Worcestershire Escape to the Country

This water is famous throughout the world.

The Queen drinks it and people travel for hundreds of miles just to collect it.

Below these rocks is the source of Britain's oldest bottled water.

It dates back to about 1622.

So where am I? Well, keep watching to find out.

'In today's show, I'll be helping a mother and son make a fresh start and find a new home in the country.

'But downsizing isn't easy.'

I can see that to downsize I'm really going to have to change my whole opinion.

'I'll be taking them on a grand tour of some hot properties and we might just hit the nail on the head.'

-I like it, it looks lovely.

-Good.

-It looks very me.

And there's a mystery house - our little twist of their criteria that might tip the balance.

Well, I'm in Worcestershire, and these are the Malvern Hills, where this water comes from.

It first became famous back in Victorian times for its supposedly magical healing powers.

Although today it is no longer known as a miracle cure,

I've heard the water is still deliciously refreshing.

Oh, it's lovely.

Worcestershire lies in the heart of England, sitting between the mellow Cotswolds and the Welsh marshes,

boasting a variety of luscious landscapes from open countryside with fruit orchards

to the ancient Malvern Hills.

There are great country walks and breath-taking views.

In between, there are picturesque villages and the cathedral city of Worcester.

To the north of the city lies Severn Valley and the Severn Valley railway -

an ideal journey to take in all the county's stunning sights.

Canals used to be the lifeblood of this nation

and they connected Worcestershire with England's industrial heartland.

Thankfully, today these waterways are a lot quieter,

but that said, the average price of a detached house is still £294,000.

That's 7% higher than the national average.

Let's hope today's buyers

are prepared to be a bit realistic about what they can get for their money.

Today's house hunters are Isobella and her son David,

who live in a six-bedroom property just outside Norwich.

And it's not just the two of them at home. It's a busy household, with two dogs...

two cats, five geese,

50 budgies, Madonna the parrot and Ethel the ostrich.

Tragically, six months ago, Isobella lost her husband Max, and after much soul-searching

she decided to sell his amusement arcade business and take the incredibly brave step

of selling the home and moving closer to her friends in Birmingham.

She's also hoping that when the time is right,

she can set up her own craft centre in the grounds of her new home.

There's no reason for us to stay here any more. The business is sold up.

We don't have many friends, family or anything here in Norfolk.

And we want to move to the country,

so I can establish the animals again and get a business going.

And for you, it'll just be...

Well, you have to come with me, really!

Isobella and her late husband bought the house two years ago.

They lovingly decorated it and it really has been a happy family home.

The real bonus has been that I've had my own living space, which has been nice.

And for me, I've always loved the character of the house,

the very big rooms.

I've got a lot of furniture and it accommodates all the furniture, and most of all, the gardens.

Isobella and David have enjoyed the luxury of space,

but with many of the rooms not being used, they are now looking to downsize.

I'd like the house smaller so it's easier for me to manage,

as there'll only be me living there, and basically just David until he moves.

Nevertheless, there is still a wish list we need to take on board.

It's important for me to have a large kitchen/diner in the next property.

Hopefully there will be enough space to put an Aga in, if there isn't one already in there.

We've currently got a study in this house,

which I personally use for gaming and surfing the net.

So it's important that we have another room in the next house that I can use for the same purpose,

as that's where I spend most of my time.

There are important considerations for the outdoor space, too.

In my next property I desperately will need

at least two or three acres.

You naughty girl.

And there's one final request...

My property at the moment is on a very busy road.

It's difficult to get out in the mornings.

So it would be lovely to find a property in a quiet lane, just outside a village.

So to sum up, what sort of property would fit the bill?

We're looking for three bedrooms, a large kitchen/diner.

And hopefully some outbuildings

and an area of well-established garden that I can use for just sitting out, chilling on.

Before we can start looking for their new home, we've invited round a local estate agent

to give a valuation for their current property

which Isobella bought with her late husband for £665,000 just two years ago.

This is a quality, Grade II listed Georgian house in a good location, close to Norwich.

I would set a guide price of £695,000.

There's no money actually being made.

So I am pretty disappointed with the valuation. But I'm realistic.

So given that, how much is in the pot for the new house?

Well, my next property will definitely be smaller, so my maximum budget will be £600,000.

Isobella and David are looking to downsize,

but moving from a substantial Grade II listed Georgian house

still means they are looking for a few acres, period features and a large kitchen/diner.

Isobella and David want to be close to family and friends in Birmingham,

but still enjoy a peaceful rural setting,

so we'll be focusing our search around the city of Worcester.

It is, however, a more expensive area than where they currently live in Norfolk.

Isobella might want to downsize in terms of space, but let's hope she remembers that a smaller property

doesn't mean a smaller price tag in Worcestershire.

I'll be taking them to see a selection of fantastic properties

that I hope will appeal to them both.

But I'll leave them in the dark regarding the prices until after the viewings.

The last of the houses will be the mystery house, which always has the potential to be a real winner.

Let's keep our fingers crossed for their property search.

If you're thinking of moving to Worcestershire,

there are loads of lovely properties for a range of budgets. Take a look at these.

At the pricey end of the market, £1,750,000

will buy this Grade I listed Georgian residence in Clent,

complete with a cottage and barn.

It has large reception rooms, and sits on a fantastic nine-acre plot.

Or £850,000 will buy this secluded Grade II listed farmhouse,

with converted barns near Ombersley.

It boasts a wealth of exposed timber,

a lovely country-style bathroom,

and a living room with a cosy inglenook fireplace.

And finally, for £337,500,

you could feel like the Lord or Lady of your own manor

in a two-storey apartment wing within this prestigious manor house.

Located in Lower Broadheath, it's part of a beautiful nature setting,

and has its own private entrance and gardens.

Isobella, David, welcome to Worcestershire.

What are you looking forward to about the move?

I'm looking forward to being back to my roots, back to where I know.

I feel safe, comfortable here and I know where I'm going.

We have got mother and son.

Who's gonna be making the big decisions on this search?

Mum.

-He conceded easily!

-Absolutely!

-"Oh, Mum - she'll be paying for it."

-Yes.

We have got a good, healthy budget.

Up to £600,000.

So we should be able to find you something stunning.

And we have got lots of lovely properties to show you, including the mystery house.

-Lovely.

-So bit of a surprise there. Are you ready?

I don't think we should waste any more time, we've got a lot to do. Let's get going.

So Isobella has a budget of up to £600,000...

The outbuildings need to be suitable for starting a craft centre.

It's going to be a difficult journey for Isobella.

I just hope we can do everything we can to find her and David a new home

they will be happy in for a long time.

What is it you're most looking forward to,

the two of you, about going back into the countryside of Worcestershire?

I've always loved this area.

It's peaceful, it's...interesting.

You get into the country and there's lovely little country pubs, things like that.

It is just idyllic for me.

Well, let's hope we can find Isobella just what she's looking for.

Our first property is in Wichenford,

a 20-minute drive north-west of Worcester.

It's a small village with few amenities.

But just a couple of miles down the road is the larger village of Martley,

which has the essentials and is the place to mix with the locals.

One of the best selling points of the house we've lined up

is its position, sitting amongst a cluster of properties

just outside the village.

-I think this is a fairly rural setting, isn't it?

-Absolutely.

And you can't work out which house I'm going to show you. Come this way. Come here,

-this is it.

-Oh, right.

-Mmm.

It looks like a bungalow to me.

It does a little bit. It's actually a barn conversion.

-Right.

-Victorian barn conversion, so it's about 120 years old,

but the conversion was done in 2001.

Actually, in appearance, it looks very nice,

-and it looks in really good condition.

-Yeah.

But it's just me and bungalows. I don't like...

-living on one floor.

-I'll put you out of your misery. Look up there.

-There are some rooms upstairs.

-Oh, right.

-So with that in mind,

let's head inside and see what you think.

Well, it's not the best start, but Isobella shouldn't judge a book by its cover.

This place is gorgeous inside.

Come on through.

And this is the hallway.

It's a fairly modern conversion, so what are your first impressions?

I'm very traditional and to walk in

-and immediately see the kitchen feels very strange to me.

-Ah!

-That's what's throwing you.

-Yes.

This was a barn. It would have been closed at the ends,

and open at the sides, and they have kept that feeling.

They have kept that all the way through and kept the kitchen there.

We'll come back to that kitchen. Let me show you through here first of all.

-Oh, this is lovely.

-I've got something that I think you might quite like.

Oh, fabulous.

A wood-burner.

I love the big windows and the view is absolutely fantastic.

-Isn't it just?

-You would have to go a long way to beat this.

I could have Ethel just directly outside,

and she could watch the television with us.

Ostriches are very, very nosy birds,

and she would just stand there all day, watching you.

Have a look up there.

Kind of a little library/study area at the moment.

-It would do me ideally.

-Fantastic.

You mentioned it felt very modern, you'd prefer something more traditional.

How do you feel in this room?

I do really like the room. It worries me because this is modern, it feels modern.

My furniture is very traditional, and I just worry that the two will not mix.

'Well, there's plenty more to see.

'Next for us is the kitchen

'and it does deliver an item on her wish list.'

-Uh-huh.

-Uh-huh!

Yes!

I thought this might grab you.

-We've a range-style cooker, and you have one at home, don't you?

-Absolutely.

I wouldn't be without one.

-You can see, although it's modern, they have tried to bring in some nice country-style features.

-Yeah.

They've also got the butler sink,

-the beach worktops, and they've got some granite work surfaces as well.

-That's right.

This is very much to my taste.

It's just a little too small for me.

'Well, at least she won't have far to walk to the dining area,

'with its beautiful views over the garden.

'But will it do the trick for Isobella?'

I would prefer the kitchen to be in here,

and the sitting area to be there.

Because, when I'm at the sink, I do like to look out of the window.

What about you? Do you prefer something more modern?

Erm...yeah, I think I prefer a bit of a modern twist to it, yeah.

I can feel a bit of tension coming here.

We'll have to find something in-between for you both or see who wins the day.

Traditional versus modern.

But right now, I have something just for you that I want to show you. Follow me.

'One of the four bedrooms in this house is just off the dining room,

'and has its own en-suite.

'But I'm thinking the room would be the perfect study area for David.'

This is really what I want to show you.

Yeah. It's quite...

bright in here with the large windows again.

-Is it the perfect size?

-Yeah.

-That's good.

-Good size.

All right, let's head out and up the stairs.

'Great, David's happy!

'Also on this floor are two more double bedrooms.

'They aren't enormous, but they do have en-suites, which are a real bonus.

'But going upstairs, it's now time for Mum.'

Now, Isobella, I know you wanted an upstairs room.

You were a bit worried about it being a bungalow.

-Well, this is the master bedroom, which is upstairs.

-Right.

What are your thoughts? Oooh.

I was hoping for it to be a little bit bigger as the master bedroom.

And I prefer proper windows that you can actually...

wake up, sit up in bed and look straight out of.

'Isobella certainly knows what she likes and, er...

'doesn't like, but at least I'm learning all the time.

'Just like the other bedrooms,

'this one also has an en-suite, but this time with the luxury of a separate shower.

'Well, that rounds off the inside.

'Time now to have a look at the outdoor space.'

So, this is the outside land.

-Right.

-We've got three-quarters of an acre...

-Uh-huh.

-..pretty sizeable.

-COCKEREL CROWS

You can keep live animals out here, and, as you can hear,

-next door, they've got chickens and a rooster.

-So I've just heard!

That's wonderful. I can certainly put my chicken hut there and they can talk to each other.

The plot might not be massive, but luckily,

the neighbouring farm has 100 acres of land just over the fence,

so renting a chunk for her animals is certainly worth looking into.

At the front of the house, there's also a large garage,

which Isobella could always convert, and even extend,

to house her much-desired crafts centre.

But now, it's time to talk figures.

So the question is, how much do you think it's worth?

I'm going to start with you Isobella.

I would imagine...

-£475,000.

-475.

Er...I was thinking maybe a little bit less, £450,000 maybe.

£450,000. OK. I think you need to be prepared for this then.

It's actually on the market for £565,000 pounds.

Good lord.

The location is beautiful, you can't beat the views. It's perfect.

-I think we've surprised you a little bit here, haven't we?

-You have.

Well, at this moment, I'm going to send you both back inside

have another look around, and I will catch up with you later.

At £565,000, this converted barn is comfortably under-budget.

The price was a shock to them both.

They will have to be realistic about prices of property in this part of the country.

I was very, very impressed with the living room.

-I love these windows in this room, don't you?

-Yeah.

And the view...I mean, that is... You've got to go a long way to find that.

However, my furniture, being old and traditional,

and the feel of the room is very modern with exposed beams and brickwork and everything,

I know the two will not mix.

My mum prefers more traditional...

character properties. I don't mind those,

but I like to have the modern twist to it as well.

-OK, you two. Had a good look round?

-Yes, great.

-Fantastic.

Well, we've got a lot more to do, so let's get going.

Isobella and David's move back to the West Midlands

will bring them home to roost. Worcester is the nearest large town,

so they are having a wander to soak up what's on offer.

-Very similar to Norwich.

-It is, actually.

-There's lots to do. I don't know what the nightlife's like.

-Hmm.

Flowing through its heart is the River Severn -

the longest river in Britain.

It's lovely this walk by the river.

-If it was a nice sunny day...

-Yeah, could take the dogs for a walk down here.

That's right. Nice and safe.

Rising majestically from the banks of the river

stands Worcester cathedral.

Founded in 680 AD, the present building has had many renovations,

and today visitors can admire the masonry and stained glass.

Look at those windows.

The colour and detail is amazing.

Worcester most famous son is Romantic composer Edward Elgar.

Born in 1857, he was famous for such works as Land Of Hope And Glory.

On his death in 1934, his daughter established a museum

in the cottage in which he was born,

three miles from Worcester.

Oh, this is actually made by Elgar Brothers.

It's beautiful.

The cottage houses an incredible collection of his scores, mementoes, and photographs,

which are enjoyed by visitors from all over the world.

Our next house is in the hamlet of Boreley, just nine miles north of Worcester.

Nearby Ombersley is a picturesque village with a real mix

of housing stock, including many beautiful timber-framed properties.

For convenience there are a few shops, a restaurant and a pub, but that's about it.

Isobella wants a period property, and a cottage is something she would certainly like to have a look at.

I'm really excited to show her and David this next offering

which sits in gorgeous woodland with views out over meadows.

So it's gone a bit windy now, hasn't it? But I'm here with you to show you this property right here.

About 200 to 300 years' old, they think.

A nice period property. What are your first thoughts?

The cottage-look of the house is what I do like.

It's looking very promising from the outside.

'Excellent.

'That's what I like to hear - a good, positive start.'

Right, in we come, out of the wind and into...

-I think it's a nice warm, snug, cosy country kitchen.

-It's lovely and warm.

I love the Aga. I love the floor.

I love wooden beams.

I like the exposed brick and everything.

I like features like that.

I don't like the height of the ceilings.

And I can already see that I'm going to have to duck to come through the doors.

Space-wise, though, is that workable?

For me, the kitchen is not big enough to be a kitchen/diner.

-We need to find you some more dining space, then?

-Yes.

Luckily we've got some through this door. Follow me.

So minding your head,

this is the dining space at the moment.

Once again, the room is too small.

In reality, I can see that to downsize, I'm really going to have to change something

or change my whole opinion about actually moving to a cottage or something.

I'm eager to see the rest of the house and maybe I can possibly compromise,

once I sit down and think about it.

And you get over the initial shock of how things might change. But there are lots of positives.

-Next, I want to show you a room which I think is a big plus.

-OK.

Come through this way.

I think this is a glorious room in this house.

Yes, it really is a nice conservatory.

It would be a fantastic room to sit with friends, have a meal, and enjoy the views all around.

I'm glad you like this space, but we are not finished down here. Go through and turn right.

'Things are looking up.

'Let's see if they can now imagine cosying up with the dogs in the lounge.'

We've got a working fireplace there.

-Great.

-I can imagine it being a lovely, cosy, winter's room,

with views again out on to the meadows, from that window there.

-Yes.

-From the outside, you really were quite taken with the look of this property. It's what you wanted.

Now we're in here, how are you feeling about this property as a whole?

Well, you're right, from the outside it was what I...

it is what I dreamt of, it's chocolate-box looking.

However, on the inside,

it's not for me. The rooms are too small.

I think what I really need again is another Georgian house but on a smaller scale,

but I do now know that a cottage is not going to accommodate my furniture, us...

Idyllic for the animals...

No matter how much I knocked it about, altered it...

it isn't for me, no.

Well, that's a good revelation.

Good to help you focus.

Don't write this property off completely, though. You haven't seen the upstairs,

and for what it is, a cottage, it offers quite a lot of space

-and some really good-sized rooms. Let's have a look upstairs.

-OK.

OK?

It's good to see Isobella is getting clearer about what she wants.

and it's NOT a small cottage.

I hope seeing the upstairs will focus her thoughts even more.

Up here there are three double bedrooms,

all of which are a reasonable size for a cottage,

and they do have those beautiful views over the woodland.

But I want to show them the large country-style bathroom.

Yeah, it's a pretty decent size.

There's lovely features in here. Again I love the beams.

We've been through the whole house, now it's time get outside,

-see how much land they've got and guess the price.

-OK.

Isobella might like the bathroom but it's clear a cottage isn't what she wants after all.

Even if she doesn't like the inside, her animals will love the outdoor space.

We're out into the gardens.

This property comes with just about an acre of land.

I think it is nicely divided, with this area sectioned off.

It could be perfect for our ostrich.

I was just thinking the same thing, yes.

Yes, it's idyllic for my animals.

It is really idyllic.

And we haven't forgotten about the business requirements either.

There are two outbuildings which could be converted for use as a craft gallery.

Additionally there is a modern building which Isobella may like to use as an office

or it could be a study area for David.

So I need to ask you, how much do you think it's worth?

I estimate about 450.

-You, David?

-I'd say about £500,000?

Well actually, it's on the market for £550,000.

Well, I am amazed.

I do think the house is very small.

I think you have to consider where we are.

The location is paramount at the moment.

We're close to Birmingham city centre, and that is going to have an effect on the property prices.

But for now, I want you to head back inside and have another look around.

-OK.

-And I'll catch up with you later.

-OK.

So this beautiful cottage is £50,000 under budget, at £550,000.

The outbuildings would be useful for the craft centre

and it all comes with one acre of land to home all the animals.

Unfortunately, though, they are both being too optimistic about what money buys in Worcestershire.

From the outside the property was idyllic for me,

it was what I imagine a cottage should be like.

It's an acre, it's not enough room, really, for me.

But the location of the garden, with the fields behind it,

and the sheep and horses and everything in the fields, it's a lovely outlook.

I thought the rooms were too small...

for me... The ceilings especially, and the doorways.

It's a big reality check, the actual price of the property.

It's got character, but...

it doesn't really have much of a modern feel, anyway.

OK, now don't worry, the journey isn't over yet.

There is more to see and do. Let's move on.

If Isobella opens her own craft centre, she'd be on the lookout

for locally-made quality artisan products, so we are visiting Michelle Parker,

a local blacksmith, to draw some inspiration.

She runs her own business forging steel into contemporary sculptures that she sells around the country.

Today she's showing us how to make a decorative leaf.

Tell us more about what it actually takes to make a piece.

Well, I think a lot of people think it is brute strength and it isn't really - it is technique.

Michelle shows us what's involved in heating up the metal and striking while the iron's hot.

So we've got a leaf shape coming there and then we neck it in a little bit more here.

When it's hot, it's like Plasticine, but you can't go like that with your fingers,

you've got to do it with that and the anvil.

This is how you're gonna get a great girlfriend! Looking manly,

pick up that hammer and show us how it's done. Are you ready?

'We all have a turn at firing up and shaping the metal.

'I can tell you, it is not just technique, it takes quite a bit of elbow grease.

'You never know, Isobella could even forge out a lucrative business relationship with Michelle,

'selling her goods in the gallery.'

And there's your leaf. It's a little bit warm.

Michelle, that is... I have to shake your hand, it's amazing.

It gives you an idea, if you have blacksmiths bringing work to your gallery, it gives you

-an idea of what has gone into the work you might be selling for them.

-That's right, yeah.

It's the end of day one for Isobella and David.

It's been a challenging house hunt so far, and now it's time to collect their thoughts.

What did you think about the two houses we saw today?

I thought the barn conversion was all right.

-The barn would be nice for you.

-Yeah.

-It's just a pity that the bedrooms were downstairs.

-Yeah.

The cottage was just...

-It was too small...

-No headroom.

-The headroom was dreadful.

-Yeah.

To me, I wouldn't use the kitchen as kitchen/diner,

-because there's just no room in there.

-No.

And imagine, with the dogs round your feet...

-Yes, I'm looking forward to seeing two more houses tomorrow.

-Mmm.

Isobella and her son, David, from Norwich

are looking for a new house in Worcestershire, and have a budget of £600,000.

After recently losing her husband, Isobella is looking forward to moving closer to loved ones

and is excited about starting a craft centre from her property.

So far, they've viewed two houses which have been quite a challenge in finding

the perfect balance between traditional and modern.

The price tags came as a shock too,

'but coming up, we are on a roll.'

Generally, yes, it's perfect.

-Perfect?

-Yes.

-Those are strong words from you.

-Yes.

And a property that could open the door to new beginnings.

I hope the house is going to be as good as the outbuildings!

Well, Isobella and her son want to move to Worcestershire, but so far

it looks as though something as grand as this may be more their style than the country cottage.

And I think that today, we are hoping that they get a little bit of fresh perspective

on what downsizing really means.

This journey was never going to be an easy one for Isobella or David,

and I'm keen to know how they are feeling about it now.

I know I'm making the right move living out in the country.

The fact that my friends and family will be close to me again,

it's really...very comforting for me.

What do you think Max, your husband, would have thought of this?

My husband would have understood

my thoughts, my feelings, everything.

He's always taught me - have a go, have a go.

I know to move back here is the best thing I can do.

Our first property this morning is in the small village of Berrow,

a 30 minute drive south-west of Worcester.

The larger village of Pendock

is just a stone's throw away, and caters for the milk and papers.

Melting into the Malvern Hills, it's a sleepy haven, a world away

from the urban environment where they currently live.

Along we come.

Now today I have brought you close to the Malvern Hills,

an area of outstanding natural beauty, in fact.

Into this lovely garden...

but this is where I think you'll get a very good view of this farmhouse-style house.

-I like it, it looks lovely.

-Good.

It looks very me.

What's looking "you" about it?!

It looks like the old...

and modern together, which is, I think, what I'm looking for, yes.

Exactly what you're looking for.

Well, this property is just over 100 years old,

although it has had a couple of extensions added on, as you can see.

There's been some modernisation inside,

done within this decade.

I can see big smiles, which is a fantastic start.

-So I want to get you inside so you can start to look around. Are you ready?

-Yes.

OK. Let's head back that way and in the front door.

Come through, and let's get these brollies put away.

And in a farmhouse style, we are straight into the kitchen.

Yes, I like it. I can see my favourite piece in there,

and generally, yes, it's...perfect.

Perfect?

-Yes.

-That's a strong word from you!

Yes.

It needs a few adjustments, but it is me, it is what I'm looking for.

It's spacious. It has the main article, the tiled floor,

the modern feel.

Just what I'm looking for, and a big dining area.

-Great, a big box ticked.

-Absolutely.

-I think we should move on.

-I'm happy.

-This is a fantastic start,

but there's a lot more in this house and a few nice surprises for you.

-Great.

-Let's go this way.

'Phew, am I glad to hear that.

'What a difference a day makes.'

So here is the main living space.

Although there is another reception area.

As you can see, these great French doors out onto the garden.

Absolutely, I like it.

It is perfect for me.

The layout, the wood burner, exactly what I wanted.

And straight out onto the patio.

-It's lovely.

-You're speechless, aren't you? But with joy!

I'm really amazed, yes, yeah.

When you walk into a house and you know it's for you...

I really like the feel of this house, most definitely, yeah, yeah.

That's really good news.

I'm really pleased.

I think it's time we found somewhere for you.

Come this way.

On the way, we are into this area, sort of like a boot room.

It's an alternative way into the house.

The dogs can come through here.

There is also a utility room through there, a nice big space for your laundry.

But I promised something for you, and I must deliver. Let's go.

So, David, how about this for a study?

Yeah, it's a good-sized room.

I could definitely see my computer in here and all my stuff in here, yeah.

And, look, you've got French doors going outside,

-so you've almost got your own entrance, haven't you?

-Yeah.

There's just one thing I think could make it even better.

If you could also have your living accommodation next to it, and sleep next door.

Which, guess what - you can. Let's have a look.

A bedroom next door

with en-suite.

Oh, great!

This is definitely you, isn't it?

You've got all of this space for a wardrobe.

A big bed in there, yeah.

And the windows and doors going straight on to the garden,

so lots of light, very open, all self-contained.

You need never go into the main house, apart from to eat.

I think we should show you the upstairs, where YOU might be sleeping. Let's go.

'This is exciting. They can both imagine themselves at home here.

'And I'm sure the dogs could feel quite cosy in the little snug

'which has French doors leading out on to the patio.

'Time to head upstairs to find some space for Isobella.'

It's very pink!

Oh, it's very pink.

Well-spotted, you two, no flies on you, yes it's pink!

It's clearly a little girl's room at the moment.

What I was thinking is that this could be your main room.

It's next door to the bathroom. You wouldn't need an en-suite.

No, and having four bedrooms, one can be my dressing room.

See, that's what I was thinking too, just across from the bathroom,

that other bedroom could be a walk-in wardrobe, dressing room, whatever you want -

shoes, boots, dresses, hats - and another spare bedroom.

I can already see the majority of my furniture.

In my mind I've already placed it into rooms, the more important bits.

Anything else that doesn't fit can certainly go.

But generally I'm really impressed with the house and I do very much like the house.

You couldn't ask for much more, could you, really?

-No.

-Apart from maybe an acre or so of land.

Just a few... Just a bit of land.

-Just a bit of land. Shall we go and have a look at that then?

-Lovely!

Do you want a lead the way and I'll follow you down?

'Wow, I really think we might have found Isobella and David their new home.

'Will the outdoor space be enough?

'I think it just might.'

So out here,

this is quite a cute little garden, isn't it?

It's very nice.

It's easy to maintain.

Well guess what? You get five acres.

Oh, wonderful!

That is absolutely great.

-Ethel the ostrich, she will be in heaven.

-She'll be in her element.

-Yes.

The dogs can run around, the geese, the ducks, anything else you want to bring home!

Oh, that's absolutely great.

I can just see it all now, I can see her in there, I can see the geese.

I've already an idea where I might be digging for the pond.

So there's clearly no shortage of space for the animals, and in addition to the hay barn,

there's plenty of room for erecting some outbuildings to house the craft centre.

Let's hope they're realistic about the money this time.

Well, here's the moment of truth.

Looking at this stunning house and bearing all of this in mind, all this land,

how much do you think it's worth?

I do think this is the top end of my budget.

I would say 585,000.

I'd say about 600,000.

Well, David, you're almost spot on, £50 short.

It's on the market for £599,950.

So, yes, at the very top end of your budget, but within the budget still.

And inside, you wouldn't have to do anything, would you?

-It doesn't require any work.

-No, we can move into it straightaway.

-It could be ideal.

-Most certainly.

-Well, with that thought in mind, off you go,

-back indoors, out of the rain, and we'll talk about this later on.

-OK.

-See you later.

-OK.

Success! She absolutely loves it. And I think they were a bit more realistic about the price this time.

It's bang on budget, and I think it could be the ideal house for them.

At 599,950, this detached barn conversion is just within budget.

Well, this room, I was thinking

we could put that big dining table in here, with the china cabinet and everything.

The whole of the house

suits me, suits my son, suits our personality.

Most certainly suits the inside animals that I have.

I think this room just off the kitchen is going to be great.

I can have Madonna the parrot up the corner, although she'll probably end up on the beams.

I was looking around the house, and I thought our furniture could fit into this house.

The style does suit the furniture,

even though it does have a modern twist to it.

OK, guys, the good news is that the rain has eased off a touch,

-but we still have a lot more to do, so let's get going.

-Great!

Now it's time for the mystery house and it's time for us to mix things up a bit

and see if they're open to a new way of life and maybe even a new business.

Now we're moving on to the mystery property, finally.

So what would you really like us to show you?

I now know that I would like the type of property that...

..gives the appearance of being old, but actually inside

is on the modern side and with at least three acres of ground.

Well, in that case, you never know, the mystery house might just do the trick,

and I can reveal it's just outside Arley, 25 miles west of Birmingham.

The small village has a pub, tearoom and a Post Office selling ice-creams

so well-stocked in refreshments.

It's also a place for picking up the Severn Valley steam railway,

which provides a relaxing way of taking in the luscious countryside.

Our mystery house is perfectly placed for admiring views

out over the Wyre Forest and the Malvern hills.

So this is it. You were making encouraging noises as we drove in.

Look at this.

Oh, it's fabulous, fabulous.

We are, of course at the mystery property.

-And the reason we've brought you here is because of all of this.

-Absolutely...

-Which means of course you can have a business if you want to!

-It's fantastic, absolutely fantastic.

The outbuildings are certainly what I'm looking for.

I'm just hoping now that the house is going to be as good as the outbuildings!

Let's go in.

We're straight into this fabulous kitchen.

Yeah, it's modern...

It's bright...

Missing one item.

I thought you might notice that.

-Yeah, they've got obviously a gas cooker over there.

-Uh-huh.

It's actually a converted Victorian barn.

-Now we're standing in the old milk parlour.

-Ah!

-As you can probably tell, lots of the work was done recently.

-Yeah, you can tell.

Throughout this decade and actually just finished this year.

-So really nicely done, very modern, very fresh.

-I like it.

-Good!

I think you're going to like the next room quite a bit as well. Let's head in here.

And...have a look in here.

-What do you think?

-Oh, wow, wow!

-It's different.

-It is, isn't it?

And if that was the milk parlour, this was the piggery.

Oh, my goodness.

I think they've done a great job!

Those circular windows there are where the pigs used to come in.

Oh, for God's sake...!

Well, I know I like animals but I don't want to live like one!

Let's go down and we can talk about it a bit more.

I thought you might be quite taken by this piece.

A fantastic fireplace.

Yes, it's... It's a lovely feature of the room.

It's just so quirky.

It will take me moments to adjust, but...I love it.

Actually it's a good-sized room.

And as a lounge, certainly my furniture will fit in here,

and if I changed the covers to a modern design, it will look perfect.

It's going to take a bit of adjustment, but for the right property, you're willing to adjust.

Oh, most certainly. I'm not too old to adjust.

It's ticking all the boxes for me at the moment. I can't wait to see more.

Well, I won't hold you back.

-I think we should investigate what else is on this floor. Follow me.

-OK.

'Wow, Isobella is even thinking of changing her furniture to fit in.

'She seems to be more and more ready to make this move.'

Into here, we're into a fairly large hallway area.

Oh right, yeah.

There are so many lovely features here.

-You're looking up at the glass, galleried walkway there...

-Yeah...I like it.

..and then the staircase.

They're looking quite dangerous to me....!

But generally, the layout and everything, it's fantastic.

I love the feel of it. I love how clean it feels.

You know, I would never, ever dream of looking at a place like this.

That is the purpose of the mystery house.

-Yes.

-To show you something you would never ever have dreamt of.

-Yeah.

-Would you like to see some more?

-Absolutely.

-Good!

Down here, we have one of the bedrooms.

Come on in, because, David, I was thinking,

-as it's on the ground floor, it could be perfect for you.

-Yeah.

It's a decent-size room.

A little bit smaller than what I'd want ideally but, yeah, it's got a lot of light in the room.

What do you think of the house as a whole so far?

It is a bit different, and out there,

but it's quite an interesting house

and...you would have to compromise on certain things

to live in a house like this, yeah.

David is a man of few words, but like his mum, he knows what he likes.

The bonus with this bedroom is the trendy wet room,

which I'm sure will go down a treat.

Oh, fabulous. Not bad. Nice and modern.

I think we should take a look upstairs.

Let's go.

Upstairs is the family bathroom which has a separate shower,

and next door is a double bedroom which would be fine for guests.

Last on our tour is a room for Isobella.

Well it's certainly a good size, lots of windows.

And, of course the view, still...

-Well, yes, yes.

-You can see from your bed.

I do like it, I like the feel of it.

At the moment I think it's short of storage space for me, short of a study for you.

I think the thing about this house is the outbuildings.

If they are suitable, it would certainly give me...

I would certainly consider the whole of the house. The area, everything.

-Great. Well, let's not waste any more time.

-Yeah.

-I'm going to show you those outbuildings.

'Isobella's first impression of the outbuildings was very promising.

'Let's find out if they fit in with what she has in mind for her craft centre.'

Oh, right...

What a fabulous amount of space.

Isn't it, yeah? Yeah.

What do you want to do with a business?

The outbuildings would be divided into separate units.

Like little shops, but just crafty shops.

The great thing about this is there's already a structure here,

-so you could...

-It can be achieved, yes.

-Exactly.

-And we are by a main road, but if you're running a business, that's an advantage.

-Well, it is, yes.

Don't forget next door we've got that enormous Dutch barn.

Well, I've already thought about that and my first thoughts for it were,

it's great as a cafe, restaurant, you could have barn dances in there.

You can have parties, all sorts of things have sprung to mind.

'Well, Isobella's business plans certainly seem to be flowing.

'That just leaves all those animals.'

Well, we're finally out into the garden space.

-I think this is a lovely area. The patio, the lawned area, nice and neat and tidy.

-Uh-huh.

-In terms of how much land you get, an acre and a half.

-Oh...

-So, it's this fence all the way around.

-Right.

So do you think you could squeeze Ethel in here?

I certainly could squeeze Ethel in. It's quite a an ideal place for her.

-Anyway, the moment has arrived.

-Right.

I'm trying to put it off but I've got to ask you,

given all that you get, and the location, how much do you think it's worth?

I think...maybe...565.

I'd say about...530.

David, you went a bit lower there.

-But I think you're going to be pleasantly surprised. This is on the market at £495,000.

-My God!

Now what difference does that make to your thoughts?

-Wow!

-100 grand under budget.

Dear me, it certainly deserves a lot of consideration and further investigation.

It does. I think you should start investigating straightaway.

Go back in there, look around again, let it all sink in and we'll catch up later on.

-OK, thank you.

-See you in a bit.

Well, with 100 grand left to spend, she could turn that into a fantastic business

and maybe the size of the house won't be so important after all.

This is not the kind of property...

If it was sent to me from an agent, I don't think I would make an appointment to view.

But I'm getting out of the car and looking at it, I thought, "Well, it looks interesting."

It does have...

quite interesting properties to it and it is quite quirky.

I love it. It's old from the outside, yet lovely inside, clean, modern.

Well, this looks like a great cooker, but I would still miss the range cooker.

If it was just for me, then, yeah,

but because it's me and my mum, it's not really the size we're looking for.

OK, you two, you've seen all of the properties now.

-I know you've lots to think about, so let's get a move on.

-OK.

Isobella and David's tour round the houses has had its ups and downs.

It's important they find a new home to suit them both and accommodate a business,

so there's plenty to think about.

Finding space for lots of animals and furniture

has been an important factor in this week's property search.

Now, I think we've shown Isobella and her son a range of houses that will accommodate all of them.

But the question is, is Isobella ready to downsize?

Well, let's find out.

Well, this journey for you two signifies the start of your move back home to your roots.

We've seen lots of properties. I think it's time we went through them and your decisions.

Start with the barn conversion.

My first impression... "Looks like a bungalow."

Didn't want a bungalow.

As you walk in, the first thing you saw was the kitchen, which I thought,

"I don't like that idea."

There were considerations about your furniture...

-and fitting it in, and you were starting to think at that point about the downsizing operation.

-Yes.

My furniture's very traditional, I'm very traditional,

and I was thinking, "My furniture isn't going to look right

"in a modern barn conversion."

There were points you loved about that property?

Yeah, I loved the living room and the view was magnificent.

The fireplace was...was lovely,

just what I wanted - a nice wood-burner.

And above it was like a galleried landing with office space.

That was nice.

-Let's talk about the cottage.

-Right.

I don't think I have to remind you about that one, what were your thoughts?

It was my idea of how cottages should look.

I particularly remember the height of the ceiling and I thought, "Oh, dear me!"

I hated the height of the ceiling, quite honestly.

It is very cosy. It has got that cottage, snug feeling,

but it definitely is not for me, and...

I really don't think I will look at any more cottages.

So, let's move on and talk about the farmhouse.

I was very impressed.

With that house, the way you walk in,

you do go into the kitchen, but it didn't seem to bother you that time.

It was very open plan, which I loved.

And the other side was a big dining area, and I could just see...

my friends sitting round the table having a glass of wine while I'm preparing the meal -

The whole area was great for me.

-You got a great vibe as soon as you walked in.

-Yes. Yeah.

-That was the first place where you really thought you could see your furniture.

-Absolutely. Yeah.

Even though it was modern inside.

But it was a Victorian conversion.

-Yeah.

-So you had that mix of traditional and modern, which is what you were looking for.

-Yeah.

There's a great room for my study and bedroom right at the end. That's ideal for me.

Looking at the house from the outside, I thought, "It's a nice-looking house,"

and then when you said five acres, I thought, "Oh, wow!"

But then we went to the mystery house and that was designed to push you even further,

really stretch your imagination and get your juices going. What did you think of that?

I thought, "Here it is, my business and a dwelling - together."

I was thinking, "This is too good to be true, something's got to be wrong about this property."

Looking round the house, I had a few reservations

and it was just that little bit too small.

We couldn't have led private lives in that house.

There was no area to escape to, sort of thing, so...

So, overall, I've got to ask, have you made a decision, are you going to go for any of the properties?

I'm certainly going to look a little bit further into the farmhouse.

If your investigations into the farmhouse go well, do you think you might put an offer in?

I certainly think we might.

-It's definitely something to consider, definitely.

-Yeah, yeah...

-I would be happy there.

-Yeah.

-That could be the one.

-Yeah, yeah.

I'm so excited! All right, I'm really pleased for you.

I'm glad we could be with you on this part of the journey.

-I wish you luck with the rest...

-Thank you.

-..to find somewhere you can fit the furniture and the animals and can be happy.

-Yeah, thank you.

We haven't had much luck with the weather during this week's property search

but I think we may just have found success in finding a home for Isobella and David,

the ostrich and the furniture for their move back to Worcestershire.

I'll see you next time on Escape To The Country.

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