0:00:02 > 0:00:04This incredible tree is one of over
0:00:04 > 0:00:07145 champion trees
0:00:07 > 0:00:10growing from strength to strength on this particular site.
0:00:10 > 0:00:12Why are they champions, and where am I?
0:00:12 > 0:00:14I'll tell you all in a moment.
0:00:32 > 0:00:36Today, it's classic British scenery that's drawing a dynamic couple
0:00:36 > 0:00:39to make the leap from a seaside town to the countryside.
0:00:39 > 0:00:43And their house-hunt is a journey full of surprises.
0:00:43 > 0:00:47- Oh, that's...- That's interesting. - I wasn't expecting that.
0:00:47 > 0:00:49- No.- I'm seeing big smiles.
0:00:49 > 0:00:51It's ticking quite a few boxes.
0:00:51 > 0:00:55One property casts its spell before we even cross the threshold.
0:00:55 > 0:00:58I'm loving the ambience of this place.
0:00:58 > 0:01:00This is the sort of thing that we were looking for.
0:01:03 > 0:01:07Today, I'm in the Cotswolds, and the National Arboretum in Westonbirt.
0:01:07 > 0:01:10A large number of the trees here are UK champions,
0:01:10 > 0:01:13either for being the tallest or for having the widest trunk,
0:01:13 > 0:01:15or for being particularly rare.
0:01:15 > 0:01:19Since planting first started here over 160 years ago,
0:01:19 > 0:01:21things have really grown.
0:01:21 > 0:01:26There are now over 2,500 different types of trees,
0:01:26 > 0:01:28and it makes the perfect showground
0:01:28 > 0:01:30for the National Arboricultural Show.
0:01:30 > 0:01:33Everyone from tree surgeons to woodcarvers are here,
0:01:33 > 0:01:36and I'm going to be exploring the show a little bit later.
0:01:36 > 0:01:38First, though, let's take a look at some of the wonderful sights
0:01:38 > 0:01:40the Cotswolds have to offer.
0:01:41 > 0:01:45The Cotswolds is an area covering 800 square miles,
0:01:45 > 0:01:48running through five counties, including Gloucestershire,
0:01:48 > 0:01:50Warwickshire and Oxfordshire.
0:01:50 > 0:01:52The county's largest designated
0:01:52 > 0:01:55Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
0:01:55 > 0:01:57is characterised by undulating hills,
0:01:57 > 0:02:02crisscrossed by an extensive network of dry stone walls.
0:02:02 > 0:02:05Cotswold stone is a defining feature of preserved villages
0:02:05 > 0:02:09such as Stanton, where impressive houses are fronted with smart,
0:02:09 > 0:02:12mullioned windows, and Broad Campden,
0:02:12 > 0:02:15where charming cottages bordered by country gardens
0:02:15 > 0:02:18line the narrow, winding lanes.
0:02:18 > 0:02:21Much of the Cotswolds' architecture harks back to the medieval
0:02:21 > 0:02:25wool trade, not only the rows of workers' cottages,
0:02:25 > 0:02:29but also the grander buildings and large ornate churches.
0:02:29 > 0:02:33In the Middle Ages, the Cotswolds produced the best wool in Europe,
0:02:33 > 0:02:34and as the industry flourished,
0:02:34 > 0:02:38wealthy merchants hoping for a smooth journey to the afterlife
0:02:38 > 0:02:41lavished money on what became known as wool churches.
0:02:43 > 0:02:46The magnificent church of St Peter and St Paul in Northleach
0:02:46 > 0:02:51is a prime example, and dubbed "The Cathedral Of the Cotswolds."
0:02:51 > 0:02:54Attracting over 20 million visitors a year,
0:02:54 > 0:02:57and countless escapees from city life,
0:02:57 > 0:03:01the Cotswolds offer a perfect slice of English country living.
0:03:03 > 0:03:05The headline for the Cotswolds property market
0:03:05 > 0:03:07is that it's expensive,
0:03:07 > 0:03:12especially when compared to the UK average of £327,000
0:03:12 > 0:03:13for a detached home.
0:03:13 > 0:03:17The Wiltshire and Oxfordshire areas err on that more expensive side,
0:03:17 > 0:03:19but head west into Gloucestershire
0:03:19 > 0:03:21and you will get more for your property pound.
0:03:21 > 0:03:24Luckily, today's house buyers are pretty flexible
0:03:24 > 0:03:27when it comes to which part of this beautiful area
0:03:27 > 0:03:28they'd love to call home.
0:03:30 > 0:03:34Banking administrator Maria and her operations analyst husband Tony
0:03:34 > 0:03:37have been an item for 16 years.
0:03:37 > 0:03:39We met each other at a black-tie event.
0:03:39 > 0:03:41We were introduced to each other,
0:03:41 > 0:03:44and things just really rolled from that point onwards.
0:03:44 > 0:03:46- We just hit it off, didn't we?- Yeah, we clicked.
0:03:46 > 0:03:50Yeah. It was supposed to be one of these dinner and dances
0:03:50 > 0:03:52where you actually had dance cards,
0:03:52 > 0:03:56and you were supposed to have a dance with any of the guys or girls
0:03:56 > 0:04:00on the table. We ended up dancing every dance together.
0:04:00 > 0:04:02The others didn't get a look in.
0:04:02 > 0:04:06And he did ask for my number when we left, so I was very happy.
0:04:06 > 0:04:07- BOTH:- A big attraction. - ..I was going to say.
0:04:07 > 0:04:09Yeah, there was a big attraction, for sure.
0:04:09 > 0:04:14That attraction grew, and the couple tied the knot almost 14 years ago.
0:04:14 > 0:04:16For the last 11 of those,
0:04:16 > 0:04:19Maria and Tony have lived in their three-bedroom chalet-style house
0:04:19 > 0:04:22in Southend-on-Sea in Essex.
0:04:22 > 0:04:24After recent holidays in the English countryside,
0:04:24 > 0:04:29they have decided they would like to swap the seaside for rolling hills.
0:04:29 > 0:04:31We'd like to move away from the area,
0:04:31 > 0:04:36simply because there's not as much activity as we would like to do.
0:04:36 > 0:04:40If we've got to do any activity, or if we want to go walking,
0:04:40 > 0:04:42then we have to travel quite a way for it.
0:04:42 > 0:04:45Same with cycling, it's very flat around here.
0:04:45 > 0:04:47When we go for walks,
0:04:47 > 0:04:52we don't actually want to walk round houses and on pavements.
0:04:52 > 0:04:55We want to actually go to places where we can walk on the trails.
0:04:55 > 0:04:58We think we are going to find what we want
0:04:58 > 0:05:02somewhere like the Cotswolds, because that's going to offer, like,
0:05:02 > 0:05:04more hills, rolling countryside,
0:05:04 > 0:05:08just more of what we want than the flat that we have over here.
0:05:09 > 0:05:10When they make their move,
0:05:10 > 0:05:14they are both keen to improve the work-life balance.
0:05:14 > 0:05:18I've actually been commuting now for 33 years,
0:05:18 > 0:05:21and I think it's time to slow down
0:05:21 > 0:05:23and actually start enjoying life a bit more.
0:05:23 > 0:05:27I'm looking forward to a quieter pace
0:05:27 > 0:05:30and getting off the merry-go-round.
0:05:30 > 0:05:33Having time to do things like I enjoy. I love my cooking,
0:05:33 > 0:05:35I like making greeting cards.
0:05:35 > 0:05:38Maybe we'll join a ramblers' club or something.
0:05:38 > 0:05:41You know, we might take up fishing.
0:05:41 > 0:05:45There's so many things that we could get into,
0:05:45 > 0:05:47and that's why it appeals to us so much.
0:05:47 > 0:05:50I'd still like to do maybe a local role, but you know,
0:05:50 > 0:05:52maybe I would just work in a local company
0:05:52 > 0:05:54or a local shop or something.
0:05:54 > 0:05:58Tony is hoping to reduce his working days in London so he can enjoy
0:05:58 > 0:06:02country life and dedicate his time to his favourite passions.
0:06:02 > 0:06:04Gardening is something I enjoy doing.
0:06:04 > 0:06:07It's always therapeutic to actually get away from the daily
0:06:07 > 0:06:10sort of things going on in your mind, get away from work,
0:06:10 > 0:06:12and it just takes your mind off things.
0:06:12 > 0:06:14And that's not all.
0:06:14 > 0:06:16One of my main hobbies is to do DIY.
0:06:16 > 0:06:19If a place needs doing up or it needs any work on it,
0:06:19 > 0:06:22then I'm looking forward to getting my hands dirty
0:06:22 > 0:06:24and general DIY and handyman stuff.
0:06:24 > 0:06:28With their house sold, all they need now is a new country pad
0:06:28 > 0:06:30that Tony can put his stamp on
0:06:30 > 0:06:33so the couple can begin their new life.
0:06:33 > 0:06:35We are looking for the outdoor life.
0:06:35 > 0:06:38We are looking for taking up activities, getting outside,
0:06:38 > 0:06:41and generally having a healthier lifestyle
0:06:41 > 0:06:43than the one we've currently got.
0:06:43 > 0:06:47I liken myself to a bit of a hamster on a wheel,
0:06:47 > 0:06:50and I just feel like it's time to get out of the cage
0:06:50 > 0:06:52and just start doing things.
0:06:52 > 0:06:54And that's what we want to do.
0:06:56 > 0:06:59Maria and Tony are happy to consider settling anywhere
0:06:59 > 0:07:02within the Cotswolds, so we have free rein of the region
0:07:02 > 0:07:04for our house hunt.
0:07:04 > 0:07:05Before we set off, though,
0:07:05 > 0:07:08I'm meeting up with them so they can go through the finer details
0:07:08 > 0:07:12of what it is they are hoping for in their new home.
0:07:12 > 0:07:15Hi. Hi. Maria, Tony, it's great to see you.
0:07:15 > 0:07:18How much looking have you done in the Cotswolds so far?
0:07:18 > 0:07:20Unfortunately, we haven't done any.
0:07:20 > 0:07:24We've only come down for a couple of days, and we've toured the area,
0:07:24 > 0:07:26and we like what we see. And we think this could be
0:07:26 > 0:07:30- the next place for us.- So, what are we looking for?
0:07:30 > 0:07:34What we really need is a nice garden, a bit of land, if possible.
0:07:34 > 0:07:36Only really need two or three bedrooms,
0:07:36 > 0:07:37we don't need a massive place.
0:07:37 > 0:07:40We'd rather have it open, so it's more open-plan.
0:07:40 > 0:07:44Not really keen on cottages because of the low ceilings.
0:07:44 > 0:07:48I don't want to be next to a main road, or a very busy road, anyway.
0:07:48 > 0:07:50But we also want the views.
0:07:50 > 0:07:52I mean, this would be perfect.
0:07:52 > 0:07:55So, the style of property...? Not a...
0:07:55 > 0:07:58- Not a cottage.- Not a country cottage, unless it is open-plan.
0:07:58 > 0:08:01And not really a new build, so I guess we're looking for character.
0:08:01 > 0:08:05So, maybe something that's had some sort of conversion,
0:08:05 > 0:08:07or something that we can convert.
0:08:07 > 0:08:10So, we are literally open to what may come our way.
0:08:10 > 0:08:13- Yeah.- So, in terms of proximity to a village...?
0:08:13 > 0:08:16- Edge of a village is what we'd be looking at.- Edge of a village.
0:08:16 > 0:08:20- Even push it out and make it rural. - So, what's in the budget?
0:08:20 > 0:08:22Well, what's in our kitty, babe?
0:08:22 > 0:08:26Well, we've got £550,000.
0:08:26 > 0:08:28Obviously, if it needs work and the rest of it...
0:08:28 > 0:08:29I mean, that is our max.
0:08:29 > 0:08:32And if we get anything for around 450, we'll be very happy.
0:08:32 > 0:08:35- Well, it's a great place to be... - Yes, brilliant.- ..and we have
0:08:35 > 0:08:38gorgeous properties for you to see in this beautiful part of the world
0:08:38 > 0:08:40that you could soon be calling home.
0:08:40 > 0:08:42- That'd be good.- That'd be great.
0:08:42 > 0:08:45For their top budget of £550,000,
0:08:45 > 0:08:48Maria and Tony are hoping for a bright,
0:08:48 > 0:08:51spacious character property with high ceilings,
0:08:51 > 0:08:55an open-plan kitchen-diner, and two to three bedrooms.
0:08:55 > 0:08:58They'd like a feature garden, ideally with views,
0:08:58 > 0:09:00and are hoping to be in a quiet location
0:09:00 > 0:09:02on the outskirts of a village.
0:09:04 > 0:09:07We have hand-picked a diverse assortment of properties
0:09:07 > 0:09:10to show Maria and Tony, and after they have viewed each one,
0:09:10 > 0:09:12they'll discover the asking price.
0:09:12 > 0:09:15Our final visit, to the Mystery House,
0:09:15 > 0:09:17will offer slightly more in the way of community,
0:09:17 > 0:09:21but also goes all-out on space and character.
0:09:26 > 0:09:28We're travelling to Chipping Camden in Gloucestershire,
0:09:28 > 0:09:30in the north of the Cotswolds.
0:09:30 > 0:09:32The beautiful small market town
0:09:32 > 0:09:35has a history as a rich wool-trading centre
0:09:35 > 0:09:38in the Middle Ages, and its high street is a vision
0:09:38 > 0:09:40of honey-coloured Cotswold stone.
0:09:40 > 0:09:45In the centre is the old Market Hall, built in 1627.
0:09:45 > 0:09:48It was designed to provide shelter for the town's food market.
0:09:48 > 0:09:52The classic Cotswolds setting attracts tourists in their droves,
0:09:52 > 0:09:57and independent shops and cafes also provide for locals.
0:09:57 > 0:09:59Standing 120 feet tall,
0:09:59 > 0:10:02the striking tower of St James' Church,
0:10:02 > 0:10:06built back in 1500, can be seen for miles around.
0:10:06 > 0:10:08The neighbouring lodges and gateway
0:10:08 > 0:10:10are all that remain of the old Camden House,
0:10:10 > 0:10:12which burned down in the civil war.
0:10:12 > 0:10:16On the edge of the town, we've arrived at this detached property.
0:10:16 > 0:10:19It's nice-looking. It's got a bit of character, hasn't it?
0:10:19 > 0:10:21- It's certainly got some character. - Yeah.- It's interesting.
0:10:21 > 0:10:23The original part of this property, 1920s.
0:10:23 > 0:10:26It was a bungalow to start with, so not so much a barn conversion,
0:10:26 > 0:10:28but a bungalow conversion.
0:10:28 > 0:10:32And then you can see the new brick came in in 2010, 2012,
0:10:32 > 0:10:35the project was finished, where the current owner has extended.
0:10:35 > 0:10:37So you've got two-storey accommodation.
0:10:37 > 0:10:39It actually blends quite well, doesn't it?
0:10:39 > 0:10:40In character with the whole house.
0:10:40 > 0:10:43It is a little mismatched, I think, for me.
0:10:43 > 0:10:45Well, shall we see if the inside's a bit more of a winner for you?
0:10:45 > 0:10:47- Yeah, absolutely.- Why not? Let's have a look
0:10:47 > 0:10:51- at what it's got to offer.- Let's go. - Come on.
0:10:51 > 0:10:55This unusual redbrick property has more than doubled in size
0:10:55 > 0:10:56since it was first built.
0:10:56 > 0:10:59It's topped with slate roof tiles,
0:10:59 > 0:11:02and is finished to a very high standard inside.
0:11:02 > 0:11:05A large entrance hallway, decked with flagstones,
0:11:05 > 0:11:07leads us to our first stop.
0:11:08 > 0:11:13Come straight in to what would be your kitchen-diner.
0:11:13 > 0:11:17- Oh, that's...- That's interesting. - Wasn't expecting that.- No.
0:11:17 > 0:11:20- Especially not with the windows on top.- No.
0:11:20 > 0:11:23- Wasn't expecting that. That's good. - I'm seeing big smiles.
0:11:23 > 0:11:26It's ticking quite a few boxes, because you've got the light,
0:11:26 > 0:11:29you got the space, and I'm loving the floor.
0:11:29 > 0:11:31And look at the views. You can already see the views,
0:11:31 > 0:11:34- which is what we want, isn't it? - Yeah.- Definitely.
0:11:34 > 0:11:37You wanted to enjoy that Cotswold countryside,
0:11:37 > 0:11:39and it is literally on your doorstep.
0:11:39 > 0:11:41This room is really nicely done.
0:11:41 > 0:11:42Great. Well, let's see more.
0:11:44 > 0:11:46We are heading across the hallway to the rear of the house.
0:11:48 > 0:11:52And in you come to one of your two living spaces downstairs.
0:11:52 > 0:11:54One is used as a guest bedroom at the moment...
0:11:54 > 0:11:56- OK.- ..but it could be a dining room.
0:11:56 > 0:11:59And then this, I'm thinking, you know, after all that entertaining,
0:11:59 > 0:12:01just somewhere to put your feet up at the end of the day.
0:12:01 > 0:12:05My immediate reaction is it feels a little small.
0:12:05 > 0:12:08I'm with Maria on this. It's probably too small for me.
0:12:08 > 0:12:10Well, I imagine you would be living in that kitchen space.
0:12:10 > 0:12:13- You wouldn't want to leave it, would you?- No, for sure.
0:12:13 > 0:12:16- But at the end of a busy day, nice cosy winter evening.- Yeah.
0:12:16 > 0:12:18- Yeah.- And still somewhere to put your feet up.
0:12:18 > 0:12:19- Well, there's lots more house to see...- OK.
0:12:19 > 0:12:21..so let's keep exploring,
0:12:21 > 0:12:23- and then you can then let me know what you think.- OK.
0:12:23 > 0:12:28Also on the ground floor, there's a cloakroom, a handy utility,
0:12:28 > 0:12:30and a space currently set up as a playroom.
0:12:30 > 0:12:32We are moving upstairs,
0:12:32 > 0:12:35where there are three potential bedrooms located in the eaves,
0:12:35 > 0:12:38which have use of a stylish family bathroom.
0:12:38 > 0:12:41One with skylights is currently used as a study,
0:12:41 > 0:12:43along with two existing doubles.
0:12:43 > 0:12:45There's one at the front of the house,
0:12:45 > 0:12:47but we're heading to the back,
0:12:47 > 0:12:51where there's a very spacious master with its own en-suite.
0:12:51 > 0:12:53- This is a good size.- Wow.
0:12:53 > 0:12:55- That's...- That's plenty of room, isn't it?
0:12:55 > 0:12:57- That's enough room for us, I think. - Yeah.- And an en-suite as well.
0:12:57 > 0:13:00No, liking it. And you've got the views as well.
0:13:00 > 0:13:03You can see that straight away. It's really good, like it.
0:13:03 > 0:13:05Well, there's so much house to explore, still.
0:13:05 > 0:13:08- There is.- And of course we've got to guess the price, so...
0:13:08 > 0:13:11I hadn't even thought about that! I'm so into looking at the house.
0:13:11 > 0:13:14Start having a think. Let's head out into the garden and, yes,
0:13:14 > 0:13:17- then we will talk money. - OK.- Brilliant, thank you.
0:13:19 > 0:13:24The property has a single garage and a good-sized enclosed garden,
0:13:24 > 0:13:27with far-reaching views across the surrounding countryside.
0:13:30 > 0:13:33What do you think of the outside space of this property?
0:13:33 > 0:13:36- It's smaller than I thought it would be.- I agree.
0:13:36 > 0:13:38Obviously, you've got all the outside space,
0:13:38 > 0:13:40which is absolutely beautiful, really lovely.
0:13:40 > 0:13:43And I know you enjoy gardening, and this is pretty much a blank canvas.
0:13:43 > 0:13:45- It is.- Lawned at the moment but, really,
0:13:45 > 0:13:47- you could make this whatever you want.- You could make it
0:13:47 > 0:13:51- your own, couldn't you?- And you said you are quite up for doing work... - Oh, yeah, sure.
0:13:51 > 0:13:54- ..getting involved in a bit of a project.- Yeah, we just have to think about
0:13:54 > 0:13:56how we want to design it.
0:13:56 > 0:13:58So, having had a look at the property,
0:13:58 > 0:14:00and taken in these beautiful views,
0:14:00 > 0:14:04what do you think this property is currently on the market for?
0:14:04 > 0:14:06I think this property is on the market
0:14:06 > 0:14:11for £465,000.
0:14:11 > 0:14:15I think it's on the market for £475,000.
0:14:15 > 0:14:20This property is currently on the market for £550,000.
0:14:20 > 0:14:25- Wow.- Really?- That's a lot more than we thought.
0:14:25 > 0:14:27- Yeah.- That's a surprise.
0:14:27 > 0:14:29I wonder if that is because of the area.
0:14:29 > 0:14:32Well, we're in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty....
0:14:32 > 0:14:34- OK.- ..in the Cotswolds...- Yep.
0:14:34 > 0:14:37..not too far to commute to some beautiful towns.
0:14:37 > 0:14:41- Yeah.- It's a hot spot.- That's interesting.- Fair enough, yeah.
0:14:41 > 0:14:43Now you know what this is on the market for,
0:14:43 > 0:14:45why don't you take another look around at the space,
0:14:45 > 0:14:48- and I'll meet you out the front in a few moments?- Yeah.- OK, will do.
0:14:51 > 0:14:53Bang on the top budget,
0:14:53 > 0:14:56the price tag of this property has clearly shocked them.
0:14:56 > 0:14:59That said, it's beautifully finished,
0:14:59 > 0:15:03with a fabulous open-plan kitchen-diner and three bedrooms.
0:15:03 > 0:15:07The garden is a fair size, providing magnificent views,
0:15:07 > 0:15:10and all set in a desirable location.
0:15:10 > 0:15:14Primarily, what has caught my eye about this house is the kitchen.
0:15:14 > 0:15:17It has a lot of light, it has a lot of space,
0:15:17 > 0:15:23and some of the other areas that have openness feel quite spacious.
0:15:23 > 0:15:26I really like this house. I think it's got a lot of character.
0:15:26 > 0:15:30I especially like the kitchen, with all the light coming through,
0:15:30 > 0:15:33and I quite like the outlook of the property
0:15:33 > 0:15:35towards the back of the property.
0:15:35 > 0:15:38- Hi.- Hi.- So, you've had a good explore around?
0:15:38 > 0:15:41- Yes.- We have.- The first ever house you'd stepped inside
0:15:41 > 0:15:44- in the Cotswolds?- Yep.- It is, yes. - Are you ready to see more?
0:15:44 > 0:15:46- Yes, we are.- Definitely.- Come on. Let's do it.
0:15:52 > 0:15:53Spanning Wiltshire,
0:15:53 > 0:15:58Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire is the beautiful Cotswold Water Park.
0:15:58 > 0:16:02Covering 40 square miles, it encompasses more than 150 lakes,
0:16:02 > 0:16:04and is a wildlife haven.
0:16:04 > 0:16:08Within the park is the Lechlade and Bushyleaze Trout Fisheries,
0:16:08 > 0:16:11where amateur anglers can come to learn fly fishing
0:16:11 > 0:16:14and pros can come for their catch of the day.
0:16:14 > 0:16:18Maria and Tony can't wait to get stuck into countryside pursuits
0:16:18 > 0:16:21when they make their move, so we have sent them along
0:16:21 > 0:16:24to try their hand at fly fishing.
0:16:24 > 0:16:27Tim Small set up the farm in the 1970s,
0:16:27 > 0:16:30when he was one of only eight trout farmers in the UK.
0:16:30 > 0:16:33Now, he is one of around 450.
0:16:33 > 0:16:35So, how long have you been in business, Tim?
0:16:35 > 0:16:39I've been up here fish farming since 1974.
0:16:39 > 0:16:41I started when I was very young.
0:16:41 > 0:16:43Started off small, doing restaurants
0:16:43 > 0:16:46and local fishmongers and stuff,
0:16:46 > 0:16:49grew up to doing wholesalers, supermarkets,
0:16:49 > 0:16:52and actually I became the first fish farm in Europe
0:16:52 > 0:16:56to get organic certification, and as a result of that,
0:16:56 > 0:16:59I saw that I could actually produce fish on the farm
0:16:59 > 0:17:02which are of such a good quality
0:17:02 > 0:17:04that they were perfect for fishing.
0:17:04 > 0:17:06Have you ever done fly fishing before?
0:17:06 > 0:17:07No, I've never been fly fishing.
0:17:07 > 0:17:10So what's the difference between fly fishing and the other sort?
0:17:10 > 0:17:14Trout mainly feed on insects.
0:17:14 > 0:17:17We are going to get you to cast an imitation fly
0:17:17 > 0:17:21that imitates what they are feeding on at the moment.
0:17:21 > 0:17:25There are around 70,000 fish growing here at any one time
0:17:25 > 0:17:27across the ten ponds and raceways,
0:17:27 > 0:17:31and around 4,000 swimming in the two fishing lakes.
0:17:31 > 0:17:35These are restocked at least twice a week.
0:17:35 > 0:17:39Now it's time for an introduction to the different types of flies.
0:17:39 > 0:17:41Tony has a little experience in coarse fishing,
0:17:41 > 0:17:44but Maria is a relative novice.
0:17:44 > 0:17:46So, this is a mayfly.
0:17:46 > 0:17:51This one here is a damselfly, but the one they really love are these,
0:17:51 > 0:17:55which are called a buzzer, and that is like a mosquito larva.
0:17:55 > 0:17:58And they adore those, they prefer them to these.
0:17:58 > 0:18:00So, I'll hand you over to Nick. Have a great time,
0:18:00 > 0:18:02- and I shall see you later.- Thank you, brilliant.- Thank you.
0:18:02 > 0:18:05Thanks a lot.
0:18:05 > 0:18:08It's fishery manager Nick Mackie who is going to teach the pair how to,
0:18:08 > 0:18:13hopefully, catch a fish in Bushyleaze Lake behind them.
0:18:13 > 0:18:16Generally with fishing and fly fishing, it's all hands,
0:18:16 > 0:18:19so you are pulling the line off and keeping it in your hand.
0:18:19 > 0:18:22And on the end here, we have got a fly that I put on ready earlier,
0:18:22 > 0:18:25which is a little damsel. If you want to have a hold of that...?
0:18:25 > 0:18:28- It's quite light, actually. Lighter than I thought.- Yeah, they are.
0:18:28 > 0:18:31- Can't wait to get out there and give this a go.- Excellent.
0:18:31 > 0:18:33But before they hit the water for real,
0:18:33 > 0:18:35they need to know how to cast correctly.
0:18:37 > 0:18:41So, all we are doing is plying off a bit of line and going back and fall.
0:18:41 > 0:18:42We call it a ten to two.
0:18:42 > 0:18:46So, if you imagine a clock face, you are just going ten to two.
0:18:46 > 0:18:48And then right at the very end when you cast,
0:18:48 > 0:18:51you just drop your rod down and let the line come out like that.
0:18:51 > 0:18:54- And if you just want to have a go, Maria.- Sure.
0:18:54 > 0:18:56And then you just want to lift up...
0:18:56 > 0:18:58And go ten to two,
0:18:58 > 0:19:01ten to two, ten to two.
0:19:01 > 0:19:05So, same thing, Tony, if you just pick the rod up for us.
0:19:05 > 0:19:06And you've done a bit of fishing before,
0:19:06 > 0:19:09so you've got to remember that you're not casting one single,
0:19:09 > 0:19:10you're going back and forth.
0:19:10 > 0:19:13So, as I say, ten to two.
0:19:13 > 0:19:16That's it. Perfect.
0:19:16 > 0:19:20That's it. And if we just go back over to here.
0:19:20 > 0:19:23Protective glasses and headwear on, they're ready to fish.
0:19:23 > 0:19:25And we'll hopefully catch some fish.
0:19:25 > 0:19:28The sunglasses not only help with the glare from the sunlight
0:19:28 > 0:19:33on the water, but protect against any stray fishing hooks.
0:19:33 > 0:19:35So, if you just hold it in your hand there,
0:19:35 > 0:19:37- but be careful because obviously it's a hook.- OK.
0:19:37 > 0:19:39And you just want to drop that into the water now.
0:19:39 > 0:19:41- OK.- Just let that go down into the water.
0:19:41 > 0:19:44And then peel off a little bit of line, as we were before.
0:19:44 > 0:19:46- Is that enough?- Yeah, that should be fine.
0:19:46 > 0:19:49And then you want to come back out and then cast out,
0:19:49 > 0:19:52again with the ten to two.
0:19:52 > 0:19:53That's it.
0:19:54 > 0:19:58Let that go. That's it, straight on top of him, look at that,
0:19:58 > 0:20:01- perfect cast.- There we go.- If you come round to my right, Tony,
0:20:01 > 0:20:03- because you're right-handed, aren't you?- Yeah, I am.
0:20:03 > 0:20:06And you're just doing that ten to two action again.
0:20:06 > 0:20:08A little bit of line out with your hand as it goes forward.
0:20:08 > 0:20:11That's it. And then last one, and let that go.
0:20:11 > 0:20:14- That's it.- They're taking the bait. - THEY LAUGH
0:20:14 > 0:20:17- We've got you hooked, have we?- You definitely have.- Excellent.
0:20:17 > 0:20:19- Practice makes perfect.- It does, it does.
0:20:19 > 0:20:21The more you do something, the better you get at it.
0:20:21 > 0:20:23And if you're going to come back and do it again,
0:20:23 > 0:20:26and keep doing it and keep doing it, you will find that, over time,
0:20:26 > 0:20:27it becomes sort of a natural...
0:20:27 > 0:20:29Almost as much as walking and riding a bike.
0:20:29 > 0:20:32Once you know how to do it, you never forget it.
0:20:32 > 0:20:34It's certainly been a lot of fun.
0:20:34 > 0:20:36- Good.- Well, Nick, thanks for the lesson.
0:20:36 > 0:20:38- That's all right.- No doubt we'll see you again.- Brilliant.
0:20:38 > 0:20:40- Best of luck, guys.- Bye.- Thanks very much.
0:20:40 > 0:20:42Although there's no bite today,
0:20:42 > 0:20:45lets hope that our house hunt results in us reeling in
0:20:45 > 0:20:48a great property catch here in the Cotswolds.
0:21:00 > 0:21:03It's day two of our Cotswolds property adventure,
0:21:03 > 0:21:06seeking out a country escape for Maria and Tony
0:21:06 > 0:21:09from Southend-on-Sea in Essex to call home.
0:21:09 > 0:21:12They've got a budget of £550,000
0:21:12 > 0:21:15to spend on a spacious character property
0:21:15 > 0:21:17with an attractive garden.
0:21:17 > 0:21:20Still to come, church bells may chime
0:21:20 > 0:21:22when our Mystery House is revealed.
0:21:22 > 0:21:25So, every Sunday morning, as you lie in bed,
0:21:25 > 0:21:28you may hear a little singing waking you with your morning cuppa
0:21:28 > 0:21:32- and the papers.- Depends what time they start, I think!
0:21:32 > 0:21:37And top tree experts show off the impressive art of knot tying.
0:21:37 > 0:21:41Stop the clock! Wow, 26 seconds!
0:21:41 > 0:21:43You smashed the record!
0:21:45 > 0:21:48It's a new day, and there are still two more houses to see.
0:21:48 > 0:21:51Later, of course, there's the Mystery House,
0:21:51 > 0:21:55which might not be quite the rural escape our couple had in mind.
0:21:55 > 0:21:59But first, I'm going to show them a house on a hill.
0:21:59 > 0:22:02Our next property stop is in the village of Eastcombe
0:22:02 > 0:22:05in Gloucestershire, towards the west of the Cotswolds.
0:22:05 > 0:22:07Sitting on a hilltop,
0:22:07 > 0:22:10the village has spectacular views across the Toadsmoor Valley,
0:22:10 > 0:22:12including from the local pub,
0:22:12 > 0:22:16where visitors can enjoy the outlook while stopping for refreshment
0:22:16 > 0:22:19after a beautiful country walk.
0:22:19 > 0:22:20On the edge of Eastcombe,
0:22:20 > 0:22:23we've arrived at this detached Cotswold-stone property,
0:22:23 > 0:22:27which benefits from its elevated position.
0:22:27 > 0:22:32So here we are, Maria, Tony, in the Cotswolds, your Cotswold cottage.
0:22:32 > 0:22:36- That's lovely.- That is nice. - That is really, really nice.
0:22:36 > 0:22:38Loving the ambience of this place.
0:22:38 > 0:22:42We're getting the height, and you know the views are going to come.
0:22:42 > 0:22:44Suddenly, they just open up.
0:22:44 > 0:22:46This is the sort of thing that we were looking for.
0:22:46 > 0:22:48And the house has got heaps of character.
0:22:48 > 0:22:52- It was an old worker's cottage. - Was it?- Well, originally, two...
0:22:52 > 0:22:54- OK.- ..but they converted years ago.
0:22:54 > 0:22:58- Shall we get inside and see more? - Can't wait.- Absolutely.- Come on.
0:23:00 > 0:23:04This cottage is thought to date back to the early 1800s,
0:23:04 > 0:23:07and with that history comes character charm.
0:23:07 > 0:23:10It's been extended twice in its lifetime.
0:23:10 > 0:23:13We are entering into a galley kitchen which forms
0:23:13 > 0:23:16part of the extension, and accommodates a dining area.
0:23:19 > 0:23:23- Good views.- Views are great. - Straight over the valley.
0:23:23 > 0:23:27- Gorgeous.- Shame about the kitchen size, but the view is there.
0:23:27 > 0:23:29Do you like what's here already?
0:23:29 > 0:23:32It's lovely. You know, it's woodwork surfaces, they look great.
0:23:32 > 0:23:33What's here is nice.
0:23:33 > 0:23:35Well, this is the newer part of the property.
0:23:35 > 0:23:39- Let's go into the older part of the house, your living area.- OK.
0:23:39 > 0:23:42At the front of the cottage is the open-plan sitting room.
0:23:43 > 0:23:45So, this was the original worker's cottage,
0:23:45 > 0:23:48or the two of them separated, joined together.
0:23:48 > 0:23:52I'm loving looking at the stonework in the lounge.
0:23:52 > 0:23:54Just brings the cottage alive.
0:23:54 > 0:23:57There's a lot of light coming through from various windows.
0:23:57 > 0:24:00- Cos it opens it up, doesn't it, around to this area.- This one isn't listed...
0:24:00 > 0:24:04- OK.- ..so in terms of adding different doors in...
0:24:04 > 0:24:08- OK, right.- ..or even extending out into that patio space at the back...
0:24:08 > 0:24:11- Yeah.- ..and maybe up as well, to give you even more space
0:24:11 > 0:24:14in the property. Or here, extending out onto the patio
0:24:14 > 0:24:17- with your kitchen.- I'm liking the sound of that.
0:24:17 > 0:24:19- Yeah.- You've got options here. - That's what we like.
0:24:19 > 0:24:22- Shall we take a look upstairs? - Yeah.- OK, come this way.
0:24:26 > 0:24:29An open wooden stairway leads to the first floor,
0:24:29 > 0:24:33where there's a tiled family bathroom and three bedrooms.
0:24:33 > 0:24:36There's one with a contemporary cottage feel in the extension,
0:24:36 > 0:24:39a smaller one in the main part of the house,
0:24:39 > 0:24:41and next door is the master.
0:24:42 > 0:24:45Quite high ceilings for a cottage,
0:24:45 > 0:24:48and waking up with those lovely views of the valley.
0:24:48 > 0:24:51I mean, as a bedroom size for a cottage, it's a good size.
0:24:51 > 0:24:54- Yeah...- You've got a proper bed, a king-size bed.
0:24:54 > 0:24:57Yeah, it's a cottage, so rooms traditionally are smaller.
0:24:57 > 0:25:01It's now trying to figure out how you would configure them.
0:25:01 > 0:25:04It's lovely as it is, but I think we would need to make a few changes.
0:25:04 > 0:25:05Quite a few changes.
0:25:05 > 0:25:07I want you to see the garden, so let's head out
0:25:07 > 0:25:10- and have another look.- OK.- And let's guess the price.
0:25:10 > 0:25:13Yeah, all right.
0:25:13 > 0:25:15- With all the work involved... - With the work involved!
0:25:18 > 0:25:22At the rear of the property is an enclosed courtyard and shed.
0:25:22 > 0:25:25And at the front, as we've already seen,
0:25:25 > 0:25:29there's a tiered landscape garden surrounded by trees and borders
0:25:29 > 0:25:31with a large raised patio
0:25:31 > 0:25:35from which to take in the stunning outlook and beautiful sunsets.
0:25:36 > 0:25:39Lovely views. The peace and quiet.
0:25:39 > 0:25:42It's almost like you've got different rooms out here.
0:25:42 > 0:25:44Yeah. Obviously, it's not your traditional garden, but then,
0:25:44 > 0:25:46we weren't looking for traditional.
0:25:46 > 0:25:49I quite like the idea of having different sections in the garden
0:25:49 > 0:25:53- as a whole.- Bearing that in mind, what do you think this property,
0:25:53 > 0:25:56with these amazing views, is currently on the market for?
0:25:56 > 0:26:01I think this property is on the market for...
0:26:01 > 0:26:04..£420,000.
0:26:04 > 0:26:08- Tony, what do you think?- I would have to go low as well.
0:26:08 > 0:26:12My initial thought was around £425,000.
0:26:12 > 0:26:18This property is currently on the market for £410,000.
0:26:18 > 0:26:21OK.
0:26:21 > 0:26:24I'm glad it is that much under budget
0:26:24 > 0:26:27and we are on the right wavelength
0:26:27 > 0:26:29for what we can get for our money,
0:26:29 > 0:26:32including those wonderful views,
0:26:32 > 0:26:36but allowing us to add our stamp to the property.
0:26:36 > 0:26:39Well, knowing that now, do you want to take another look around,
0:26:39 > 0:26:43and we'll catch up once those cogs have whirred a bit more?
0:26:43 > 0:26:46- Yeah!- We can start moving walls now!
0:26:46 > 0:26:50I'll come see the plans once you've had a little look round!
0:26:50 > 0:26:53- Bye.- See you in a bit.- Thank you. - See you later.
0:26:53 > 0:26:56This gorgeous Cotswold-stone period cottage is priced
0:26:56 > 0:27:00£140,000 below the top budget,
0:27:00 > 0:27:03which would allow Maria and Tony the freedom
0:27:03 > 0:27:05to really put their stamp on it.
0:27:05 > 0:27:07It's full of character both inside and out,
0:27:07 > 0:27:10gives them three bedrooms, and a delightful garden
0:27:10 > 0:27:12with spectacular views.
0:27:12 > 0:27:16The village location means amenities are close to hand.
0:27:16 > 0:27:19I think this house is in a great location.
0:27:19 > 0:27:23It's got all the countryside that we are looking for.
0:27:23 > 0:27:26It is a little small as it stands,
0:27:26 > 0:27:30but we can see that there's potential
0:27:30 > 0:27:32to knock a few walls here and there
0:27:32 > 0:27:34to make it our own.
0:27:34 > 0:27:37I think this place is lovely. I think the space has got
0:27:37 > 0:27:39a lot of character, it's in a wonderful position,
0:27:39 > 0:27:41some great views.
0:27:41 > 0:27:45However, I think it's probably a little bit small in places,
0:27:45 > 0:27:49we would need to do some work to it to give us the space
0:27:49 > 0:27:50that we are looking for.
0:27:50 > 0:27:52When I walk around this property,
0:27:52 > 0:27:56I get a good feel for the actual ambience of the house.
0:27:56 > 0:28:00It's feeling nice and quiet and peaceful,
0:28:00 > 0:28:04and the general layout of the property is really good.
0:28:04 > 0:28:07Great, lots of smiles, still. I'm liking this.
0:28:07 > 0:28:10- Had a good look round?- Yes, we have. - Yeah, we had a good look around,
0:28:10 > 0:28:13and I think the both of us have knocked a few walls out,
0:28:13 > 0:28:15and we're happy, within the budget,
0:28:15 > 0:28:18we are going to be able to make it our own if we wish to.
0:28:18 > 0:28:22- Great, sounds good, lots to talk about.- Yeah.- Come on.
0:28:32 > 0:28:35Our final journey to the mystery property takes us to the village of
0:28:35 > 0:28:38Tytherington in the south of Gloucestershire,
0:28:38 > 0:28:39and to the west of the Cotswolds.
0:28:41 > 0:28:43There's a real sense of community here,
0:28:43 > 0:28:45with a village shop run by residents,
0:28:45 > 0:28:48a post office, and a village hall.
0:28:48 > 0:28:53There's also a 16th-century dining pub and two churches,
0:28:53 > 0:28:55one neighbouring our last offering,
0:28:55 > 0:28:58which is approached down a gravel driveway.
0:28:58 > 0:29:00As Maria and Tony will see,
0:29:00 > 0:29:03our Mystery House may be in an unexpected setting,
0:29:03 > 0:29:06which will mean compromising on those far-reaching views,
0:29:06 > 0:29:09but if they can do that, they'll be suitably rewarded.
0:29:11 > 0:29:14So, here we are - the Mystery House.
0:29:14 > 0:29:16- BOTH:- That's interesting! - THEY LAUGH
0:29:16 > 0:29:18That's different and interesting.
0:29:18 > 0:29:21- That's quite big.- I take it it's the whole thing?
0:29:21 > 0:29:23- It's the whole thing.- OK, that's impressive.
0:29:23 > 0:29:24Looks good from the outside.
0:29:24 > 0:29:27It's a lot of character, and plenty of space.
0:29:27 > 0:29:32It was built, they believe, at the same time as the chapel next door...
0:29:32 > 0:29:35- Ah.- OK.- ..in 1898.- Wow.
0:29:35 > 0:29:38And I know you wanted a sort of edge-of-village location,
0:29:38 > 0:29:40and this is a quiet village,
0:29:40 > 0:29:44but you are next to almost the heart and soul of the village, the chapel.
0:29:44 > 0:29:47- Yeah.- So every Sunday morning, as you lie in bed,
0:29:47 > 0:29:51you may hear a little singing waking you with your morning cuppa
0:29:51 > 0:29:53and the papers.
0:29:53 > 0:29:54That's every other Sunday.
0:29:54 > 0:29:56- Oh, OK.- Depends what time they start!
0:29:56 > 0:29:57THEY LAUGH
0:29:57 > 0:29:59- But you like the looks of it?- The looks...- Yeah.
0:29:59 > 0:30:02It's got a lot of character, and it looks a really good size.
0:30:02 > 0:30:04- Yeah, I like it.- Shall we get in?
0:30:04 > 0:30:09- Yeah.- Yeah.- Come on.
0:30:09 > 0:30:12This handsome Mystery House was built by the local squire,
0:30:12 > 0:30:14originally as a bakehouse.
0:30:14 > 0:30:18It's constructed from local Tytherington quarry stone.
0:30:18 > 0:30:20The property was never used as a bakehouse,
0:30:20 > 0:30:24and was converted into two cottages, then later into one dwelling.
0:30:24 > 0:30:27We are entering through a sun room and starting our tour
0:30:27 > 0:30:30on the ground floor.
0:30:30 > 0:30:34The original part of the house is made up of three reception rooms,
0:30:34 > 0:30:38with a kitchen, shower room and sunroom later additions.
0:30:38 > 0:30:41We are starting our tour in a large drawing room,
0:30:41 > 0:30:43which boasts an Indian slate floor.
0:30:44 > 0:30:48So, come through into one of three living spaces
0:30:48 > 0:30:51- in the house.- Wow.- This is the largest of them.
0:30:51 > 0:30:54Next door, you've got a dining room, and then there's a snug...
0:30:54 > 0:30:56- Oh, OK.- ..at the end as well.
0:30:56 > 0:30:58- This is nice-size room.- It's a good-size room.
0:30:58 > 0:31:00- I love the slate floor. - Lovely Rajasthan slate, here.
0:31:00 > 0:31:03And then you can put your Persian rug or something there
0:31:03 > 0:31:05to give it a bit of colour and change it.
0:31:05 > 0:31:07- So, a good start?- It is a good start, yeah.- It is a good start.
0:31:07 > 0:31:10The kitchen-diner is always the heart, for you, of the home.
0:31:10 > 0:31:12- It's the hub of our home.- Shall we see what this house
0:31:12 > 0:31:14- has on offer for you?- Yeah. Let's go.
0:31:17 > 0:31:21Come through into your farmhouse kitchen-diner.
0:31:21 > 0:31:24OK! That's a different layout than I would have anticipated,
0:31:24 > 0:31:27- I have to admit.- What were you imagining, then?
0:31:27 > 0:31:30Probably more standard, where you've got work surfaces
0:31:30 > 0:31:32- all the way around.- It's big enough, isn't it?- Yeah.
0:31:32 > 0:31:36So, what I was thinking for you two is you knock through.
0:31:36 > 0:31:38There's a shower room behind here,
0:31:38 > 0:31:41and then you've also got that garden room
0:31:41 > 0:31:43- where the main front door comes into...- OK, I see.
0:31:43 > 0:31:47..which was added on in 2000. Knock this whole thing through...
0:31:47 > 0:31:50- Through, and just...- That's sounding more like what I'd like to see.
0:31:50 > 0:31:53Yeah. You could certainly open that wall up,
0:31:53 > 0:31:55have a lot more light come through.
0:31:55 > 0:31:57- Options are there.- Shall we see more?
0:31:57 > 0:31:58- Yes.- Let's head upstairs.
0:32:01 > 0:32:03I'm glad Tony is thinking through
0:32:03 > 0:32:05how they can make the layout work for them.
0:32:05 > 0:32:08Upstairs would give them three bedrooms,
0:32:08 > 0:32:11all serviced by a characterful family bathroom.
0:32:11 > 0:32:13They are all good-sized doubles,
0:32:13 > 0:32:15two with feature fireplaces,
0:32:15 > 0:32:17one which is in the master.
0:32:17 > 0:32:20Nice high ceilings as well, a good size.
0:32:20 > 0:32:24A good-size room. You would have room to put some storage.
0:32:24 > 0:32:26You've got enough wardrobe space here!
0:32:26 > 0:32:29Each bedroom, you could put a big couple of wardrobes in there.
0:32:29 > 0:32:31- Yeah.- It's a good-sized bedroom.
0:32:31 > 0:32:33And on this one, you've got a loft hatch above.
0:32:33 > 0:32:36- OK.- Now, these walls are thick as.
0:32:36 > 0:32:40- OK.- But the next middle bedroom also has a loft hatch.
0:32:40 > 0:32:42- OK.- And the current owner has thought about
0:32:42 > 0:32:44going up into the loft and
0:32:44 > 0:32:47then creating another bedroom space up there.
0:32:47 > 0:32:48And we'll head outside, and you can
0:32:48 > 0:32:50also get a sense of the outside space
0:32:50 > 0:32:53- that you get with this property... - Yep.- ..and then we'll talk price.
0:32:53 > 0:32:54- OK.- OK.- No worries.
0:32:57 > 0:33:00Our Mystery House may be in the heart of the village,
0:33:00 > 0:33:04but it has a generous garden that extends to a third of an acre.
0:33:04 > 0:33:08It's laid to lawn and surrounded by attractive hedges and flower beds.
0:33:08 > 0:33:10There is also a useful double garage.
0:33:13 > 0:33:16It looks like it's been well looked after. Nice garden.
0:33:16 > 0:33:18Yeah, it's a good amount of space.
0:33:18 > 0:33:19Well, it's time to talk money.
0:33:19 > 0:33:23What do you think the Mystery House is currently on the market for?
0:33:23 > 0:33:27Well, I'm going to go straight in with about 485.
0:33:27 > 0:33:29£485,000.
0:33:29 > 0:33:30I think it's a bit less than that.
0:33:30 > 0:33:33I think this property is on the market for...
0:33:33 > 0:33:36..£465,000.
0:33:36 > 0:33:39The mystery property is currently on the market for...
0:33:39 > 0:33:43..£525,000.
0:33:43 > 0:33:46- Wow.- OK.- I can understand that.
0:33:46 > 0:33:48It is actually a really big house.
0:33:48 > 0:33:50There's a lot of space here.
0:33:50 > 0:33:52Why don't you take another look around the Mystery House,
0:33:52 > 0:33:54get a sense of what you do get for your money here,
0:33:54 > 0:33:56- and I'll catch up with you in a moment?- OK.- OK.
0:33:58 > 0:34:02Our late 19th-century stone Mystery House
0:34:02 > 0:34:05comes in £25,000 below budget,
0:34:05 > 0:34:06and whilst being located
0:34:06 > 0:34:08in the heart of a charming Cotswold village,
0:34:08 > 0:34:12it provides generous and adaptable spaces.
0:34:12 > 0:34:14There's the potential to create
0:34:14 > 0:34:16a fabulous open-plan kitchen-diner,
0:34:16 > 0:34:19plus three reception rooms and a sunroom.
0:34:19 > 0:34:21As requested, it has three bedrooms
0:34:21 > 0:34:23and a pretty garden.
0:34:23 > 0:34:25This house has got some absolutely great features.
0:34:25 > 0:34:29You've got beautiful flagstone, lovely tall ceilings,
0:34:29 > 0:34:32and it's really roomy.
0:34:32 > 0:34:36The Mystery House has a lot of space, has a lot to offer.
0:34:36 > 0:34:37Hi, good to see you again.
0:34:37 > 0:34:40- And you.- Right, time for a cuppa?
0:34:40 > 0:34:42- Oh, yeah.- Oh, absolutely. - Come on, let's do that.
0:34:48 > 0:34:51Around a tenth of the Cotswolds countryside
0:34:51 > 0:34:53is given over to forests and woodland
0:34:53 > 0:34:56with ash and beech trees the most prevalent.
0:34:58 > 0:35:01Westonbirt, the National Arboretum near Tetbury,
0:35:01 > 0:35:04is home to 15,000 tree specimens
0:35:04 > 0:35:08and includes 2,500 species from across the globe.
0:35:08 > 0:35:12The Arboretum is hosting the ARB Show, which I'm at today.
0:35:12 > 0:35:15It is the Arboricultural Association's annual trade show
0:35:15 > 0:35:18which brings together experts from the tree world
0:35:18 > 0:35:21and attracts visitors from far afield.
0:35:22 > 0:35:26Jake O'Kean is a former chairman of the association.
0:35:26 > 0:35:29You are the man in the know, what is arboriculture?
0:35:29 > 0:35:31Have I said it correctly?
0:35:31 > 0:35:32You have said it perfectly.
0:35:32 > 0:35:37Arboriculture is really the science of looking after trees
0:35:37 > 0:35:40where people live, where they play and where they work.
0:35:40 > 0:35:42It's different to forestry.
0:35:42 > 0:35:46Forestry is where you would grow trees as a crop,
0:35:46 > 0:35:51so producing timber or providing large spaces for recreation.
0:35:51 > 0:35:56But arboriculture tends to be carried out in our urban areas.
0:35:56 > 0:35:57Why is that important?
0:35:57 > 0:36:01It's good for our psychological and physiological wellbeing.
0:36:01 > 0:36:04Essentially, we love to have trees around us.
0:36:04 > 0:36:07Not only that, they are actually cooling our cities,
0:36:07 > 0:36:09they are providing the air that we breathe...
0:36:09 > 0:36:11They are just wonderful.
0:36:11 > 0:36:14This annual event has been running for 19 years
0:36:14 > 0:36:18and after being located at two previous sites
0:36:18 > 0:36:19has moved to the Arboretum.
0:36:19 > 0:36:21It seems huge,
0:36:21 > 0:36:23giant machinery everywhere,
0:36:23 > 0:36:25people climbing gigantic trees.
0:36:25 > 0:36:28Yeah, and that's the beauty of this industry, or this sector,
0:36:28 > 0:36:31that whatever your interests, whatever your motivations,
0:36:31 > 0:36:33there's something for you in it.
0:36:33 > 0:36:35If someone is coming to the show for the first time,
0:36:35 > 0:36:37what are the two or three things they must go and see?
0:36:37 > 0:36:40For a start, they've got to go and see the climbing.
0:36:40 > 0:36:42You've got to see the physical skills these people have.
0:36:42 > 0:36:44You can go and see, for instance,
0:36:44 > 0:36:47some of the big machines that are here,
0:36:47 > 0:36:49if you love that sort of thing.
0:36:49 > 0:36:50Go and talk to the educationalists,
0:36:50 > 0:36:53because it's such a rewarding industry,
0:36:53 > 0:36:56go and find out how you can learn about arboriculture.
0:36:56 > 0:36:58Well, there's obviously a lot of passion
0:36:58 > 0:37:00to be found in the tree world and my next stop is with
0:37:00 > 0:37:03tree surgeon and champion knot tier,
0:37:03 > 0:37:04Nick Winrum.
0:37:04 > 0:37:06He's running a knot tying competition.
0:37:06 > 0:37:10So, Nick, tell me, why knots at the show here?
0:37:10 > 0:37:13They are really important to every aspect of our jobs.
0:37:13 > 0:37:15They keep us safe in the trees, save our lives.
0:37:15 > 0:37:18We use them for bringing branches down
0:37:18 > 0:37:21and even just tying ladders on the roof to drive down the motorway.
0:37:21 > 0:37:25So every aspect of our job involves knots.
0:37:25 > 0:37:26How did you get involved?
0:37:26 > 0:37:28I did some training, did an evening course,
0:37:28 > 0:37:31did my chainsaw licence and got a job with a tree surgery company.
0:37:31 > 0:37:33And now I am running my own business
0:37:33 > 0:37:36and I always say, "I've got the best job in the world,"
0:37:36 > 0:37:37I absolutely love what I do.
0:37:37 > 0:37:39And it seems to be quite a competitive field
0:37:39 > 0:37:41when it comes to the knots because at the show today
0:37:41 > 0:37:43someone will be coming out an ARB champion?
0:37:43 > 0:37:45Yeah, we will have the knot tying champion.
0:37:45 > 0:37:48We've got five knots you tie in every day arboricultural work
0:37:48 > 0:37:50and we tie them against the clock
0:37:50 > 0:37:52and whoever's fastest wins the prize.
0:37:52 > 0:37:54Current leaderboard.
0:37:54 > 0:37:56We have a few leaders at the moment.
0:37:56 > 0:37:58- Is this you?- That is me.
0:37:58 > 0:38:01Probably get the times down to near 20 seconds by the end of the day.
0:38:01 > 0:38:03So this is 30 seconds for five knots?
0:38:03 > 0:38:05- Yes.- Can anyone have a go?
0:38:05 > 0:38:08Absolutely, we had a little nine-year-old girl last year.
0:38:08 > 0:38:12She started off doing 1:29 for her first attempt.
0:38:12 > 0:38:15By the end of the day she got down to 28, 29 seconds.
0:38:15 > 0:38:19After hearing all about this competitive and important skill,
0:38:19 > 0:38:21I want to see Nick in action.
0:38:21 > 0:38:23- Nick, you ready?- Yes.
0:38:23 > 0:38:24Go.
0:38:26 > 0:38:28I think this is the most complicated one.
0:38:28 > 0:38:30Seven seconds, eight seconds, done.
0:38:30 > 0:38:32Getting a bit easier as they work their way down.
0:38:32 > 0:38:3412 seconds. 13 seconds, Nick.
0:38:34 > 0:38:3514, 15.
0:38:35 > 0:38:36Two knots down.
0:38:38 > 0:38:39Third.
0:38:40 > 0:38:43Wow, that was fast, almost didn't even see that one.
0:38:43 > 0:38:45Stop the clock.
0:38:45 > 0:38:4726 seconds!
0:38:47 > 0:38:49You smashed the record.
0:38:49 > 0:38:51Excellent.
0:38:51 > 0:38:53That was impressive.
0:38:53 > 0:38:56And my final visit today is to Simon O'Rourke,
0:38:56 > 0:38:58he is a chainsaw carver.
0:38:58 > 0:39:01He turns unwanted wood into a beautiful art form.
0:39:05 > 0:39:07APPLAUSE
0:39:09 > 0:39:13Simon, it was amazing watching you work, creating this.
0:39:13 > 0:39:15You take this all over the world?
0:39:15 > 0:39:19I do, yes. I've competed in all sorts of places.
0:39:19 > 0:39:22Watching you work, I have to admit, it looks dangerous.
0:39:22 > 0:39:24I'm guessing I shouldn't try this at home?
0:39:24 > 0:39:26- No...- Is it dangerous?
0:39:26 > 0:39:30It is dangerous, it's like anything, proper training will
0:39:30 > 0:39:34set you up to use anything in the correct manner.
0:39:34 > 0:39:37What is it about working with wood in this way that you enjoy so much?
0:39:37 > 0:39:40I enjoy the speed...
0:39:40 > 0:39:42..and I've always been an artist.
0:39:42 > 0:39:45I was a trained illustrator and then a tree surgeon,
0:39:45 > 0:39:47which is what brought me into it.
0:39:47 > 0:39:50I love the texture it leaves as well,
0:39:50 > 0:39:53it's like tool markings on the wood,
0:39:53 > 0:39:54like when you sculpt clay and
0:39:54 > 0:39:57you get the thumb marks and the fingermarks.
0:39:57 > 0:39:59And is there a best type of wood to use
0:39:59 > 0:40:01when you are carving in this way?
0:40:01 > 0:40:03The quickest wood to carve are the softwoods.
0:40:03 > 0:40:05I use a lot of oak,
0:40:05 > 0:40:07I use some of the softwoods,
0:40:07 > 0:40:09I use Western red Cedar or Redwood.
0:40:09 > 0:40:12And does sustainability come into your work in any way?
0:40:12 > 0:40:15It does, all of the wood I get is
0:40:15 > 0:40:19usually from either forestry contractors or tree surgeons.
0:40:19 > 0:40:21Simon, it's been fantastic seeing you work
0:40:21 > 0:40:22and experiencing the ARB Show,
0:40:22 > 0:40:24I can see why it's such a pull.
0:40:24 > 0:40:26- Thank you for your time.- Thank you.
0:40:31 > 0:40:33I've left Tony and Maria having a cuppa and a think
0:40:33 > 0:40:35about all the properties that we've shown them.
0:40:35 > 0:40:37I can't wait to find out what their next move is going to be.
0:40:40 > 0:40:42Hi, lovely to catch-up again.
0:40:42 > 0:40:44- Hi.- Hi.- I can't wait to find out,
0:40:44 > 0:40:47do we have a favourite from all the properties we've seen?
0:40:47 > 0:40:50The favourite from me was the hillside.
0:40:50 > 0:40:52The house with the lovely views?
0:40:52 > 0:40:54- Yes.- Breathtaking, weren't they, those views?
0:40:54 > 0:40:57I would agree. It's my favourite out of what we've seen.
0:40:57 > 0:41:00But it wasn't quite, quite perfect for you?
0:41:00 > 0:41:04No, it was actually quite small, the actual cottage, for us.
0:41:04 > 0:41:09Although there was room to extend out into the garden area,
0:41:09 > 0:41:11but because it was quite a small courtyard,
0:41:11 > 0:41:14we felt that would make the garden a little bit too small.
0:41:14 > 0:41:17What did you think of the properties we've shown you?
0:41:17 > 0:41:19We liked aspects in most of the houses,
0:41:19 > 0:41:22the bungalow conversion had a great kitchen,
0:41:22 > 0:41:25light coming through the ceiling, absolutely wonderful.
0:41:25 > 0:41:28The one on the hill, as we have said, it was our favourite.
0:41:28 > 0:41:31The views on that property were absolutely amazing.
0:41:31 > 0:41:33We almost want to take the views of that property,
0:41:33 > 0:41:36we want to take the character of that property.
0:41:36 > 0:41:40I think we'd like to take the kitchen-diner of the conversion.
0:41:40 > 0:41:42But obviously you can't do that and
0:41:42 > 0:41:43we understand that you compromise with
0:41:43 > 0:41:48what you are looking for and each of the properties we viewed over the
0:41:48 > 0:41:51last couple of days has given us a lot of information
0:41:51 > 0:41:54as to what we think would be our ideal property.
0:41:54 > 0:41:56So where does that leave us now?
0:41:56 > 0:42:00It leaves us with a good, clear idea of what we actually do want,
0:42:00 > 0:42:03where we want to be and what we won't accept.
0:42:03 > 0:42:06Until you actually get here and look around,
0:42:06 > 0:42:08there's so many different areas,
0:42:08 > 0:42:10it's hard to sort of know where you want to be,
0:42:10 > 0:42:13but having been around everywhere,
0:42:13 > 0:42:15I think we've got a clear idea now of what we think we like.
0:42:15 > 0:42:18Well, we wish you all the best with your property search
0:42:18 > 0:42:21and please do let us know when you find that dream place.
0:42:21 > 0:42:26We will and thank you so much for giving us the opportunity to view a
0:42:26 > 0:42:28number of properties that we wouldn't have done on our own.
0:42:28 > 0:42:31- It's been a pleasure. Good luck with it all.- Thank you.
0:42:34 > 0:42:36Exploring the Cotswolds really has
0:42:36 > 0:42:39helped Tony and Maria confirm that this is absolutely
0:42:39 > 0:42:42the place they want to start the next chapter of their lives.
0:42:42 > 0:42:44And through the properties we've shown them,
0:42:44 > 0:42:48they've really crystallised what they want on that must-have list for
0:42:48 > 0:42:49their new dream home.
0:42:49 > 0:42:51I'm sure it's out there for them and
0:42:51 > 0:42:52I look forward to hearing from them soon
0:42:52 > 0:42:55that they have found the perfect property.
0:42:55 > 0:42:57I'll see you next time on Escape To The Country.
0:43:00 > 0:43:03If you would like to escape to the country in England, Scotland,
0:43:03 > 0:43:06Northern Ireland or Wales and need our help,
0:43:06 > 0:43:11you can apply online at...