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00:01Finding a new home is a bit like shopping for clothes.
00:05You need to know what suits you.
00:06Oh, it's my kind of kitchen.
00:08Is it?
00:09It's my kind of kitchen.
00:09I'm really excited.
00:10Oh, she's getting excited.
00:11And how to get the best value for your budget.
00:14Dual aspect and have a look at the view.
00:17Dual aspect.
00:18Wow, you've spoiled me.
00:19I know.
00:20Sometimes there's a two-for-one deal on.
00:22I like it.
00:24Seaside it and cottage it.
00:25Yes.
00:25All at the same time.
00:26But what it really comes down to is the fit and the feel.
00:32Oh, wow.
00:34Wow, sir.
00:35This is lovely, isn't it?
00:37Magnificent.
00:37Yes.
00:38It is magnificent.
01:01Today we're exploring a county celebrated for its golden sand beaches.
01:08Dramatic cliffs.
01:10And pretty fishing villages.
01:13Wild, rugged and full of character.
01:18Pembrokeshire.
01:19It's a county where ancient history lingers in the magnificent landscapes.
01:24And from where the majestic ocean is often in sight.
01:28If Pembrokeshire looks and sounds like an amazing place to escape to.
01:32That's because it is.
01:38Tucked into the far south west corner of Wales is the county of Pembrokeshire.
01:43Home to Britain's only truly coastal national park.
01:46And more blue flag beaches than any other county in the country.
01:52Well, ma sir Pembro yn sir Prydferth iawn.
01:56Ma, ma dros 186 o fylltiroedd o arfordir gydon ni.
02:02Treithau bendigedig.
02:04Mynyddoedd y preseli.
02:06A ma adeiladau hanesyddol nifer yno gydon ni.
02:10Fel yr eglwys gydaelol yn Tudewi.
02:12A y cystall Pemflor.
02:15Tenby is one of the area's most popular harbour towns.
02:18While nearby Saundersfurt offers similar charm on a smaller scale.
02:23One of the best things about being in Pembrokeshire is you can finish work for the day.
02:28Five o'clock.
02:28You can drive to the beach.
02:30You can swim.
02:30You can go and get coffee on the cliffs.
02:33You know, you can't do that in many places in the UK.
02:36Inland and surrounded by woodland,
02:38Dygledhy Estuary is where four rivers meet.
02:41Creating a landscape of mudflats, marshes and tidal creeks that provide a rich haven for wildlife.
02:48So, if you like stunning coastlines and peaceful countryside,
02:52you might want to get yourself to this unique little corner of Wales.
03:00Now, most of our escapees know the area that they want to escape to pretty well.
03:06Not today's.
03:07Not only has she never been to Pembrokeshire.
03:10She's only been to Wales once in her life when she was a child and has no recollection of the
03:17trip.
03:17But her intuition has told her that this is the place and that we are going to help her find
03:24a new home here.
03:29Hi, I'm Ruth.
03:30This is my home in Leeds, West Yorkshire.
03:32My dream has always been to move to the coast.
03:35And last year, I chose to take Ella Retirement.
03:37And this year is the time for me and my pup to escape to the country.
03:42Ruth has enjoyed a long career working as an HR manager, living all over the world, including Philadelphia and Toronto.
03:50But after decades spent climbing the corporate ladder, she's ready for a change of pace.
03:56Back in my 30s, I had some family members who moved to Cornwall and I was like, oh, this is
04:02a great lifestyle.
04:03But I knew I wasn't ready for that at that time.
04:05But now, because I've chosen to take Ella Retirement, because I've left my corporate career,
04:10it just feels like now is the right time to be in a different place.
04:15Undeterred by having never visited the place, Ruth has settled on the Welsh County of Pembrokeshire.
04:21I've always been drawn to Wales.
04:23It's a land of myth and legend and folklore.
04:27And that's something that really appeals to me and my spiritual nature and intuitive nature.
04:31I have a micro micro business, which is I mentor business women to embrace spirituality.
04:37They can bring their intuition, their own knowing, their connection to the other world with everything that they do in
04:44their life.
04:46As well as her side hustle, Ruth is hoping the move will provide time to enjoy hobbies.
04:51I love landscape photography. I love being outside with charcoals and pastels and paints.
04:58So if I could also find some classes that could help me get better at those things, that would be
05:02fantastic.
05:03And it would be a lovely way to make friends and meet new people locally.
05:08One of the friends she'll be leaving behind in Leeds is Tracy, who also happens to be Ruth's financial advisor.
05:15We've set a budget. I won't be letting Ruth go over it.
05:19Tracy will keep me on track. I will.
05:21What I want for Ruth is for her to have a good standard of living in retirement, as well as
05:26her dream home as well.
05:29Can I just say I am financially responsible for my money and I have made this decision for myself.
05:36Of her own free will, Ruth has settled on a budget of £250,000 to find a two bedroom property
05:42with an open plan kitchen diner and an enclosed garden for Marvin the dog.
05:47It needs to be within easy reach of a community, not more than a 30 minute drive from the coast.
06:00Everything that Ruth knows about Wales and Pembrokeshire in particular has come from books.
06:05But she is absolutely certain that she wants to live here.
06:09She feels like she's got a spiritual connection to the place and she's lived all over the world.
06:15So let's see how we get on.
06:22I'm on my way to meet Ruth and Tracy before our search can get going.
06:26But with this being Ruth's first time here, it feels only right to pause for a moment and take it
06:33all in.
06:34OK, here we are.
06:36Yeah, it's beautiful, isn't it?
06:38It's a bit of all right, isn't it?
06:39Yeah.
06:40It's lovely. How are you feeling?
06:42Very excited. I'm trying to keep the excitement from not bubbling over and being unbearable, but I'm so looking forward
06:48to today.
06:49Bubble over. Be unbearable. We like the excitement. Please bring it. The more the better.
06:54Now, Pembrokeshire.
06:55Yes.
06:56I mean, it's a stunning place, but what draws you here?
06:59It's a feeling.
07:01It's a feeling.
07:02And all this ancient history that it has, you know, sacred myths of folklore and legend.
07:07I've got the goosebumps just thinking about it now.
07:09It's all of that that kind of drew me to this place to learn more about it and to live
07:14in it.
07:14What about you, Tracy? It must be so exciting seeing your friend doing this.
07:17Oh, absolutely. I can't wait.
07:19I can't wait to see the houses and a reaction and hopefully find a dream home.
07:24What do you think Ruth is looking for?
07:26I think Ruth needs a community around her and services that are accessible for her as well.
07:34She's got Marvin the dog, so great places for her to get out and about and walk with Marvin.
07:40Amazing. And who's the sensible one? I think I can guess.
07:45Me, obviously.
07:46Yeah, obviously you. Yeah, yeah.
07:48It's Tracy. That's why Tracy's here.
07:50Tracy will be the one who will be probably more grounded because I'll be so excited.
07:54I'll be going in looking at the decor and thinking, oh, yeah, I could make a cup of tea in
07:58here.
07:58It'd be lovely.
07:58She'll be looking at the ceiling and the pipes and all the things that I wouldn't pay attention to.
08:02Well, I'm glad you're here then, Tracy. Glad you're here.
08:05Shall we get it going?
08:06Yes, please.
08:06Come on.
08:11We're kicking things off less than a 20 minute drive from the coast in the market town of Narberth.
08:17Frequently appearing on the Sunday Times list of best places to live in the UK,
08:21Narberth is celebrated for its lively art scene and thriving high street,
08:26which conveniently is the starting point of our very first house tour.
08:34Welcome to Narberth.
08:36Is they lovely?
08:37It's fantastic.
08:37It really is.
08:38I would say, have you been here before?
08:40But we know that you haven't.
08:40Well, you might have been when you were three, but you can't remember.
08:42No memory.
08:43What are your vibes standing here?
08:45How's it feeling?
08:45It feels colourful.
08:47It feels vibrant.
08:48I wanted those independent shops, that feeling of getting away from the big stores.
08:53I really like it.
08:54Really like it.
08:55Oh, good.
08:56Good, good.
08:56I think it's absolutely wonderful.
08:58I think this is right down the street.
09:00I can just see you and Marvin coming out for your walks.
09:04Definitely.
09:05So we like Narberth so far?
09:06We do so far.
09:07Really good impression.
09:09Fantastic.
09:09Because our first property is literally just off the high street.
09:12I was hoping you'd say that.
09:13Yay!
09:14Are we going to have a look?
09:15Yes, please.
09:15All right, come on then.
09:19Just a short stroll brings us to this semi-detached home, tucked away in a small 1980s development.
09:25Currently run as a holiday let, it's a blank canvas inside.
09:30Neutrally decorated and ready for Ruth to put her stamp on it.
09:35Here we go.
09:36Hello.
09:38OK.
09:40This is a nice size.
09:41It's good, isn't it?
09:42Yes, it is.
09:44I love the windows.
09:46And I like that you walk into a porch, you're not walking straight into a room.
09:49I really like that.
09:51Very handy with a dog as well.
09:52Yeah.
09:53Cleaner.
09:53So you've got time to dry them off.
09:54Yeah.
09:55Yeah, it's looking promising.
09:56What do you think, Tracey?
09:57I think it's lovely and light, which is nice, isn't it?
10:01And I think it's a great location.
10:03Yeah.
10:03Great location.
10:05Which funnily enough, it's what I wanted.
10:07Yeah!
10:08We do try and listen to you.
10:10You do it very well.
10:11You do it very well.
10:11We don't just pluck them randomly out of the air.
10:14A strong start to the tour, but how will the all-important kitchen diner stack up?
10:20This space in here is just fab.
10:24Oh, it's my kind of kitchen.
10:26Is it?
10:26It's my kind of kitchen.
10:27I'm really excited.
10:28Oh, she's getting excited.
10:29I like this.
10:31I really wanted a kitchen diner and this really hits the spot.
10:35Voila.
10:36It does.
10:37It's the old and the new together, sort of, isn't it?
10:39Yeah.
10:40And my dining table would fit lovely in here.
10:43It really would.
10:45Oh, wow.
10:45That's good.
10:46It's peaceful.
10:47It's quiet.
10:47Neighbours are really quiet.
10:50Oh, so they are.
10:51Dead quiet, you might say.
10:52Oh, okay.
10:53So we might get a few visits from Spruits at night time.
10:55The cemetery next door is right down your street.
10:59Do you know what?
11:00As soon as I saw that, I went, Rhys is going to love this.
11:02Not quite the friends I had in mind, but there you go.
11:07Well, quiet neighbours and unexpected friendships, what more could you ask for?
11:12Upstairs, there's a bathroom with both bath and separate shower, plus three bedrooms,
11:18the largest of which has principle written all over it.
11:23Yes.
11:24Yes.
11:26Yes.
11:27Yes.
11:27Yes.
11:28Yes.
11:28Dual aspect and have a look at the view.
11:30Dual aspect.
11:31Wow, you've spoiled me.
11:33I know.
11:34That view.
11:35Waking up to that view would be wonderful.
11:37That's fantastic.
11:38It's a good master bedroom, isn't it?
11:40It's double size.
11:41Yeah.
11:41Loaded wardrobe space.
11:43Which I need.
11:45I really like it, Bryna.
11:47Oh, good.
11:47I'm so pleased.
11:49So I'm going to send you and Tracy off to have a look, then I'll meet you in the garden
11:51in a minute.
11:52Okay.
11:53Thank you very much.
11:53In a minute.
12:00It's a big room, isn't it?
12:02I wasn't expecting this.
12:03Yeah, it's a good size.
12:04Yeah, it is a big room.
12:05This could almost be a master as well, couldn't it?
12:08Absolutely.
12:09It's your bedroom when you come to stay.
12:11Ooh, lovely.
12:15Oh, even this is quite a good size for a third room, isn't it?
12:18Ooh, this would make a nice little office for you.
12:20Yeah.
12:20You'll be able to have your desk in here.
12:22Some oracle readings.
12:24Do your oracle right next to the cemetery.
12:25Looking at the cemetery.
12:28Whatever floats your boat, ladies.
12:30Let's leave the spirits for a moment and turn our attention to the garden,
12:34which is fully enclosed and south-facing.
12:39Hi.
12:39Hello.
12:40How's it going?
12:41Really good, thank you.
12:42Good.
12:43Good.
12:44It's very nice out here, isn't it?
12:45It's beautiful.
12:47Peaceful.
12:47You can hear the birds.
12:49And I think this outdoor space, there's quite a lot of weeds going on at the moment.
12:52Yeah.
12:53But whip those all out.
12:54Yeah.
12:54Get a new railing.
12:55I think this could be really magical out here.
12:58Yeah.
12:58It's just enough outdoor space because we want to spend more time outdoors and out in nature.
13:04Low maintenance.
13:05Yeah.
13:05I think so.
13:06I think it doesn't need a lot doing to this.
13:09Ruth just needs to put her touch in it.
13:10Good.
13:11Well, let's talk about price.
13:12Any ideas?
13:14I'm going to say £245,000.
13:18Okay.
13:18I'm going to say £260,000.
13:21£260,000.
13:23Well, you're both wrong.
13:24And in the good way.
13:29It's actually on the market for offers in the region of £220,000.
13:34Oh.
13:34Wow.
13:35Well, that makes it a lot more attractive, doesn't it?
13:37Mmm.
13:38This has got real potential.
13:40Yeah.
13:42I'm really excited.
13:44This semi-detached home in the heart of Narberth offers three bedrooms and a spacious kitchen
13:50diner, perfect for entertaining guests.
13:53And when it's time to head out, some of Pembrokeshire's most picturesque landscapes are practically
13:58on the doorstep, with the coast just a short drive away.
14:03I think this house meets a lot of Ruth's needs.
14:07It doesn't need a lot of work doing to it, which pleases me greatly.
14:11The aspects are lovely.
14:13She's got Narberth town centre just on the doorstep.
14:16So I do think this will be a good buy for Ruth.
14:19This house in Narberth is definitely a contender.
14:24Once you come through the door, it is like the TARDIS.
14:27The rooms are a fantastic size and it's just amazing.
14:31It's difficult to know how the rest are going to beat this.
14:34My intuition is feeling really good about this place.
14:51For Ruth, moving to Pembrokeshire is about following her heart and trusting her instincts.
14:57But she's not ignoring her head, which is steering her towards somewhere practical,
15:02well-connected and convenient.
15:04So we're taking some time out from the property search to let Ruth and Tracey explore the county town of
15:10Haverford West.
15:11Its central position at the heart of Pembrokeshire makes the town something of a hub for local residents,
15:17helped by great transport connections.
15:20But people don't choose to live here just because it's practical.
15:25Haverford West is a very friendly town for people.
15:28It's their first stop when they come to visit.
15:30You can walk up the street and meet half a dozen people you know, which is always really nice.
15:34It's a great community place to work with loads of dynamic and vibrant people.
15:39I love the commute over from Cardigan every day over the Pressellies.
15:42There's just like nowhere else like that in the UK and it's just insane.
15:45There's a few people here that are really pushing to get this place really going.
15:51It's got a brilliant scene for the young, lots of new places are turning up.
15:55It is a lovely, lovely park there was a living.
15:58I don't want to overdo it, I want to invite too many people down as well.
16:02Ruth is looking to do some volunteering when she moves
16:05and the town is home to several charities and social enterprise groups,
16:09all working to improve the lives of local people.
16:12I feel like there's a lot of doors opening for people around here with musical dreams and stuff.
16:17I love the Haver Hub. The Hub is like the heart of the town centre.
16:20It's where I found my feet.
16:23Deborah Withy emigrated here from the US and runs an art school in the town
16:27that offers inclusive teaching for people of all ages.
16:32Welcome to wonderful Haverford West.
16:34Thank you so much.
16:35Centre of Pembrokeshire.
16:36Many, many artists are here because of the light, because of the landscape.
16:40It's also a community that really nurtures the local people.
16:45I feel that very much.
16:47That's great to know because one of the things I'm looking for is to be part of a community,
16:50a vibrant community and to get back into arts.
16:53So Deborah, what drew you to the area?
16:54I'll give you the short version. My father was born in Wales so I have dual citizenship.
17:00So after university I came and I came to St David's in Pembrokeshire
17:05and I saw the landscape and I saw the cathedral and my eyes filled up and my heart blew out
17:11of my chest
17:12and I thought I've got to be here. I'm very happy here.
17:15I love that you did that on a feeling because that's why I'm looking at this area.
17:19It's completely a feeling that drew me here.
17:21So it's lovely to hear that you did that and it's worked out so well for you.
17:24Obviously I speak English and I know there's many people around here do,
17:28but is there any pressure to learn Welsh as, you know, someone move into this area?
17:32There are lots of classes you can take. No pressure at all from anyone.
17:37You don't need to speak Welsh, but you just want to know how to pronounce a place name.
17:42Yeah, excellent.
17:42And remember that an F is a V.
17:45So even if you don't know your Treveen from your Kyivai,
17:49Haverford West certainly seems like a place that will welcome Ruth with open arms.
17:55Now let's return to our property search.
18:03Keeping in mind Ruth's wish to stay within half an hour of the coast,
18:07we're back on the road, this time heading for the village of Hook.
18:10Named after the sharp bend in the nearby Kledhai River, Hook is a mix of old and new,
18:17from homes that hint at its coal mining past to more modern developments.
18:21And it's one of those newer builds that we're about to explore next.
18:28Hey then. Welcome. Here we are.
18:32Thank you. Our next property. Yes.
18:35A bit newer than the last one. Yes. Yeah.
18:37How do we feel about newer houses?
18:39I wasn't that keen, but it looks nice.
18:43And I'm kind of liking the parking situation.
18:46Yes, yes. Yeah, you do get a parking space.
18:48Yeah.
18:49And yeah, it's very quiet.
18:51It is, isn't it? It's lovely and quiet.
18:53It's full. Should we go and have a look? Yes, please.
18:55Right then.
18:59Built just five years ago, this modern terraced home boasts an A-rated EPC,
19:04so it's top of the class when it comes to energy efficiency.
19:07That means a smaller carbon footprint, and for budget-savvy Tracey,
19:12some welcome savings on those monthly bills.
19:17Come on through. Thank you.
19:19Downstairs loo. Okay. Always very handy.
19:22Welcome to this lovely kitchen.
19:24It's a nice kitchen, isn't it? Isn't it?
19:27Oh, it's nice. Yeah.
19:28Yeah, it's been really nicely done, hasn't it?
19:30It has. It's really small.
19:31A nice flooring.
19:32It's all ready to move into, isn't it? Yeah.
19:34You wouldn't have to do anything. No.
19:36Nothing to do here.
19:37Other than add a bit of roof pizzazz.
19:40Yes. Yeah.
19:40It needs a bit of...
19:42Bit of fairy lights or sparkles somewhere.
19:44It's not exactly the kitchen I would choose,
19:45but there's a lot of good things in it.
19:47Okay.
19:47So, I think I just need to see how it fits with the rest of the house.
19:50Need to see the flow.
19:51Yes.
19:52Shall we flow on through?
19:53Yes, please.
19:54Okay.
20:00Come on in. Thank you.
20:04Okay.
20:05So, you've not got the kitchen diner.
20:07No.
20:07You've got more of a lounge diner.
20:09Yeah.
20:09Nice big space in here.
20:10Yes.
20:11Good size space.
20:12I do like the layout.
20:14I think it's really lovely, but I think my heart's with the kitchen diner.
20:19Okay.
20:19I haven't seen this space now.
20:21Yeah.
20:21But I have some very similar furniture to this,
20:24so I do like the way they've done it all out.
20:26It's pretty cool.
20:27Do you agree with that, Tracey?
20:28I do.
20:29Yeah.
20:30It's a lovely house.
20:31It is.
20:31But knowing where Ruth lives and how she lives, I don't think this would be...
20:37Not quite right.
20:38Not quite right for Ruth.
20:39Did I peak too soon with the first house?
20:42You did.
20:43Yeah.
20:43This is lovely.
20:44I think it's that the flow just wasn't there.
20:47It's not quite working for you.
20:48Yeah.
20:48Okay, well, that's fine.
20:49You go upstairs, have an explore, come find me in the garden.
20:53Okay.
20:53Enjoy.
20:56It's fair to say this one hasn't quite captured their hearts just yet.
21:01The layout isn't what she pictured and the missing kitchen diner is a sticking point.
21:06Upstairs, though, there's a bit more to play with.
21:08A sleek family bathroom plus three bedrooms, two of which are doubles.
21:14Oh, this is a nice room.
21:16Oh, this is pretty, isn't it?
21:17It's big as well.
21:18You think it's got the double beds.
21:20Look at the view as well.
21:22Yeah.
21:22That's a lovely view, isn't it?
21:25Yeah.
21:26This will make the perfect home for someone.
21:29I'm not sure by the noises that she's making it's going to be for Ruth, but she hasn't heard
21:34the price yet and that might change her mind.
21:37Oh, this is a nice double bedroom.
21:39It is, isn't it?
21:41Yeah.
21:42That's two good sized bedrooms.
21:43Yeah, I didn't expect two doubles.
21:45I didn't expect three bedrooms either.
21:47Yeah.
21:48It's nice.
21:49You've still got space for more furniture there.
21:51Absolutely.
21:52There's space for furniture here and it still feels like you've got room to move around.
21:56There's certainly no shortage of space upstairs.
21:59Plenty of room for guests, hobbies or just spreading out a bit.
22:05And outside, things are refreshingly low maintenance.
22:08The secure, fenced garden is mostly lawn, meaning less time with a trowel and more time
22:13for beach walks or countryside adventures.
22:16Hello.
22:17Hi.
22:18All right.
22:19Yes, thank you.
22:20Yes.
22:20Good.
22:21What did you think of upstairs, Tracy?
22:23Yeah, there were good sized bedrooms and a lovely view uninterrupted, which was really,
22:28really nice.
22:29Um, but yeah, I think it lacked something that Ruth wants from a home.
22:34Yeah.
22:35How are we feeling about the flow still?
22:37Still not feeling it.
22:38Okay.
22:39Still not feeling it.
22:39I think this is a really lovely house.
22:41It's just not the house for me.
22:43Well, let's talk price.
22:45Because you never know.
22:46What are we thinking?
22:46Tracey, you go first this time.
22:48I think three bedrooms, 220.
22:52220,000 pounds?
22:54230,000 pounds.
22:56Okay.
22:56Well, you're both wrong again.
22:58Actually on the market for offers over 200,000 pounds.
23:01Right.
23:02Do you know what?
23:02Someone's going to get a lovely home for that price, aren't they?
23:05Yeah.
23:05But unfortunately not me.
23:06No, that's okay.
23:07That's okay.
23:08But that is a good price for that home.
23:10Yeah.
23:10It is, isn't it?
23:11Yeah.
23:11It is.
23:13It may be 50,000 pounds under Ruth's top budget, but this terraced eco home isn't quite
23:18the right fit for her.
23:19Still, there's no denying its practical appeal.
23:23Three bedrooms, two sleek bathrooms and a fuss-free garden, all wrapped up in a modern,
23:29energy-efficient package.
23:31I think it's a nice house, but I don't think this home is quite what Ruth's looking for.
23:37I think she's looking to put a touch on it and I don't think she'd be able to do it
23:40here.
23:41It's got a few things I'd do very much like in here.
23:44It's got some beautiful wooden doors.
23:46And I really thought, actually, if those wooden doors were in house number one, they would
23:50look fantastic.
23:51And they've got some very natural wood furniture that really sets the whole house off and gives
23:57it character.
23:59So there's definitely some touches here that they have that I'm taking away with me.
24:06As our first day of property hunting wraps up, I thought it would be fitting to reflect
24:11on everything we've seen so far in one of Pembrokeshire's top seaside towns.
24:17Welcome to Tenby.
24:19It's nice here, isn't it?
24:20It's really pretty.
24:21It's beautiful.
24:22It's nice at this time of day, isn't it, with the light coming through.
24:26Yeah.
24:26And what a day it's been.
24:28I've really, really enjoyed it.
24:30It's been a fantastic experience today.
24:32Oh, I'm so glad.
24:33I'm so glad.
24:34And Tracey, how's it been for you seeing Ruth's experience being here?
24:38Oh, I think it's been fantastic for Ruth.
24:40It really has.
24:41This is what she needed.
24:44One thing she said was she wanted to come to the beach, so we're here.
24:47So I think it's been fantastic for her.
24:49Do you feel like that long-held dream is becoming a reality now?
24:52I don't think it's becoming, I think it is.
24:54I think it is?
24:55I think it's here.
24:57Oh, it's arrived!
24:58It's arrived!
24:59Yay!
24:59We've manifested it together.
25:01We think when we change our life, everything's going to happen at once.
25:04And the reality is it doesn't.
25:06It's kind of steps and steps and steps and you get further and further.
25:08There's just a few more steps to go now until it all becomes really real.
25:13And I've just loved being in this part of the country.
25:16It just feels right to be here.
25:18And we've still got the mystery house to go.
25:20Oh, I have no idea what you're going to throw at me tomorrow,
25:22but I'm really looking forward to seeing it.
25:25So watch this often enough to know that there's going to be a curveball,
25:29there's going to be something different.
25:31So bring it on.
25:32Watch this space.
25:33Yeah.
25:33Let's go and have a little potter, good night's sleep,
25:36and go again tomorrow.
25:37Perfect. Thank you very much.
25:57Pembrokeshire's rugged coastline and sweeping beaches are nothing short of dramatic.
26:02But moving here doesn't have to be.
26:04So if you're thinking of making the county your home,
26:07here's what you need to know.
26:09Property prices are slightly lower in Pembrokeshire than in Wales as a whole,
26:14with the average price of a detached property standing at just over £322,000.
26:20And when compared to the UK figure, which is just over £440,000,
26:26Pembrokeshire stands out as a great value destination for rural escapees.
26:33The county attracts more than six million visitors a year who can take their pick from a great range of
26:39holiday lets,
26:40including this unique twin pod lodge located on a smallholding in the village of Pelcom.
26:46It's luxurious interior has room for two guests and during the low season it can be rented for £160 per
26:54night.
26:57If you're ready to make a permanent move to the area, this character cottage in an attractive fishing village has
27:03two bedrooms,
27:04a conservatory and a large garden. It's offered chain free for £260,000.
27:12If you're working with a slightly higher budget, this detached dormer bungalow comprises a spacious living area and a total
27:19of six bedrooms.
27:21Occupying a large plot just a short drive from the historic town of Pembroke, it's available for offers over £435
27:28,000.
27:34Moving to the coast has been a dream of Ruth's that's been bubbling away for the last two decades.
27:41Now, putting an idea and a feeling into practice can sometimes not quite go as planned, but that certainly wasn't
27:50the case yesterday.
27:52Ruth was mesmerised by the first property and I've still got the mystery house up my sleeve.
27:58Ruth's infamous intuition was certainly right about Pembrokeshire, but it's just a case of which house will end up beguiling
28:07our buyer.
28:07The mystery property is a gorgeous house, but I know it will all come down to Ruth's gut instinct.
28:17For our final stop, we're travelling east to the village of Begeli.
28:21Just four miles inland from Tembi, Begeli offers Ruth the best of both worlds,
28:26close to the vibrant community she's been looking for and perfectly placed for easy trips to the coast.
28:34But Begeli holds its own too, with a local hotel and restaurant, a handy store and even a bakery for
28:42those all-important treats.
28:44While Ruth and Tracy take a little detour through the village centre, I'm going ahead to the mystery house to
28:49make sure everything's set up for their arrival.
28:52Here on Escape, we really like to challenge our buyers with the mystery house.
28:57I think Ruth's expecting maybe a country cottage, some low ceilings, some beams, maybe a thatch.
29:03Absolutely not. This one's fresh out of the box. Come inside and have a look.
29:10Not only has this house got an amazing open-plan feel and that flow that Ruth's after,
29:17is also probably one of the most eco-friendly houses we've ever had on Escape.
29:23Tucked away on a peaceful five-acre site with no through traffic, the mystery house sits on a generous corner
29:29plot.
29:3119 of the 21 properties in this brand new development have already been sold.
29:36So I don't mean to rush you ladies, but we might need to get a wriggle on if we don't
29:40want to miss out.
29:42Hi.
29:43Hi.
29:43Welcome to your mystery house.
29:46Wow.
29:47Is this what you were expecting?
29:49No.
29:49Yes, that means we did it right.
29:51Yes.
29:51We've got a mystery.
29:52Yeah.
29:52I like it.
29:53I like stonework.
29:55I like the boards.
29:56I like the colour.
29:57Seasider and cottages.
29:59Yes.
29:59All at the same time.
30:00What about you, Tracy?
30:02Because I know you were slightly not sure about new builds, were you?
30:05No, but I think if it's the layout that Ruth wants and she sees the floor in it, it's irrelevant.
30:10I've never lived in a house that no one else has lived in before, so there is something quite appealing
30:15about that, isn't there?
30:16Also, we're only an eight minute drive from the coast to Saundersfoot.
30:21Wow.
30:22Let's go inside and see if it's got the flow you're looking for.
30:25Brilliant.
30:29The construction of this timber-framed property has only recently been completed, meaning it offers the very latest in energy
30:37-saving features.
30:38And inside, the quality of the finish is immediately clear.
30:44Oh, wow.
30:47Wow-sa.
30:48You can swim in here.
30:49Can you feel it?
30:50Feel that flow.
30:51Feel it.
30:51This is lovely, isn't it?
30:52I love the colour of this kitchen.
30:55Yeah.
30:56I would choose this kitchen.
30:57I love the layout of it.
30:58The flow is back.
31:00The flow is back!
31:01Yeah.
31:01Yeah!
31:02And it does feel a bit beachy, doesn't it, inside as well?
31:06Nautical.
31:07Well, in terms of energy, it's an A, EPC rating.
31:12Gosh.
31:13In fact, we've said if they could give A-pluses, it would be an A+.
31:16It's got solar panels, air source heat pump, energy bills.
31:20Work out around about £600 a year in this house, which is...
31:25Wow.
31:26Mega.
31:26Yeah.
31:27It's got underfloor heating.
31:28Has it got underfloor heating?
31:30Tracer likes a bit of underfloor heating.
31:32Love underfloor heating.
31:33Can't live without it.
31:35It's a lovely floor.
31:35It's been done really nicely, hasn't it?
31:37They've done a really nice job.
31:39Magnificent.
31:40Yes.
31:42It is magnificent.
31:44A magnificent mystery house, my day is made.
31:50I'm leaving Ruth and Tracey to explore upstairs, where they'll find two double bedrooms,
31:55and not one, but two en-suites.
32:00Ooh.
32:01This is nice, isn't it?
32:02It is, isn't it?
32:04I love the fittest wardrobe.
32:06Plenty of storage space.
32:07A lot of storage space, yeah.
32:09Oh, nice en-suit.
32:11En-suit bathroom.
32:12Yeah.
32:12We're liking that.
32:13Lovely.
32:14The colour scheme matches all the way through as well, doesn't it?
32:16Yeah.
32:17Yeah, this is lovely.
32:19Really nice, isn't it?
32:22Oh, I love this room.
32:23I'm not sure which one you'd use as the master.
32:26It could be either.
32:27Ah, how bright is this?
32:28Must be self-facing.
32:29Shall we check the en-suit out?
32:31Yeah.
32:31Yeah, let's have a look.
32:32Oh, wow.
32:34Oh, wow.
32:34That's got a bath.
32:35It's more like the size of a family bathroom than en-suit, isn't it?
32:38Yeah.
32:38It's really pretty.
32:40It's bright all the way through.
32:42It is.
32:43Made a really good job of bringing the light into it, haven't they?
32:47To add to the list of eco-credentials, the property benefits from an electric car charging
32:52point at the front and all the windows are triple glazed.
32:56The rear, south-facing garden is yet to be planted, and on a day like today, those solar
33:01panels must be in overdrive.
33:05Hi.
33:06Hello again.
33:07The sun is shining, isn't it gorgeous?
33:10It's beautiful.
33:11So lovely.
33:12What did you think of upstairs?
33:14I liked it.
33:15You know, the light just flows all the way through.
33:18The bedrooms are a good size.
33:20It's great that it's got fitted wardrobes.
33:21You don't have to think too much about furniture.
33:23There's a lot, a lot to love about this place.
33:26And what do you think about the outside space?
33:27I mean, we're going to have to use our imaginations a bit here.
33:29Yeah.
33:30They would obviously put some grass down for you, and it would look a bit smarter than
33:33it does at the minute.
33:34Yeah.
33:35No, you can definitely use your imagination.
33:37And also, this space here, you know, you could have a little conservatory on here even.
33:41I think it gives you the option to do a little bit more with it.
33:45Yeah, definitely.
33:45Well, let's talk about price.
33:47I'm going to go for $210,000.
33:49$210,000 price.
33:50Okie dokie.
33:51I'm going higher.
33:52I think because of the EPC rating and the way it's done out, I'm going to say this
33:58must be at least budget $250,000.
34:01Ok.
34:01£250,000.
34:02Yeah.
34:02You're pretty much right.
34:04It offers over £250,000.
34:06Ah.
34:07Ok.
34:07So.
34:08I can see why.
34:09I can absolutely see why.
34:11I think the sustainability as well is fantastic.
34:15This is the financial affairs.
34:16Yeah.
34:17Your bills are £600 a year.
34:19On that alone for Tracey, it's a serious contender.
34:22Absolutely.
34:22Yeah.
34:23Absolutely.
34:23She's sold.
34:24Where to sign?
34:26So, congratulations.
34:27You have given me a dilemma.
34:29Yay!
34:33This brand new timber framed eco home is full of modern design features that are good for
34:40the planet and your pocket.
34:42Each of the double bedrooms has its own en suite and it's the closest property to the coast
34:47we've seen on our search.
34:50I think it's absolutely a wonderful house.
34:53I love the sustainability part of it.
34:56Obviously, it would be really economical for Ruth to be able to run this.
35:01It's got a great aspect.
35:02It's south facing.
35:04Plenty of garden for her.
35:06It's been really thoughtfully done.
35:08They've got beautiful wooden floors.
35:10It does have that real beach, coastal, country, cottage feel to it.
35:15And it does have a good flow.
35:16So, it's given me more to think about.
35:19Hi.
35:20Hi.
35:21Okay.
35:22Hello.
35:22Yes, we are okay.
35:23Plenty to think about, don't we?
35:25There is plenty to think about.
35:26Can I have a little sit down and a little chat?
35:28Oh, yes, please.
35:28Okay.
35:34Escapes come in all different shapes and sizes.
35:36Some people move to the country to slow down.
35:38Others, to start a business.
35:40Or maybe keep some animals.
35:41Or both.
35:42Just like Sue and John have done.
35:47So, I'm Sue.
35:49I'm John.
35:50This is John.
35:52We've moved from Whitechapel to Pembrokeshire about 12 years ago to start a new life adventure.
35:59And we now run a glamping site over in Pembrokeshire.
36:03Near the village of Boncalf is the couple's luxury eco-glamping site set across 27 acres on
36:10what was once an 18th century farmstead.
36:14Our sort of glamping site is all about being in nature.
36:16And this is one of our lovely nature dunes.
36:18We've got some safari lodgers up the other meadow.
36:20So, if you look all the way around, you've got some amazing views of the national park and the woodlands.
36:26And that's what it's all about, is just being in that and getting away from it all.
36:32It's a busy time for Sue and John getting ready for the holiday season,
36:36but I'm very pleased to say they've made a bit of time for me.
36:40Hi, guys.
36:41How's it going?
36:42Hi there.
36:42Hi.
36:42Welcome to Top of the Woods.
36:44Thank you so much.
36:45I can't wait to have a look around.
36:46Good.
36:47We're super excited to have you too.
36:48Thank you so much.
36:49Right, shall we?
36:50Yep.
36:50Let's go.
36:51Let's go.
36:53The Times newspaper recently named the site one of the coolest places to stay in Britain.
37:00And with safari lodges, nature domes and former barns converted into a cinema and play areas for children, it's not
37:08hard to see why.
37:09Oh, that's not a bad spot, is it?
37:11No.
37:12No.
37:13Not at all.
37:13When you look back now at your life before here, what did it involve?
37:18Early morning commutes, long car journeys, sales targets, stressful meetings.
37:24Sitting in the office.
37:25Stressful presentations.
37:25All that kind of stuff, yeah.
37:26And now what does life look like?
37:27This is our office now.
37:29This is the best office ever.
37:30I know it's a bit jammy, really.
37:32It is.
37:32It is.
37:33Fantastic.
37:34So, when you moved here, what did it look like?
37:37You know, I'm assuming all of these weren't here.
37:39No.
37:40We've done everything here, you know.
37:41We've planted the trees, restored the buildings, because it's so beautiful.
37:46It's an old Georgian farm.
37:47Yeah, I mean, there hadn't been any farming for a few years before we sort of moved here.
37:51You know, the fields were kind of overgrowing to scrub.
37:54The outbuildings were unused or, you know, becoming a bit derelict.
37:57The roofs were falling in.
37:58So, it was a blank canvas, but it was a hell of a lot of work.
38:02And how long has that taken?
38:03Twelve years.
38:05Twelve years and counting.
38:06It's a lifetime project.
38:08The couple's nature-led ethos has earned them multiple awards for innovation and sustainability.
38:14They've restored wildflower meadows and planted a tree for every guest who stayed.
38:19Over 4,000 so far.
38:22Adding to their eco-friendly charm are four much-loved cooney cooney pigs,
38:27who are simply adorable and also contribute to the farm's biodiversity.
38:33Hello, girls.
38:34Hi, team.
38:36Now, this one's Myrtle.
38:37Myrtle.
38:38This one's Dora.
38:40This is Martha.
38:41Oh.
38:42That's Harry there.
38:43Oh, Harry looks very happy.
38:46Now, what made you decide to go for pigs and cooney cooney pigs in particular?
38:50Cooney coonies are a small, easy-handling breed that make good pets and also they graze more than they root.
38:57So, we can use them for conservation grazing.
39:00So, you don't think about pigs as grazing animals, but actually the grass on the ground here is their food
39:04for most of the year.
39:05So, tell me how they help with the land.
39:08Because they're grass grazing, what they do is create little pockets, like you say, these little pockets of habitat.
39:12So, with habitat, what you want is diversity.
39:14So, having different bits of diversity where you've got a bit of long grass there, you've got tussock here, you've
39:19got bramble there.
39:20So, it's just creating different levels of habitat and provides richness of food for different sort of creatures that then
39:26feed through the chain, really.
39:28Because you hear the term biodiversity, so this is that in action.
39:31It is absolutely that in action.
39:33And you guys are helping without even realising.
39:35It's not all about being lazy, are you?
39:37I mean, Harry looks like he's a lot about being lazy.
39:39Oh, he's worked his part.
39:40He's an old boy now.
39:41He likes to snooze.
39:42He's semi-retired, I think, that one.
39:44He looks very happy.
39:46Well, I mean, well done team.
39:47You're doing a fantastic job here.
39:49And thank you so much for showing me around.
39:50It's been lovely.
39:51It's been super.
39:52It's been super duper.
39:54This eco-glamping retreat offers a peaceful escape and also gives something back, making it a great fit for the
40:01natural beauty and values of Pembrokeshire.
40:09Well, I think I know what Ruth's going to say about the houses, but let's go and find out, shall
40:13we?
40:21Hi.
40:22Hi, Bryony.
40:23How are we feeling?
40:24Really good.
40:25We're enjoying the sunshine in beautiful Pembrokeshire.
40:27This has been an exciting few days.
40:29It has been a very exciting few days.
40:31It's been an adventure.
40:32I'm feeling really good.
40:34Really good.
40:34Confused partly, but really good.
40:36I'm really sorry we tend to do that.
40:38Yeah.
40:38You've just done a great job.
40:40And I've loved seeing all of Pembrokeshire.
40:43The houses.
40:45And I'm reassured that Ruth's making the right move.
40:49It makes me feel a lot better.
40:51Oh, that's good.
40:52And I'm looking forward to coming down and spending some time here.
40:55What about the houses?
40:55Obviously, we all saw you fall in love with house number one.
41:00Was it that obvious?
41:01Yeah, a little bit.
41:01Yeah.
41:02Okay.
41:02Just a speech.
41:04Yeah.
41:05I mean, the mystery always likes to throw that spanner in there.
41:07Yeah.
41:08And it did.
41:09But I really knew my heart was still with house one.
41:11The thing that I liked about house number one for Ruth was that she was right in the
41:16town centre.
41:17She could literally walk out of the door.
41:19She didn't have to get in the car, which I think was really important to Ruth as well.
41:23Yeah.
41:24So what are your next steps going to be?
41:25Well, the next steps.
41:26Other than going back to pick up Marvin.
41:28Well, before I go to pick up Marvin, I'm going for a second viewing at house number
41:32one.
41:33Yay!
41:33So I'm doing that tomorrow, having another look around on my own.
41:37And then I'll let you know what happens after that.
41:40But yeah, would very much like to be in house number one.
41:46Wow.
41:46Oh, I'm so pleased.
41:48And I'm so excited for the next part of your journey.
41:50You know, this has been a long time coming.
41:52Yeah.
41:52And I wish you all the best.
41:54Please stay in touch and let us know what happens.
41:55I will do.
41:56I'm fully invested.
41:57Thank you so much.
41:59It's been lovely.
42:06Since Ruth stepped foot in Pembrokeshire, her instinct has told her that she is in the
42:11right place.
42:12She wanted help from us to make her long held dream come true.
42:16And I am delighted that we could have made it happen.
42:20The first house stole Ruth's heart, so much so that she's already booked in a second viewing.
42:27And all going well, she could be calling this gorgeous county home very soon.
42:33It would appear the stars have aligned.
42:35I'll see you next time on Escape to the Country.
42:38Ruth went back to house number one, ready to make an offer, but another buyer beat her
42:43to it.
42:44The silver lining, she managed to rent the property for a week, giving her the chance
42:48to explore more of Narberth and view other options.
42:51Her heart still set on moving to the town just as soon as she gets an offer on her own
42:56home in Leeds.
42:58If you would like to escape to the country in Wales, England, Northern Ireland or Scotland
43:03and need our help, why not apply online at bbc.co.uk forward slash take part.