- 6 hours ago
Romesh Ranganathan's Parents' Evening - Season 2 Episode 6
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00:00Once upon a time, not so very long ago...
00:04Wow!
00:05I'm not expecting that.
00:07..a children's TV presenter journeyed through a green and luscious land.
00:11I'm taken by the gate already.
00:14Searching high and low...
00:16It's like the arch window from Play School.
00:19It is, yeah.
00:21..for the perfect period property...
00:23I love this hatch.
00:27Hiya!
00:27Hiya!
00:28..where her family could live happily ever after.
00:32Why are you smiling?
00:34No, I'm not going to...
00:35I do wash up in the house!
00:36I didn't say that, I didn't think.
00:37I'm just kidding.
00:38I didn't say that, I didn't say that.
00:38I don't know.
00:38I didn't say that, I don't know.
00:39Camperwick Green, Ballamory, Sesame Street and in the Night Garden.
01:01Over the years, children's television has gifted us idyllic worlds to escape to.
01:07But it's not just the places we remember, it's also the people.
01:12And for a whole generation, CBBC's Angelica Bell was the presenter they eagerly grabbed the remote control for.
01:21Fast forward to today, and just as those children have now fledged the nest,
01:26Angelica and her family want to fledge the city and escape to the country.
01:31So, are you sitting comfortably? Because I'm not, actually.
01:35Anyone got a cushion? Ah!
01:40Oh, that's much better. Now we'll begin.
01:44My name's Angelica Bell, and most people will know me from starting out at CBBC 25 years ago. I know.
01:56I was really lucky to work on so many amazing shows at that time.
02:01Live TV was just spontaneous. You never knew what was going to happen.
02:04I did the Saturday show, which was crazy. Gunjing is not great.
02:08The gunge goes everywhere.
02:11Three, two, one!
02:18I presented a show called Short Change, which was about empowering young people about money, their rights, and how to look for the best bargain.
02:29Angelica has a reputation with both her viewers and peers for being financially savvy.
02:36Growing up, I didn't have a lot of disposable cash, but it made me think, okay, when I am going to get my hands on some, I'm going to make it count.
02:45So, when I got my job at CBBC, I lived with a wonderful woman who, she had this house and she just needed a companion, so I was like, do you know what, I'm just going to live with her.
02:56I didn't have to pay much rent, but I saved everything. By hook or by crook, I wanted to own my own house and be the first person in my family to do that, and I did it.
03:05Since then, she's climbed the London property ladder, tackling several renovations along the way.
03:12Today, she lives in a Victorian townhouse in South West London with her children and husband, Michael Underwood, who's been a primary school teacher for eight years.
03:22That is looking good.
03:23You can never scrimp on the cream.
03:25But you might also recognise him as a former fellow presenter of children's TV.
03:32I have to say, this next part's my favourite now, because you need to give the cheesy feet their cheesy smell.
03:38Angelica and I have been together for what, this is where I've got to work it out, hang on, don't catch me on this.
03:43We first started working together 25 years ago now, seems like an age ago, a quarter of a century.
03:48But we didn't get together as a couple until about 2008, and since then we've been living in London, so we've always been roughly in this area.
03:54Probably about half a mile radius from this area is where we've always been.
03:57How are you feeling about getting back on TV?
04:02I'm over it. Well, you know, the first couple of years, I missed it a lot, didn't I?
04:07Yeah, but then now you're a teacher, you're just like in your swing and doing what you want.
04:11Yeah, exactly, and it is brilliant. And without sounding like a cliché, it is more rewarding.
04:16Since her departure from kids' television, Angelica has gone on to have a long and varied career as a broadcaster.
04:24She won the coveted title of Celebrity Masterchef in 2017, and has even worked alongside Yours Truly.
04:32Who's the best in the kitchen?
04:34Angelica's the best in the kitchen. And she has two Masterchef trophies to prove it.
04:38No, there was two maids, that's why.
04:41One got dented, didn't it?
04:43Did you do that?
04:45Then I threw it down the stairs, so he sent you another one.
04:49Over the last two decades, Angelica and Michael have found that regular escapes to the countryside have provided welcome respite from life in the capital.
05:02Devon is just gorgeous and special, and we've been going every year, I'd say for the last seven years.
05:12So I guess it's always been in the back of my mind that that is a place that we wouldn't mind settling down in.
05:18You're near the sea as well, not too far from there.
05:22Fish and chips, it's always the best.
05:25And who doesn't love a Devon cream tea?
05:27I know, cream first, and then the jam.
05:31This is one lady who knows what she likes, and what she's looking for.
05:36I remember once I went to look at a place, and I went to the front door and I was like, hmm, no.
05:40And the estate agent said, oh, do you want to have a look around?
05:42I was like, nah.
05:43Because I was just like, I'm never going to buy this house, and I don't want to waste your time.
05:47It's going to be a short week, Nick.
05:51Yeah.
05:52Nicky, you better have some great properties.
05:55Or this will be a short show.
05:58To keep Angelica's attention and my job, we need to find her and Michael a character property packed with period features and a minimum of four bedrooms.
06:10It must have a decent sized garden and be located within striking distance of Exeter for its convenient transport links.
06:19They're after a taste of the quiet life, but don't want to feel completely isolated.
06:24For this, the pair has a healthy budget of one million pounds.
06:33I've known Angelica for a long time, and I know she knows property.
06:38And I know she knows the county.
06:41And I also know that she's determined to find a fabulous family home here in Devon.
06:47But, of course, she needs the escape expertise.
06:51Angelica and Michael know South Devon extremely well, but being among England's largest counties, there's still much of it they're yet to explore.
07:04With the average price of a detached house in London now sitting at over £1.1 million, a move down to Devon, where the figure is less than half of that, at just over £481,000, could be a smart decision.
07:18Pretty towns and villages like Otterton and Limston on the estuary of the River Ex near Exmouth offer a slice of rural life, but with a strong sense of community and excellent transport links, meaning you can reach the capital in around three hours.
07:37It's always been a popular destination in high season, but with the leaves falling and the colours changing, I think we've timed our visit perfectly.
07:47Well, Michael and Angelica, welcome to stunning Devon.
07:53Although, in a way, this is like a second home for you two, isn't it, this county?
07:57We love it. Yeah.
07:58And I remember when I was young, one of my best friends at school brought me here on holiday as well.
08:03And that was the first time I went out of London.
08:05Oh.
08:06So, it's special.
08:08Because we've known each other for a few years.
08:11Yeah.
08:12Not that long.
08:13Over 20.
08:14And I honestly see you as city people in the nicest way.
08:19A lot of that dictated by work.
08:21You've both had amazing careers and continue to do so.
08:24Why the sudden change?
08:27Well, you said you know us quite well.
08:29You know what I'm like.
08:30Never sit still.
08:31Yeah.
08:32Never sit still, do I?
08:33No.
08:34So...
08:35Also, we've been keen, haven't we?
08:36We've been keen on the idea of having a place in the country.
08:39Yeah.
08:40Somewhere to retreat to.
08:41Especially with our family, we love being out this way and out in the countryside.
08:44So, for us, we've always kept an eye out.
08:46Whenever we've come down here just for a few days on a holiday, we always peer into estate agent windows.
08:49Have you?
08:50Yeah, absolutely.
08:51And have a look at what's around, what's available, how much it is.
08:54And so, the idea of having somewhere down here absolutely does appeal to us.
08:57Yeah.
08:58And we've got friends as well.
08:59Now, we've had a sneaky peek around your home and it is gorgeous.
09:03And I know for a fact that you didn't buy it like that.
09:05That you are passionate about property and really getting your hands dirty and transforming
09:10your home.
09:11Is that something that you'd consider if you moved down here?
09:14I think, when you're in the process of doing a place up, and this is the...
09:18We've done two places up and I did some places up before.
09:21You've done it when, you know, you were...
09:22Yes, yeah.
09:23I mean, when you're in it, you're like, I'm never again.
09:25Don't...
09:26I'm not doing this again.
09:27Yeah.
09:28You see the fruits of your labour and it's how you want it.
09:32And you're just like, yes.
09:33Who...
09:34I think I might know the answer.
09:36But who's going to take the lead?
09:37You know what, no...
09:38I know what you're going to say.
09:39Go on.
09:40What are you going to say?
09:41What are you going to say?
09:42I don't know.
09:43I just said I know, just in case I did.
09:45But I don't.
09:46What are you going to say?
09:47I'm going to say that.
09:48Yes.
09:49I am quite chatty.
09:50I wear my heart on my sleeve.
09:52I know what I like.
09:53Very passionate.
09:54Yeah.
09:55But this one's like the silent assassin.
09:57Jokes.
09:58Jokes.
09:59Jokes.
10:00Jokes.
10:01I'm now getting a little bit.
10:02We are friends.
10:03I would like that to continue.
10:05But I also want to find them a home.
10:08So shall we explore Devon together?
10:10Yes.
10:11Yes.
10:12Ready?
10:13Are you driving?
10:14No.
10:15Come on.
10:16Good.
10:17I'm driving.
10:18Actually I am, aren't I?
10:19Luckily, it's not far to our first viewing in the village of Tedburn St Mary.
10:24Just north of the rural expanses of Dartmoor, it's only a 20 minute drive to Exeter, making
10:30for a reasonable commute to London.
10:33I'm showing them this striking period property right in the heart of the village.
10:39Wow.
10:40I was not expecting that.
10:41I heard a gasp.
10:42Yeah.
10:43Look at the thatch on that.
10:46Goodness.
10:47I'm overwhelmed.
10:48Yeah.
10:49This...
10:50I don't know what to say.
10:51Yeah.
10:52It's got a whole chocolate box feel to it, hasn't it?
10:55Yeah, it has.
10:56It's like...
10:57I love that chimney.
10:58It is a handsome home.
10:59Have we surprised you?
11:01Yes.
11:02Absolutely.
11:03I thought there might be a bit of a build up.
11:04Yeah, for property number one.
11:05Yeah.
11:06Good start then.
11:07Good start.
11:08A very good start.
11:09It's an incredible looking property.
11:10Yeah.
11:11Shall we see what you make of the inside?
11:12Yes.
11:13It's saying, please come inside.
11:14That porch is very welcoming.
11:15Calling you in.
11:16Yes.
11:17This Grade II listed longhouse was re-thatched in 2018.
11:23Inside, the wealth of period features continue,
11:27with some modern additions.
11:31So, the first of many rooms in this longhouse.
11:34We call it a longhouse, but it's actually quite wide as well.
11:38Yeah.
11:39Yes.
11:40Love that open space for the fire.
11:41Look at this.
11:42This has got to be original, hasn't it?
11:43Look at it.
11:44Mm.
11:45Starring.
11:46I love beams.
11:47Open beams.
11:48Yeah.
11:49Do you want to like as well?
11:50They're not so low, that sometimes when beams are a bit low,
11:52you just have to find yourself ducking a bit.
11:53Yeah.
11:54It's quite nice and you won't have to duck.
11:55Well, actually, when was this house built?
11:57Ah.
11:58I thought you'd never ask.
12:00Roll titles.
12:01La-la-la-chapa springtime.
12:05What year would you place on this house?
12:09Okay.
12:10Oh.
12:11It's tricky.
12:12It is tricky.
12:13It's tricky.
12:14Okay.
12:15The big reveal.
12:16Michael.
12:17I went for 1740.
12:19Ooh.
12:20Interesting.
12:21What did you go for?
12:221784.
12:23The winner is Michael.
12:26Go on.
12:27But you are going to be so surprised.
12:29This house, grade two listed, is medieval.
12:32It was built in 1480.
12:35Wow.
12:36No.
12:37Yeah.
12:38That's incredible.
12:39Yeah.
12:40I'm not sure that was worthy of an A-star, but I'll give them top marks for effort.
12:46Adjoining the sitting room is a snug with a second inglenut fireplace, but the kitchen
12:50is found at the back, in the more modern part.
12:56I like the space.
12:57Ooh.
12:58Lovely range.
12:59Oh, yeah.
13:00We do love a range.
13:01And incredible views outside.
13:03It's light.
13:04Yeah.
13:05I did notice that.
13:06Yeah.
13:07I love the view from the kitchen.
13:08Because what you want when you're in the sink, washing up, and I'm looking out, I like
13:10to look out the window, and it's nice to have that view, without a doubt.
13:13Why are you smiling?
13:14No, I'm not.
13:15No.
13:16I do wash up in the house.
13:17I didn't say that anything.
13:18I just thought I was smiling.
13:19There was that slight pause.
13:21Yeah.
13:22You're looking at me like him.
13:23I think the space is fantastic.
13:24I mean, it's very much about socialising for us.
13:26Yeah.
13:27We love having the family together in the kitchen, whether they're doing their homework or I'm
13:30marking books.
13:31And also, for me, it's about people coming over.
13:34Always have a Christmas party.
13:36Yeah.
13:37Always like to have, you know...
13:38Big on entertaining.
13:39Big on entertaining.
13:40When Nicky wants to pop over, obviously.
13:42Yeah.
13:43Come down and stay.
13:44You know, you won't lift a finger.
13:46Never do.
13:47Right.
13:48Shall we head upstairs?
13:49Let's see where I'm going to sleep, shall we?
13:51Let's find your spare room.
13:52We'll follow you.
13:53Come on, this way.
13:54I'm going to go this way, because this is where the stairs are.
13:55Oh.
13:56I think I'm going into the pantry.
13:58Perhaps geography is not your strongest subject, Michael.
14:01I'm going to go this way instead.
14:03Better stick together as we head upstairs.
14:05So, up here on this landing.
14:07Ooh.
14:08Beautiful.
14:09Two bedrooms.
14:10Lots of space.
14:12Family bathroom through there.
14:15Another bedroom just there.
14:19And then...
14:20Do I earmark this as Angelica's dressing room?
14:23Uh-huh.
14:24Lovely.
14:25Lovely.
14:26And this is the old part of the main bedroom next door.
14:28Right.
14:29Higgledy-piggledy.
14:30All these...
14:31Yeah.
14:32Wonky walls.
14:33Love it.
14:34I'm not going to fight for all your outfits in here.
14:35It's going to be your domain.
14:36Yeah.
14:37Sorry, Michael.
14:38Where are my outfits going?
14:39You can put your ties in the drawer.
14:41Thanks.
14:45More space.
14:46That's the good news here.
14:47I'm going to call this the main bedroom.
14:49And look at that window.
14:52It's like the arch window from play school.
14:54It is.
14:55Yeah.
14:56I love that.
14:57I did clock it on the outside.
14:59So lovely.
15:00It really is Angelica.
15:02The exterior is just as characterful as the interior.
15:06And surrounded by just under an acre of land,
15:09it comes with a variety of mature trees and a vegetable patch,
15:13which I know would appeal to Angelica's green fingers.
15:16And what better way to unwind after getting grubby in the garden
15:20than a soak in the tub?
15:22There is something...
15:23I don't know why.
15:24There is something I still find quite funny about, you know,
15:26just me being here and then you being in the bath in the same room.
15:29I don't know why.
15:30No, but this is Nicky's room.
15:31Oh, is it?
15:32Right, OK.
15:33This is Nicky's room.
15:34So Nicky will be in the bath?
15:35Nicky will be in the bath.
15:36What?
15:37What?
15:38Easy.
15:39I think it's time we wrapped this up.
15:42So we're going to have to try and put a price on it for the first time.
15:46You said before that you've done a little bit of research,
15:49but it was quite a few years ago.
15:51How are you feeling on this?
15:53It's got all this land.
15:54I'm thinking about £850,000.
15:56£850,000.
15:57Yeah.
15:58£850,000 to £875,000.
16:00That's two figures.
16:01Yeah.
16:02No-one's ever given me two figures before.
16:04You've covered yourself there, haven't you?
16:05Yeah.
16:06I'm going to tweak it down a bit.
16:08I'm going to go to £825,000.
16:11You are practically on the money,
16:13because they're looking for offers over £825,000.
16:17Oh, come on!
16:19But both of you are very good.
16:21This beautiful thatched Grade II listed longhouse
16:24more than delivers the character that Angelica and Michael asked for.
16:28It's in the heart of a village that has a very rural feel.
16:32This is a beautiful quintessential medieval.
16:36Who'd have thought?
16:38Thatched house. I know.
16:39I know. I mean, Nikki has gone above and beyond for this first property,
16:41which has put the pressure on us a little bit,
16:43because we weren't expecting it to be as good as this.
16:46Yeah. Pleasantly surprised.
16:47Yeah.
16:48And I'm really excited to see what else she's got.
16:51On the journey to our next offering, it really feels like the band is back together.
17:04I mean, obviously, you two have been together for a very long time,
17:08but just watching you, it's like back to the old days.
17:12Because, I mean, obviously, I was working in the music industry.
17:14Yes, yes, yes.
17:15Because people don't realise that we've known each other for nearly 25 years as well.
17:19Yeah. You used to bring all the bands in, the Spice Girls.
17:22Desperate.
17:23To get my axe on your show.
17:24Yeah, desperate I was.
17:26It's always been positive. We've always had that.
17:28And I think when we're together, it does seem to be more notable, aren't we, I think, together?
17:32Yeah.
17:33But a lot of people are still surprised that we're married.
17:35Oh, that's showbiz.
17:36Even though we've been married as long as we have, they remember us both on children's CV.
17:40Admit it. You're still surprised as well.
17:43Honestly.
17:44I'm saying nothing.
17:48The next house I want Angelica and Michael to see is in the village of Abbots Kurzweil.
17:53Situated in a quiet valley just outside Torquay on the south coast, it's an area they're familiar with.
18:00In a hamlet of just five properties a mile from the village centre, I've got a feeling this house could be right up Angelica's street.
18:13Step inside.
18:15Oh, look at that.
18:17I'm taken by the gate already.
18:19Look.
18:20Oh, my goodness.
18:23First of all, I am noticing the walled garden.
18:25Yes.
18:26I love a walled garden.
18:27And that gate.
18:28I like that.
18:29I love the stonework.
18:30The stonework is beautiful.
18:32I like that sort of orangery conservatory.
18:34It looks lovely.
18:35And it's quite rural.
18:36We were just driving along those country lanes going, oh, where are we going?
18:40We are attached to next door just so that you know.
18:43It didn't look like this 200 years ago when it was built.
18:46It has been lovingly restored and extended as well.
18:49And you noticed it straight away because I know you love your gardens.
18:52I love it.
18:53Yeah.
18:54So you have the original walled garden going all the way around.
18:57Yeah.
18:58So nice.
18:59And that tree.
19:00Isn't it lovely?
19:01And the tree behind it is a magnolia tree.
19:04Huge pink magnolia buds.
19:06Beautiful.
19:07In February.
19:08Yeah.
19:09So much so that people come along here to take photographs because it's so pretty.
19:12I'm seeing revenue.
19:14I love it.
19:16These nice opportunities.
19:18Honestly.
19:20They weren't joking when they said you were money savvy, were they?
19:24Built with local stone, this property is 200 years old and surprisingly isn't listed.
19:30It was originally the gardener's cottage for the neighbouring manor house.
19:34History lesson over.
19:35Let's begin in the new extension.
19:38I think we should start off in the garden room stroke kitchen because it's so lovely.
19:44Yeah.
19:45It's like you're outside but you're inside.
19:47Yeah.
19:48Light, airy.
19:49It's what we were saying that we like, isn't it?
19:51Yeah.
19:52In our sort of social space to have loads of light as much as we can.
19:55This extension was put on about eight, nine years ago.
19:57Right.
19:58Yeah, it's really sympathetic to the age of the property.
20:01In a way I'm going to call this one reception room, the garden room, which you can use all year round.
20:06But it actually benefits from two more reception rooms.
20:09Oh.
20:10Yeah.
20:11It's deceivingly large.
20:12Let's wander and I'll show you more.
20:13Okay.
20:14Ooh.
20:15Ooh.
20:16Ooh.
20:17Ooh.
20:18Ooh.
20:19Ooh.
20:20Ooh.
20:21Ooh.
20:22Hang on.
20:23Ooh.
20:24So you've got your fireplace behind you with your exposed stone.
20:25I mean, but look at that little window and that door there.
20:27So cute.
20:28You've got another archway.
20:29Another archway.
20:30There's little touches everywhere.
20:32Yeah.
20:33When you look at a house, are you influenced by the way someone's decorated it or can you
20:37see past it?
20:38See past it.
20:39Yeah.
20:40We can see past it.
20:41We've had to, haven't we?
20:42Really.
20:43Every house we've bought, we've had to think, mmm, that's not quite right, but we can see
20:45straight through that.
20:46And also, sometimes you get inspiration.
20:47It wouldn't put us off if somebody had decorated a place in a way that perhaps wasn't.
20:51Because you could miss an opportunity.
20:52Yeah.
20:53You could miss a potential.
20:54Yeah.
20:55For growth.
20:56You're property savvy, aren't you?
20:58I do like it.
20:59Why don't you wander through, past the kitchen, have a look, and then why don't you go upstairs
21:03and explore?
21:04Oh.
21:05Yeah.
21:06Why don't you?
21:07I hadn't even finished the conversation.
21:08That is how keen she is.
21:11Go on.
21:12Go on.
21:13It doesn't matter now.
21:14You've ruined it.
21:15You've ruined the end.
21:16I'm sorry.
21:17They're loving it.
21:18They're absolutely loving it.
21:20So that's the front door, I'm guessing.
21:22Okay.
21:23So you come in here.
21:24Oh, this is lovely.
21:27Oh, this is very nice.
21:29Again, the brightness.
21:31Really nice.
21:32I love that you can just go straight out into the garden.
21:34Yes.
21:35Nice fireplace.
21:36Really nice.
21:37The beam, high enough so you don't bang your head.
21:42Upstairs, a central hallway leads to four bedrooms, which include two large doubles with
21:47ensuite bathrooms, and a smaller room used as a study.
21:52So what have we got?
21:54So we've got bedroom.
21:56Bedroom here.
21:57Bedroom.
21:58I love the latches on the doors.
21:59It's so good.
22:00So nice.
22:01Storage.
22:02Another bedroom just here.
22:04Okay.
22:05Okay.
22:06And now we feel like we're moving into another part, maybe?
22:11This seems like it's the main bedroom.
22:14Oh, I like it.
22:15There's something about these A-frames going in.
22:17Yeah.
22:18It's been done really nicely as well.
22:19Really nice.
22:20The finishes are really, really good.
22:21So hang on, so how many bedrooms is that?
22:22One, two, three, so four bedrooms?
22:24I think so.
22:25And that office is as small as three and a half, would you say?
22:28Hmm.
22:29Maybe?
22:30So the house tour is going very well indeed, and the vibe I'm getting from eavesdropping
22:36is downstairs.
22:37I mean, it's beautiful.
22:39Upstairs, a little bit smaller, and thinking of the family, they might want a bit more space.
22:46So one, two, three.
22:51Three.
22:52So it's probably marketed as a four, I would imagine.
22:55Ooh.
22:56We better start thinking about pricing then.
22:58Yeah.
22:59Angelica's keen to talk money.
23:02But before that...
23:04When you're house hunting with two iconic faces of kids' TV, you've got to take the
23:13opportunity to put their knowledge and skills to the test.
23:17In the best tradition of children's television, DIY arts and crafts, of course.
23:24I want you both to create your own homes.
23:27If they've got eco-credentials, even better.
23:30So, here are your raw materials.
23:32We've got scissors.
23:33Be careful, because they are sharp.
23:34Yes.
23:35You used to have to say that a lot, didn't you?
23:37Oh, yeah.
23:38All the warnings.
23:39Make sure you've got an adult with you and all that.
23:40All that, yeah.
23:41We have glue, we have toilet rolls, look at these pipe cleaners, lollipop sticks.
23:45Feeling confident?
23:46Oh, yes.
23:47Let's do this.
23:48Yeah.
23:49Are you ready?
23:50Yes.
23:51One, two, three, go.
23:52If I'm not good at this, this is going to be embarrassing.
23:53Any of the children I teach are watching this.
23:54They're like, Mr Underwood.
23:56To be fair, you were always better at crafts than me.
23:59I love that.
24:00This is so annoying.
24:01And that's good.
24:02Yeah.
24:03I'm going to try something like this.
24:04I'm just going to do a green roof, to make it like a green thingy roof.
24:07There's only two sheets of dark green.
24:08Yeah, I've got one.
24:09OK.
24:10I've got light grass on one side.
24:12Bonus point for the eco-credentials, Mr Underwood.
24:15Do you remember I did a show called The Big Bang?
24:17The thing about that show was, you know, you had amazing researchers.
24:21So if I ever messed up a make, they would just come and sort of hand me the perfectly
24:24finished one.
24:25So, you know, great researchers.
24:26Unlike on this show.
24:27That's right.
24:28She doesn't mean it.
24:29Wait, what am I doing?
24:30I'm just doing nothing more now.
24:33Michael, you look like you're doing well.
24:35We have structure there.
24:36Angelica, very creative.
24:38All front, by the looks of it.
24:39All front.
24:40Yes.
24:41Always.
24:42I'm saying nothing.
24:43All front.
24:44This is my thatched cottage.
24:46Are you doing a thatched cottage?
24:48Like that.
24:49This is creative.
24:50Yeah.
24:51See what you've done.
24:52See what you've done there.
24:53You have one minute left.
24:55This is fun.
24:56We're taking it a bit too seriously.
24:57I think this is the problem.
24:58Whilst they put the finishing touches to their grand designs, it's that time you've
25:03all been waiting for.
25:04Here's one I made earlier.
25:10A prime example of sustainable living, this eco cottage features all the mod cons, including
25:16a lush living roof and solar panels.
25:19To one side, a newly installed EV charging point, an air source heat pump, as well as a high-spec
25:27wind turbine.
25:28Reclaimed wooden shutters add a touch of character charm to this otherwise contemporary home.
25:34Total cost of materials, little more than a tenner.
25:38I think that deserves a blue Peter badge, even if I do say so myself.
25:45Right, you two, it's almost time for the bell.
25:49Five, four, three, two, one.
25:55Put everything down, please.
25:57Everything down.
25:58That's it.
25:59Time up.
26:18Talk me through this creation.
26:19Yes, yeah.
26:20Okay.
26:21You can see it's a sizeable property.
26:22You can see with the eco-credentials, I've gone with the, this is the grass roof.
26:25So it's a living roof.
26:26Living roof.
26:27Lovely.
26:28And a different two-tone living roof I went with, because it'd be a nice touch.
26:31Yes.
26:32Chimney.
26:33And then here at the front, you can see I've got mushrooms and there's a nice growth here.
26:36This is a heat pump.
26:37Very good.
26:38And this is a modern tree.
26:39Very good.
26:40Very good.
26:41Angelica, would you like to talk me through your creation?
26:43So I've used reclaimed curtains.
26:46Very nice.
26:47For sustainable.
26:48And these are window boxes with flowers.
26:52The roof is sustainable.
26:53Right.
26:54In what way?
26:55Solar powers.
26:56Oh, hello.
26:57Yeah.
26:58Brown.
26:59You said that was a fax roof?
27:00No, it changed my mind.
27:01Oh.
27:02You do you.
27:03A little bit of artistic license.
27:06It just changed my mind.
27:07Well, well done, both of you.
27:09I thought, you know, there were times where I did have my doubts, not going to lie, but
27:14I think you've both come through with the goods.
27:16Hmm.
27:17We'll have to call that a draw, but neither has given me a run for my money.
27:23Speaking of which.
27:25So let's see how we're going to get on with the price.
27:29Right.
27:30What do you think it's on the market for?
27:31This is going to be tricky, isn't it?
27:32Shall I go first?
27:33Because you went first on my last house.
27:34So I'll go first this time.
27:35So we've got four double bedrooms.
27:36I reckon it's just over 2,000 square feet quite close to Torquay.
27:39So the seat size is just a few miles away.
27:41Shall we get a figure?
27:42So I'm going to go 875.
27:45Right.
27:46For the very reasons you said, I'm going to go 795.
27:50Oh, really?
27:51Are you?
27:52Just because it's attached.
27:53Oh, yeah, that's a good point.
27:54I didn't, yeah.
27:55Four double bedrooms.
27:57You are £100,000 out.
28:01Michael, your eyes.
28:02Michael is the closest.
28:03The asking price is £895,000.
28:07Yes, yeah.
28:08So you're pretty good at this.
28:10Yeah, it doesn't surprise me.
28:11What, being good at it or the price?
28:13No, no.
28:14It doesn't surprise me at all.
28:15No, the price didn't surprise me.
28:17I thought it would be just that little bit more.
28:19Just where it is.
28:20On the market for £895,000, this stunning four-bedroom cottage and barn conversion has been completed to an extremely high standard, retaining a wealth of original features which I knew Angelica would appreciate.
28:37It is a beautifully done home, isn't it?
28:40It's so well-pointed.
28:41Is it right for the two of you?
28:43I love the downstairs and what can be done.
28:46I just thought the upstairs was slightly small.
28:49But...
28:50It had such a lovely feel though, didn't it?
28:52Yeah.
28:53On that note, should we make a move?
28:54Absolutely, come on.
28:55Come on.
28:58A day one done.
29:00Two fantastic houses.
29:02Or three, if you include mine.
29:07If, like Angelica, you're after a home with history, then you're in luck.
29:22Because here in Devon, character charm comes in all shapes and sizes.
29:27This two-bedroom Grade II listed cottage in the seaside town of Dawlish dates to 1539 and boasts a thatched roof, original panelling and a spiral stone staircase, all for the asking price of £290,000.
29:44For those with much deeper pockets, or who are looking to buy with ten of their closest friends, this ancient manor house on the edge of Dartmoor has no fewer than nine bedrooms and seven reception rooms.
29:59For the princely sum of £3.1 million, you could be lording it up Devonian style.
30:06Or if it's a short-term escape you're after, what about a weekend away in this 18th century turreted folly?
30:15Restored in 1994 from near ruin, you can now stay in the second-floor penthouse apartment for £300 a night.
30:24But be warned, if you want to take in the panoramic views from the top, you'll have to climb the 99 steps to get there.
30:35It's a brand new day here in glorious Devon with Angelica and Michael.
30:39And I'm going to be honest, it's a little bit blustery but still so picturesque.
30:44And we have a mystery house to show them, which I think sums up everything you know and love about Escape to the Country.
30:51It is a true rural gem.
30:54But first, I'm going to show them a property that is definitely going to get their creative cogs turning.
31:01Our next property stop is in the village of Aylesbeer, eight miles east of Exeter.
31:08The church here dates to the 13th century and is a popular destination for history buffs,
31:13surrounded by picture-perfect period properties.
31:17But I want to show Angelica and Michael an architectural gem from a more recent era.
31:23On an impressive three-acre level plot without buildings, a paddock and orchard, the possibilities with this house are endless.
31:36Now, the one thing we pride ourselves on with Escape to the Country is showing people different types of property,
31:44something perhaps they might not have considered for themselves.
31:48And I think this, well, standing here, it looks extremely different from yesterday and a very handsome family home.
31:56Yeah, that needs a lot of work.
31:59Now, you're saying that without even stepping through the door.
32:02No.
32:03You've got a sense.
32:04Yeah.
32:05With this property, beautiful family home with so much potential.
32:10Yeah.
32:11Potential is the word.
32:12Yeah.
32:13Ready to step inside?
32:14Absolutely.
32:15Shall we?
32:16I thought I said, I'm never doing a Renault again.
32:20Built in 1933, this might not be the style of property Angelica and Michael were expecting to see,
32:26but inside, I think they could be pleasantly surprised.
32:31So let's start off with the first of two reception rooms.
32:36And I think here you really get to appreciate the age of this property.
32:39Yeah.
32:40And it has got so many of the original features.
32:42Look at that beautiful fireplace.
32:44Do you know what? I thought it would need more work.
32:46And so much light.
32:47There's just light and windows everywhere.
32:49And because it's such a beautiful view, you want to be able to see it, don't you, all the time.
32:52So I love that double aspect.
32:53They put on sort of a garden room there with dining.
32:56So making the use of that outside space again.
32:59And what about things like the fireplace?
33:02Do you like that?
33:03I mean, I don't know whether I would keep it, but it's beautiful and I'd sell it on.
33:08I'd buy it off you.
33:09There you go.
33:10I love it.
33:11You've got a deal.
33:12Yeah, yeah.
33:13Make some money back.
33:14I absolutely love it.
33:15I'll be getting it valued, so.
33:16Yeah, exactly.
33:17No make rates.
33:18Make rates.
33:20I knew that was coming.
33:21Can't get anything past this one.
33:25Next up, the kitchen at the back of the house.
33:30OK, now that is bigger than I was expecting, to be fair.
33:33I was not expecting that.
33:35This house has so many hidden merits to it.
33:38You've got a really good size utility.
33:40Yes, it's ready for the next bit of love.
33:43You know, the people have been here a long time.
33:45And they have done so much to this house, it's just ready for the next owners.
33:49I mean, it's not the first 1930s home that we've looked at, is it?
33:52No.
33:53It's not a period we normally look at, but we nearly bought one, didn't we?
33:56Yeah.
33:57A number of years back.
33:58And it has the same feel.
33:59And we were that close to taking it on.
34:02With this property, though, I'm thinking you need to extend.
34:05Whether it's to the side or to the back.
34:07You want it even bigger.
34:09It's adding value.
34:10Yeah.
34:11She's like...
34:12I know.
34:13The project's just...
34:14But I know what you mean.
34:16The potential excites me, if I'm honest.
34:18It does, because I can see what we could do with it.
34:20Yeah, because that conservatory...
34:22You know, it's great and it's really light, but you could modernise it.
34:25Yeah.
34:26You've definitely got enough land this way.
34:28Enough land this way, and enough land that way.
34:31Some interesting ideas developing.
34:34I know she said never again, but I wonder if this place could be Angelica's next passion project.
34:41Also downstairs is the second reception room at the front, making the most of those incredible views.
34:48This is a lovely banister.
34:49Yeah, it is, isn't it?
34:50It's well made.
34:51That can stay.
34:52And there are more noteworthy features in the bedrooms, too.
34:55Sink in a bedroom.
34:56I tell you what it is about a sink in a bedroom.
35:01It just doesn't...
35:02No, it reminds me when I first had my place, and I got to see what we see, and in my room I had that.
35:11It was, like, self-contained.
35:12Yes, yeah.
35:13Even though it's nearly 100 years old, it's really well looked after.
35:18So you wouldn't have to go in and do too much to each room, knock down walls and stuff.
35:23No.
35:24A lot of it is really decorative, isn't it?
35:26Yeah.
35:27It's as if walking into a time what that house we nearly bought.
35:29Yes.
35:30So similar.
35:31So similar.
35:32Yeah.
35:33I'm not sure...
35:34I need to see this.
35:35I think this is...
35:36Is this a shower?
35:37Oh.
35:38Oh, wow.
35:39I mean...
35:40I mean, I can literally...
35:41I mean, that's perfect.
35:42I can step from the shower into bed.
35:45Straight into bed.
35:46Oh, look.
35:47You can't see.
35:48What is...
35:49So that's in here?
35:50That's that room.
35:51So that's the shower...
35:52They're all backs into this.
35:53Back to the bed.
35:54The rooms are quite a good size.
35:55Yeah.
35:56Oh, look, look.
35:57Yeah.
35:58Oh, hang on a minute.
35:59So is it all this as well?
36:00So we're talking about potential, the P word.
36:01But what they don't realise is there's a whole other layer to this house.
36:06Was there another building?
36:07That's quite a lot.
36:08On top of that?
36:09Oh, yes, because we parked here.
36:10They don't know it has planning permission to build another property next door.
36:15I love this hatch.
36:18Hiya.
36:19Hiya.
36:20You all right?
36:21It's the proper old pulley system as well.
36:23I love it.
36:24So good.
36:25That is just brilliant.
36:26So good.
36:27Bye.
36:28Bye.
36:29Come on.
36:30These two could play hide and seek here all day.
36:33I'll have to steer them towards another round of price guessing instead, but not before
36:38they've checked out the orchard.
36:41It is amazing.
36:42I mean, just look at all the different types of apples here.
36:44I feel like you could have your own little brewery going.
36:49Before I ask you to guess the price, there's one small little thing I would like to add.
36:55Planning permission has been granted to come with this house.
36:59I know you've been talking about extending, but on top of that, you could build a three-bedroom house to the side of the property.
37:07It has already been granted.
37:09Look at your face.
37:12Now that changes things slightly, doesn't it?
37:15Yeah.
37:16Yes, it does.
37:17Wow.
37:18So, putting you on the spot, Angelica, do you want to go first?
37:21Guess the price?
37:22I'd probably have to say £900,000 then.
37:25OK.
37:26£900,000.
37:27Michael?
37:28£875,000.
37:31Angelica is the closest, asking price £990,000.
37:37Nice.
37:38That makes sense.
37:39That makes sense.
37:40It makes sense.
37:41It does.
37:42This already substantial 1930s property offers tremendous opportunity for growth.
37:48The three-acre plot includes a number of outbuildings and an orchard, not to mention planning permission for a second dwelling.
37:56So, this is where that planning permission has been granted then?
37:59Yeah.
38:00OK.
38:01This property is very intriguing.
38:05Yeah.
38:06It's just so much to see, so much potential.
38:09It's, like, quite overwhelming.
38:11Yeah.
38:12But it's sparking ideas of what could happen, what you could do, what could be explored.
38:17It's good value for money with all this land, and you could really make that change from being in a city to having that sort of rural experience.
38:26This week, we've learnt that Angelica knows her own mind when it comes to property, but she also has a discerning palate.
38:42Eager to explore whether Devon's food scene rivals that of London, we're meeting up with one of the region's top chefs who has invited us for a private cookery class.
38:53Down at Exmouth Marina, Michael Caines, holder of two Michelin stars, is collecting his catch of the day.
39:00I was going to introduce them, but with Angelica's culinary connections, she tells me they're already well acquainted.
39:08Wow.
39:09Hi.
39:10Hey.
39:11Good to see you.
39:12Welcome back to Devon.
39:14Love it here.
39:15Nicky, great to see you here.
39:16What lovely to see you.
39:17We had to come down to the harbour.
39:18Yes.
39:19I mean, what a picturesque spot.
39:20Stunning, isn't it?
39:21Amazing.
39:22But most people go to the supermarket for their food.
39:23It's a little bit different here, isn't it?
39:25Yeah, I mean, Devon has got the most incredible larder, and here we are on the dockside of Exmouth, getting our Exeter crabs.
39:31So these are just fantastic.
39:33So are these local, then?
39:34Yeah, they come from the Bay of Lime, which is just behind us.
39:37Do you want to hold one?
39:38These are absolutely quite weighted.
39:39The meat in these great big crawls, and in here you've got the brown crab meat.
39:43I have never seen a crab this large before.
39:46I know, it's huge, aren't they?
39:47Look at the pizzas.
39:48I mean, I love that it's locally sourced and that keeps money in the community, and you know it's right.
39:53Well, we always talk about sense of place and a sense of taste, and then the larder in Devon is one of the best.
39:58And, of course, we've got a wonderful pastures for grazing, cattle, great dairy for cheese.
40:03So it's just a great place if you're interested in food, which I know you are.
40:07She definitely is, and I love eating.
40:09So what are we going to cook with these, then?
40:11Well, I think we're going to make a little crab ravioli.
40:13A little?
40:14We're going to be doing a lot by the looks of it.
40:16Just two miles up the road is a beautiful Grade II listed Jordan country house, which has been transformed into a five-star luxury hotel and restaurant, opened by Michael in 2017.
40:30Welcome to Limston Manor's kitchen.
40:32Thank you, Chef.
40:33By a humble abode.
40:34It's amazing.
40:35So we've taken that lovely crab, and we've made this crab goose, which is in here.
40:40So in there, we've got blended scallops, the white crab meat and the brown crab meat, and that's going to be the stuffing for these raviolis, which you're going to make.
40:48So I'm going to make the first one and show you how to do it, and then we're going to make them, and then I'll cook them, and then you can taste the dish.
40:55So how do you feel about that, then, Nikki?
40:57I'm not known for my cooking ability.
41:00Michael, or I should say Chef, can everybody cook?
41:03Yeah, I mean, it's not rocket science.
41:05It's basic knowledge and confidence, really, and it's just about seasoning as well.
41:10Is it?
41:11You know what you like to taste.
41:12Yeah.
41:13I know what I like to taste, definitely, and I'm very good at washing up.
41:15Good.
41:16So we'll see how we get on.
41:17She's a bit of a pro, really.
41:18I know, exactly.
41:19I'm feeling the pressure.
41:20No, this is good, but this is a pasta machine.
41:22But you've won a very, very big competition when it comes to cooking.
41:25But do you know what?
41:26Coming in the kitchen makes you feel a bit stressed.
41:27Does it?
41:28It reminds me of that time when I was a master.
41:30Is it coming back?
41:31It's all coming back.
41:32But I love it, that sort of adrenaline rush.
41:34And it's like an art, isn't it?
41:36Yeah.
41:37Making people love food.
41:38I can't wait.
41:39OK.
41:40Using the crab mousse and pasta, which are about as fresh as you can get,
41:44Michael's preparing a delicate and intricate dish.
41:47But, of course, he makes it look easy.
41:50Fold it back on itself, and then just push it together,
41:53and then you sit them on the table, and you've got your little tools.
41:56How pretty does that look already?
41:58Yeah, perfect.
41:59Shall I just pretend that's mine?
42:00Yeah.
42:01So, I'll put the pasta through for you.
42:04And so there's one for you.
42:07So take your mousse, and the secret is don't overfill it.
42:12Is that about enough?
42:14I need a bit of water.
42:15Dab a little bit of water.
42:16Here we go.
42:17Thank you, Chef.
42:18That's it, Nicky.
42:19Well done.
42:20Perfect.
42:21That last little bit.
42:22Wonderful.
42:23I'm liking the words of encouragement.
42:24That's it.
42:25Perfect.
42:26Like there?
42:27Yeah, and then seal it down.
42:28And then slowly, that's it.
42:29Perfect.
42:30Is it now cut?
42:31Yep, absolutely.
42:32There?
42:33Yeah, that's it, yep.
42:34And then take this away, pick them up, and join those two together.
42:37We'll do one more, because I think practice makes perfect.
42:39So you've got, like, a nice crease then, aren't you?
42:41Yeah, so you've got to make sure you crease it properly, isn't it?
42:43Yeah.
42:44Absolutely.
42:45That's very good.
42:46Amongst his accolades, Michael has been awarded an MBE for his services to the hospitality
42:51industry, and has cooked for the Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street.
42:56Brilliant.
42:57Thankfully, he doesn't have any VIP customers booked in for this next service.
43:02Oh, look, it's gone over.
43:03Are you laughing at mine?
43:04Yeah.
43:05Do you know what?
43:06I love it.
43:07I can't argue.
43:08I'm quite impressed, because, Nikki, if there's something that doesn't cook...
43:10Yeah, exactly.
43:11...you've got a very good technique.
43:13These mini masterpieces are cooked in just four minutes.
43:17And, hey presto, here's one I made earlier.
43:20Sorry, I couldn't resist.
43:22And then some herbs as well, Angelica.
43:24Okay.
43:25There's no right or wrong.
43:26It's either good or bad.
43:27I'm now really feeling the pressure, Chef.
43:30Or really bad.
43:31Thanks.
43:32I was doing all right until that point.
43:34So, now we're going to just take a couple of spoons of sauce to put that on.
43:39That's it.
43:40One more.
43:41And then you've got your lovely green coriander oil.
43:44I have to say, ladies, these look very pretty.
43:46The proof of the pudding is in the eating.
43:48Would you serve this in your restaurant?
43:51I would.
43:52Yes, and we do.
43:53So, we might have to employ you.
43:54Would I make like this?
43:55Yeah.
43:56Look at that.
43:57That's beautiful.
43:58That's like a fan.
43:59Yeah, a fan.
44:00It's different.
44:01Different tastes on it.
44:02Oh, that crab meat is gorgeous.
44:08Is it really to say delicious when you put it together yourself?
44:11No.
44:12No.
44:13No.
44:14We'll just keep going.
44:15You've never been known for being modest.
44:17The lie.
44:19Our chef, Supremo, is clearly in her element in a professional kitchen.
44:25It's so pretty.
44:26Look.
44:27Have you eaten two already?
44:28Yeah, I knew you were waiting for the third, but you're taking too long.
44:30And with dishes like this proving there's a steady supply of top quality produce, cementing
44:37the region's culinary relationship with the land and seascapes, Angelica and hubby Michael
44:43will be spoiled for choice when dining in Devon.
44:47Our mystery house is a 40 minute drive east of Exeter, in the hamlet of Salcombe Regis on
45:02the Jurassic coast.
45:04This tranquil place pushes the couple out of their comfort zone into a far more rural
45:10pocket.
45:11But there are neighbours.
45:12A sanctuary home to these guys was founded over 50 years ago and is open to the public
45:17all year round.
45:19Now, I might have been doing this job for donkey's years, but as Michael knows, it's important
45:25to do your homework.
45:26So, I'm getting a kick start at the mystery house.
45:31Just take a peek at this dream escape to the country thatched cottage.
45:37It is beautiful.
45:38It is immaculate.
45:39They're always going to put their own little stamp on it.
45:42But that's all that's needed to be done because inside it's divine.
45:46Come on, I'll show you.
45:50Despite being over 500 years old, this property has been sympathetically restored, retaining
45:56a host of original features like timber beams and Ingle Nook fireplaces built from local
46:03Salcombe stone.
46:04The result is a modern yet characterful and extremely stylish family home.
46:10You see this, to me, and hopefully to you, is the perfect escape property.
46:16I mean, just take a look at that fireplace alone.
46:19Everything in this house is immaculate.
46:22Let's hope Angelica and Michael's comments are the same.
46:26Welcome to our final property.
46:36Wow, look at this.
46:38Thatch.
46:39Another thatch.
46:40Another thatch.
46:41This is Devon.
46:43Devon has the most beautiful thatches, doesn't it?
46:46It does have the most beautiful thatches.
46:48And we're near the Jurassic Coast.
46:49Yeah.
46:50Is that an olive tree?
46:51Yeah.
46:52Yeah.
46:53Shows how wild it is.
46:54Yeah, it's amazing.
46:55Shall we, for the final time, start the tour, the three of us?
46:58Yes.
46:59Let's do it.
47:00Yeah, let's do it.
47:01We may have brought them further from Exeter and deeper into the countryside than they asked
47:05for.
47:06But knowing these two have such an appreciation for history and high quality renovation, it
47:12must be worth the journey.
47:16Oh.
47:17So, stepping back to the 1500s.
47:19Wow.
47:20Starting off with the kitchen, which definitely didn't look like this back in the day.
47:24No.
47:25Goodness me.
47:26This is beautifully done.
47:27It is.
47:28It's a proper country kitchen.
47:29It's a proper country kitchen.
47:31This isn't too far off how we'd like it done, I guess, isn't it?
47:34Yeah.
47:35It's your taste.
47:36Nice style.
47:37Yeah.
47:38Nice taste.
47:39It's really well proportioned.
47:40I think it's really well designed and laid out to maximise the space.
47:44Because the ceilings are a little bit lower, as you'd expect in a cottage.
47:46Yeah.
47:47But the layout just works.
47:49It just works really well.
47:50It's lovely.
47:51Kitchen's getting the thumbs up.
47:52Yes.
47:53Let's go through here.
47:54See what you make of the next reception room.
47:55I'm going to call it the Snug.
47:57Because we love a Snug on Escape from the Cogee.
47:59Just look at that fireplace.
48:00That's beautiful.
48:01But I am going to test your knowledge.
48:03Because you've got this fantastic archway with these timbers.
48:06So, it's that time again.
48:09Where do you think that timber is from?
48:16I've got an idea.
48:17I'm doing it.
48:18What are you going to say?
48:19I'm not telling him.
48:20I've written a project.
48:22Oh, you have written a lot.
48:23Oh, you have?
48:24Okay, like show us.
48:25Shipwrecks.
48:26Or ships near Torquay, Lime Regis, Sidmouth.
48:29So, that's my guess.
48:30Right.
48:31I'm a man of few words.
48:32I just put old ship.
48:34It's not a bit of old ship.
48:36And I'm glad you said that right.
48:37Well, exactly, yes.
48:38It is from a ship.
48:40Oh, is it a specific one?
48:42And it is actually from a shipwreck on the local beach.
48:45Oh!
48:46So, Angelica...
48:47I think, yes.
48:48...gets the point.
48:49Yeah, well done.
48:51So, shall we step through the arch?
48:53Yes.
48:54Come on.
48:55Look at that.
48:57An old ship is a shipwreck.
48:59It's not going to be a new ship.
49:01Oh, it's warm in it.
49:03There's another.
49:04Look at this.
49:05I'm standing in front of it just to get warm.
49:07Oh, it's beautiful.
49:08Yeah.
49:09More of the wood panelling.
49:10Yeah.
49:11I was going to say.
49:12It's got that sort of churchy warmth with the candles.
49:15I don't know when the candles, the woods...
49:16Yeah.
49:17There's something, isn't it?
49:18Yeah.
49:19And the walls are so thick that there's...
49:20Just the sound in here is so quiet.
49:21Yeah.
49:22It's just...
49:23It's really peaceful.
49:24I love this room.
49:25And my cello somewhere.
49:26Nice.
49:27Yeah, I agree.
49:28There is an awful lot to see in this property.
49:32So, go and enjoy.
49:34Check out that staircase.
49:36You won't have seen anything like it.
49:38Oh, it's incredible.
49:40It is incredible.
49:41I've only seen two staircases like it.
49:44That's the second time.
49:45It's beautiful.
49:46Wow, look at the...
49:48I mean, these are just...
49:49I don't think I've ever seen a staircase like this.
49:51They're special.
49:52It's got an ecclesiastical feel.
49:54It really does.
49:55It really, really does.
49:56Just everything's so well thought out.
49:59Bathroom.
50:00Beautiful.
50:02You wouldn't have to do anything.
50:03No.
50:04No, you wouldn't.
50:05The shower room.
50:07Dressing room.
50:09It's just a wonderful size.
50:10It's just plenty, isn't it?
50:11You've got...
50:12Lots of light coming in from the aspect.
50:13Loads of light.
50:14Because this property is Grade II listed,
50:17any changes they wanted to make
50:18would need to be done respectfully
50:20and with the necessary permissions.
50:22I can't get over how well it's been finished.
50:24I think it really isn't dissimilar
50:26to how we might do it.
50:27Yeah.
50:28It's so beautiful.
50:30But, as the work has already been done,
50:32seemingly to their taste,
50:34all they'd need to do is unpack their bags
50:36and settle into country life.
50:38As well as the three upstairs,
50:40there's a further bedroom on the ground floor.
50:43Oh, look.
50:46Oh, look.
50:47So this, again,
50:48we're back to snug territory, aren't we?
50:49Yes.
50:50I'm going to have a little sit down.
50:52This, I see this as the TV room.
50:54Hang out, chill, sofa, snuggy,
50:57and the other part more...
50:58Sort of grown up.
50:59Yeah.
51:00Yeah.
51:01No, I love this.
51:02It's lovely.
51:03Yeah, it is.
51:05Last, but by no means least,
51:07I'm sending them out to explore
51:08a very special mystery building
51:10which could be put to any number of uses.
51:17Oh!
51:19So what do you feel?
51:20Do you think gym?
51:23Yeah.
51:24Let me see what's upstairs.
51:25Yeah.
51:27With central heating, plumbing, and wiring in place,
51:30it would be easy enough to fit a kitchen and bathroom in here,
51:33giving Angelica her project fix.
51:37We've got two bedrooms up here.
51:40Oh, yeah.
51:41Two double rooms.
51:42Well, this, I mean, this is nice.
51:43I can imagine...
51:45Well, if you could have people come over and stay.
51:47Yeah, exactly.
51:48This is Nicky's quarters.
51:50I mean, Nicky would say it'd be good to rent this out
51:52during, like, the holiday season, in the summer holidays.
51:55He's right, I would.
51:57Yeah.
51:58You could do that with it, couldn't you?
51:59You really could.
52:01And with their business brains activated,
52:03it's time to crunch the numbers.
52:07Now, we've had some fun with these chalkboards, haven't we?
52:10Yeah.
52:11Well, we have.
52:12You know, but for the final time, winner takes all.
52:15Whoever gets closest or on the money to the asking price
52:18is the overall winner.
52:20How much is this beautiful, thatched grade 2 listed cottage
52:25in Devon, so close to the coast
52:28but surrounded by beautiful countryside?
52:31How much is it on the market for?
52:32Do you want to go first?
52:33Yeah.
52:34Go on, then.
52:351.2 million.
52:36Okay.
52:37Wow.
52:38You've gone high.
52:39I went low.
52:40Okay.
52:41Ooh.
52:42Interesting.
52:43£850,000.
52:44Yeah.
52:45The ultimate winner is...
52:46Come on.
52:47Ooh.
52:48How much was it?
52:49It's on the market for £895,000.
53:00Really?
53:01Wow.
53:02I'm just really shocked.
53:03Yeah.
53:04It's grade 2 listed and if people are looking for something of that history...
53:08Yeah.
53:09Exceptional.
53:10It is an exceptional property.
53:11That's a steal.
53:13This grade 2 listed mystery cottage has got to be the ultimate escape to the country property.
53:20We pushed the boundaries of this search area to bring them here but in doing that we delivered the combination of history and high standard of renovation that Angelica and Michael love.
53:31I don't often get to see houses like this.
53:34Actually, all the houses we've shown you have been remarkable but this one, you could argue, is the cherry on the cake.
53:41Let's go sit down and have a chat and find out what happens next.
53:45Yeah?
53:46Yeah.
53:47Sounds good.
53:48It does feel in a way like we've been on holiday.
54:02It has been a lot of fun.
54:03It's been really nice to see different areas as well.
54:05Yeah.
54:06We know this area, direct area really well but actually just by going 20 minutes further out you go to a completely new area.
54:12Yeah.
54:13It's actually really nice to see that.
54:14Yeah.
54:15And it's been interesting because you've shown us properties that we wouldn't necessarily have looked at ourselves.
54:17Have we?
54:18Yeah.
54:19Oh yeah, definitely.
54:20Never in a million years I think I'd walk into a thatched cottage.
54:23Yeah.
54:24And pretty much start to Victorian.
54:26Yes.
54:27Yeah.
54:28But it's interesting to see what you can get and what those properties look like and the charm they have.
54:33Oh yeah.
54:34So it's been really, really good.
54:35And every property we showed you was well under your budget.
54:37Yes.
54:38Which was great.
54:39And which was surprising when you took us to the first house, the long house.
54:42Yes.
54:43The thatched one.
54:44That immediate reaction was like, whoa, look at this impressive.
54:49Yeah, I mean the curb appeal was just, and that's so important I think with the property isn't it?
54:52That curb appeal just draws you in straight away.
54:55So Michael, would it be fair to say that long house, the long thatch, stole your heart?
54:59Yeah, I think it did.
55:00I think there's things that we could do to it to improve it.
55:02Okay.
55:03And the garden definitely was something very special.
55:04Oh.
55:05And for you, Angelica?
55:06I liked it.
55:07But, you know where you can put your complete stamp on something?
55:12Yeah.
55:13That is quite attractive, even though I said I'd never do a project.
55:15You did?
55:16Mm-hmm.
55:17Are we going back on that, young lady?
55:18We're going back on it.
55:19But I put my hands up and say I am doing that.
55:22The Angelica magic on property three.
55:25Ooh.
55:26On the 1930s house.
55:28I mean, I agree with you.
55:29I really, really love that property as well.
55:32And I think we both got very excited about what we could do.
55:35The only thing that sort of threw me on it was my sort of financial brain kicked in.
55:39I just thought, okay, we pay this amount for the property.
55:42We want to do this to it, so that's going to be that amount.
55:44I think it would definitely be an amazing investment, and I'm sure we would get the money back.
55:48I think that's what stopped me from sort of falling in love with it fully.
55:51Maybe we need to come back.
55:52We need to come back.
55:53Yes.
55:54And I think, in a way, some really interesting things have come up, haven't they?
55:57Yeah.
55:58You think you know an area until you really start looking.
56:00Yes.
56:01You think you know property until someone says,
56:03well, we're going to show you something that you might not have considered.
56:06Yeah.
56:07So, more chats to be had.
56:08More chats to be had.
56:09Yeah.
56:12I thought she was going to be mischief over the last few days.
56:14Well, I know.
56:15I thought more mischief.
56:16But, no.
56:17She's very sensible, you see.
56:18She's gorgeous.
56:19Because she takes it seriously.
56:20I know.
56:21Because she knows her stuff.
56:22Thank you, guys.
56:23Cheers.
56:24We have loved having you on.
56:25Oh, here we go.
56:26Are we allowed to do that with tea?
56:27Look at cheesing with tea.
56:28Yeah.
56:29We're so showbiz.
56:30Gorgeous.
56:31In classic Angelica style, she started off the week saying she didn't want a project.
56:40And by the end of it, the house that she loves the most is the biggest project of them all.
56:46So it does seem more conversations are going to need to be had.
56:50But we do know that whatever decision they come to, it will be the right one for them and their beautiful family.
57:00If you would love to escape to the country in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales, remember you don't need to be famous.
57:07Why not apply it online at bbc.co.uk forward slash take part.
57:13So, are you sitting comfortably?
57:16Because I'm not.
57:17Has anyone got a cushion?
57:19I'm not.
57:49Transcription by CastingWords
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