:25Now it's just about which location you prefer.
0:38:26 > 0:38:31The asking price of this detached coastal home may be over budget,
0:38:31 > 0:38:33but it does fulfil that dream of a sea view.
0:38:33 > 0:38:38There's a total of four bedrooms - that's one more than requested,
0:38:38 > 0:38:42so plenty of scope for hobby rooms. The property has a large
0:38:42 > 0:38:46kitchen-diner as well as a good-sized reception room with space
0:38:46 > 0:38:50to entertain the whole family. The gardens give Jonathan options
0:38:50 > 0:38:54for a project and the garage could potentially
0:38:54 > 0:38:57be turned into a writer's den.
0:38:57 > 0:39:01The first impression was a nice, big, bright, light, airy house.
0:39:01 > 0:39:05Really attractive. South-facing, walking distance to the sea.
0:39:05 > 0:39:08Location - absolutely lovely.
0:39:08 > 0:39:12The views out southwards really does take the eye.
0:39:12 > 0:39:14Good guest rooms, that's for sure.
0:39:14 > 0:39:17And then at the back of the house, the other bedroom, good size,
0:39:17 > 0:39:20would make an ideal sewing room for Di.
0:39:20 > 0:39:23We don't generally use a garage for a car -
0:39:23 > 0:39:26maybe we could use that as a writing area.
0:39:26 > 0:39:27Something to look at.
0:39:27 > 0:39:29The garden itself needs quite a lot of work doing on it.
0:39:29 > 0:39:31To do it to the right standard,
0:39:31 > 0:39:33you would be looking at quite a lot of money.
0:39:33 > 0:39:38I would be very tempted to see what price we can buy the house for.
0:39:38 > 0:39:41I would hope there would be room for negotiation
0:39:41 > 0:39:44because I'm definitely interested, yeah.
0:39:44 > 0:39:47It's definitely up there. You've made life difficult for us!
0:39:49 > 0:39:54I'm afraid I will need to drag you both away from the gorgeous view
0:39:54 > 0:39:56as we still have the Mystery House to go.
0:39:56 > 0:39:57- OK.- Our property hunt is not over.
0:39:57 > 0:40:00- Thank you very much.- Let's see what else you've got up your sleeve.
0:40:05 > 0:40:09Dorset's beautiful land and seascapes have long been a source
0:40:09 > 0:40:13of artistic inspiration. Turner was a frequent visitor,
0:40:13 > 0:40:16painting several sunsets at Poole Harbour, while the brush
0:40:16 > 0:40:20of Constable captured rain clouds over Weymouth Bay
0:40:20 > 0:40:22along with many pastoral scenes.
0:40:22 > 0:40:25It's a draw that continues to this day.
0:40:25 > 0:40:29A decade ago, creative couple Cameron Short and Janet Tristram
0:40:29 > 0:40:33chucked in their London lives and careers in advertising and retail
0:40:33 > 0:40:37to move to the county and pursue more artistic paths.
0:40:37 > 0:40:39Settling in Thorncombe,
0:40:39 > 0:40:43they turned abandoned premises into a home and studio for themselves
0:40:43 > 0:40:46and their three young daughters.
0:40:46 > 0:40:48Now working as handmade printmakers,
0:40:48 > 0:40:52they're building a reputation for uniquely captivating work
0:40:52 > 0:40:56inspired by their Dorset setting and local folklore.
0:40:56 > 0:40:58I want to find out about the appeal of the area...
0:40:58 > 0:41:00- Hello.- Hello, Sonali.
0:41:00 > 0:41:03..and why it's such an attractive location for those
0:41:03 > 0:41:05seeking creative fulfilment.
0:41:05 > 0:41:09What persuaded you to move away from London?
0:41:09 > 0:41:13Many people wanting to get into this business would have been tempted
0:41:13 > 0:41:15to stay there. What made you come to Dorset?
0:41:15 > 0:41:19Yeah, well, I got to a stage in my career as a copywriter
0:41:19 > 0:41:21where I'd just kind of had enough.
0:41:21 > 0:41:24It was a difficult start because I was trying to obviously
0:41:24 > 0:41:28earn a living - I was working on a building site at the time
0:41:28 > 0:41:31to make ends meet - knowing that I just had to, if I wanted to,
0:41:31 > 0:41:34make the break into being a block printer,
0:41:34 > 0:41:35I knew I had to do the work.
0:41:35 > 0:41:39So I'd be carving away, whittling at night, thinking about designs.
0:41:39 > 0:41:43And we found our way, through trial and error, but the things
0:41:43 > 0:41:48that we do as a family, naturally, are imbued into the imagery.
0:41:48 > 0:41:53So it might be the walks we do, the animals we see in the area.
0:41:53 > 0:41:55So we're starting to find that we have
0:41:55 > 0:42:00a rich narrative in our own life that we mix in with our maybe
0:42:00 > 0:42:04slightly nostalgic love of England as well.
0:42:04 > 0:42:08All that stuff does lend itself beautifully to creating imagery.
0:42:08 > 0:42:11Our life in the countryside now does influence our work.
0:42:11 > 0:42:14There's a lot that I get stirred by, even now.
0:42:14 > 0:42:18And the pace of life suits us, it's very relaxed,
0:42:18 > 0:42:20people are very friendly,
0:42:20 > 0:42:22so we feel very much at home here.
0:42:24 > 0:42:28Janet and Cameron now create designs that they work onto cushions,
0:42:28 > 0:42:32lampshades, wallpaper and furniture, as well as limited edition prints.
0:42:33 > 0:42:36But it's about more than simply creating
0:42:36 > 0:42:37aesthetically pleasing objects -
0:42:37 > 0:42:41there's a depth of statement contained within.
0:42:41 > 0:42:42Tell me about this one.
0:42:42 > 0:42:45Ode To The Ash. Well, that particular print...
0:42:45 > 0:42:48I heard about the crisis with ash dieback
0:42:48 > 0:42:53and I wanted to do something that celebrated the tree,
0:42:53 > 0:42:55and maybe educated people when they looked at it
0:42:55 > 0:42:59about how important the tree had been in our history and our culture.
0:42:59 > 0:43:03Cameron's really using storytelling,
0:43:03 > 0:43:06and there's certain vignettes within the overall design,
0:43:06 > 0:43:10so you can kind of lose yourself in what is a repeat pattern.
0:43:10 > 0:43:12For instance, if it was in a child's room,
0:43:12 > 0:43:15they can daydream away looking at the little bits and pieces
0:43:15 > 0:43:17within the image.
0:43:17 > 0:43:20The process starts by carving away the parts of the design
0:43:20 > 0:43:24that will remain ink-free into a lino-covered wood block.
0:43:25 > 0:43:28It's caveman technology. It's not that difficult, really.
0:43:29 > 0:43:33A tacky, linseed-based ink is applied to a plain glass surface
0:43:33 > 0:43:35and rolled out until it's the texture of suede.
0:43:35 > 0:43:37Just push the ink.
0:43:37 > 0:43:39Really nice.
0:43:39 > 0:43:42There's something very therapeutic about this.
0:43:43 > 0:43:46Next, the ink is transferred from the glass
0:43:46 > 0:43:48to the carved wood block with the roller.
0:43:48 > 0:43:51It's a manual process that creates natural imperfections.
0:43:51 > 0:43:53You know that it's been done by hand
0:43:53 > 0:43:57because each print is going to be unique, not totally perfect,
0:43:57 > 0:44:00but that's what gives it its life.
0:44:00 > 0:44:03Now for Cameron and Janet's early 20th century proofing press
0:44:03 > 0:44:06- to be put into action. - You've got the handle here,
0:44:06 > 0:44:09which will move the cylinder across the bed of the press
0:44:09 > 0:44:10and apply the pressure,
0:44:10 > 0:44:13and this thing here that you can alter the pressures.
0:44:13 > 0:44:16The paper is carefully laid over the inked block.
0:44:16 > 0:44:19Once it's down, you can't move it. Don't even breathe.
0:44:19 > 0:44:24And protective felts are put on top before adjusting the pressure.
0:44:24 > 0:44:26About there should do it.
0:44:26 > 0:44:28Then the cylinder is brought across the design,
0:44:28 > 0:44:31a little like a mechanical rolling pin.
0:44:31 > 0:44:34- Just roll it across gently, like this.- Give it some welly!- Yeah.
0:44:34 > 0:44:37We probably did that a bit quickly, but it's not going to matter.
0:44:37 > 0:44:39- Sorry.- That's OK.
0:44:39 > 0:44:41Finally, the felts and paper are peeled back,
0:44:41 > 0:44:43revealing the image.
0:44:43 > 0:44:45- There we go.- Oh, my gosh.
0:44:45 > 0:44:49You see nightjars, moths and a lantern.
0:44:49 > 0:44:51My gosh, I want to take that home and frame it.
0:44:51 > 0:44:52- You can.- May I?
0:44:52 > 0:44:55- Of course you can, yes.- Thank you.
0:44:55 > 0:44:58What a wonderful memento of the natural details true artists
0:44:58 > 0:45:02like Cameron and Janet observe in their surroundings.
0:45:02 > 0:45:05Stepping into their world has given me a fresh insight
0:45:05 > 0:45:08into the creative energy that Dorset has to offer.
0:45:17 > 0:45:22What do you think I have up my sleeve for the mystery property?
0:45:22 > 0:45:26Oh... I really don't know. You've surprised us so far.
0:45:26 > 0:45:31I can only think, although we said we would prefer not to,
0:45:31 > 0:45:33perhaps you've got a thatched property...
0:45:33 > 0:45:36So remind me why you don't like thatched.
0:45:36 > 0:45:39We didn't want the upkeep of a thatched.
0:45:39 > 0:45:44And normally they're very small and not light and airy.
0:45:44 > 0:45:46You might end up loving the mystery!
0:45:46 > 0:45:47They have ALL been a mystery!
0:45:47 > 0:45:48THEY LAUGH
0:45:48 > 0:45:53But they've all been... what we asked for, haven't they?
0:45:53 > 0:45:54Yes, yes.
0:45:54 > 0:45:57For the Mystery House, you're going to...
0:45:57 > 0:46:00I've... I know you're going to pull something out
0:46:00 > 0:46:02that is really going to throw the spanner in the works,
0:46:02 > 0:46:07- and we're going to be making a big decision, aren't we?- Yeah.
0:46:07 > 0:46:09We shall find out very soon.
0:46:14 > 0:46:17The mystery offering takes us back to Morcombelake,
0:46:17 > 0:46:20just a short drive from the seaside village of Charmouth.
0:46:21 > 0:46:24Known as the gateway to the Jurassic Coast,
0:46:24 > 0:46:27there's a gently shelving beach below striking cliffs,
0:46:27 > 0:46:29often yielding fossils.
0:46:30 > 0:46:34Amenities include cafes and eateries, medical services,
0:46:34 > 0:46:37a post office and a traditional butcher's.
0:46:38 > 0:46:41Our Mystery House nestles in the surrounding countryside
0:46:41 > 0:46:43of Morcombelake, a couple of miles away.
0:46:44 > 0:46:48THEY LAUGH
0:46:48 > 0:46:50How did we know?!
0:46:50 > 0:46:51But how pretty is that?
0:46:51 > 0:46:54And you did know, didn't you?
0:46:55 > 0:46:59- Yeah.- So I'm afraid my Mystery House wasn't as much of a mystery
0:46:59 > 0:47:02as it should've been, because you completely guessed.
0:47:02 > 0:47:04Oh... But how pretty is that?
0:47:04 > 0:47:07And what a lovely setting.
0:47:07 > 0:47:09- Wow.- Actually, it looks really nice.
0:47:09 > 0:47:11It's a really nice house.
0:47:11 > 0:47:13- I know you said no thatched.- Yeah.
0:47:13 > 0:47:15I wanted you to give this a chance,
0:47:15 > 0:47:19because those fears you have about a thatched, being perhaps pokey...
0:47:19 > 0:47:21- Yeah, yeah. - It doesn't really apply.
0:47:21 > 0:47:24- Yeah.- It looks so lovely. - Yeah, it does.
0:47:24 > 0:47:26- I love the round bits on the end. - Yeah.
0:47:26 > 0:47:28Oh, it's gorgeous, let's give it a go.
0:47:28 > 0:47:30- Shall we?- Yeah, absolutely.
0:47:30 > 0:47:33- You're up for trying it? BOTH:- Absolutely.
0:47:33 > 0:47:35That's all I wanted to know.
0:47:36 > 0:47:38A great reaction to the exterior
0:47:38 > 0:47:41of our rather cheeky mystery proposition.
0:47:41 > 0:47:44Built in the 17th century from cob stone and brick,
0:47:44 > 0:47:48the porched front door of this Grade II listed thatched cottage,
0:47:48 > 0:47:52takes us via a hallway into a decidedly spacious reception room.
0:47:54 > 0:47:57This is the main living room.
0:47:57 > 0:48:00- Very light and bright.- Very! - What a pleasant surprise.
0:48:00 > 0:48:03I take it all back, it's really bright, yeah.
0:48:03 > 0:48:07- Higher ceilings, I think, than usual on a cottage.- Yes.
0:48:07 > 0:48:11And I like the way they're painted in, rather than left dark.
0:48:11 > 0:48:12It brightens it up.
0:48:12 > 0:48:16Good-sized windows, so that you can see the sun's really coming in.
0:48:16 > 0:48:18Was it what you expected?
0:48:18 > 0:48:20From a thatched place, no.
0:48:20 > 0:48:23- No.- It's much brighter, much lighter.
0:48:23 > 0:48:25This is the older part of the house.
0:48:25 > 0:48:28- Let's take you through into the newer part.- OK.
0:48:29 > 0:48:33"New" is a comparative concept in this charming period property.
0:48:33 > 0:48:35Extended in 1949,
0:48:35 > 0:48:38in order to provide a plumbed kitchen and WC,
0:48:38 > 0:48:43the space has been sympathetically refitted by the current owners.
0:48:43 > 0:48:46This is the relatively newer part of the house, the kitchen.
0:48:46 > 0:48:49Oh, isn't that lovely? It's really light.
0:48:49 > 0:48:52So many windows, you couldn't ever call this dark and dingy, could you?
0:48:52 > 0:48:55No. It's a good size, a good-sized table in here.
0:48:55 > 0:48:57Really, really surprised, really pleasantly surprised.
0:48:57 > 0:49:00It hasn't got straw falling off everywhere! No.
0:49:00 > 0:49:03And the floor's all nicely done.
0:49:03 > 0:49:05It's a lovely country kitchen.
0:49:05 > 0:49:08- I'm causing problems, aren't I? - Yes.- Giving you too many choices.
0:49:08 > 0:49:11You are, you're definitely causing us problems.
0:49:11 > 0:49:15- Shall we go and explore the upstairs?- Lovely.- Oh, yes, please.
0:49:15 > 0:49:19Despite Diana and Jonathan's professed wariness of thatched cottages,
0:49:19 > 0:49:24the proportions of our charming mystery offering are persuading them
0:49:24 > 0:49:27that "period" doesn't have to mean "pokey".
0:49:27 > 0:49:30Off the kitchen, there is also a utility and cloakroom,
0:49:30 > 0:49:33as well as a snug with cast iron stove.
0:49:33 > 0:49:35An original curved elm staircase
0:49:35 > 0:49:38takes us up to the three-bedroom accommodation.
0:49:39 > 0:49:42A good-sized double is set under the eaves,
0:49:42 > 0:49:46as is a similarly characterful twin room.
0:49:46 > 0:49:48There's also a family bathroom,
0:49:48 > 0:49:51and then the third and largest of the bedrooms.
0:49:51 > 0:49:53- This is the master.- Ah-ha.
0:49:53 > 0:49:56- Gosh, it's all so nice. - It's bright.- Yeah.
0:49:56 > 0:50:00You can lie in bed and look out at the lovely view.
0:50:00 > 0:50:01And this room has a wet room.
0:50:01 > 0:50:05Oh, I thought it was just wardrobe space, how nicely done.
0:50:05 > 0:50:08It's totally different from my experiences
0:50:08 > 0:50:10of thatched cottages, you know,
0:50:10 > 0:50:13which have always had small windows
0:50:13 > 0:50:15and everywhere's dark inside the house.
0:50:15 > 0:50:17It's really, really different.
0:50:17 > 0:50:19- Mm.- Mm.
0:50:19 > 0:50:22- Crumbs! - THEY LAUGH
0:50:22 > 0:50:25- Let's go back downstairs and outside.- OK.
0:50:25 > 0:50:28- Because we need to discuss the price.- OK, right.- Lovely.
0:50:29 > 0:50:33I'm glad to have confounded their expectations of thatched cottages
0:50:33 > 0:50:37with this bright and spacious Mystery House.
0:50:37 > 0:50:39And outside there's a lot more to show them,
0:50:39 > 0:50:43with a third of an acre of mainly south-facing, secluded grounds,
0:50:43 > 0:50:46surrounded by countryside.
0:50:46 > 0:50:50There's a rotating summerhouse, and a well appointed timber cabin,
0:50:50 > 0:50:53perhaps offering a peaceful spot to sit sewing
0:50:53 > 0:50:56or writing that latest crime thriller.
0:50:56 > 0:51:01How could we not see a Dorset thatched when we're in Dorset?
0:51:01 > 0:51:05And it's beautiful, it's such a pretty house,
0:51:05 > 0:51:07and inside does not disappoint.
0:51:07 > 0:51:09So it's charmed you both?
0:51:09 > 0:51:11- It has.- Yeah, it has. - Absolutely, absolutely.
0:51:11 > 0:51:15So how much is this charming property on the market for?
0:51:15 > 0:51:16Oh, dear...
0:51:16 > 0:51:20I'm going to go for...
0:51:20 > 0:51:21520.
0:51:23 > 0:51:28OK... I can't believe it's anywhere near our price range.
0:51:28 > 0:51:31Again, top end, but I'd say 525.
0:51:31 > 0:51:32You've hit the nail on the head.
0:51:32 > 0:51:34Oh, well done.
0:51:34 > 0:51:38It is on the market for £525,000.
0:51:38 > 0:51:41The good news is, if you are interested,
0:51:41 > 0:51:45the owners are willing to take offers, so I think it's attainable,
0:51:45 > 0:51:48- it's achievable.- Yeah, yeah. - Have another look around.
0:51:48 > 0:51:50- OK, lovely.- OK, lovely.
0:51:50 > 0:51:52Talk about it and have a think about whether
0:51:52 > 0:51:56this kind of country-style property is you.
0:51:56 > 0:51:58- Lovely, thank you very much. - Thank you.
0:51:58 > 0:52:00- I'll meet you in a bit. - Thank you.- Thank you.
0:52:00 > 0:52:04Well...our Mystery House tour has been very successful.
0:52:04 > 0:52:06I'm so, so pleased.
0:52:09 > 0:52:13With an asking price somewhat above budget, but room for negotiation,
0:52:13 > 0:52:15this thatched Grade II listed cottage
0:52:15 > 0:52:20has unexpectedly fulfilled Diana and Jonathan's property wish list.
0:52:20 > 0:52:23Packed with original features, such as fireplaces
0:52:23 > 0:52:25and a timber staircase,
0:52:25 > 0:52:28there are three bedrooms, including an en suite.
0:52:28 > 0:52:31The large grounds are set in beautiful countryside,
0:52:31 > 0:52:34and there's a choice of versatile outbuildings.
0:52:34 > 0:52:36I like the idea of two single beds.
0:52:36 > 0:52:39Yeah. Be ideal for our grandchildren. They'd love it.
0:52:39 > 0:52:40Isn't it lovely?
0:52:41 > 0:52:47The first thing you see is a really beautiful-looking house,
0:52:47 > 0:52:51white with blue frames - looks so pretty.
0:52:51 > 0:52:54I think I'm far more open now, in my views of thatches,
0:52:54 > 0:52:56of thatched houses.
0:52:56 > 0:52:59Because of inside, some of the old timbers
0:52:59 > 0:53:01really are just so beautiful.
0:53:01 > 0:53:05A nice, big garden. Set in countryside.
0:53:05 > 0:53:07Really surprised, pleasantly surprised.
0:53:07 > 0:53:10It was really pretty.
0:53:10 > 0:53:12Unexpectedly so.
0:53:12 > 0:53:14So really pleased with it.
0:53:14 > 0:53:18Really bright, big rooms. I could easily live in them.
0:53:18 > 0:53:21It was... It was a lovely, lovely house.
0:53:21 > 0:53:23We could certainly see ourselves sitting in the grounds,
0:53:23 > 0:53:27having a glass of wine, catching the sun till it went down.
0:53:27 > 0:53:29It's really given us something to think about.
0:53:29 > 0:53:34We've seen some fabulous properties, all very different,
0:53:34 > 0:53:36all meeting what we asked for,
0:53:36 > 0:53:38so we've now got to make a decision of which one.
0:53:42 > 0:53:46We'd better get going, because we have SO MUCH to discuss.
0:53:46 > 0:53:49- Yeah.- Where are you both going to live?
0:53:53 > 0:53:55Choices, choices, choices.
0:53:55 > 0:53:57It's time to find out if Jonathan and Diana
0:53:57 > 0:54:02have been able to make a decision about which property to go for.
0:54:02 > 0:54:05I'm pretty confident at least one of them is still in the running.
0:54:12 > 0:54:14- Hello.- Hello.- Hello.
0:54:14 > 0:54:19I thought it would be lovely to have our chat here on Charmouth Beach,
0:54:19 > 0:54:22- as this could be one of your local beaches.- Yes.
0:54:22 > 0:54:25I'd say it's been a successful house hunt, wouldn't you?
0:54:25 > 0:54:28- Absolutely.- Definitely, definitely.
0:54:28 > 0:54:32All of our properties had pretty much everything on your wish list.
0:54:32 > 0:54:33Really, you liked them all,
0:54:33 > 0:54:35- you would have been happy in all of them.- Yep.- Yep.
0:54:35 > 0:54:39So now it's just down to just a feeling, perhaps.
0:54:39 > 0:54:40What do we do now? What do YOU do now?
0:54:40 > 0:54:45We've had a chat. And we've had a heart-and-head...
0:54:45 > 0:54:47- Mm-hm?- ..confrontation.
0:54:47 > 0:54:48THEY LAUGH
0:54:48 > 0:54:52What we've decided is that we'd like to make an offer
0:54:52 > 0:54:56- on the house by the sea.- Yeah?
0:54:56 > 0:54:59And if the offer isn't accepted,
0:54:59 > 0:55:01then we'd go for the house on the hill.
0:55:01 > 0:55:04Wow, that sounds like a grand plan.
0:55:04 > 0:55:07Yep, yep. We phoned the estate agent about our house
0:55:07 > 0:55:10and we've reduced the price and we said we need it gone, because...
0:55:10 > 0:55:12- Yes.- ..we want to go, that's it.
0:55:12 > 0:55:14We said, "By six o'clock tonight would be fine."
0:55:14 > 0:55:15THEY LAUGH
0:55:15 > 0:55:18You want to be in a position to move quickly.
0:55:18 > 0:55:21Yes, we said reduce the price, just do it.
0:55:21 > 0:55:24- Mm.- Yeah. So, yeah, we're really, really pleased
0:55:24 > 0:55:28that we've actually found somewhere and in such a lovely place.
0:55:28 > 0:55:30Well, I'm just so pleased for you.
0:55:30 > 0:55:35- Two houses that you would be very happy in.- Yeah, yeah.
0:55:35 > 0:55:37So you're almost leaving it down to fate?
0:55:37 > 0:55:40That's brilliant news, cos I think what's been really evident
0:55:40 > 0:55:44from the whole property search is just how happy you are in this area.
0:55:44 > 0:55:48- Mm.- And how it just feels like the right place for you both.- Yeah.
0:55:48 > 0:55:51I feel very at home here already and I can't wait to move.
0:55:51 > 0:55:55And, with either property, you've got the best of both worlds -
0:55:55 > 0:55:58- you've got countryside and you've got the sea.- Yes.- Yeah.
0:55:58 > 0:56:01- So...- Perfect.- ..you can't go wrong.
0:56:01 > 0:56:04We couldn't have asked for more and we're just delighted.
0:56:04 > 0:56:08We had high hopes, but they were met over and above.
0:56:08 > 0:56:10- I'm so pleased for you both. - So thank you.- Thank you.
0:56:10 > 0:56:12I can't wait to hear what happens.
0:56:12 > 0:56:15- Thank you very much.- Thank you.
0:56:15 > 0:56:19So I want a phone call, please, as soon as there is some movement,
0:56:19 > 0:56:22- as soon as you have some news.- Yep. - You will have one, yeah.
0:56:22 > 0:56:25- The very best of luck. - Thank you very much.- Thank you.
0:56:29 > 0:56:32I do love it when a plan comes together
0:56:32 > 0:56:34and this plan has a backup plan.
0:56:34 > 0:56:37How lovely that Jonathan and Diana absolutely love
0:56:37 > 0:56:40not just one, but two of our properties,
0:56:40 > 0:56:43and I'm so looking forward to hearing the end of this story
0:56:43 > 0:56:46and finding out where they'll be starting their new life
0:56:46 > 0:56:49here in Dorset. See you next time on Escape To The Country.
0:56:51 > 0:56:55Jonathan and Diana put in their offer on the house by the sea
0:56:55 > 0:56:56and it was accepted.
0:56:56 > 0:56:59They're all packed up and ready to fulfil their dream
0:56:59 > 0:57:03of living near the Dorset coast in the very near future.
0:57:03 > 0:57:07If you'd like to escape to the country in England, Scotland,
0:57:07 > 0:57:10Northern Ireland or Wales and need our help,
0:57:10 > 0:57:12please apply online at...