0:00:02 > 0:00:04This iconic landmark behind me shares some remarkable similarities
0:00:04 > 0:00:07to one off the Cornish coast of Penzance.
0:00:07 > 0:00:11But I'm not in Cornwall. In fact, I'm not in any part of the UK.
0:00:11 > 0:00:16So where am I? Why don't you join me in just a few moments to find out?
0:00:35 > 0:00:40Today's house-hunters want something grand and we aim to please.
0:00:40 > 0:00:45I feel as if I've sort of arrived in some grand dame's boudoir.
0:00:45 > 0:00:46LAUGHTER
0:00:46 > 0:00:49Some things fulfil their lofty ambitions...
0:00:49 > 0:00:53Oh, wow. I like this. This is lovely...
0:00:53 > 0:00:55in every way.
0:00:55 > 0:00:58..but others don't quite make the grade.
0:00:58 > 0:01:00Oh, God.
0:01:01 > 0:01:04Welcome to Escape To The Continent
0:01:04 > 0:01:07and the historic region of Normandy in northern France.
0:01:07 > 0:01:10St Michael has been celebrated across the centuries
0:01:10 > 0:01:14as defender of the church and this majestic monastery,
0:01:14 > 0:01:18Mont Saint-Michel, was dedicated to his name by Benedictine monks
0:01:18 > 0:01:21over 1,000 years ago.
0:01:21 > 0:01:23And just a couple of hundred miles across the water
0:01:23 > 0:01:28lies its British counterpart, St Michael's Mount, which was gifted
0:01:28 > 0:01:32to the monks of Normandy by Edward the Confessor in the 11th century,
0:01:32 > 0:01:37providing a striking mirror image across both sides of the Channel.
0:01:37 > 0:01:41Mont Saint-Michel stands proudly as THE most iconic setting
0:01:41 > 0:01:43to this stunning region.
0:01:44 > 0:01:48Just a hop over the Channel, France is our nearest neighbour
0:01:48 > 0:01:50and Normandy one of the closest regions.
0:01:50 > 0:01:53Lying on the northern coast, it's made up of Upper Normandy
0:01:53 > 0:01:55and Lower Normandy,
0:01:55 > 0:01:58which together form a region roughly the size of Belgium.
0:01:58 > 0:02:02With extensive lush pasture, apple orchards and cattle herds,
0:02:02 > 0:02:05Normandy is substantially agricultural
0:02:05 > 0:02:09and known for its production of cider, Calvados and camembert.
0:02:09 > 0:02:11This region has a rich military history,
0:02:11 > 0:02:14from the Norman Conquest of Britain in 1066,
0:02:14 > 0:02:19which set off from what is today the charming fishing port of Barfleur,
0:02:19 > 0:02:20to the 1944 D-Day landings,
0:02:20 > 0:02:23which are marked by remnants of defences
0:02:23 > 0:02:25and memorials all along the coast.
0:02:27 > 0:02:31Another poignant reminder of this past is the American cemetery,
0:02:31 > 0:02:34which brings in visitors from all around the world.
0:02:34 > 0:02:38With some stunning coastline a little further off the beaten track,
0:02:38 > 0:02:41the Cotentin Peninsula provides unspoiled sandy beaches.
0:02:43 > 0:02:46It's no wonder thousands of Brits take their holidays here
0:02:46 > 0:02:49and thousands more have made it their home.
0:02:51 > 0:02:54Last year, the average cost of detached properties back home
0:02:54 > 0:02:59increased by over 6% to an eye-watering figure
0:02:59 > 0:03:03of just under £275,000.
0:03:03 > 0:03:07However, during the same period, the average cost of a similar property
0:03:07 > 0:03:10in Lower Normandy, to the west of the region,
0:03:10 > 0:03:13dropped to around £110,000.
0:03:13 > 0:03:18And there are some incredible bargains still to be had here.
0:03:18 > 0:03:21For example, if you pick a detached cottage in the more remote areas
0:03:21 > 0:03:27of the region, you could pay as little as £62,000.
0:03:27 > 0:03:30Although if you want to live by the coast, expect to pay a premium.
0:03:30 > 0:03:34But whatever your budget, there are hundreds of stunning properties
0:03:34 > 0:03:38on offer and let's hope one or two of them can tempt today's buyers.
0:03:39 > 0:03:42Keith and Elaine currently live in Norfolk.
0:03:42 > 0:03:46They first met 30 years ago at a friend's dinner party.
0:03:46 > 0:03:49Some years later, three or four years later,
0:03:49 > 0:03:51is when Keith joined the Civil Aviation Authority,
0:03:51 > 0:03:53which is where I worked.
0:03:53 > 0:03:57And popped his head round my office door and said, "Hey, guess who's here?"
0:03:57 > 0:04:00And we became firm friends.
0:04:00 > 0:04:04But it wasn't for many years that we turned that
0:04:04 > 0:04:06friendship into something more.
0:04:06 > 0:04:08Four years ago, they both retired,
0:04:08 > 0:04:11Keith from his career in electronic engineering
0:04:11 > 0:04:13and Elaine from human resources.
0:04:13 > 0:04:15We've come at a time in our lives
0:04:15 > 0:04:19where we feel we've got an awful lot more life to live yet. It's a chance.
0:04:19 > 0:04:21There's no reason why we have to stay here.
0:04:21 > 0:04:25It's an opportunity to go and live that life somewhere else.
0:04:25 > 0:04:28And living in France is set to be the next chapter.
0:04:28 > 0:04:31It all kind of started about three years ago,
0:04:31 > 0:04:35when we had a holiday in Normandy and...
0:04:35 > 0:04:41when we were there, we felt this tremendous sense of feeling at home.
0:04:41 > 0:04:44It was that particular holiday that I can remember,
0:04:44 > 0:04:47when we were sort of cycling around the areas of France,
0:04:47 > 0:04:53and thinking, "Wouldn't it be nice to stay here and not to go home?"
0:04:53 > 0:04:58So the plans to relocate began, but it's proved a little complicated
0:04:58 > 0:05:01because there's not just the two of them making the move.
0:05:01 > 0:05:03I have two horses.
0:05:03 > 0:05:06I've been very lucky cos Keith has really embraced my...
0:05:06 > 0:05:10- passion for horses.- I'll go out on a bike with Elaine the a horse.
0:05:11 > 0:05:14Gives me some exercise and gives the horse some exercise.
0:05:14 > 0:05:16I don't know what Elaine does.
0:05:20 > 0:05:23Whilst Elaine's passion is for horses,
0:05:23 > 0:05:26Keith has a more melodic pastime.
0:05:26 > 0:05:28Play the piano a bit.
0:05:28 > 0:05:31Lots of high notes, lots of low notes and lots of duff notes.
0:05:31 > 0:05:36Keith also tends his 645 square feet of vegetable plots -
0:05:36 > 0:05:39something he hopes to continue in their new home.
0:05:39 > 0:05:43And this move is all about slowing down, taking things easy
0:05:43 > 0:05:45and enjoying life.
0:05:45 > 0:05:52One of the motivations for moving to France is a more relaxed,
0:05:52 > 0:05:54stress-free lifestyle.
0:05:57 > 0:05:58I concur.
0:06:02 > 0:06:06Our search will take place in Lower Normandy, the area they know best.
0:06:06 > 0:06:10In particular, the departments of Calvados and Manche.
0:06:10 > 0:06:13I'm the meeting them in France to dig a little deeper into what
0:06:13 > 0:06:16they're looking for in this continental relocation.
0:06:16 > 0:06:18Well, Keith and Elaine, welcome to Normandy.
0:06:18 > 0:06:21I'm looking forward to the next few days, I hope you are.
0:06:21 > 0:06:23- BOTH:- Absolutely! - Yeah, well, that's good.
0:06:23 > 0:06:26See, you're in unison straight away - that's a good sign.
0:06:26 > 0:06:29- Been looking forward to it for ages. - Let's hope this carries on.
0:06:29 > 0:06:32Why Normandy, though? What is it that appeals so much?
0:06:32 > 0:06:36I mean, I personally have been coming to Normandy for 20 years,
0:06:36 > 0:06:41and I've always been impressed by the spaciousness of it
0:06:41 > 0:06:43and the quiet.
0:06:43 > 0:06:47So, what's the situation with your current property back in Norfolk?
0:06:47 > 0:06:51Well, we've spent the last year preparing it.
0:06:51 > 0:06:56We've had the stables reroofed, we've put in a new bathroom,
0:06:56 > 0:06:58just to sort of get it ready to sell.
0:06:58 > 0:06:59We've just touched on the horses there
0:06:59 > 0:07:02- cos that's a real passion for you, Elaine, isn't it?- Yes, yes.
0:07:02 > 0:07:07I ride for pleasure, I don't compete, and...
0:07:07 > 0:07:09mostly I just like being around them.
0:07:09 > 0:07:12So, let's talk about this perfect property.
0:07:12 > 0:07:17- What exactly are you looking for? - It's old.- Yes. Very French.
0:07:17 > 0:07:19Very French.
0:07:19 > 0:07:22In terms of size, four bedrooms, ideally,
0:07:22 > 0:07:24three reception rooms, ideally.
0:07:24 > 0:07:27Downstairs bedroom would be wonderful for aged mother
0:07:27 > 0:07:33to come and stay. And importantly, obviously, land and...
0:07:33 > 0:07:38- facilities for the horses.- How much land ideally would you like?
0:07:38 > 0:07:41Well, we have three acres at the moment, which is fine for two horses.
0:07:43 > 0:07:45More would be nice, but at least three.
0:07:45 > 0:07:51- So any definite no-nos for this move?- No barn conversions.
0:07:51 > 0:07:54Through gritted teeth. You've thought about that, haven't you?
0:07:54 > 0:07:57Other than that, I think we're pretty open-minded, aren't we,
0:07:57 > 0:07:59in terms of style and structure?
0:07:59 > 0:08:02Do you think you're both quite sort of unified with this search,
0:08:02 > 0:08:05looking for the same thing in the property?
0:08:05 > 0:08:06By and large, I think we are.
0:08:06 > 0:08:10I've probably got more grandiose tastes in terms of houses.
0:08:10 > 0:08:13- This is true.- Go on, make me scared. What are you after?
0:08:15 > 0:08:17- Chateaux. - LAUGHTER
0:08:17 > 0:08:20So, let's discuss the finances with this big move.
0:08:20 > 0:08:22Remind us of the budget.
0:08:22 > 0:08:26- £400,000 is the maximum. - But for that...
0:08:27 > 0:08:32..400,000 I'd want everything, sort of stables and everything in place.
0:08:32 > 0:08:35Well, we do have some splendid properties to show you.
0:08:35 > 0:08:38- So, shall we get started? - Yes, please.- Oh, yes, please.- Lovely.
0:08:42 > 0:08:44For a top budget of £400,000,
0:08:44 > 0:08:49they're seeking an old and typically French house with four bedrooms,
0:08:49 > 0:08:52three reception rooms and somewhere to accommodate Elaine's
0:08:52 > 0:08:55elderly mother comfortably when she visits.
0:08:55 > 0:08:57Keith would like some land for his vegetable plots,
0:08:57 > 0:09:00but it's land for the horses which is crucial in this search -
0:09:00 > 0:09:03at least three acres of good pasture land.
0:09:03 > 0:09:08And the final piece of the jigsaw is a stable block to house the horses.
0:09:08 > 0:09:11And we've got four fantastic options, which could deliver
0:09:11 > 0:09:15their dream of rural French living in some lovely settings.
0:09:15 > 0:09:18During the search, our house-hunters will be staying in a typical
0:09:18 > 0:09:23French house in order to immerse themselves in day-to-day life here.
0:09:23 > 0:09:27Our final offering is the Mystery House, a property that might
0:09:27 > 0:09:31challenge their ideas but really is rather extraordinary.
0:09:35 > 0:09:38To give them the pastoral setting they're after, we're looking
0:09:38 > 0:09:43at country villages and small towns and our first is Champ-du-Boult.
0:09:43 > 0:09:48With a population of less than 500, it's a quiet rural village,
0:09:48 > 0:09:51but like many in France it does have its own shop,
0:09:51 > 0:09:53tabac, bar and restaurant.
0:09:53 > 0:09:57It's surrounded by an agricultural landscape and is just minutes
0:09:57 > 0:10:00from the St Sever Forest and the Lac du Gast,
0:10:00 > 0:10:02where there are miles of bridle pathways
0:10:02 > 0:10:04designated for horse riding.
0:10:04 > 0:10:07Set in its own land away from close neighbours
0:10:07 > 0:10:09is house number one.
0:10:09 > 0:10:14I think it's always very exciting, the very first property in Normandy.
0:10:14 > 0:10:18- Wow. Quite large, I'd say.- It does...- It's bigger than I expected.
0:10:18 > 0:10:21- Love the stonework.- Right, shall we get started?- Yes, please.- Yes.
0:10:21 > 0:10:23Please follow me.
0:10:24 > 0:10:28This 19th-century stone farmhouse is made up of three sections.
0:10:28 > 0:10:31The central part was gutted and renovated seven years ago
0:10:31 > 0:10:33and forms the main house.
0:10:35 > 0:10:40- So, why don't we start off with the...our kitchen?- Oh!
0:10:40 > 0:10:43I wasn't expecting this room to be the kitchen, I don't know why,
0:10:43 > 0:10:47- but it's very nice. - And it is a good size, isn't it?
0:10:47 > 0:10:51- It is a good size. This is a huge table.- Yeah.
0:10:51 > 0:10:54But this isn't all because there is a utility room, as well.
0:10:54 > 0:10:57Oh, I was going to ask that cos I can't see any washing machine or anything.
0:10:57 > 0:11:00- Yes, it's nice. - Let's continue.- Great.
0:11:04 > 0:11:08- To a rather...rather warm drawing-room.- It is warm, isn't it?
0:11:08 > 0:11:13- Because just check out that fire. - Ah, I see.- Yes.
0:11:13 > 0:11:17- Oh, a wood burner.- So, what do we think of the actual room?
0:11:17 > 0:11:20It's really nice. Nice size. Nice shape, actually.
0:11:20 > 0:11:24- I like the exposed brickwork around the fireplace.- It's quite cosy, though.
0:11:24 > 0:11:28Even though it's a big size, it's quite cosy.
0:11:28 > 0:11:30The way the house is set up at the moment,
0:11:30 > 0:11:32- this is the main reception room. - Right.
0:11:32 > 0:11:35However, there is more to this property.
0:11:35 > 0:11:41Behind that wall is a large garage with storage and potential on top.
0:11:41 > 0:11:43But if that wasn't enough,
0:11:43 > 0:11:46the other side of the kitchen there's gite potential,
0:11:46 > 0:11:51but you could actually extend out or make that a separate annexe.
0:11:51 > 0:11:54'Extending into the sections either side would more than double
0:11:54 > 0:11:58'the downstairs floor area and add more reception space.
0:11:58 > 0:12:02'Ordinarily, renovation of the inside of a property doesn't require
0:12:02 > 0:12:04'authorisation, but change of use does.
0:12:04 > 0:12:09'You should check the planning rules with the local mayor's office before starting work.'
0:12:09 > 0:12:10- Working so far?- Yes.
0:12:10 > 0:12:13Right, well, I'm going to take you two upstairs.
0:12:16 > 0:12:19Upstairs there are two double bedrooms with oak flooring
0:12:19 > 0:12:22and classic rural views.
0:12:22 > 0:12:25There's also a small office and a family bathroom...
0:12:26 > 0:12:29..which just leaves the master suite.
0:12:30 > 0:12:36This is the master because, not only does it have this wonderful
0:12:36 > 0:12:40- fireplace, granite, but you've also got an en suite, as well.- Lovely.
0:12:40 > 0:12:42It's nice.
0:12:42 > 0:12:45It's perfectly big enough because all you do in the room is sleep, isn't it?
0:12:45 > 0:12:46I will say one thing -
0:12:46 > 0:12:49there's a really nice view out of the window. It's a nice view.
0:12:49 > 0:12:51- Yeah.- I like that.
0:12:51 > 0:12:54Now, Keith, in a way, the house is your domain, isn't it?
0:12:54 > 0:12:56And, Elaine, I bet
0:12:56 > 0:12:59- the first question you wanted to ask was, "What's for the horses?"- Yes.
0:12:59 > 0:13:01But you've been very good. You've held back.
0:13:01 > 0:13:05- Keith, do you think it's time that we showed her?- Yeah, OK.- All right.
0:13:05 > 0:13:08If you wouldn't mind leading the way, let's head outside.
0:13:11 > 0:13:14They both seem to like the classic French style of the interior,
0:13:14 > 0:13:18but it's outside that things really come into their own.
0:13:19 > 0:13:22What's on offer for the horses is pretty special.
0:13:24 > 0:13:29- Elaine, I think you might like this stable block.- Yes, very much. Yes.
0:13:30 > 0:13:33American barn, just my sort of dream stabling.
0:13:33 > 0:13:34Yes, it's absolutely lovely.
0:13:34 > 0:13:38All these have been made actually in the UK and brought out here.
0:13:38 > 0:13:41- Oh, I wondered. Oh, you've even got this feed.- Even got your feed.
0:13:41 > 0:13:45- Yeah, yeah, the spinning feed troughs.- And you've got six.
0:13:45 > 0:13:47Automatic waterers.
0:13:47 > 0:13:51Now, you didn't want to retire, you wanted an exciting new chapter,
0:13:51 > 0:13:53I think you might be getting some more horses and ponies.
0:13:53 > 0:13:57- I quite like the idea of running a livery, actually.- Do you?- I do.
0:13:57 > 0:14:00- Yeah.- Well, the question is, is there enough land?
0:14:00 > 0:14:02- That's a good question. - To do that here?
0:14:02 > 0:14:03That is a good question.
0:14:03 > 0:14:05So, let's go outside, into the sunshine,
0:14:05 > 0:14:06and see what we have.
0:14:08 > 0:14:11As well as the extensive stable block,
0:14:11 > 0:14:13there are hay store, outbuildings,
0:14:13 > 0:14:14and an open-sided barn,
0:14:14 > 0:14:17which provides field shelter for the horses.
0:14:17 > 0:14:19And the land on which all this sits
0:14:19 > 0:14:21is pretty spectacular too.
0:14:23 > 0:14:25- You've got a paddock behind us... - Mm-hmm.
0:14:25 > 0:14:27..all the way around.
0:14:27 > 0:14:29You've got these paddocks here.
0:14:29 > 0:14:32But then, in addition to that,
0:14:32 > 0:14:35- you've got paddocks across the road. - Oh, gosh.
0:14:35 > 0:14:37You've got this huge field here
0:14:37 > 0:14:39and then you've got the field going up the hill -
0:14:39 > 0:14:42- that's probably the largest of them all.- Mm-hmm.
0:14:42 > 0:14:46- They have a deal with their local French farmer.- Uh-huh.
0:14:46 > 0:14:49He cuts the grass for them and they go 50-50.
0:14:49 > 0:14:52- They keep half the hay.- Yeah.- He keeps half.- Oh, right.- Perfect.
0:14:52 > 0:14:55The total, the acreage, for this house
0:14:55 > 0:14:56is 25.
0:14:56 > 0:14:58Oh! Goodness. OK.
0:14:58 > 0:15:01So, 25 acres, that doesn't scare you?
0:15:01 > 0:15:02Erm...erm...
0:15:02 > 0:15:04In association with a local farmer,
0:15:04 > 0:15:06- I think it's fine!- No!
0:15:06 > 0:15:07An awful lot of land,
0:15:07 > 0:15:09an awful lot of outbuildings
0:15:09 > 0:15:12- and a substantial farmhouse. - Yes.- Yes.
0:15:12 > 0:15:14My goodness, what's it worth?
0:15:14 > 0:15:15You've got to guess the price.
0:15:16 > 0:15:20I'm going to say...
0:15:20 > 0:15:22360,000.
0:15:22 > 0:15:24OK.
0:15:24 > 0:15:27I'm going to be really cheeky
0:15:27 > 0:15:29and hope it's a little bit less than that!
0:15:29 > 0:15:31I'm going to say 350.
0:15:31 > 0:15:32You're both jolly close, actually.
0:15:32 > 0:15:36The asking price is just over £356,000.
0:15:36 > 0:15:37- Oh, good!- Ah.
0:15:37 > 0:15:39- Keith, you're the closest.- Yeah.
0:15:39 > 0:15:42- That's a good price.- It is.- Yeah, I mean...- I think it's realistic.
0:15:42 > 0:15:44- Why don't you take some more time? - Uh-huh.
0:15:44 > 0:15:47There's two boys in that back field I'm sure you want to say hello to.
0:15:47 > 0:15:49Why don't you start off with the horses?
0:15:49 > 0:15:50Take a good look around
0:15:50 > 0:15:52and I'll try and find you when you're ready.
0:15:52 > 0:15:54- OK, lovely.- Fine, good. OK. - Thank you very much.
0:15:55 > 0:15:58Priced at £44,000 under budget,
0:15:58 > 0:16:00this package offers a stone farmhouse
0:16:00 > 0:16:02with four bedrooms,
0:16:02 > 0:16:04plus room to create an annexe for Elaine's mother
0:16:04 > 0:16:07and the extra reception rooms they need.
0:16:07 > 0:16:09There's space for Keith's vegetable plot
0:16:09 > 0:16:12because there are 25 acres of land,
0:16:12 > 0:16:14but the crowning glory of this option
0:16:14 > 0:16:16is the top notch stable block
0:16:16 > 0:16:18already in place for the horses.
0:16:19 > 0:16:22Well, these look like very happy, healthy horses.
0:16:22 > 0:16:26- They must be getting good nourishment from their pasture.- Yeah.
0:16:30 > 0:16:32Oh, gosh!
0:16:32 > 0:16:33Space!
0:16:33 > 0:16:36- A lovely big, empty space...- Yeah.
0:16:36 > 0:16:38..that you could do whatever you want with.
0:16:38 > 0:16:40We could put your mother in here!
0:16:40 > 0:16:41SHE LAUGHS My mother would love it in here!
0:16:41 > 0:16:44It would need a bit of work! THEY LAUGH
0:16:44 > 0:16:47The upstairs of the house is really nice.
0:16:47 > 0:16:48We like the bedrooms very much.
0:16:48 > 0:16:50The downstairs...
0:16:50 > 0:16:54beautiful sitting-room, loved that.
0:16:54 > 0:16:56But, for us,
0:16:56 > 0:16:58maybe not enough rooms downstairs.
0:16:58 > 0:17:00We could think about using
0:17:00 > 0:17:02some of the undeveloped space,
0:17:02 > 0:17:05but we'd need to think seriously about
0:17:05 > 0:17:09whether we're up to that kind of project.
0:17:09 > 0:17:13To be honest, I didn't expect to see such wonderful facilities.
0:17:13 > 0:17:15The stabling is great.
0:17:15 > 0:17:18It's just the sort of thing I'd design myself.
0:17:18 > 0:17:20The paddocks are lovely.
0:17:20 > 0:17:22I'd say this is definitely on the shortlist.
0:17:22 > 0:17:24I know we've only seen one,
0:17:24 > 0:17:27but, yes, this is definitely one to think about.
0:17:27 > 0:17:30- Ah, I thought I might find you in here! - THEY LAUGH
0:17:30 > 0:17:33- I'm going to have to drag you away, I'm afraid.- OK.- OK.
0:17:33 > 0:17:35This has set the bar pretty high, hasn't it?
0:17:35 > 0:17:38- It has, yes. The stables are wonderful.- Yeah.- Yeah.
0:17:38 > 0:17:40Good. Right, shall we hit the road?
0:17:40 > 0:17:41- Absolutely, yes. - Let's do that.- Fine.
0:17:54 > 0:17:55For our next property,
0:17:55 > 0:17:57we're travelling ten minutes north
0:17:57 > 0:17:59to the town of Saint-Sever-Calvados.
0:18:00 > 0:18:03It's a small town, which centres on the Notre Dame church,
0:18:03 > 0:18:05with its distinctive separate bell tower.
0:18:07 > 0:18:09There are bakeries, banks, a post office
0:18:09 > 0:18:11and other shops and services,
0:18:11 > 0:18:13making it a great place for day-to-day needs.
0:18:15 > 0:18:17Our next house is less than a five-minute drive away,
0:18:17 > 0:18:20yet still has a wonderful rural setting.
0:18:23 > 0:18:26- I'm lost for words. - NICKI LAUGHS
0:18:26 > 0:18:27Standing here, I feel very proud
0:18:27 > 0:18:29showing you this property.
0:18:29 > 0:18:31It's absolutely lovely.
0:18:31 > 0:18:34It looks so beautifully maintained everywhere.
0:18:34 > 0:18:35Is it brand-new?
0:18:35 > 0:18:39This actually dates back to the 16th century, can you believe?
0:18:39 > 0:18:41- It's amazing, isn't it?- It's lovely.
0:18:41 > 0:18:43It's a lovely position as well.
0:18:43 > 0:18:46- That's taken your breath away, Keith, hasn't it? - Yes, I'm speechless.
0:18:46 > 0:18:47As we came round the corner,
0:18:47 > 0:18:49it kind of got longer and longer!
0:18:49 > 0:18:52- I thought, "Is it ever going to stop?"- Yeah.
0:18:52 > 0:18:53Very good.
0:18:53 > 0:18:56- Yes.- Yes, it's definitely got the wow factor, hasn't it?
0:18:56 > 0:18:58- It has got the wow factor.- Yeah.
0:18:58 > 0:18:59- Shall we step inside? - Love to.- Yes, please.
0:18:59 > 0:19:03- I'm looking forward to showing you two around this property.- Good.
0:19:05 > 0:19:08The building has been renovated over the last ten years,
0:19:08 > 0:19:10including new slates on its huge roof.
0:19:12 > 0:19:16And, inside, local French artisans have done a great job too.
0:19:16 > 0:19:19- Step into your kitchen! - THEY LAUGH
0:19:19 > 0:19:21- Come on in!- Oh, wow!
0:19:21 > 0:19:23SHE LAUGHS
0:19:23 > 0:19:25- Yes.- Yes. I like this.
0:19:25 > 0:19:27This is lovely...
0:19:27 > 0:19:29in every way.
0:19:29 > 0:19:32I love these double height rooms, they're fantastic.
0:19:32 > 0:19:34- Especially in the kitchen.- Yeah. - It's great, isn't it?- Yeah.
0:19:34 > 0:19:35It's really lovely.
0:19:35 > 0:19:39And it's been divided up, so you've got your dining area here,
0:19:39 > 0:19:42- but still an open plan kitchen.- Mmm.
0:19:42 > 0:19:44Lovely. Right, well, big thumbs up?
0:19:44 > 0:19:47- Absolutely.- Yes, I like that!
0:19:47 > 0:19:48Right, keep going.
0:19:54 > 0:19:57So, here is your drawing-room...
0:19:57 > 0:20:00complete with wood burner.
0:20:00 > 0:20:01- Oh, yes.- This is very nice.
0:20:02 > 0:20:05It kind of has two halves to it.
0:20:05 > 0:20:08Yes, it's actually quite a warm-feeling room, isn't it?
0:20:08 > 0:20:10- So do you like it? - Yeah, I like it, I like it.
0:20:10 > 0:20:12Yes, this area particularly is really,
0:20:12 > 0:20:15- kind of, cosy and snug, isn't it? - Yeah, yeah.
0:20:15 > 0:20:18I mean, you couldn't fault it. It's beautifully done.
0:20:18 > 0:20:19Yes, it is, it's lovely.
0:20:19 > 0:20:20I've got loads more to show you.
0:20:20 > 0:20:23- Let's try upstairs, shall we? - OK.- Good idea.
0:20:23 > 0:20:25'This house is on three levels.
0:20:25 > 0:20:31'The remainder of the ground floor is an unconverted storage space.
0:20:31 > 0:20:34'Up on the first floor are two of this property's four bedrooms,
0:20:34 > 0:20:36'including a double and the master,
0:20:36 > 0:20:41'which has a large en suite bathroom and a dressing room.
0:20:41 > 0:20:45'There's a further bathroom on this floor, as well as a summer kitchen.
0:20:45 > 0:20:47'As the land at this end of the house is higher,
0:20:47 > 0:20:49'there's a door out onto a decked area,
0:20:49 > 0:20:53'offering perfect accessible accommodation for Elaine's mother.
0:20:53 > 0:20:56'But we're going across the first floor study area,
0:20:56 > 0:20:59'all the way up to the second floor.'
0:20:59 > 0:21:03Come on up...
0:21:03 > 0:21:08- because this is the big reveal. - Oh, lovely.- Oh, right!
0:21:08 > 0:21:10Oh, look at that!
0:21:10 > 0:21:14- There we are, this is an old mill house.- Yes.
0:21:14 > 0:21:17- Ah...- Right.- OK...
0:21:17 > 0:21:19- Now it makes sense. - It does make sense.
0:21:19 > 0:21:2416th century, run by the monks, there used to be four waterwheels,
0:21:24 > 0:21:27- there's still one in existence. - Oh, right.
0:21:27 > 0:21:29You may just about hear it.
0:21:29 > 0:21:31Now you mention it...
0:21:31 > 0:21:33I've kept you away from all the windows
0:21:33 > 0:21:37because I'm going to go outside in a minute and show it to you.
0:21:37 > 0:21:40I'm intrigued by the mechanics of it.
0:21:40 > 0:21:44I want to find out what is still working and what isn't.
0:21:44 > 0:21:47- The good news is, quite a lot of it is working.- Mm.
0:21:47 > 0:21:50They try to be as self-sufficient as possible
0:21:50 > 0:21:52here in this property, the current owners.
0:21:52 > 0:21:56It produces so much electricity, it runs the house
0:21:56 > 0:21:59- and they sell the rest back to the grid.- Oh, goodness!
0:21:59 > 0:22:02- I like it.- It's actually a proper working watermill.- Yes, I like that.
0:22:02 > 0:22:04A working watermill.
0:22:04 > 0:22:09On this level you've got another bathroom, two further bedrooms and
0:22:09 > 0:22:14the one at the end is a really good size with that beautiful A-frame.
0:22:14 > 0:22:16So we've still got more to explore
0:22:16 > 0:22:19and we've got to discuss what's outside as well, haven't we?
0:22:19 > 0:22:22- Yes, I'm looking forward to that. - Oh, yes, absolutely.
0:22:24 > 0:22:27So inside the house, the layout is a little bit unusual
0:22:27 > 0:22:29and outside it's the same.
0:22:30 > 0:22:34There are lots of different sections in the 4.9 acres
0:22:34 > 0:22:36this property offers.
0:22:38 > 0:22:41- Who loves growing vegetables? - Me, me!
0:22:41 > 0:22:43You've got a vegetable patch all along here.
0:22:43 > 0:22:45The current owners are organic.
0:22:45 > 0:22:48You've got your greenhouse here, you've got a building here,
0:22:48 > 0:22:51a little outbuilding, it's got a tractor in it at the moment.
0:22:51 > 0:22:56- For about £3,000, you could turn that into a stable block...- OK.
0:22:56 > 0:22:58- ..if you wanted to.- Right.- Yeah.
0:22:58 > 0:23:01Because standing here, you might have gathered,
0:23:01 > 0:23:04- there isn't, at the moment, a stable block.- No, OK.
0:23:04 > 0:23:07- The land carries on behind those trees...- Yeah.
0:23:07 > 0:23:10There's a parcel of it on the other side of the stream
0:23:10 > 0:23:14- and, just across the road, there's a paddock as well.- Right.- Right.
0:23:14 > 0:23:17So you wanted the grandiose house.
0:23:17 > 0:23:20- We've got quite close, haven't we, Keith?- We have, yes.
0:23:20 > 0:23:24The compromise would be a little bit of work for the horses.
0:23:24 > 0:23:26So, in a way, we've got to find out
0:23:26 > 0:23:30whether this property is under, on or over your budget.
0:23:30 > 0:23:32It's a difficult one.
0:23:32 > 0:23:37I'd say pretty well on our budget, so 400,000.
0:23:37 > 0:23:41So I'm going to go for 415.
0:23:41 > 0:23:44Well, the asking price is...
0:23:44 > 0:23:47offers in the region of £345,000.
0:23:47 > 0:23:50- Oh, wow!- Oh, God.
0:23:50 > 0:23:53- Oh!- Yes...
0:23:53 > 0:23:55- That really is food for thought, now. - Yes.
0:23:55 > 0:23:57So would you like another look around?
0:23:57 > 0:24:01- Yes, we would.- Yes.- Please do. - With fresh eyes.- Good.
0:24:01 > 0:24:04I'm pleased. I love this property.
0:24:09 > 0:24:11At £60,000 under budget,
0:24:11 > 0:24:15this converted mill is a unique property, giving the four bedrooms
0:24:15 > 0:24:19and the opportunity for an accessible annexe that they wanted.
0:24:19 > 0:24:22Plus, there are three reception rooms, including a dining room.
0:24:22 > 0:24:27Outside, the 4.9 acres contains an up and running vegetable plot
0:24:27 > 0:24:30and pasture land for the horses, but there's work to be done
0:24:30 > 0:24:33to create a stable block and fence-in the land.
0:24:38 > 0:24:39Gosh, that's a feature and a half
0:24:39 > 0:24:42to have on the back of the house, isn't it?
0:24:42 > 0:24:46It is, isn't it? That's what you call a water feature.
0:24:48 > 0:24:51Well, our first impressions of the house were just amazing
0:24:51 > 0:24:54because it just seemed to go on and on and on forever
0:24:54 > 0:24:56as we approached it.
0:24:56 > 0:24:59It is an amazing, truly amazing house.
0:24:59 > 0:25:03It's been wonderfully and very thoughtfully renovated.
0:25:03 > 0:25:07And, of course, then you've got the added bonus of all the
0:25:07 > 0:25:10original heritage features of the watermill,
0:25:10 > 0:25:15which makes it a very special and spectacular property.
0:25:15 > 0:25:17As far as the grounds are concerned,
0:25:17 > 0:25:21it's got everything that I would want in terms of my hobby
0:25:21 > 0:25:24of growing vegetables and fruit and all of that.
0:25:24 > 0:25:27It's probably got more than I would need, to be honest.
0:25:27 > 0:25:31The horses are another matter.
0:25:31 > 0:25:34I must admit, I was disappointed there are no stables.
0:25:34 > 0:25:38The land is in small pockets and not many of them, quite honestly,
0:25:38 > 0:25:42are suitable for grazing for horses.
0:25:42 > 0:25:45If it wasn't for the horses, the house on its own would be
0:25:45 > 0:25:51fantastic but, as you know, the horses are quite high on my list.
0:25:51 > 0:25:54- So have you both seen enough? - For now, certainly.
0:25:54 > 0:25:57Some very interesting houses here in Normandy.
0:25:57 > 0:25:59It's been a good day, hasn't it?
0:25:59 > 0:26:01- Really good.- It's been a very good day.- Very interesting.
0:26:01 > 0:26:03- Excellent. Let's hit the road.- OK.
0:26:12 > 0:26:16To offer our buyers a feel of how it might be to live in France,
0:26:16 > 0:26:20we're ending the day in the village of Landes-sur-Ajon.
0:26:20 > 0:26:23We thought that rather than, perhaps, you staying at a hotel,
0:26:23 > 0:26:26that you might like some time on your own to reflect,
0:26:26 > 0:26:29- perhaps go out, explore, a little bit of shopping...- Mhm.
0:26:29 > 0:26:33- ..so we've organised a cottage for you...- Oh, lovely.- Oh, very nice.
0:26:33 > 0:26:35..in a very pretty hamlet next to the church.
0:26:35 > 0:26:38So enjoy, have a lovely restful evening.
0:26:38 > 0:26:42- Thank you, Nicki.- Thank you, Nicki, bye-bye.
0:26:42 > 0:26:44Oh, that's nice. Cook up a storm here for a few days.
0:26:44 > 0:26:46Yes.
0:26:46 > 0:26:48Having seen two good options today,
0:26:48 > 0:26:51Elaine and Keith now have a chance to reflect
0:26:51 > 0:26:53on the huge decision they're making.
0:26:53 > 0:26:57I know there's a danger of, you know, just because you really love
0:26:57 > 0:27:00somewhere when you've come on holiday,
0:27:00 > 0:27:03doesn't mean that you can make a life there.
0:27:03 > 0:27:05I do genuinely feel that this is somewhere that
0:27:05 > 0:27:09- I'd really like to live. - I'm glad you feel that way.
0:27:09 > 0:27:12In the past, I have felt, sometimes, that I've been driving it.
0:27:12 > 0:27:16I got the feeling I was the one who was, "Let's do it, let's do it."
0:27:16 > 0:27:20And now we're both, kind of, back up in the "Let's do it" mood.
0:27:20 > 0:27:23- I think this is about ready. - We need to cook pasta, don't we?
0:27:34 > 0:27:36It's the second day of our house-hunt in the French
0:27:36 > 0:27:40region of Normandy, helping Keith and Elaine relocate from Norfolk
0:27:40 > 0:27:43with a budget of £400,000.
0:27:43 > 0:27:46Whilst we're here, they're staying in their own cottage to get
0:27:46 > 0:27:48a taste of authentic French life.
0:27:52 > 0:27:56By choosing Normandy, Keith and Elaine have selected a region
0:27:56 > 0:27:58with fine equestrian credentials.
0:27:58 > 0:28:02Normandy is horse country and the area of Orne
0:28:02 > 0:28:04boasts more horse residents than people.
0:28:04 > 0:28:08It's also home to over 2,500 stud farms,
0:28:08 > 0:28:11including the most famous of France's national studs,
0:28:11 > 0:28:13the Haras du Pin.
0:28:13 > 0:28:15As horses here are Elaine's passion,
0:28:15 > 0:28:18I'm taking her to meet horse owner and expat Helen,
0:28:18 > 0:28:20who moved out here eight years ago
0:28:20 > 0:28:23and occasionally guides tours here of the National Stud.
0:28:23 > 0:28:26- Helen, lovely to meet you. - Hi, nice to meet you, Nicki.
0:28:26 > 0:28:29- Can I introduce you to Elaine? - Hi, Elaine.- Hi, good to meet you.
0:28:29 > 0:28:32Now, when he suggested that we met you at the National Stud,
0:28:32 > 0:28:34I didn't expect it to look like this.
0:28:34 > 0:28:38Well, no. This is... The Haras du Pin, the National Stud of Le Pin,
0:28:38 > 0:28:40the little village up the road.
0:28:40 > 0:28:45It's the oldest and largest of the 22 that we have in France.
0:28:45 > 0:28:48- It looks very grand, doesn't it? - It's magnificent.- It looks regal.
0:28:48 > 0:28:51Yes, well, it's funny should say that because it was commissioned
0:28:51 > 0:28:54by Louis XIV, 1715 was when it was finished and he used
0:28:54 > 0:28:58the same architect as was used on the Palace of Versailles.
0:28:58 > 0:29:01It has, actually, become known as the "Versailles for Horses".
0:29:01 > 0:29:03Elaine is passionate about horses
0:29:03 > 0:29:06- and so am I, so we're really looking forward to it.- Great.
0:29:06 > 0:29:08Well, you're going to be in for a treat.
0:29:08 > 0:29:11The national studs were created to breed horses
0:29:11 > 0:29:13for military campaigns.
0:29:13 > 0:29:16Later they bred for farming and industry and, finally,
0:29:16 > 0:29:18for sport and leisure. Here in Le Pin,
0:29:18 > 0:29:20there are around 30 stallions
0:29:20 > 0:29:24used for stud across ten different breeds.
0:29:24 > 0:29:28Every Thursday, the courtyard is transformed into an
0:29:28 > 0:29:32outdoor theatre, showcasing some of the 230 horses kept here.
0:29:36 > 0:29:39The performances also include carriage driving,
0:29:39 > 0:29:42which is a tradition kept alive by officers at the stud.
0:29:44 > 0:29:46APPLAUSE
0:29:46 > 0:29:49- Helen, that was amazing! - I know. Every time I see it,
0:29:49 > 0:29:51it's just staggering, absolutely.
0:29:53 > 0:29:55Shall we go back to your stables?
0:29:55 > 0:29:58- Yes, absolutely.- Oh, wonderful.
0:29:58 > 0:30:01We're heading a few miles down the road to Helen and her
0:30:01 > 0:30:02husband Jules' home,
0:30:02 > 0:30:05which they bought and renovated when they moved here.
0:30:05 > 0:30:08Elaine knows about living and looking after horses in the UK,
0:30:08 > 0:30:12but wants to know more about the realities of doing it in France.
0:30:12 > 0:30:15So, Helen, who have we got here? You're handsome.
0:30:15 > 0:30:18- Well, this is Solomon.- And then the other little one next-door?
0:30:18 > 0:30:21This is our old lady, and she's Hattie and we reckon
0:30:21 > 0:30:24- she's probably about 20/24, something like that.- Is she?- Yeah.
0:30:24 > 0:30:27Do you know many people that have actually brought their horses
0:30:27 > 0:30:29over with them from the UK?
0:30:29 > 0:30:32Yeah, there are quite a few people that have brought them over.
0:30:32 > 0:30:35Some people have experienced difficulties with their passports
0:30:35 > 0:30:38and things, but generally I've heard, you know, good things.
0:30:38 > 0:30:41Is it quite mild here then in the winter?
0:30:41 > 0:30:43- Erm... No.- Right.
0:30:43 > 0:30:46Last winter was exceptional in that it was mild,
0:30:46 > 0:30:51but we have been here and I think it's been -17 and
0:30:51 > 0:30:53we have very hot summers. When it is hot, it's very hot
0:30:53 > 0:30:55and sometimes it'll be 35, something like that.
0:30:55 > 0:30:58Because you always hear Normandy having very mild temperatures,
0:30:58 > 0:31:00but they're quite extreme.
0:31:00 > 0:31:03Yeah, that's extreme in midwinter, but it is wet.
0:31:03 > 0:31:07- It's wetter than England.- Yes. - Is it?- Yes.- There you go...
0:31:07 > 0:31:10Actually, Norfolk, East Anglia, is the driest part of England,
0:31:10 > 0:31:13so it would be going from one extreme to the other, wouldn't it?
0:31:13 > 0:31:15Yes, you'll notice a big change then.
0:31:15 > 0:31:18Helen, this has been so, so helpful, but if you don't mind,
0:31:18 > 0:31:21we'd like to pick your brains just that little bit more
0:31:21 > 0:31:23about what it takes to make the move
0:31:23 > 0:31:26and what life in Normandy is really like, if that's all right with you.
0:31:26 > 0:31:30- That's absolutely fine. Let's get these back to the field, shall we? - I'll leave you two to it.
0:31:30 > 0:31:33Moving to Normandy is not all about the horses.
0:31:33 > 0:31:36Elaine and Keith will be transferring their lives here
0:31:36 > 0:31:40lock, stock, and barrel, a process that's quite daunting.
0:31:40 > 0:31:43With eight years' experience, we're hoping Helen and her husband Jules
0:31:43 > 0:31:46- can offer them some useful tips. - Hi.- Hi.
0:31:46 > 0:31:49- It's Jules, isn't it?- It is, indeed, hello.- Lovely to meet you
0:31:49 > 0:31:51- and what a fine spread. - Nice to meet you too, hello.
0:31:51 > 0:31:54- Hi, Jules, I'm Elaine. - Hello, Elaine, hi.
0:31:54 > 0:31:56- Goodness, we've been spoiled here. - Gosh, this looks nice.- Yeah.
0:31:56 > 0:31:58You're most welcome.
0:31:58 > 0:32:01I was going to ask, what was it that made you choose here, Normandy?
0:32:01 > 0:32:05I suppose, in a way, we weren't brave enough to take a step
0:32:05 > 0:32:09far south, we wanted to stay within a reasonable commuting distance,
0:32:09 > 0:32:11and for the last seven years
0:32:11 > 0:32:13I have been commuting back and forth to England, working.
0:32:13 > 0:32:17- How do you do that? Do you fly, do you use the ferry? - No, no, I ferry, I drive and ferry.
0:32:17 > 0:32:19Can I ask, I hope it's not being too personal,
0:32:19 > 0:32:21but do you get paid in the UK or do you get paid in France?
0:32:21 > 0:32:24- No, I work and I'm paid in the UK... - Right.
0:32:24 > 0:32:26..and I'm a UK taxpayer.
0:32:26 > 0:32:31It's one of those quirks of the system, that you can continue
0:32:31 > 0:32:34to work and pay national insurance and tax in the UK
0:32:34 > 0:32:36and the French will accept that.
0:32:36 > 0:32:40Once you start to work over here, then it becomes a different
0:32:40 > 0:32:43situation and then you have to come within the French tax system.
0:32:43 > 0:32:46They now tax pension lump sums, for example,
0:32:46 > 0:32:47which, again, was something that
0:32:47 > 0:32:51wasn't the situation even five years ago.
0:32:51 > 0:32:56So I think it's important to get the right advice on tax matters
0:32:56 > 0:33:00- because you can make some fairly desperate mistakes, financially. - Yes.
0:33:00 > 0:33:03What about the property, are there any tax implications with that?
0:33:03 > 0:33:05Very much so.
0:33:05 > 0:33:08They do levy council tax, or the equivalent of council tax,
0:33:08 > 0:33:10on all the outbuildings.
0:33:10 > 0:33:14So if you innocently build barns or sheds,
0:33:14 > 0:33:17you will suddenly find you're paying what's called a taxe fonciere
0:33:17 > 0:33:18- on those buildings.- Yes.
0:33:18 > 0:33:21It's not an enormous tax, but it's something, again,
0:33:21 > 0:33:22you need to be aware of.
0:33:22 > 0:33:25- I didn't know that.- So how much do you love that stable block now?
0:33:25 > 0:33:28I still love it but, obviously, I'm going to have to pay for it.
0:33:28 > 0:33:31Coming to France, culturally it's different, different heritage,
0:33:31 > 0:33:33different history, the language...
0:33:33 > 0:33:36What difference has it made to the lives that you lead
0:33:36 > 0:33:40and your lifestyle, your well-being, coming here?
0:33:40 > 0:33:42The pace is much slower over here.
0:33:42 > 0:33:45We often joke that sometimes it's like Britain was
0:33:45 > 0:33:47- in the '50s and '60s.- Yeah.
0:33:47 > 0:33:49Shops don't open on a Sunday and sometimes not on a Monday,
0:33:49 > 0:33:51and sometimes not on a Wednesday afternoon.
0:33:51 > 0:33:53Whilst that can be incredibly frustrating,
0:33:53 > 0:33:56if you need something on a Sunday or Monday,
0:33:56 > 0:34:00ultimately it infuses into you that sense of calm.
0:34:00 > 0:34:04It's really lovely to hear mine and Keith's thoughts, kind of,
0:34:04 > 0:34:07reinforced by yourselves, really.
0:34:07 > 0:34:10- And you've actually confirmed the way we feel about it...- Thank you.
0:34:10 > 0:34:12..which is really lovely, so thank you.
0:34:12 > 0:34:14- It's the best news for us, isn't it?- It is.
0:34:14 > 0:34:17And that's such great advice, so thank you so much.
0:34:17 > 0:34:20I think before we go, because you've gone to such a great effort,
0:34:20 > 0:34:23we should, perhaps, have a cake or three.
0:34:23 > 0:34:26Thank you.
0:34:26 > 0:34:31And when our buyers join over 250,000 British expats
0:34:31 > 0:34:35in France, there are a few details they'll need to consider.
0:34:35 > 0:34:39Buying a property here incurs fees and taxes of around 8%
0:34:39 > 0:34:44plus agents fees, which vary from 4% to a hefty 12%.
0:34:44 > 0:34:48As many as 50% of French houses are sold privately to avoid these
0:34:48 > 0:34:53fees, so keep your eyes peeled for "For Sale" signs.
0:34:53 > 0:34:58Healthcare is also a consideration, particularly for retirees,
0:34:58 > 0:35:01as the French system involves some private top-up insurance.
0:35:01 > 0:35:04Making sure you have provision for this is essential.
0:35:10 > 0:35:14For our next offering, I'm taking Elaine and Keith to the town of
0:35:14 > 0:35:18Gavray, which is the closest of all of the locations to the coast.
0:35:18 > 0:35:21It's a delightful and well-used agricultural town with weekly
0:35:21 > 0:35:25livestock markets, as well as farmers' produce markets.
0:35:25 > 0:35:29There are a variety of shops and services, such as bakeries,
0:35:29 > 0:35:34hairdressers and banks, serving a population of less than 1,500.
0:35:34 > 0:35:35LAUGHTER
0:35:35 > 0:35:38We have some friends.
0:35:38 > 0:35:42Five minutes up a hill, to a spectacular elevated position,
0:35:42 > 0:35:44is our next property.
0:35:44 > 0:35:47What you make of the actual house itself?
0:35:47 > 0:35:50- First impressions are it looks a little small...- Yes.
0:35:50 > 0:35:52..but that could be deceptive.
0:35:52 > 0:35:55We'll, you know, keep our countenance until we see the inside.
0:35:55 > 0:35:58Well, let's step inside and see what you make of the interior.
0:35:58 > 0:36:01- OK.- OK.
0:36:01 > 0:36:05Made from local stone and slate, this single-storey house is modest
0:36:05 > 0:36:09but, with a little reconfiguring, it could give them everything
0:36:09 > 0:36:13they need, and inside the rooms are surprisingly spacious.
0:36:13 > 0:36:17Right, so you walk through a tack/boot room
0:36:17 > 0:36:21into your French country kitchen.
0:36:21 > 0:36:24- Actually, it's a very nice kitchen.- It is very nice, yeah.
0:36:24 > 0:36:28It's larger than I expected, from the impression of the outside
0:36:28 > 0:36:30of the property, but it's a lovely kitchen.
0:36:30 > 0:36:32It's a nice, solid-looking kitchen.
0:36:32 > 0:36:35It is more French than English, as well.
0:36:35 > 0:36:37It is, yes. How old is the house?
0:36:37 > 0:36:39- Well, use the word house...- Ah...
0:36:39 > 0:36:44This is the point where I tell you that it used to be a barn.
0:36:44 > 0:36:47- We're in a barn conversion.- Oh!
0:36:47 > 0:36:50And I thought, "I won't say that outside because
0:36:50 > 0:36:52"it might put Keith off."
0:36:52 > 0:36:56But it was actually a barn and it dates to around the 1700s.
0:36:56 > 0:36:59- I see.- But, as you can see, it's been converted really well.
0:36:59 > 0:37:02Is there another formal dining space?
0:37:02 > 0:37:05So you've got a dining area in here but, you're right,
0:37:05 > 0:37:07just through this door, a little bit more.
0:37:12 > 0:37:15It's got wooden floorboards throughout here and, in a way,
0:37:15 > 0:37:19this room... This drawing room has been divided into two,
0:37:19 > 0:37:22dominated by that huge fireplace.
0:37:22 > 0:37:28- Yes, yeah.- How do you feel, though? Because this isn't a grand house.
0:37:28 > 0:37:32This is a large room. I mean, it is, but I think it...
0:37:32 > 0:37:37For me, the overpowering feeling is that it's cramped.
0:37:37 > 0:37:40As the property, the cottage, stands at the moment,
0:37:40 > 0:37:44there's two large double bedrooms, a utility room
0:37:44 > 0:37:48- and a family bathroom, literally on the other side of that wall.- OK.
0:37:48 > 0:37:50- Oh, right.- Right.- OK.
0:37:50 > 0:37:54You know what? We'd have to live differently if we bought this house.
0:37:54 > 0:37:59Well, in a way, we were thinking that this is your property
0:37:59 > 0:38:05- because we've got something up our sleeve for your guests.- Ah!
0:38:05 > 0:38:07Back through the door.
0:38:07 > 0:38:09The downstairs bedrooms could become reception rooms
0:38:09 > 0:38:13as there's sufficient space in the roof to create a master bedroom
0:38:13 > 0:38:17up there, but I'm sensing this place just isn't grand enough for Keith.
0:38:17 > 0:38:20If they did carry out renovations, though, there is somewhere
0:38:20 > 0:38:22handy they could stay during the works.
0:38:22 > 0:38:25So an added surprise at the rear of your property,
0:38:25 > 0:38:28- you have your own gite. - So we do.- Yeah.
0:38:28 > 0:38:31Again, deceiving on the outside.
0:38:31 > 0:38:34- It's actually got three double bedrooms.- Good Lord, has it really?
0:38:34 > 0:38:36Yes.
0:38:36 > 0:38:40It's surprising. They are obviously very adept at making buildings
0:38:40 > 0:38:43that look quite small actually have a lot inside.
0:38:43 > 0:38:48- There's the added bonus of a small pool as well.- Oh, OK.
0:38:48 > 0:38:50So if you did have friends with young children...
0:38:50 > 0:38:52Oh, yes, yes, I do have friends with young children.
0:38:52 > 0:38:54..it could be perfect, couldn't it?
0:38:54 > 0:38:58'The separate guest gite would be useful for longer staying guests,
0:38:58 > 0:39:00'like Elaine's mother.
0:39:00 > 0:39:02'For outside entertaining, there's a decked area
0:39:02 > 0:39:04'to the side of the main house.
0:39:04 > 0:39:08'That leaves us with the equestrian facilities that are on offer.'
0:39:08 > 0:39:12So we finally get round to the equestrian side,
0:39:12 > 0:39:15- a stable block, of sorts, in front of us.- OK.
0:39:15 > 0:39:18At the moment, the one on the right is for storage -
0:39:18 > 0:39:20I think there's a tractor and a mower in there.
0:39:20 > 0:39:23You've got additional storage here, it's all very dry.
0:39:23 > 0:39:27And then, just on the left, you've got four stables,
0:39:27 > 0:39:30two are larger than the other, but with access to the back fields.
0:39:30 > 0:39:33- Oh, right.- I see.- So you can leave it open and then the horse can
0:39:33 > 0:39:36- come in during the night.- That's really nice, that's really nice.
0:39:36 > 0:39:39And, of course, land. Now, ideally, you wanted three acres
0:39:39 > 0:39:42- for your two horses.- At least, yeah.- This is 4.9 acres.
0:39:42 > 0:39:44Right, OK.
0:39:44 > 0:39:47So the way it's set up is, you've got a paddock in front of us,
0:39:47 > 0:39:49goes all the way down to the road.
0:39:49 > 0:39:51It's quite well fenced actually.
0:39:51 > 0:39:52It goes along, it goes behind us.
0:39:52 > 0:39:55You've got another separate paddock at the back of the property
0:39:55 > 0:39:57and then an additional one,
0:39:57 > 0:40:01and I think the owners have, it must be at least four horses here.
0:40:01 > 0:40:02- Yeah.- Yes.
0:40:02 > 0:40:05- We've got to try and put a price on this property with the gite...- Yeah.
0:40:05 > 0:40:07..the land and the stable blocks.
0:40:07 > 0:40:10I'm going to say its way under budget -
0:40:10 > 0:40:13I'm going to say 275,000.
0:40:13 > 0:40:17I was thinking of the low threes, maybe 310.
0:40:17 > 0:40:19My word, here we go.
0:40:19 > 0:40:22The asking price is...
0:40:22 > 0:40:25just under £208,000.
0:40:25 > 0:40:27- Oh, goodness.- Hmm. - Right, so it's way down.
0:40:27 > 0:40:29Way down.
0:40:29 > 0:40:33It does mean there's ample funds to develop the top of the
0:40:33 > 0:40:34- main house then, doesn't it?- Yeah.
0:40:34 > 0:40:37Why don't you have another look and explore the gite,
0:40:37 > 0:40:40start off with the gite? Because it does need a little bit work,
0:40:40 > 0:40:44- but wonderful accommodation for friends and family coming to stay. - Yes, it is, yeah.
0:40:44 > 0:40:47- Thank you, guys.- Thank you.- Cheers.
0:40:47 > 0:40:48For roughly half their budget,
0:40:48 > 0:40:52this barn conversion currently offers two bedrooms,
0:40:52 > 0:40:55but could be extended upwards to create a master suite
0:40:55 > 0:40:58and more downstairs reception space,
0:40:58 > 0:41:01which would provide them with everything they're after.
0:41:01 > 0:41:05There's also a three-bedroom gite with a bonus swimming pool.
0:41:05 > 0:41:08For the horses, there's a stable block
0:41:08 > 0:41:10and 4.9 acres of paddocks and fields.
0:41:10 > 0:41:13So, this is the stable block.
0:41:13 > 0:41:17- Oh, it would be easily modified, to be honest.- Yeah.
0:41:17 > 0:41:21I mean, if you wanted to go the whole hog, you could easily
0:41:21 > 0:41:25- just turn it into a small American barn type.- Yeah.
0:41:25 > 0:41:28- You could, actually, make this really nice.- Yeah.
0:41:28 > 0:41:32Well, we had high hopes when we walked up the drive that we
0:41:32 > 0:41:35would find something really spectacular at the end of it.
0:41:35 > 0:41:37Sadly, that was not to be,
0:41:37 > 0:41:40except for the view, which is absolutely stunning.
0:41:40 > 0:41:43I mean, all of this is fantastic.
0:41:43 > 0:41:47It's a nice house and the rooms inside are good -
0:41:47 > 0:41:49there's perhaps not enough of them for us.
0:41:49 > 0:41:53One positive I did pick up from it is the idea of a separate
0:41:53 > 0:41:56annexe for our guests is a good one because they can get on
0:41:56 > 0:41:58and do their own thing, we can do the same.
0:41:58 > 0:42:03So that definitely has a lot going for it, having a separate gite.
0:42:05 > 0:42:07Ah, now, I wonder if that second
0:42:07 > 0:42:11viewing on your own has made all the difference.
0:42:11 > 0:42:13- I'm afraid it hasn't.- No?- No.- Sorry.
0:42:13 > 0:42:15- Shall I whisk you away? - Yes, please.- Please do.
0:42:21 > 0:42:24Central to this French relocation is
0:42:24 > 0:42:27making sure facilities are right for the horses.
0:42:27 > 0:42:30To find out how easily they can access affordable supplies,
0:42:30 > 0:42:34Keith and Elaine are visiting a local equine store.
0:42:34 > 0:42:36I think the feed's over here.
0:42:36 > 0:42:38Pardon, monsieur.
0:42:38 > 0:42:40Je cherche...pour les chevaux.
0:42:40 > 0:42:45- Oui.- Pour chevaux ne pas travaille.
0:42:45 > 0:42:47Oui.
0:42:47 > 0:42:49- Le prix, s'il vous plait?- 14 euros.
0:42:49 > 0:42:52- Oui, merci beaucoup.- Un sac.
0:42:52 > 0:42:54I'm trying to work it out,
0:42:54 > 0:42:58so it's 15 euros and I think I'm paying about £12 a bag
0:42:58 > 0:43:01at the moment for that sort of everyday feed.
0:43:01 > 0:43:04- Well, that's about the same price. - It's about the same, isn't it?- Yeah.
0:43:04 > 0:43:08It's actually really reassuring to know there are places like this.
0:43:08 > 0:43:10OK, it was worth coming here then.
0:43:10 > 0:43:12Yeah, it was definitely worth coming here. And to find, you know,
0:43:12 > 0:43:15friendly people to answer your questions and put up
0:43:15 > 0:43:18with your awful French.
0:43:20 > 0:43:25Immersing themselves in local life and culture is also very important,
0:43:25 > 0:43:27so they're heading into town to explore.
0:43:27 > 0:43:30Shall we go in? Will we be brave?
0:43:30 > 0:43:35In France, food and the general cost of living is comparable with the UK.
0:43:35 > 0:43:39Some items, such as wine and beer, are less expensive and others,
0:43:39 > 0:43:43such as domestic appliances, can be considerably more,
0:43:43 > 0:43:46so it might be worth bringing them out with you.
0:43:46 > 0:43:48For Elaine and Keith, a move to France
0:43:48 > 0:43:50is not about making cost savings -
0:43:50 > 0:43:53it's about starting a new exciting life.
0:43:53 > 0:43:57To actually adopt a new culture, to actually live in a
0:43:57 > 0:44:01- different place is intensely stimulating.- Mhm.
0:44:01 > 0:44:04It's almost like starting over, it's almost like being 18 again,
0:44:04 > 0:44:08you know, we've got a different life ahead of us.
0:44:08 > 0:44:11You know, a different culture, different surroundings -
0:44:11 > 0:44:13it's all quite exciting.
0:44:21 > 0:44:23It's our final day, here in Normandy,
0:44:23 > 0:44:25looking for a house with land that's
0:44:25 > 0:44:27right for a Keith, Elaine and their horses
0:44:27 > 0:44:30and within their £400,000 budget.
0:44:30 > 0:44:33During our time here, they've been staying in a rented house,
0:44:33 > 0:44:36but we need to find them a more permanent property
0:44:36 > 0:44:39and we've got one last offering to show them.
0:44:42 > 0:44:46I have no idea what they might throw at us for the Mystery House.
0:44:46 > 0:44:50Maybe the mystery is just being somewhere we've never been before...
0:44:50 > 0:44:53- Could be, yeah. - ..like a magical mystery tour.
0:44:53 > 0:44:57- Well, good morning to the two of you.- Ah, bonjour.- Bonjour, Nicki.
0:44:57 > 0:45:00- How are we?- We're fine.
0:45:00 > 0:45:02I bet you dreamt of houses last night.
0:45:02 > 0:45:04Well, I've got one more to show you.
0:45:04 > 0:45:07- Shall we hit the road? - Yes.- Come on, then.- Cheers.
0:45:13 > 0:45:16For our Mystery House, we've travelled east to the town of Trun,
0:45:16 > 0:45:19away from the part of Normandy Keith and Elaine know well.
0:45:19 > 0:45:22Trun itself is a very pretty
0:45:22 > 0:45:24and well-kept town, with an active community.
0:45:24 > 0:45:28There are plenty of shops and services, from butcher and bakers
0:45:28 > 0:45:30to pharmacies and cafes.
0:45:30 > 0:45:33We're pushing Keith and Elaine as the location is out
0:45:33 > 0:45:37of their preferred area and the horse facilities need some attention.
0:45:37 > 0:45:41But if they want grand, our Mystery House deliverers.
0:45:42 > 0:45:44Here is...
0:45:44 > 0:45:47- your Mystery House.- It's lovely.
0:45:47 > 0:45:51- Now, that's old.- Yes, it looks very old, doesn't it?- Yes.
0:45:51 > 0:45:54It dates back to the 14th century,
0:45:54 > 0:45:58- a very traditional timber-framed house.- It's stunning, isn't it?
0:45:58 > 0:46:02- Shall we take a look at the house? - Yes, please.- Yes, great.
0:46:02 > 0:46:05'This is a unique property, which I'm hoping will give Keith
0:46:05 > 0:46:08'that touch of grandeur he's fond of.'
0:46:09 > 0:46:13So, the front door leads straight
0:46:13 > 0:46:17into the main body of the property.
0:46:17 > 0:46:21- You're dominated by that stone fireplace.- Yes, yes.
0:46:21 > 0:46:24- That is magnificent.- That's a proper fireplace, that is.- Yes.- Yes.
0:46:24 > 0:46:27You really do feel the age as you walk through the door, don't you?
0:46:27 > 0:46:30- Yeah.- Yeah. But it's lovely tall rooms, though.
0:46:30 > 0:46:35Although it's very old, 14th/15th century, the way it's been
0:46:35 > 0:46:36done is actually quite open-plan
0:46:36 > 0:46:40- because you have your dining area behind us.- Yes.
0:46:40 > 0:46:44- That's nice, isn't it? - Yeah.- Yeah, it's a good size.
0:46:44 > 0:46:47It is a manor house, but it's not enormous.
0:46:47 > 0:46:49Right, a small manor.
0:46:49 > 0:46:52- And, Keith, you teased me right at the beginning...- Did I?
0:46:52 > 0:46:54..and you said, "If you could find me a chateau."
0:46:54 > 0:46:57- How have I done with the manor house?- Eh... Close.- Yeah?- Yeah.
0:46:57 > 0:47:01- Let's see what you make of the French kitchen.- OK.
0:47:04 > 0:47:06Ah, it's bijou.
0:47:06 > 0:47:07LAUGHTER
0:47:07 > 0:47:10- Small but perfectly formed. - Oh! And the best view.
0:47:10 > 0:47:13- Oh, wow, yes, it is, isn't it? - Yeah, yeah, splendid.
0:47:13 > 0:47:17Would it be fair to say it's a functioning kitchen?
0:47:17 > 0:47:19It is a very functional kitchen, yes,
0:47:19 > 0:47:23and with the dining room right next-door...
0:47:23 > 0:47:28- Yes, you'd have to use that all the time, wouldn't you?- Yes.
0:47:28 > 0:47:31It's nicely fitted, though. I actually do rather like it.
0:47:31 > 0:47:34- Excellent, right, we're going to head upstairs now.- OK.
0:47:36 > 0:47:39The ground floor has impressed with its large baronial living space
0:47:39 > 0:47:43and upstairs the stately feel continues.
0:47:43 > 0:47:45Of course, being our Mystery House,
0:47:45 > 0:47:47nothing is what it seems.
0:47:49 > 0:47:55I feel as if I've, sort of, arrived in some grand dame's boudoir.
0:47:55 > 0:47:57LAUGHTER
0:47:57 > 0:48:00Yes, it could be... I'm a grand dame and it can be my boudoir.
0:48:00 > 0:48:03That will continue, actually, because you've got the boudoir here
0:48:03 > 0:48:06- and you've got the dressing room next-door.- Ah, I see.- Oh, wow.
0:48:06 > 0:48:08It's quite large.
0:48:08 > 0:48:12And then you've got your own bathroom with storage.
0:48:12 > 0:48:16And then, to the left of that, there's actually a staircase leading
0:48:16 > 0:48:18- up to the third floor...- OK.
0:48:18 > 0:48:21..where you've got a further two bedrooms,
0:48:21 > 0:48:25large generous size and a shower room, as well.
0:48:25 > 0:48:27- Oh, I see.- Right, OK.- Good.
0:48:27 > 0:48:32Well, I think this property, this house, is just for the two of you
0:48:32 > 0:48:35because, for guests and family, we've got something else to show you.
0:48:35 > 0:48:39- Oh, right.- There is more?!
0:48:39 > 0:48:42'I think the house is big enough for Keith and Elaine...
0:48:46 > 0:48:48'..and the guesthouse is also generous.'
0:48:52 > 0:48:57- So we've sorted out your property... - Yeah.- ..the grand manor house,
0:48:57 > 0:49:00and then friends and family can stay at this converted gite.
0:49:00 > 0:49:03- Uh-huh.- I see.- Right. - What was it converted from?
0:49:03 > 0:49:08- It used to be an apple press for cider...a cider press.- Right.
0:49:08 > 0:49:11- You've actually got three bedrooms upstairs...- Gosh.
0:49:11 > 0:49:15..and quite a good-sized downstairs.
0:49:15 > 0:49:18It would be fair to say...it needs a little bit of love and attention.
0:49:18 > 0:49:22- Ah, right, OK.- You've got your own pool, just over there.
0:49:22 > 0:49:23Yes, and there's plenty of space
0:49:23 > 0:49:26- for a vegetable bed somewhere. - Yes, yeah.
0:49:26 > 0:49:30- We've got to discuss the famous horses, haven't we?- Yes.- Yeah.
0:49:30 > 0:49:33- Let's look at the land and see what you think.- OK.- Right.
0:49:36 > 0:49:40As well as the fantastic swimming pool, the grounds contain
0:49:40 > 0:49:45parkland, an orchard and a paddock for the horses.
0:49:45 > 0:49:48Just around the corner, there's somewhere for the horses to go,
0:49:48 > 0:49:50the current owners have horses.
0:49:50 > 0:49:54- And there's an outside stable, but it is very, very basic.- OK.- I see.
0:49:54 > 0:49:55So, looking at our property,
0:49:55 > 0:49:58it looks like a proper Tudor home, doesn't it?
0:49:58 > 0:50:01We've got to try and put a price on this, the gite,
0:50:01 > 0:50:04- with all that land.- Yes.
0:50:04 > 0:50:08Quick think, erm, 395.
0:50:08 > 0:50:14I'm going to go a little bit lower and say 375.
0:50:14 > 0:50:18Well, you're the closest, Keith, £356,000.
0:50:18 > 0:50:19356, gosh!
0:50:19 > 0:50:22- I think that's a pretty fair price, actually.- It's a very good price.
0:50:22 > 0:50:25- Do you fancy a wander on your own? - Yes, please.- Yeah.
0:50:25 > 0:50:29And then you've got quite a lot of a acreage to explore, haven't you?
0:50:29 > 0:50:32- I'll try and find you when you're ready.- OK.- Thank you.
0:50:32 > 0:50:35All right, thanks, Nicki.
0:50:37 > 0:50:41Priced at £44,000 under their top budget,
0:50:41 > 0:50:44this handsome timber-framed manor house offers grand living
0:50:44 > 0:50:49space with an impressive reception room and generous master suite.
0:50:49 > 0:50:52There are six bedrooms, with three in a separate guest gite.
0:50:52 > 0:50:55The property offers 7.5 acres of land,
0:50:55 > 0:50:58including an orchard and space for vegetables.
0:50:58 > 0:51:02And for the horses, there's a large paddock and a field shelter,
0:51:02 > 0:51:05which could be upgraded to a stable block with the remaining money.
0:51:12 > 0:51:17- This is rather nice.- Amazing, isn't it? It's quite a nice little...
0:51:17 > 0:51:21This is a nice room. It actually looks like a formal dining room.
0:51:21 > 0:51:24This is a nice house on its own, actually, isn't it?
0:51:24 > 0:51:28It's quite an imposing building and the rooms are quite imposing,
0:51:28 > 0:51:30quite luxurious.
0:51:30 > 0:51:34It's all beautiful and then there's the advantage of having the gite,
0:51:34 > 0:51:37perfectly OK as it is.
0:51:37 > 0:51:39There's certainly lots of potential
0:51:39 > 0:51:43and enough land for the horses.
0:51:43 > 0:51:46A little bit of stabling required,
0:51:46 > 0:51:50but look at the scenery, it's just gorgeous.
0:51:50 > 0:51:53Everywhere is just gorgeous.
0:51:53 > 0:51:55We've shown our buyers all the houses.
0:51:55 > 0:51:58They now need to mull over what they've seen.
0:52:05 > 0:52:08In the far west of Normandy is the town of Saint Jean.
0:52:08 > 0:52:12Founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century,
0:52:12 > 0:52:15it became a centre for weaving and draping.
0:52:15 > 0:52:19In the 19th century, the woollen yarns produced here were
0:52:19 > 0:52:22used by the wives of Breton fishermen to create
0:52:22 > 0:52:24incredible wind and waterproof garments
0:52:24 > 0:52:28for their husbands' long days and nights at sea.
0:52:28 > 0:52:30The Breton sweaters they knitted have since become
0:52:30 > 0:52:34an iconic Gallic emblem.
0:52:34 > 0:52:38I'm meeting Luc le Senecal, director of the Saint Jean clothing company,
0:52:38 > 0:52:41which has been making them for over 150 years.
0:52:41 > 0:52:42Ah, Bonjour, Luc.
0:52:42 > 0:52:44Bonjour, Nikki. Welcome in Normandy.
0:52:44 > 0:52:47Thank you very much. Pleased to meet you.
0:52:47 > 0:52:50I thought the Breton sweater would have come from Brittany
0:52:50 > 0:52:51and I've obviously got that wrong.
0:52:51 > 0:52:54It actually originates here in Normandy, but why is that?
0:52:54 > 0:52:57Mostly in Normandy due to sheep and the wool.
0:52:57 > 0:53:01I'm a big fan of stripes. I would love to see how the
0:53:01 > 0:53:04traditional Breton jumper is actually made.
0:53:04 > 0:53:07Please, follow the guide.
0:53:07 > 0:53:09The locally sourced wool is woven into jumpers
0:53:09 > 0:53:13by over 300 workers in this factory.
0:53:13 > 0:53:16Now, I hope you don't mind me mentioning this, Luc, but when you
0:53:16 > 0:53:21think of an iconic Frenchman, or woman, you always envisage them
0:53:21 > 0:53:23with the Breton jumper, don't you?
0:53:23 > 0:53:26- Absolutely.- Why is that though?
0:53:26 > 0:53:28Oh, it comes from the past...
0:53:28 > 0:53:31when people from Brittany or Normandy used
0:53:31 > 0:53:35to sell garlic and they used to
0:53:35 > 0:53:38go on boats, mainly to Britain,
0:53:38 > 0:53:42- so that's why you have this image. - It's not a stereotype - it's true!
0:53:42 > 0:53:44It's true.
0:53:44 > 0:53:49The classic Breton top is still made according to certain rules.
0:53:49 > 0:53:54You have an eight-inch T-shirt, 21 stripes -
0:53:54 > 0:53:58it was the official regulation for the French Navy.
0:53:58 > 0:54:00And why did they pick 21?
0:54:00 > 0:54:02- There are two stories.- Go on.- Yeah?
0:54:02 > 0:54:08So the first one is that, when a sailor used to fall over
0:54:08 > 0:54:12the boat, it was easier to see him in the sea.
0:54:12 > 0:54:16The second story is linked with Napoleon
0:54:16 > 0:54:21and Napoleon's 21 victories over Britain.
0:54:21 > 0:54:23I like, very much, this version.
0:54:23 > 0:54:25I'm going to go for the first version,
0:54:25 > 0:54:28the safety of the sailors, not Napoleon.
0:54:28 > 0:54:31The jumpers were first knitted using a closely guarded
0:54:31 > 0:54:34stitching technique passed down from mother to daughter.
0:54:34 > 0:54:37It was this that give them their reputation for warmth
0:54:37 > 0:54:39and water resistance.
0:54:39 > 0:54:43Today, the knit is still very tight and, as such, uses a substantial
0:54:43 > 0:54:48amount of wool - over ten miles per jumper.
0:54:48 > 0:54:50They are letting me have a try at putting one together.
0:54:50 > 0:54:53What happens if it goes wrong? Will you unpick it for me?
0:54:53 > 0:54:55- Don't worry.- OK.
0:54:55 > 0:54:57Shall I take this one?
0:54:57 > 0:55:01So you just push that slightly and then go.
0:55:01 > 0:55:02That's very good.
0:55:02 > 0:55:04I think you're being kind, I've buckled it.
0:55:04 > 0:55:07Now, if I turn it the right way round...
0:55:07 > 0:55:12From there it looks really good, but I don't think it's going to
0:55:12 > 0:55:16quite make the grade, somehow. Look at that shocker.
0:55:16 > 0:55:20Now exported to more than 35 countries, this sweater has
0:55:20 > 0:55:24gone from practical fisherman's garment to a style classic.
0:55:24 > 0:55:26Chief designer Jacqueline works
0:55:26 > 0:55:29on keeping this heritage item relevant.
0:55:29 > 0:55:31So, Jacqueline, when did go from being a functional garment
0:55:31 > 0:55:34to fashionable?
0:55:34 > 0:55:36Yeah, it's all about Coco Chanel.
0:55:36 > 0:55:39She just saw this worker wearing their knit jumper
0:55:39 > 0:55:46and an inspiration for the striped fashion just came from that moment.
0:55:46 > 0:55:49Legendary fashion designer Coco Chanel used the Breton stripe
0:55:49 > 0:55:52in her 1917 collection
0:55:52 > 0:55:56and, since then, it's been a symbol of style that has endured.
0:55:56 > 0:55:59What is it about stripes?
0:55:59 > 0:56:02It's classical chic.
0:56:02 > 0:56:04- Chic.- Chic.- Chic.- That's the chic.
0:56:04 > 0:56:05Do you think I could be chic?
0:56:05 > 0:56:09- Could I try on a few Breton different tops?- Of course.- Yeah.
0:56:09 > 0:56:12Perhaps I'll achieve chic while I'm here in Normandy.
0:56:20 > 0:56:24We've shown Keith and Elaine all our properties here in Normandy,
0:56:24 > 0:56:26but have we got close with any of them?
0:56:26 > 0:56:29It's time to find out.
0:56:29 > 0:56:31Well, Keith and Elaine,
0:56:31 > 0:56:33we've had a few days here now in Normandy.
0:56:33 > 0:56:38- I think we've driven around quite a large part of the region, haven't we?- Yes.
0:56:38 > 0:56:41- Certainly shown you parts that you hadn't visited before.- That's right.
0:56:41 > 0:56:43Yes, you've brought as much further south
0:56:43 > 0:56:45and east then we've ever been to before.
0:56:45 > 0:56:48So, Keith, out of all the properties that showed you and,
0:56:48 > 0:56:50my goodness, we showed you grand ones,
0:56:50 > 0:56:54we showed you smaller ones with land, did any of them come close?
0:56:54 > 0:56:58Well, I suppose, you know, taking into consideration the important
0:56:58 > 0:57:02horse factor, the first property that we saw was probably the
0:57:02 > 0:57:07only one that came close because it had such good equestrian facilities.
0:57:07 > 0:57:10We would have to do an awful lot of work on the house in order to
0:57:10 > 0:57:11get it to what we would like.
0:57:11 > 0:57:13What about flipping it on its head
0:57:13 > 0:57:17and that very, sort of, long...converted mill house?
0:57:17 > 0:57:20That seemed to give everything you wanted in a house.
0:57:20 > 0:57:23I think, yes. I mean, from a house point of view,
0:57:23 > 0:57:27that was our favourite, you know, definitely.
0:57:27 > 0:57:30There would have been work to do for the horses,
0:57:30 > 0:57:32but it comes down to the location.
0:57:32 > 0:57:34- Right. Oh, that's interesting. - Definitely.
0:57:34 > 0:57:37- It was just a little bit too far south for you.- Yeah, yeah.
0:57:37 > 0:57:40If we could combine, say, the mill house with
0:57:40 > 0:57:44the land from the first property, then that would be ideal.
0:57:44 > 0:57:46- Elaine, more determined than ever to move out here?- Yes.
0:57:46 > 0:57:48I mean, this has definitely motivated us this week
0:57:48 > 0:57:50and I can't wait to come back.
0:57:50 > 0:57:52- Well, that's the best news, isn't it?- Definitely.
0:57:52 > 0:57:56That is the best news. I know, in the past, you haven't found your property.
0:57:56 > 0:57:59Sadly, we didn't either. We got close, but not quite close enough.
0:57:59 > 0:58:02Let's hope it's out there in the future for you. Thank you very much.
0:58:02 > 0:58:05- No, thank you very much.- Thank you for your help.- Yes, thank you.
0:58:07 > 0:58:09So that's it with Keith and Elaine.
0:58:09 > 0:58:12And having explored this stunning region, well,
0:58:12 > 0:58:14we know their budget is realistic,
0:58:14 > 0:58:18but finding the perfect home with the stable block, the land
0:58:18 > 0:58:21and everything they want has proved hard to find.
0:58:21 > 0:58:24I hope they have better luck in the future.
0:58:24 > 0:58:27I'll see you again on Escape To The Continent