0:00:02 > 0:00:04Welcome to Escape To The Country. Today, we're in a county that was
0:00:04 > 0:00:07the birthplace of this, what was once one of the most revolutionary
0:00:07 > 0:00:12British aircraft ever built, and which in 1931 was crowned as the
0:00:12 > 0:00:13fastest in the world.
0:00:13 > 0:00:17Find out where we've come to find this feat of aero engineering,
0:00:17 > 0:00:18in just a moment.
0:00:36 > 0:00:39On today's show, I'm helping a couple find a country retreat
0:00:39 > 0:00:43that also accommodates a large dog and a sizeable motorhome.
0:00:44 > 0:00:47It takes us a while to get going...
0:00:47 > 0:00:51I haven't seen you this excited all week, so this is all good.
0:00:51 > 0:00:54..but then at last, we gather some momentum.
0:00:54 > 0:00:56I'm feeling the love with you two here.
0:00:56 > 0:00:58- I've got loads of ideas bouncing around.- Yeah, I think it's...
0:00:58 > 0:01:00Yeah, yeah, it's growing on me.
0:01:00 > 0:01:02Look at this, look! Cheeky smile.
0:01:02 > 0:01:05- It's growing on me.- I think this is working its own magic, isn't it?
0:01:05 > 0:01:06Good.
0:01:12 > 0:01:14Well, today we are in Hampshire, or to be precise,
0:01:14 > 0:01:18at the Solent Sky Museum in the heart of Southampton,
0:01:18 > 0:01:21and this is the Supermarine S6,
0:01:21 > 0:01:24the grandfather of the legendary Spitfire.
0:01:24 > 0:01:28It was the brainchild of aircraft designer RJ Mitchell,
0:01:28 > 0:01:31who, during the first quarter of the 20th century, designed some of the
0:01:31 > 0:01:35fastest and most successful British aircraft of all time,
0:01:35 > 0:01:38as he pursued the dream of winning what was then the most famous
0:01:38 > 0:01:41air race of its day, the Schneider Trophy,
0:01:41 > 0:01:45which this design helped to win back in 1931.
0:01:45 > 0:01:48Now, later on in the show, I'll be back here finding out
0:01:48 > 0:01:52how the skies above Hampshire became a hub of British aviation,
0:01:52 > 0:01:55and a little more about the man behind these rather beautiful
0:01:55 > 0:01:56flying machines.
0:01:58 > 0:02:01Hampshire is one of England's southernmost counties,
0:02:01 > 0:02:04bounded by the English Channel on its coastline
0:02:04 > 0:02:07and sharing land borders with Dorset and Wiltshire.
0:02:07 > 0:02:10It encompasses areas of special scientific interest
0:02:10 > 0:02:12and the New Forest National Park.
0:02:13 > 0:02:16Once a royal hunting ground of William the Conqueror,
0:02:16 > 0:02:20it's now home to some 6,000 wild ponies, who roam
0:02:20 > 0:02:24its 220 square miles of protected heathland and woodland.
0:02:26 > 0:02:30Situated on the southern edge of the forest is the Georgian market town
0:02:30 > 0:02:34of Lymington. In the 18th century, it was a huge producer of sea salt,
0:02:34 > 0:02:37a highly prized commodity at the time.
0:02:37 > 0:02:42Today, the pretty quayside is home to marinas and leisure yachts.
0:02:42 > 0:02:45With a rich mix of small ports and villages, along with its unique,
0:02:45 > 0:02:50natural landscape, it's easy to see why Hampshire is hailed as a
0:02:50 > 0:02:52great escape for those relocating to the country.
0:02:54 > 0:02:56Well, I'm afraid there is no getting away from it.
0:02:56 > 0:02:59Property shopping here in Hampshire is an expensive business
0:02:59 > 0:03:02and that's because of its close proximity not just to London
0:03:02 > 0:03:04but also to the tantalising south coast.
0:03:04 > 0:03:07Currently, the average price of a detached home here
0:03:07 > 0:03:10is some £480,000,
0:03:10 > 0:03:14that's a whopping £160,000 above the national figure.
0:03:14 > 0:03:16And if you want to live within the bounds of the
0:03:16 > 0:03:19New Forest National Park, well, there you could expect to pay double
0:03:19 > 0:03:23the price of a similar property located elsewhere.
0:03:23 > 0:03:26And as for today's buyers, well, within the park is where
0:03:26 > 0:03:27they want to be.
0:03:27 > 0:03:30So, let's hope they've got pockets and resolve to match.
0:03:31 > 0:03:34Partners Vanessa and Jane live in Flackwell Heath,
0:03:34 > 0:03:37close to the town of High Wycombe in Buckinghamshire.
0:03:37 > 0:03:40And Jane clearly remembers how they got together.
0:03:40 > 0:03:43We met, we both played sport,
0:03:43 > 0:03:47and we sort of drifted apart through our own individual sports,
0:03:47 > 0:03:51and then later on, a few years later, we met again.
0:03:51 > 0:03:54I think Vanessa was watching cricket and I was actually playing,
0:03:54 > 0:03:57so we came together through that.
0:03:57 > 0:04:00Flackwell Heath has served them well, but they're now looking
0:04:00 > 0:04:04for a fresh start, and for that they've chosen Hampshire,
0:04:04 > 0:04:09a coastal county that lends itself to their range of active hobbies.
0:04:09 > 0:04:12We like Hampshire purely because of the space it has
0:04:12 > 0:04:14and it has everything,
0:04:14 > 0:04:16because we like to do a lot of outdoor pursuits.
0:04:16 > 0:04:18I like golf.
0:04:18 > 0:04:22I belong to the local golf club, and so I hope to join a golf club
0:04:22 > 0:04:25wherever we decide to live, and hopefully get Jane involved again,
0:04:25 > 0:04:28because she had played many years ago.
0:04:28 > 0:04:31And Jane and Vanessa aren't the only ones looking forward
0:04:31 > 0:04:33to more outdoor space.
0:04:33 > 0:04:36So, we've got Louis, who's our boxer dog.
0:04:36 > 0:04:38He's only a puppy, but he's a big dog.
0:04:38 > 0:04:41But he's such a laugh and he's a real character,
0:04:41 > 0:04:44and he's going to be part of our life in Hampshire.
0:04:44 > 0:04:47So we're looking for a big rear garden because of him.
0:04:49 > 0:04:52Hampshire is also well placed for accommodating their
0:04:52 > 0:04:54future holiday plans on four wheels.
0:04:56 > 0:04:57We've got a motorhome...
0:04:57 > 0:05:00- Called Molly.- ..called Molly, that we love dearly
0:05:00 > 0:05:02and we really go out to quite a few...
0:05:02 > 0:05:05Well, we've been out nearly all summer in the motorhome.
0:05:05 > 0:05:08Hopefully, we're looking forward to getting over to France in it.
0:05:08 > 0:05:12So we would like a property that can store it, basically.
0:05:13 > 0:05:15Although they'll be sad to leave,
0:05:15 > 0:05:18particularly for Jane who's lived here for 16 years,
0:05:18 > 0:05:20the next chapter of their life is exciting,
0:05:20 > 0:05:24as this will be their first shared house purchase together.
0:05:24 > 0:05:26I'm really looking forward to our move to Hampshire,
0:05:26 > 0:05:30because obviously Ness has been retired for a few years,
0:05:30 > 0:05:32but I'm retiring and I'm going to have
0:05:32 > 0:05:36loads of time to actually have time for myself and time for us
0:05:36 > 0:05:39- to do things together. - And be happy.
0:05:39 > 0:05:41- Yeah.- And be very happy, yeah.
0:05:45 > 0:05:47Vanessa and Jane would like to be in or as close to
0:05:47 > 0:05:51the New Forest National Park as possible and are happy to consider
0:05:51 > 0:05:55the neighbouring counties of Dorset and Wiltshire, too.
0:05:55 > 0:05:59I'm meeting up with them in the New Forest to go over their wish list.
0:05:59 > 0:06:02Well, Jane, Vanessa, welcome to Escape To The Country,
0:06:02 > 0:06:04welcome to Hampshire and in particular,
0:06:04 > 0:06:06welcome to the New Forest.
0:06:06 > 0:06:08- Beautiful.- Beautiful. It's really good, isn't it?- Lovely.
0:06:08 > 0:06:11Why have you picked this particular spot?
0:06:11 > 0:06:14We just love the open space and we're both outdoor people.
0:06:14 > 0:06:17- You are.- It's an ideal place to come and do the outdoor stuff.
0:06:17 > 0:06:21So, give us an idea of the sort of property you're looking for.
0:06:21 > 0:06:24Well, we're looking for a detached property with a large garden,
0:06:24 > 0:06:26because of our boxer dog, Louis.
0:06:26 > 0:06:28We need somewhere to park the motorhome.
0:06:28 > 0:06:31Now, your motorhome has a personality all of its own,
0:06:31 > 0:06:33- hasn't it?- It does. - What do you call it?
0:06:33 > 0:06:35- We call it Molly... - We call it Molly!
0:06:35 > 0:06:37..because we've got some friends that have also got a motorhome
0:06:37 > 0:06:39and they call theirs Tommy!
0:06:39 > 0:06:42And we go away, Molly and Tommy, to the New Forest, so...
0:06:42 > 0:06:47So, lots of outside space would be ideal, but what about inside?
0:06:47 > 0:06:51I think inside, we obviously need a utility area for muddy paws
0:06:51 > 0:06:54coming in from a walk. Also, I think it'd be nice to have a nice,
0:06:54 > 0:06:57light property, if possible,
0:06:57 > 0:06:59- open-plan. - How many bedrooms are you after?
0:07:00 > 0:07:05We said initially two, but obviously it would be nice to have more.
0:07:05 > 0:07:08But we wouldn't like to say more bedrooms
0:07:08 > 0:07:12and then we have to sacrifice the location or the outside space.
0:07:12 > 0:07:14But location is key to you,
0:07:14 > 0:07:18it's got to be either within or at least within striking distance
0:07:18 > 0:07:19- of the New Forest?- Yes.
0:07:19 > 0:07:22How much are you planning on spending?
0:07:22 > 0:07:25The budget we've got is £650,000.
0:07:25 > 0:07:28There are many parts of the country to which I could take you
0:07:28 > 0:07:31where that would get you all manner of things,
0:07:31 > 0:07:34but I suspect you know it's going to struggle a bit here.
0:07:34 > 0:07:35- It is.- It is going to struggle, yeah.
0:07:35 > 0:07:38We might have to compromise in certain areas, but, yeah,
0:07:38 > 0:07:40we're willing to do that.
0:07:40 > 0:07:42So, we'll have to have a look and see how we get on.
0:07:42 > 0:07:44- Ready?- Yeah, definitely. - Let's go.- OK.
0:07:48 > 0:07:51Armed with a budget of £650,000,
0:07:51 > 0:07:54Vanessa and Jane would like a detached property
0:07:54 > 0:07:56with an open-plan layout inside.
0:07:56 > 0:07:58It should have at least two bedrooms,
0:07:58 > 0:08:01so family and friends can come and stay.
0:08:01 > 0:08:03The outside space is important.
0:08:03 > 0:08:06They need a large garden for Louis and ample parking for Molly,
0:08:06 > 0:08:10the motorhome, and, ideally, they want to be within striking distance
0:08:10 > 0:08:11of the New Forest.
0:08:12 > 0:08:15We've lined up a fine selection of New Forest homes
0:08:15 > 0:08:18for Jane and Vanessa to consider, but I won't be revealing
0:08:18 > 0:08:22the all-important price tag until the end of our house tours.
0:08:22 > 0:08:25Our mystery property puts them right at the heart of things,
0:08:25 > 0:08:28but they might have to compromise on space.
0:08:35 > 0:08:38So, what prompted you to get a camper van then?
0:08:38 > 0:08:41The idea of the camper van is for us to sort of go away for weekends
0:08:41 > 0:08:44or during the week, and just go around to different areas
0:08:44 > 0:08:46looking for properties.
0:08:46 > 0:08:49So, you've bought a camper van to go house-hunting?
0:08:49 > 0:08:50We have.
0:08:51 > 0:08:53Brilliant!
0:08:54 > 0:08:57Our first house is on the northern edge of the New Forest
0:08:57 > 0:08:59in the small village of Lover, in Wiltshire.
0:08:59 > 0:09:03One of the closest places for amenities is Downton,
0:09:03 > 0:09:04about three miles away.
0:09:04 > 0:09:07A classically English village, nestled in a valley,
0:09:07 > 0:09:11and with a population of 3,000, it's home to a range of amenities,
0:09:11 > 0:09:14including a post office and a number of pubs.
0:09:14 > 0:09:16Back in the smaller village of Lover,
0:09:16 > 0:09:19house one is set back from a quiet country lane.
0:09:21 > 0:09:24There we are. What do you think of this one then?
0:09:25 > 0:09:27Yeah, it's quite a nice-sized drive.
0:09:27 > 0:09:30I'm just not sure where we'd put the camper van.
0:09:30 > 0:09:31Well, you have got this space here.
0:09:31 > 0:09:35They've obviously got it set up as some rather attractive seating
0:09:35 > 0:09:38and what have you, but there is, behind it, a bit more garaging
0:09:38 > 0:09:40with quite a short parking area.
0:09:40 > 0:09:43- Right.- You could potentially remodel that and have Molly
0:09:43 > 0:09:44kind of out the back.
0:09:44 > 0:09:46Yeah, so what do you think?
0:09:46 > 0:09:49First impression, I like the look of it.
0:09:49 > 0:09:50Good. Let's see what you think.
0:09:52 > 0:09:54Our first option is a handsome brick property,
0:09:54 > 0:09:58built in the 1930s, but it's been extended over the years
0:09:58 > 0:10:00and modernised, including new windows throughout.
0:10:04 > 0:10:06Oh, this is a nice-sized room.
0:10:06 > 0:10:08It's quite a nice bright room, isn't it?
0:10:08 > 0:10:09- It is, yeah.- Quite a good size.
0:10:09 > 0:10:12It's sweet, isn't it? You can see how they've extended it that way.
0:10:12 > 0:10:15- Yeah.- Remember when we looked at the outside?- Oh, yes!
0:10:15 > 0:10:17- Because you've got... Is that a wood burner?- It is, yeah.
0:10:17 > 0:10:19- Oh, brilliant.- You've got a multi-fuel wood burner.
0:10:19 > 0:10:22- We like our wood burners, don't we? - We do.- So it's quite...
0:10:22 > 0:10:25- It looks quite contemporary, although it's an old property.- Yeah.
0:10:25 > 0:10:28You don't have to rely on this as somewhere to relax because,
0:10:28 > 0:10:31through here, we've got a really charming snug,
0:10:31 > 0:10:32and that leads on...
0:10:32 > 0:10:34- Oh, brilliant. - ..to the kitchen-diner.
0:10:36 > 0:10:37Come on, have a look.
0:10:39 > 0:10:42- So, this is the snug. - Again, another nice room.
0:10:42 > 0:10:45You think a snug is small, but it's not small at all.
0:10:45 > 0:10:47- No, it's lovely. - It's a nice size.- It's cosy.
0:10:48 > 0:10:49This, I think, is...
0:10:51 > 0:10:53..the new extension that really makes this place work.
0:10:53 > 0:10:56- You've got a lovely dining-conservatory there..- Wow.
0:10:56 > 0:10:58- ..utility room through there.- Yeah.
0:10:58 > 0:11:00And then in here, well, as you can see...
0:11:00 > 0:11:02- Lovely. This is very nice. - Very, very nice. Yeah.
0:11:02 > 0:11:05And actually, there's a stable door that gets you outside
0:11:05 > 0:11:07through the utility room as well,
0:11:07 > 0:11:11- so you could have boot room, dog room etc.- Yeah.
0:11:11 > 0:11:14- But I think Louis would love this. - Yeah, he would.
0:11:14 > 0:11:17Well, as you can see, they have massively extended it downstairs,
0:11:17 > 0:11:20and the same is true upstairs...
0:11:20 > 0:11:22- Great.- ..to give you your four bedrooms.
0:11:22 > 0:11:24- Come and have a look at these.- Wow.
0:11:27 > 0:11:31Vanessa and Jane seem happy with the well presented ground floor layout,
0:11:31 > 0:11:34which also gives them options for entertaining.
0:11:35 > 0:11:39Upstairs, the four bedrooms include a sunny double guest room...
0:11:41 > 0:11:44..plus two smaller doubles in the extension at the back.
0:11:46 > 0:11:48There's also a family bath and shower room.
0:11:50 > 0:11:52And finally, of course, the main bedroom.
0:11:53 > 0:11:55And this would be yours.
0:11:56 > 0:11:58- OK.- OK.- Yeah?
0:11:58 > 0:12:00- Yeah.- It's... Sorry, go on.
0:12:00 > 0:12:02It's quite small.
0:12:02 > 0:12:05Whether it's because the units there might bring it in a little bit.
0:12:05 > 0:12:08Yeah, they're quite a size,
0:12:08 > 0:12:10but it also incorporates a really nice shower en suite
0:12:10 > 0:12:13through that doorway there. So, that's obviously taking up a bit
0:12:13 > 0:12:16of space, and a little sort of dressing area ahead of you there
0:12:16 > 0:12:18that leads you into the en suite.
0:12:18 > 0:12:22So, I take your point, it's not acres of room.
0:12:22 > 0:12:26- No.- But given that you wanted two bedrooms and we've got four...
0:12:26 > 0:12:28- Yeah.- Yes.- You know, I think that's where you...
0:12:28 > 0:12:31- You have to compromise, maybe. - Yeah, I would say so.
0:12:31 > 0:12:35- And it's a light room again, it's quite a nice, light room.- It is.
0:12:35 > 0:12:36It is spacious, actually.
0:12:36 > 0:12:38- It is spacious. - It's a good-sized house.
0:12:39 > 0:12:41That's what I'm hoping you'll think.
0:12:41 > 0:12:43Yeah.
0:12:43 > 0:12:46- But let's deal with the garden. - OK.- That's the last bit.- All right.
0:12:46 > 0:12:47- After you, madam.- Thank you.
0:12:53 > 0:12:57I'm detecting a difference of opinion over the size of the master,
0:12:57 > 0:13:00but I'm hoping the land will keep them both on side,
0:13:00 > 0:13:03as there's certainly enough space for Louis to run around in
0:13:03 > 0:13:06and plenty of room for Molly, the motorhome.
0:13:08 > 0:13:11So, this is your immediate garden, private garden.
0:13:11 > 0:13:12It goes all the way round the house.
0:13:12 > 0:13:14You've got a bit of seating over there.
0:13:14 > 0:13:17You also get this building here, which I think is rather nice.
0:13:17 > 0:13:20They've given over half of it to a sort of craft studio at this end,
0:13:20 > 0:13:23- and this end is garaging.- Yeah.
0:13:23 > 0:13:25Just behind that hedge there is this little sort of pull-in.
0:13:25 > 0:13:28I'm not sure that's really big enough for Molly,
0:13:28 > 0:13:31but you could extend it, maybe rethink this, knock it down,
0:13:31 > 0:13:33start again, or even chop a bit off of it, potentially,
0:13:33 > 0:13:37to give you somewhere dedicated for Molly.
0:13:37 > 0:13:40Vanessa, what's this one on the market for?
0:13:41 > 0:13:44I think it's going to be nearer the top end of our budget,
0:13:44 > 0:13:49so I'm going to say £625,000.
0:13:49 > 0:13:50625.
0:13:50 > 0:13:53I'd go for 630.
0:13:53 > 0:13:55630.
0:13:55 > 0:13:57Both optimistic.
0:13:57 > 0:13:58- Both not right.- OK.
0:14:00 > 0:14:02Bearing in mind where we are, this is the sort of challenge
0:14:02 > 0:14:05we are going to have to really get to grips with.
0:14:05 > 0:14:11This is on the market for £655,000.
0:14:11 > 0:14:14- Oh.- Yeah.- Within reach, OK.
0:14:14 > 0:14:16They know where your budget is, all right?
0:14:16 > 0:14:21I think it does offer you many reasons to celebrate it.
0:14:21 > 0:14:23- Yes.- Yes, definitely.- Which is what I'm going to let you do now.
0:14:23 > 0:14:26- Go and explore it.- Thank you. - At your leisure.- OK, thank you.
0:14:26 > 0:14:28See what you get for your money.
0:14:32 > 0:14:36Nudging slightly over budget by £5,000,
0:14:36 > 0:14:40the vendors of this extended 1930s house are open to offers.
0:14:40 > 0:14:43Modernised throughout, the ground floor includes a light,
0:14:43 > 0:14:45spacious kitchen and conservatory.
0:14:45 > 0:14:49Upstairs, there are four good-sized bedrooms, and outside,
0:14:49 > 0:14:51the secure garden is dog friendly,
0:14:51 > 0:14:54and there's space for Jane and Vanessa's motorhome.
0:14:54 > 0:14:56I think Jane and I could see ourselves in here.
0:14:56 > 0:15:00Probably have a few discussions on what to do with certain rooms.
0:15:00 > 0:15:04But, yeah, I could see us working well in the house.
0:15:04 > 0:15:08It's got nice, good space, good, airy, light space,
0:15:08 > 0:15:10which for me is a bonus.
0:15:10 > 0:15:14The downside of the property for me is not enough outside space.
0:15:15 > 0:15:17The house inside is spot-on.
0:15:21 > 0:15:23I've just been wondering whether there is any money left
0:15:23 > 0:15:26in your budget for coffee?
0:15:26 > 0:15:28- I'm sure there is. - Come on, let's go.
0:15:35 > 0:15:38Though the New Forest's vast and unspoiled national park
0:15:38 > 0:15:41is what Hampshire is most commonly known for,
0:15:41 > 0:15:44the area's winding coastline of creeks and inlets
0:15:44 > 0:15:47make it the perfect location to enjoy water activities,
0:15:47 > 0:15:50while also taking in the impressive local sites.
0:15:50 > 0:15:53One such place is Hurst Castle.
0:15:53 > 0:15:55Sitting on the end of a shingle spit,
0:15:55 > 0:15:58it was built by Henry VIII to defend the coastline,
0:15:58 > 0:16:00and later modernised in the 19th century.
0:16:01 > 0:16:04From here, instructor Sean Scott runs a course
0:16:04 > 0:16:06in stand-up paddle boarding.
0:16:06 > 0:16:10Given our sporty couple are keen to get out on water when they move,
0:16:10 > 0:16:13we arrange for them to meet him to find out more.
0:16:13 > 0:16:15Because of its remote location,
0:16:15 > 0:16:18Hurst Castle is only accessible by foot or by boat,
0:16:18 > 0:16:21which is how Vanessa and Jane have arrived to meet Sean.
0:16:24 > 0:16:26- Hi, Sean.- Hi, Sean. - Hi, welcome to Hurst Castle.
0:16:26 > 0:16:28- Yeah, beautiful day. - Oh, it's stunning, isn't it?
0:16:28 > 0:16:30Looking forward to the paddle boarding?
0:16:30 > 0:16:32- Really looking forward to it. - Yes.- Brilliant.
0:16:32 > 0:16:35First, though, the historic highlights.
0:16:35 > 0:16:37So, the castle has a really varied history.
0:16:37 > 0:16:39So, obviously we have the Tudor castle in the middle,
0:16:39 > 0:16:41one of Henry VIII's coastal forts.
0:16:41 > 0:16:44One of the main things people like to know about is King Charles I.
0:16:44 > 0:16:46He was kept here before he was obviously then taken off
0:16:46 > 0:16:47- to be executed.- Wow.
0:16:47 > 0:16:50So why is Hurst particularly good for paddle boarding?
0:16:50 > 0:16:52So, we're really lucky round here.
0:16:52 > 0:16:54The castle itself creates shelter.
0:16:54 > 0:16:58We've got a lovely bay right in front of us, obviously a nice, calm,
0:16:58 > 0:17:01safe environment. You're effectively penned in by three sides.
0:17:01 > 0:17:04So for anyone who's a bit nervous, not sure about balance, it's a flat,
0:17:04 > 0:17:06calm area, nice and safe.
0:17:06 > 0:17:08There's no boats to really worry about.
0:17:08 > 0:17:09Perfect location to begin.
0:17:09 > 0:17:12- Great. Shall we give it a go? - Brilliant, yeah, when you're ready,
0:17:12 > 0:17:14- let's give it a go. - Let's give it a go.
0:17:15 > 0:17:17Paddle boarding has grown in popularity.
0:17:17 > 0:17:20It started in Hawaii and evolved from other watersports,
0:17:20 > 0:17:24including outrigger canoeing and windsurfing.
0:17:24 > 0:17:27In terms of equipment, it's pretty straightforward.
0:17:27 > 0:17:31You need a board and a paddle, and a wetsuit's a really good idea.
0:17:33 > 0:17:36Lovely, great. So if you'd like to grab your paddle.
0:17:36 > 0:17:38Fantastic, brilliant.
0:17:38 > 0:17:41OK, so, if we're paddling along, we're going to be on our knees.
0:17:41 > 0:17:43We place the paddle in the water and we pull it down
0:17:43 > 0:17:45the side of the board, starting in at the front
0:17:45 > 0:17:46as far as you can reach,
0:17:46 > 0:17:48coming down along the side of the board.
0:17:48 > 0:17:50If you're paddling on your left,
0:17:50 > 0:17:52your board will slowly start turning to the right.
0:17:52 > 0:17:55Paddling on the right, your board will start slowly turning
0:17:55 > 0:17:57to the left. Make sure you're looking up and forwards,
0:17:57 > 0:17:59don't look at your feet. OK?
0:17:59 > 0:18:01If at any point you do feel unstable though,
0:18:01 > 0:18:04bend your knees as though you're squatting on the board, OK?
0:18:04 > 0:18:07That will allow the boards to move around underneath you
0:18:07 > 0:18:09and should help you relax, not fall forwards.
0:18:11 > 0:18:13Well, time to put the theory into practice.
0:18:13 > 0:18:14So, it's life jackets on.
0:18:16 > 0:18:18Now, Vanessa's not as confident in the water as Jane,
0:18:18 > 0:18:20so she's going first.
0:18:21 > 0:18:23Keeping her legs as relaxed as possible,
0:18:23 > 0:18:27she sets off in somewhat breezy conditions.
0:18:27 > 0:18:28That's it, paddle on the left.
0:18:28 > 0:18:30Stroke on the left, yeah?
0:18:30 > 0:18:31That's it.
0:18:31 > 0:18:33Then it's Jane's turn.
0:18:34 > 0:18:36And after a few minutes on the water,
0:18:36 > 0:18:39she's keen to get adventurous.
0:18:39 > 0:18:40I think it's good fun.
0:18:40 > 0:18:43It's quite challenging today because it's quite breezy.
0:18:43 > 0:18:45I'm looking forward to standing up.
0:18:46 > 0:18:47I'm not so sure about that!
0:18:50 > 0:18:53But with a little instruction from Sean, Jane's soon on her feet.
0:18:53 > 0:18:56That's it. You're a paddle boarder.
0:18:56 > 0:18:57It's not going to topple over, is it?
0:18:57 > 0:19:00- No, no, no, it's not going to topple over on you.- OK.
0:19:00 > 0:19:03Gently scoop the water down the side.
0:19:03 > 0:19:05Nice and relaxed. Nice and gently.
0:19:06 > 0:19:08Even Vanessa eventually has a go.
0:19:09 > 0:19:12Rounding off a successful day on the Solent.
0:19:16 > 0:19:19- I really enjoyed that. - Thanks, Sean.- Yeah, that was great.
0:19:19 > 0:19:22- Well done, brilliant.- Quite breezy, but we'll come back again.
0:19:22 > 0:19:23- Fantastic.- When it's calmer.
0:19:23 > 0:19:26Well done. You should be both really proud of what you've done there.
0:19:26 > 0:19:29- To get standing in this wind, well done.- Thank you.- Thank you.
0:19:37 > 0:19:40I'm rural property shopping in the New Forest with Jane and Vanessa,
0:19:40 > 0:19:43who currently live near High Wycombe in Buckinghamshire.
0:19:43 > 0:19:47With their £650,000 budget, they're looking for somewhere large enough
0:19:47 > 0:19:52to accommodate them, their much-loved dog and their motorhome.
0:19:52 > 0:19:55Coming up, we'll be seeing two more possibilities.
0:19:55 > 0:19:57At the mystery property, we meet the neighbours.
0:19:57 > 0:20:00Oh, look, here they are. This is where they've been hiding all along.
0:20:00 > 0:20:02Yeah, they've been waiting for us.
0:20:03 > 0:20:06And I discover the remarkable role Hampshire played
0:20:06 > 0:20:08in the story of British aviation.
0:20:15 > 0:20:18Well, as we get ready for our final day of property hunting here in the
0:20:18 > 0:20:19New Forest with Jane and Vanessa,
0:20:19 > 0:20:22once again we have to face the task of trying to pitch
0:20:22 > 0:20:26their otherwise very generous budget into what is, without a doubt,
0:20:26 > 0:20:28a very challenging property market.
0:20:28 > 0:20:30Coming up, we've got two more properties to show them,
0:20:30 > 0:20:33including, of course, our Mystery House,
0:20:33 > 0:20:37which I think offers them a very real slice of New Forest life.
0:20:37 > 0:20:41But first, something that's located just outside the park, but which
0:20:41 > 0:20:44should, I hope, cater for their interest in watersports,
0:20:44 > 0:20:47whilst giving them ready access to all that the New Forest
0:20:47 > 0:20:48has to offer.
0:20:55 > 0:20:57For our next option, we're travelling to Milford on Sea
0:20:57 > 0:20:59on the Hampshire coast.
0:20:59 > 0:21:01Lying between the New Forest on one side
0:21:01 > 0:21:05and Christchurch Harbour on the other, the popular seaside village
0:21:05 > 0:21:08has a wide range of shops and restaurants surrounding
0:21:08 > 0:21:10a well-kept village green.
0:21:10 > 0:21:13The next house is located on the edge of this coastal village.
0:21:15 > 0:21:18Right, guys, well, I thought today we'd start with this one.
0:21:18 > 0:21:20What do you think?
0:21:20 > 0:21:23It looks interesting. It's not something I would have
0:21:23 > 0:21:25perhaps looked at. But, yeah...
0:21:25 > 0:21:27It has a nice-sized drive.
0:21:27 > 0:21:29Just looking at it, it might need a bit of updating.
0:21:29 > 0:21:32Yes, I think, to be fair, it could do with a bit of refreshing.
0:21:32 > 0:21:34- Yeah.- As you might expect with a property that's
0:21:34 > 0:21:38been in the same family for the last 30 years or so.
0:21:38 > 0:21:41But the building itself was put up in 1955.
0:21:41 > 0:21:44Plenty of room in here, I think, for the pair of you,
0:21:44 > 0:21:46and, of course, for Louis as well.
0:21:46 > 0:21:49He's got a massive utility room all to himself.
0:21:49 > 0:21:50- Come and have a look.- OK.
0:21:52 > 0:21:55This detached property built back in the 1950s
0:21:55 > 0:21:59is situated in an excellent location close to the sea.
0:21:59 > 0:22:01The house itself is neutrally decorated
0:22:01 > 0:22:03and offers Vanessa and Jane a blank canvas.
0:22:05 > 0:22:07Right, there we are.
0:22:08 > 0:22:13This is what greets us and what is going to greet your visitors.
0:22:13 > 0:22:16They've got it set up as a sort of dining hallway.
0:22:16 > 0:22:17First impressions?
0:22:18 > 0:22:21I'm not sure about walking into a room.
0:22:21 > 0:22:24- Yeah?- I find that different.- Yeah. - I've never experienced that.
0:22:24 > 0:22:26So, I find that quite...
0:22:26 > 0:22:28Is it a waste of a room?
0:22:28 > 0:22:30It's a good question. I mean, effectively, it's a corridor.
0:22:30 > 0:22:33That's what all of these dining hallways are, essentially.
0:22:33 > 0:22:36But it does lead you to the rest of the property.
0:22:38 > 0:22:42Off one side of the hallway, there's a ground floor guest double
0:22:42 > 0:22:46and a decent-sized study, which could become another bedroom.
0:22:47 > 0:22:50But we're heading to the kitchen at the back of the house.
0:22:52 > 0:22:53Here you go. Kitchen-diner.
0:22:55 > 0:22:58- It's quite a big room, actually, for a kitchen, isn't it?- Yeah.
0:22:58 > 0:23:01- I mean, it's quite compact. - There's quite a lot of floor space.
0:23:01 > 0:23:03There's loads of floor space.
0:23:03 > 0:23:07Again, I think this is one of the areas that you might refresh,
0:23:07 > 0:23:08shall we say.
0:23:08 > 0:23:10A nice bit of furniture here, too.
0:23:10 > 0:23:13And, of course, that lovely light area, which has obviously been
0:23:13 > 0:23:16added on with the glazing over the kitchen table itself.
0:23:16 > 0:23:19I think it's got potential to put your own stamp on it.
0:23:19 > 0:23:21Definitely.
0:23:21 > 0:23:24It also has the addition of an enormous utility room.
0:23:24 > 0:23:26Access through that door there.
0:23:26 > 0:23:29Bags of room for Louis and all your clobber and outdoor gear.
0:23:29 > 0:23:31- Yes, that's handy to have. - Sounds good.
0:23:32 > 0:23:34I'm feeling the love with you two here.
0:23:34 > 0:23:37- I've got lots of ideas bouncing around.- Yeah, I think it's...
0:23:37 > 0:23:38Yeah, yeah, it's growing on me.
0:23:38 > 0:23:41- Look at that cheeky smile. - It's growing on me.
0:23:41 > 0:23:45I think this is working its own magic, isn't it? Good.
0:23:45 > 0:23:47One room you won't want to do an awful lot to is the
0:23:47 > 0:23:50living room. That's next door. Come and have a look of this.
0:23:50 > 0:23:52- You'd forgotten all about this, hadn't you?- We did.
0:23:54 > 0:23:55There.
0:23:56 > 0:23:59That's quite modern in comparison to the other rooms.
0:23:59 > 0:24:01Yeah. Quite contemporary, isn't it?
0:24:01 > 0:24:03Yes, very square.
0:24:03 > 0:24:04Again it's light.
0:24:04 > 0:24:07Would you say it's double aspect, is that what you say?
0:24:07 > 0:24:10Why not? Double aspect with some French doors
0:24:10 > 0:24:12out to the veranda, actually.
0:24:12 > 0:24:15- A genuine veranda, which is rather interesting.- That's nice, isn't it?
0:24:15 > 0:24:17Which we'll see a bit later.
0:24:17 > 0:24:19- We'll go out that way when we go out in the garden.- OK.
0:24:19 > 0:24:24Well, let's have a look upstairs, because the master is all of that.
0:24:24 > 0:24:25- Wow.- You get the whole floor. Yeah.
0:24:28 > 0:24:31With two of the three bedrooms located on the ground floor,
0:24:31 > 0:24:34the main bedroom upstairs benefits from a skylight
0:24:34 > 0:24:38and some useful storage cupboards set into the eaves.
0:24:38 > 0:24:40Again, it's got a lot of character.
0:24:40 > 0:24:42And it's also got, behind here,
0:24:42 > 0:24:46a really nice en suite shower over the bath, kind of arrangement.
0:24:46 > 0:24:48- Oh, yes, that's nice.- But nice and fresh.- Looks nice.- Yeah.
0:24:48 > 0:24:50And the skylight as well.
0:24:50 > 0:24:55So you've got your own master suite, effectively, up here.
0:24:55 > 0:24:56Yeah. Very nice.
0:24:56 > 0:25:00It's got potential, this property, to put our own mark on it.
0:25:00 > 0:25:03I've got lots of ideas bouncing around.
0:25:03 > 0:25:06I haven't seen you this excited all week, so this is all good.
0:25:06 > 0:25:08But there is one more bit to show you, and that of course
0:25:08 > 0:25:11is the garden, and from there I think you get the prettiest view
0:25:11 > 0:25:13- of the house as well.- OK.
0:25:13 > 0:25:15Let's see what you think of this.
0:25:15 > 0:25:17Down the stairs with that door.
0:25:22 > 0:25:24The garden is perfectly maintained,
0:25:24 > 0:25:27with a raised timber veranda overlooking the whole plot.
0:25:29 > 0:25:32Most of it is laid to lawn with tree and shrub borders,
0:25:32 > 0:25:35creating a beautifully secluded haven to relax in.
0:25:42 > 0:25:43Do you see what I mean?
0:25:43 > 0:25:47I think the view from down here looking up is really attractive.
0:25:47 > 0:25:50- It is.- It's the veranda.- Yeah. - I think it's beautiful, that.
0:25:50 > 0:25:53It's very Mediterranean, isn't it?
0:25:53 > 0:25:56It is. It's nice just to come out of the living area straight onto it.
0:25:56 > 0:25:58I like that.
0:25:58 > 0:26:01So, let's have a think then about the price of this one, shall we?
0:26:03 > 0:26:04Oh...
0:26:05 > 0:26:10I think the price of this property would be 585.
0:26:10 > 0:26:11585.
0:26:13 > 0:26:16£640,000.
0:26:16 > 0:26:20£640,000 is closer to the mark.
0:26:20 > 0:26:23But, it does pain me to tell you this,
0:26:23 > 0:26:30it is an eyewatering £669,950.
0:26:30 > 0:26:32My goodness.
0:26:32 > 0:26:37However, that said, they know what your budget is, the current owners,
0:26:37 > 0:26:42and would be keen to entertain a conversation if this property
0:26:42 > 0:26:44is for you.
0:26:44 > 0:26:48But of course it's all about location, isn't it?
0:26:48 > 0:26:50Close to the coast, close to the New Forest.
0:26:50 > 0:26:54Again, it's the gardens, the location.
0:26:54 > 0:26:58It's a real learning curve on this visit to the country.
0:26:58 > 0:26:59- It is, isn't it?- Yeah, definitely.
0:26:59 > 0:27:00Go and have a wander around
0:27:00 > 0:27:03and talk amongst yourselves, and I will come and find you
0:27:03 > 0:27:05- a little bit later on.- OK. - Go on. Off you go.
0:27:07 > 0:27:09Although over budget by £20,000,
0:27:09 > 0:27:13the owner of this attractive property is open to offers.
0:27:13 > 0:27:15There's a generous living space,
0:27:15 > 0:27:17including a practical kitchen with large utility room
0:27:17 > 0:27:19for Louis, the dog.
0:27:19 > 0:27:21There are two bedrooms, with the master occupying
0:27:21 > 0:27:23the whole first floor.
0:27:23 > 0:27:26The beautiful gardens can be enjoyed from the veranda,
0:27:26 > 0:27:29and there's ample parking at the front for the motor home.
0:27:29 > 0:27:31Let's not forget, too, that it's located just a few miles
0:27:31 > 0:27:33from the south coast.
0:27:33 > 0:27:37My overall thoughts of the house and the price,
0:27:37 > 0:27:39it gives you a lot to think about.
0:27:39 > 0:27:43I thought it was a lot of money for what we would like to do to it.
0:27:43 > 0:27:44Yeah. It could work,
0:27:44 > 0:27:50but we'd have to knock a few pounds off the asking price.
0:27:52 > 0:27:54Well, that was a bit of a roller-coaster.
0:27:54 > 0:27:58- How are we doing?- Yeah, good, thank you.- Seen enough?- Yes.- Yep.
0:27:58 > 0:28:03I was thinking, if you say £669,950
0:28:03 > 0:28:06really quickly, it doesn't sound as much.
0:28:06 > 0:28:09- It does!- It does! Yeah, definitely! - Come on then.
0:28:16 > 0:28:19For our final offering, we're heading to the village of Beaulieu
0:28:19 > 0:28:21in the heart of the New Forest.
0:28:21 > 0:28:26Set in a conservation area, it dates back to the 13th century,
0:28:26 > 0:28:29and grew up around an abbey founded by Cistercian monks,
0:28:29 > 0:28:33on land given to them by King John, who had a royal hunting lodge
0:28:33 > 0:28:34at Beaulieu itself.
0:28:34 > 0:28:37Our Mystery House is situated just on the outskirts,
0:28:37 > 0:28:39on New Forest common land.
0:28:39 > 0:28:42It presents Vanessa and Jane with an option slap-bang
0:28:42 > 0:28:43in the national park.
0:28:43 > 0:28:47But they will have to give up some outside and inside space
0:28:47 > 0:28:50if they want such a sought-after location.
0:28:50 > 0:28:53Now, when you have pictured the New Forest in the past,
0:28:53 > 0:28:56presumably this is the sort of thing that you've had in mind?
0:28:56 > 0:28:59- Yes.- Definitely, yeah.- Well, if you lived in that house over there,
0:28:59 > 0:29:01the white one...
0:29:01 > 0:29:03it would all come together, wouldn't it, beautifully?
0:29:03 > 0:29:05- Yes.- It would.- It would.
0:29:05 > 0:29:08- Good, because that's the Mystery House.- Oh, OK!
0:29:09 > 0:29:12Yeah, that's a good position.
0:29:12 > 0:29:14That's idyllic, isn't it?
0:29:14 > 0:29:15- Yeah.- It's what we wanted.
0:29:15 > 0:29:18And what it lacks in garden, it makes up for in
0:29:18 > 0:29:20all of this outside the front door.
0:29:20 > 0:29:22Right, OK.
0:29:22 > 0:29:24- Brilliant.- Exciting. - Happy?- Very.
0:29:24 > 0:29:27Well, let's hope it works, guys, because this is the last throw
0:29:27 > 0:29:29- of the dice, isn't it?- It is.
0:29:29 > 0:29:31We've got it all to play for. Right, come on.
0:29:33 > 0:29:36Built in the Edwardian era, this detached cottage comes with
0:29:36 > 0:29:39the benefit of commoners' rights over the land in front.
0:29:39 > 0:29:41Oh, look, here they are.
0:29:41 > 0:29:43This is where they've been hiding all along.
0:29:43 > 0:29:46- Almost outside the front door. - Yeah, they've been waiting for us.
0:29:46 > 0:29:49It's the oldest property I've shown Jane and Vanessa,
0:29:49 > 0:29:51and it's packed with character inside.
0:29:57 > 0:29:59Right, so, come on in.
0:30:01 > 0:30:03What do you think?
0:30:03 > 0:30:05It's quite small.
0:30:05 > 0:30:06Quite dark.
0:30:07 > 0:30:09Not what I expected, really.
0:30:09 > 0:30:12Again, for me, when you come in through the door,
0:30:12 > 0:30:15you're straight into a room, and I'm not so sure about that.
0:30:15 > 0:30:18Yes. I mean, I do take your point. It isn't for everybody.
0:30:18 > 0:30:20I mean, in terms of size, it is quite compact.
0:30:20 > 0:30:22It has had an extension that way.
0:30:22 > 0:30:25That's where that door leads to, what is now an extended snug,
0:30:25 > 0:30:27which is a two-storey affair,
0:30:27 > 0:30:29- so it does make more room upstairs as well.- OK.
0:30:29 > 0:30:32The selling point really, of course, is...
0:30:32 > 0:30:36- What's outside.- The view.- Yeah. - Definitely.- That is the thing.
0:30:36 > 0:30:37So, come through to the kitchen.
0:30:42 > 0:30:43Now...
0:30:44 > 0:30:46..I know what you're going to say.
0:30:46 > 0:30:48You're going to say it's not big enough.
0:30:48 > 0:30:50- It's not big enough! - No.
0:30:52 > 0:30:53I am psychic, I must be!
0:30:54 > 0:30:57However, it is dominated by this island affair,
0:30:57 > 0:30:59a sort of breakfast bar,
0:30:59 > 0:31:02which, to be perfectly frank, I would probably remove
0:31:02 > 0:31:05and rethink the whole thing.
0:31:05 > 0:31:07- Yeah.- Definitely, yeah.
0:31:07 > 0:31:10It just sort of restricts you as you come in. It's sort of...
0:31:10 > 0:31:13- You walk straight into it. - It is quite a restricting room.
0:31:13 > 0:31:15I think there's not an awful lot you could do with it.
0:31:15 > 0:31:18But, you know, not to say you couldn't work your magic.
0:31:18 > 0:31:20Yeah, we could...
0:31:20 > 0:31:22A lot of magic, I think, for me!
0:31:23 > 0:31:26- Well, you know I want you to be honest, that's the key thing.- Sorry.
0:31:27 > 0:31:30I don't think Jane and Vanessa are convinced.
0:31:30 > 0:31:34There's no doubt it's a cosier option than our previous properties,
0:31:34 > 0:31:37but let's not forget that bit of common kerb appeal outside.
0:31:37 > 0:31:41Upstairs, there are three bedrooms, including a guest double
0:31:41 > 0:31:42at the back...
0:31:43 > 0:31:46..and a single overlooking the heathland at the front.
0:31:47 > 0:31:50But let's see what they think of the final bedroom,
0:31:50 > 0:31:52which I think they'd have for themselves.
0:31:55 > 0:31:57No surprise that this is...
0:31:59 > 0:32:00..the master.
0:32:00 > 0:32:02Great outlook, isn't it?
0:32:02 > 0:32:05- It is.- I mean, yeah, wake up to a view of the common.
0:32:05 > 0:32:07Come over here, look. Can you see?
0:32:07 > 0:32:10- Cattle. I told you.- Oh, yeah. Great, great outlook out there.
0:32:10 > 0:32:13- A bit more wildlife to see. - Straight onto the common.
0:32:13 > 0:32:15Again, it's a nice light room.
0:32:15 > 0:32:17Good-sized bedroom.
0:32:17 > 0:32:20- And it has quite a big en suite through there, too.- Oh, OK.
0:32:20 > 0:32:22- Now, we've talked a lot about Molly. - Yeah.
0:32:23 > 0:32:26- We've actually got somewhere for Molly.- Oh!
0:32:26 > 0:32:27- Yeah. Come and have a look at this. - OK.
0:32:27 > 0:32:30I think it's the best Molly base we've found yet.
0:32:34 > 0:32:36Outside, there's a wraparound secluded garden,
0:32:36 > 0:32:39which is largely laid to lawn.
0:32:39 > 0:32:41It's suitably secure for a dog as well,
0:32:41 > 0:32:44and there is a designated parking space for their sizeable motorhome.
0:32:48 > 0:32:51So, this is where I think Molly would be quite at home, actually.
0:32:51 > 0:32:54- Yeah, I can see...- So, it's a good enough space for her.- Yeah.
0:32:54 > 0:32:56Look, you've got access there through the gate.
0:32:56 > 0:32:58You might need to trim the holly a bit, but...
0:32:58 > 0:33:01And you can keep an eye on her through the kitchen window there.
0:33:01 > 0:33:04- Yeah.- And it's all pretty much enclosed, in terms of Louis.
0:33:04 > 0:33:07I think you could open the back door and he could potter about here.
0:33:07 > 0:33:09It's not a massive garden, of course,
0:33:09 > 0:33:10because you've got the common,
0:33:10 > 0:33:14- you know, to play with in front of you.- In front of you, yeah.
0:33:14 > 0:33:17Now comes the very difficult bit where you have to estimate
0:33:17 > 0:33:20the price, which I'm sort of dreading a bit today.
0:33:20 > 0:33:22So, for the last time of asking, Jane,
0:33:22 > 0:33:25how much do you think this is on the market for?
0:33:25 > 0:33:29A difficult one, but with the common outside, I say...
0:33:29 > 0:33:31- £700,000.- £700,000?
0:33:31 > 0:33:34So you've clearly learned this week, and added on a bit.
0:33:34 > 0:33:36Yeah, I have. Yeah, definitely.
0:33:36 > 0:33:37OK, Vanessa?
0:33:37 > 0:33:39Erm... I agree, it's over budget,
0:33:39 > 0:33:42and I think it's going to be higher than Jane's price,
0:33:42 > 0:33:45- so I'm going to say 735.- Wow!
0:33:45 > 0:33:50This is in fact bang-on your budget at £650,000.
0:33:50 > 0:33:53- Really?- Wow. I'm really shocked at that.
0:33:53 > 0:33:54- Yeah.- I'm surprised.
0:33:54 > 0:33:56- There you go.- There you go.
0:33:56 > 0:34:00So, you get the common, you get the Mystery House for £650,000.
0:34:00 > 0:34:02Well, not the common. You get access to it,
0:34:02 > 0:34:04- along with everybody else.- Yeah. - It's a shared thing.
0:34:04 > 0:34:06Yeah, it is shared thing with the horses.
0:34:06 > 0:34:07But the house, you don't have to share.
0:34:07 > 0:34:08This would be all yours.
0:34:08 > 0:34:11So, go and have a quick whizz round and I'll come and find you later,
0:34:11 > 0:34:14and then we'll head off and get you somewhere you can sit down
0:34:14 > 0:34:17- and think about it all. Go on, off you go.- Thank you.
0:34:17 > 0:34:20Bang on budget, our Mystery House is an Edwardian cottage
0:34:20 > 0:34:24situated in the middle of the New Forest National Park.
0:34:24 > 0:34:28The accommodation is cosy, but perfectly adequate for a couple.
0:34:28 > 0:34:30There are three bedrooms upstairs,
0:34:30 > 0:34:33and outside there's plenty of space for their motorhome
0:34:33 > 0:34:35and for Louis to play around in.
0:34:35 > 0:34:38But the real selling point is having the New Forest
0:34:38 > 0:34:40right on their doorstep.
0:34:40 > 0:34:42I don't think this age of property is for me.
0:34:42 > 0:34:45I like more conventional, more light in the room,
0:34:45 > 0:34:48- bigger rooms.- The rooms are on the small side, for me.
0:34:48 > 0:34:52And the garden is a lot smaller than I wanted, we both wanted.
0:34:52 > 0:34:55So, on the whole, it's a no from me.
0:34:56 > 0:34:58Our house tours are now over.
0:34:59 > 0:35:02You're got quite a lot to make some sort of sense of, haven't you?
0:35:02 > 0:35:04- We have.- It's been an interesting week.
0:35:04 > 0:35:07Absolutely. But it's not over just yet.
0:35:07 > 0:35:09Go on, off you go. I'll find you a coffee somewhere.
0:35:15 > 0:35:19With its 34 miles of coastline and major ports, such as Southampton,
0:35:19 > 0:35:23Hampshire has a distinguished nautical heritage.
0:35:23 > 0:35:26But the county has also played a big part in the aviation history
0:35:26 > 0:35:28of Britain.
0:35:28 > 0:35:30In the 20th-century, the Solent region was home
0:35:30 > 0:35:34to 26 plane companies, including Supermarine -
0:35:34 > 0:35:37manufacturer of the first commercial flying boat,
0:35:37 > 0:35:39and, of course, the legendary Spitfire.
0:35:40 > 0:35:44The region's aircraft heritage is preserved at the Solent Sky Museum,
0:35:44 > 0:35:47and I've come to meet director Alan Jones to find out more
0:35:47 > 0:35:50about the collection and the key people involved
0:35:50 > 0:35:52in Hampshire's aeronautical history.
0:35:55 > 0:35:57You know, Alan, I never tire of coming to see this museum.
0:35:57 > 0:35:59It is an astonishing collection.
0:35:59 > 0:36:03Now, many people will be aware of Southampton's shipping legacy,
0:36:03 > 0:36:06but maybe unaware of the crucial role it played in the story
0:36:06 > 0:36:09of aviation and the development of the flying boat.
0:36:09 > 0:36:12It was the shipping heritage that made the flying boat, of course,
0:36:12 > 0:36:14because when Pemberton Billing came to Southampton,
0:36:14 > 0:36:16he was an eccentric millionaire,
0:36:16 > 0:36:18became a Member of Parliament, actually.
0:36:18 > 0:36:21He and Scott-Paine formed a company called Supermarine.
0:36:21 > 0:36:24And the idea was to build boats that fly.
0:36:24 > 0:36:26We in Southampton were quite famous for producing things
0:36:26 > 0:36:28like J Class yachts and...
0:36:28 > 0:36:32So, they came here and they had the workforce available,
0:36:32 > 0:36:33and that's how they started.
0:36:33 > 0:36:35But to put it in context,
0:36:35 > 0:36:37this is all happening at the beginning of the 20th century,
0:36:37 > 0:36:40when aviation itself was in its infancy.
0:36:40 > 0:36:44The idea of combining this emerging science with water
0:36:44 > 0:36:45was a pretty bold one?
0:36:45 > 0:36:47Well, it's very bold, but it was obvious, if you think about it,
0:36:47 > 0:36:49because there were no railways.
0:36:49 > 0:36:51I mean, the water's all over the world, isn't it?
0:36:51 > 0:36:53So, you can fly from anywhere,
0:36:53 > 0:36:55and therefore the idea of producing an aeroplane
0:36:55 > 0:36:57that would take off of water and land back onto water was,
0:36:57 > 0:37:00at the time, incredibly sensible.
0:37:00 > 0:37:02Hampshire had the water and the local expertise
0:37:02 > 0:37:05to attract companies like Supermarine to the area.
0:37:06 > 0:37:11In 1917, a young apprentice from Stoke-on-Trent joined the firm.
0:37:11 > 0:37:15RJ Mitchell quickly rose through the ranks to become chief designer,
0:37:15 > 0:37:18helping to produce the fastest flying boats known to man.
0:37:20 > 0:37:22Alan, this is a fascinating aircraft.
0:37:22 > 0:37:25- What are we looking at here? - Well, this is the S.6B,
0:37:25 > 0:37:27designed by RJ Mitchell, and was designed for the
0:37:27 > 0:37:301931 Schneider Trophy race.
0:37:30 > 0:37:31And up until then, of course,
0:37:31 > 0:37:33Mitchell had designed a large number of flying boats,
0:37:33 > 0:37:36- in fact 24 different types of aeroplane up to then.- Wow.
0:37:36 > 0:37:38When the Schneider Trophy was first conceived,
0:37:38 > 0:37:40it was by Jacques Schneider, a Frenchman,
0:37:40 > 0:37:44and the idea was a competition to see how safe and fast
0:37:44 > 0:37:48you could make an aeroplane. The competition started in 1913,
0:37:48 > 0:37:53and by 1931, when this country won it outright, the speed had gone
0:37:53 > 0:37:57from something like 45mph to nearly 400.
0:37:57 > 0:38:00And that was as a result of Mitchell's design.
0:38:01 > 0:38:04Mitchell's S.6B was revolutionary.
0:38:04 > 0:38:08To reduce external drag, he put the radiator coolant in the wings
0:38:08 > 0:38:11and the fuel in the floats, streamlining the whole thing.
0:38:11 > 0:38:15The S.6B had given Mitchell the experience and the team
0:38:15 > 0:38:18to move forward and design Britain's most celebrated
0:38:18 > 0:38:20wartime flying machine - the Spitfire.
0:38:22 > 0:38:26How much of that early Schneider technology finally made it into this
0:38:26 > 0:38:27particular aircraft?
0:38:27 > 0:38:30Well, a lot of the technology, but it wasn't a development
0:38:30 > 0:38:35from the S6 aircraft, because it was a totally different concept,
0:38:35 > 0:38:36in its own way.
0:38:36 > 0:38:40But what is important is that Mitchell learnt a great deal about
0:38:40 > 0:38:41high-speed flight.
0:38:41 > 0:38:44And that's why the Spitfire became such a successful aircraft,
0:38:44 > 0:38:47because the design was such that it was smooth, it was clean,
0:38:47 > 0:38:49and it was a thoroughbred from day one.
0:38:49 > 0:38:53When it first flew in 1936, Mutt Summers, who flew the aircraft,
0:38:53 > 0:38:56got out of it and said, "Don't change anything."
0:38:56 > 0:38:59So, famously, Mitchell designs the Spitfire here in Southampton.
0:38:59 > 0:39:01- Was it built here?- Oh, yes.
0:39:01 > 0:39:04There were all Spitfires built here up until 1940,
0:39:04 > 0:39:07and then there were two daylight raids on the factory.
0:39:07 > 0:39:09110 people were killed.
0:39:09 > 0:39:10And after the second raid,
0:39:10 > 0:39:14the whole of the Spitfire production was brought to a halt.
0:39:14 > 0:39:15After the bombing of the factory,
0:39:15 > 0:39:18Spitfire production was dispersed around the town
0:39:18 > 0:39:22and to the West Midlands. But of the 22,000 Spitfires built,
0:39:22 > 0:39:258,000 were made here in Southampton.
0:39:25 > 0:39:27It goes to show the impact Hampshire's
0:39:27 > 0:39:30designers and engineers had, not only on British aviation,
0:39:30 > 0:39:33but also on the course of the Second World War itself.
0:39:34 > 0:39:36But now it's time to return to the present day
0:39:36 > 0:39:38and our house-hunting mission.
0:39:42 > 0:39:44Well, sadly, there is no getting away from it,
0:39:44 > 0:39:46this has been a frustrating week,
0:39:46 > 0:39:50and it certainly challenged both Jane and Vanessa's preconceptions
0:39:50 > 0:39:53about what their new life in the New Forest might eventually
0:39:53 > 0:39:56look like and, importantly, what it may cost them.
0:39:56 > 0:40:00So, the burning question, as ever, is what happens next?
0:40:00 > 0:40:02Well, let's go and ask them.
0:40:04 > 0:40:07- Hello, you two.- Hi.- Hiya. - How are you doing?- Yes, good.
0:40:09 > 0:40:12Now, I think, in fairness, we did show you an interesting range
0:40:12 > 0:40:14of properties.
0:40:14 > 0:40:15- Yeah.- You did, yeah.
0:40:15 > 0:40:17But is there is favourite?
0:40:19 > 0:40:21I think, if we had to pick a favourite...
0:40:21 > 0:40:23It would be the first house.
0:40:23 > 0:40:25- The first one?- Yes.
0:40:25 > 0:40:30- We like that because it had quite a lot of floor space...- Yeah.
0:40:30 > 0:40:33And it's a property we could see ourselves walking straight into
0:40:33 > 0:40:35without having to do a lot of alterations.
0:40:35 > 0:40:40- It certainly set the bar in terms of the budget, didn't it?- Yeah.
0:40:42 > 0:40:44It was slightly over budget, but...
0:40:45 > 0:40:47..we could understand why that was well placed.
0:40:47 > 0:40:49I think we can cut to the chase, really.
0:40:49 > 0:40:52It has been difficult, as we will all recognise.
0:40:52 > 0:40:56- My guess is that we haven't quite found it yet.- No.- No.
0:40:56 > 0:40:58But what about the New Forest itself?
0:40:58 > 0:41:02Are you still certain that this is an area where you want to
0:41:02 > 0:41:04put down roots and invest your money?
0:41:06 > 0:41:08We'd like to continue looking in the New Forest.
0:41:08 > 0:41:10The first property you showed us,
0:41:10 > 0:41:12we don't really know that particular area,
0:41:12 > 0:41:17so we've had a chat about it, and we said that we would, you know,
0:41:17 > 0:41:20pursue that area and have a look and see what that area has to offer.
0:41:20 > 0:41:23Are you feeling optimistic about the New Forest?
0:41:23 > 0:41:25I was going to say, "However..."
0:41:26 > 0:41:28I was waiting for that, yeah. OK.
0:41:28 > 0:41:33However, obviously, this week has really shown what we can afford
0:41:33 > 0:41:37- within our budget.- Yep.- And I think for value for money aspect,
0:41:37 > 0:41:40we might need to look in different areas.
0:41:40 > 0:41:43- Different areas, yeah.- Yeah.
0:41:43 > 0:41:44With having Molly, the camper van,
0:41:44 > 0:41:47we can certainly still carry on exploring.
0:41:47 > 0:41:49Well, this brings us nicely back to Molly,
0:41:49 > 0:41:51who has featured in this week's conversation.
0:41:51 > 0:41:54So, maybe Molly's work is not yet done?
0:41:54 > 0:41:57No, I think we could be keeping her for another year or so.
0:42:00 > 0:42:02It has been an absolute pleasure meeting you this week.
0:42:02 > 0:42:05- Best of luck. - Yeah, thank you very much.
0:42:05 > 0:42:07It really has opened our eyes, and...
0:42:07 > 0:42:09- We've had a good week, we've enjoyed it.- We've had a good week,
0:42:09 > 0:42:11- and thank you very much. - Absolute pleasure.
0:42:11 > 0:42:13I think it's opened all our eyes, really, hasn't it?
0:42:13 > 0:42:16- Here's to you, and to Molly. - Cheers.- Thank you.- Cheers.
0:42:20 > 0:42:24You know, to many people, the idea of living in the New Forest is the
0:42:24 > 0:42:26epitome of English country life.
0:42:26 > 0:42:31Its ancient commons and woodlands steeped in history and tradition
0:42:31 > 0:42:35do create a very real sense that you are exploring another world here.
0:42:35 > 0:42:38But as we have all learnt, to our cost,
0:42:38 > 0:42:42entering its property market can be prohibitive.
0:42:42 > 0:42:45As for Vanessa and for Jane, well, their search, clearly,
0:42:45 > 0:42:48will continue, now refocused, hopefully,
0:42:48 > 0:42:51in an area where their otherwise handsome budget will at last
0:42:51 > 0:42:54give them the country life they're looking for.
0:42:54 > 0:42:55I'll see you next time.
0:42:58 > 0:43:01If you would like to escape to the country in England, Scotland,
0:43:01 > 0:43:05Northern Ireland or Wales, and need our help, you can apply online at...