Escape To The Country Season 26 Episode 22 heads to the stunning Devon coast, where Richie Anderson helps a retiree from Lincolnshire find her perfect seaside home in a county she already loves. With beach walks high on her wish list, the search includes beautiful coastal properties offering fresh air, peaceful surroundings, and a relaxing lifestyle by the sea.
During the journey, Richie also meets a couple who left London behind to embrace Devon life, now running a luxurious guest house from a converted former vicarage. This inspiring episode showcases the charm of Devon living and why the county continues to attract buyers seeking tranquility and coastal beauty.
#EscapeToTheCountry #Devon #CountryLiving #CoastalHome #BritishTV
During the journey, Richie also meets a couple who left London behind to embrace Devon life, now running a luxurious guest house from a converted former vicarage. This inspiring episode showcases the charm of Devon living and why the county continues to attract buyers seeking tranquility and coastal beauty.
#EscapeToTheCountry #Devon #CountryLiving #CoastalHome #BritishTV
Category
😹
FunTranscript
00:01When escaping to the country, it's important to check everything, including the acoustics.
00:07Oh, you can see it all the way up.
00:09Does it echo? Shout up it.
00:11Hello.
00:12And that there's room to let loose.
00:15We don't need music, you see.
00:16Oh, wow.
00:17It's just in our head. Look, you can even, yeah.
00:20The best way to test the location is to get fully immersed.
00:24Watch your dress, Carol.
00:25I will, I'll hold it on.
00:26Don't you get in that way.
00:27But sometimes you just get that feeling straight away.
00:31I like that. I'm tingling.
00:32Oh, tingling. That's good.
00:34Oh, yes.
00:57As someone who loves vibrant colours, Devon has got to be one of my favourite places.
01:03Green fields, golden sands, turquoise waters, the palette of Devon was mixed in heaven.
01:12From rugged moors to granite tours.
01:15And the coast?
01:16Wow, that's never too far away.
01:18Devon is a smash hit with residents and visitors alike.
01:23The county's a little wild, but a whole lot of beautiful.
01:27Devon is found in the southwest of England.
01:31If you're looking for space, it's one of the least densely populated counties.
01:36And as a bonus, you're never more than about an hour from the sea, which residents work hard to look
01:42after.
01:43We're a local community interest company that specialises in collecting plastic pollution from the really hard to reach areas of
01:48our beautiful coastline here in South Devon.
01:50So we've recovered 30 tonnes so far. I mean, it would cover this whole Quayside, you know, two times over
01:57at least.
01:58Thanks to groups like Gary's, there are many ways we can all enjoy the scenery.
02:04We've got everything here, the sort of coastal walks and all of the beaches and the surf that you can
02:10do, and I think it's really special.
02:13Or you can just put your feet up in a gorgeous town like Sulcum within the South Devon national landscape,
02:21and soak up the views.
02:27How many of us have ever dreamed of living by the sea? I mean, I certainly have, and so has
02:33today's House Hunter.
02:34And we're here to hopefully help return that dream into a reality.
02:42Hi, I'm Sue. I have lived here for 18 and a half years.
02:48Retiree Sue was born and raised in Lincolnshire, but having lived and worked in Devon, the region has made a
02:54lasting impression.
02:56As soon as I hit the M5, I'm like, whoa, I'm on my way. And it's like coming home. It
03:01just feels like it's coming home. It was good times.
03:05Her younger son has just finished education, so he's planning his next move, and the older one already lives in
03:11the South West.
03:14I only get to see them three or four times a year, so it would have been a lot nicer
03:18to be maybe two, three hour drive away from them rather than six or seven.
03:24She's fortunate to have a large garden that's popular with her canine housemates, but then they don't have to look
03:31after it.
03:32There are hedges all the way around it, and that's a lot of work to do when you are on
03:39your own.
03:41Some internal rooms don't interest her at all.
03:44I'm not really worried too much about the kitchen. I have a kitchen because it usually comes with a house.
03:49I can just cope.
03:52She'll be helped on the hunt by her friend Carol, who she met four years ago at their dance group.
03:58I am absolutely gutted that she's going to be moving away, but also excited for her to move as I
04:05get to get a free holiday home wherever she's going to go.
04:09We can just cause riots anywhere else. More dancing, more places to explore.
04:15Sue is looking for a detached property with high ceilings and ideally four bedrooms so she can accommodate her sons
04:21and Carol when they come to visit,
04:24plus a low maintenance garden that's secure for the dogs.
04:28Being in the South West will mean she's closer to family, and she'd like a 30 minute walk to the
04:33beach, all for a maximum budget of £650,000.
04:42From as young as I can remember, probably up until about the age of 17, we do have family holiday
04:49somewhere in this beautiful county.
04:51So just driving through it now makes my heart sing.
04:54And this is a huge move for Sue. She's following her heart to Devon.
04:58She wants to be closer to family. She wants to be closer to the coast.
05:01But most importantly, she wants to make the most of her freedom.
05:05And I'll say good for you, girl.
05:10For our first property, we're putting our best foot forward and hot step into the village of Coominteenhead near the
05:18coast.
05:18But before that, I'm meeting Sue and Carol by the estuary.
05:24Sue and Carol, how beautiful is this? My goodness me.
05:28I know. What a view.
05:29It just feels like home.
05:31Had happy times here.
05:33Absolutely loved it.
05:34Still got a few friends around here.
05:37Now you brought your busy mate Carol with you.
05:39Oh yes.
05:39And I could already tell I'm going to have my hands full with you two.
05:43Do you know what? I just get that vibe, Carol.
05:46So we spend a lot of time together, had lots of holidays together.
05:50And now if someone knows where we're going, there ends up being 12 of us.
05:5513 now.
05:56Absolutely.
05:57Any time, you're welcome.
05:59Well, I tell you what, if we find the perfect property, we'll do a three-way jive.
06:03Sounds good.
06:04Okay.
06:05Who's leading, Carol?
06:06I could lead.
06:07Oh, Carol, you're going to have to lead us.
06:08Yeah, I'll have a go.
06:10Could you imagine walking your dogs here, where we are now?
06:13Yes.
06:14Yes.
06:15Very nice.
06:15You think they'd like it?
06:16They would love it.
06:18It's only a couple of minutes' walk from the first house.
06:21No way.
06:22Yes.
06:23Oh, goodness.
06:24Shall we go and have a look?
06:25Yes.
06:26Follow me.
06:26Please, let's go.
06:31The pretty village of Coominteenhead is a designated conservation area, featuring many
06:37attractive buildings, including the church, and two country pubs offering food.
06:43There are music nights at the village hall, and over the road, high on a hill, I'll stop
06:49before the yodelling, is this pretty property.
06:53And I give you house number one.
06:56Wow.
06:56That's amazing.
06:57Do you like it?
06:58It is beautiful.
07:00Wow.
07:00Oh, look at the little stained glass windows.
07:03Beautiful, isn't it?
07:04I love a porch.
07:05Absolutely beautiful.
07:07If anyone can pull off a big pink house, it's you, Sue.
07:09Ah, yeah.
07:10What's not to like?
07:11Yeah.
07:12It's not really that pink, is it?
07:13No, it's pale.
07:14It's absolutely gorgeous.
07:16It's cute.
07:17It smiles at you.
07:19It does, actually.
07:20When you look at it, it's got like a friendly look.
07:22Well, I'm going to ask you to turn around now.
07:24Okay.
07:24And drink in this view.
07:27Wow.
07:29I know, right?
07:30I know.
07:31Oh.
07:33Wow.
07:34That is so nice.
07:34I didn't realise how high we were.
07:37So far, so good.
07:38Brilliant.
07:39Can we keep this energy up inside?
07:41Shall we find out?
07:42Yes.
07:42Follow me.
07:43Let's go.
07:43Let's go.
07:44Yay.
07:46This Grade II listed thatched cottage dates back to the early 18th century and retains
07:53many original features.
07:56Welcome then, Sue.
07:57Oh, look at this.
07:59And I'm going to take you through to what could be your spacious, gorgeous sitting room.
08:06Come on in.
08:07Look at it.
08:08Oh, this is so nice.
08:11You like it?
08:12Wow.
08:13Got the ceiling height.
08:15Yeah.
08:16Wood door.
08:17You like a wood door, don't you?
08:19I do like wood.
08:20Yeah, I quite like wood.
08:21Yes.
08:21Really nice.
08:22It's got...
08:23Oh, look at the fireplace.
08:24Homey.
08:25Homey.
08:26Yes.
08:27Wow.
08:28And look at the view.
08:30Carol, look.
08:30Oh, yeah.
08:31Wow.
08:32I mean, it's like a picture, isn't it?
08:33I think you'd have to have your safer face in that room.
08:35You would?
08:36Why would you sit with you back to that?
08:38Yeah.
08:38That is amazing.
08:40And practical floor for the dogs.
08:43Well, it's slate floor.
08:44Oh, wow.
08:45Yes.
08:46Really good.
08:47That's very good, isn't it?
08:48And then above the fireplace, that's a bread oven.
08:51An old bread oven.
08:51I know.
08:52Can I go and sit my head up the chimney?
08:54As long as we don't get you stuck up there.
08:56Is this where we need to pull her out?
08:57Oh, we may do.
08:58I think we'll stand back.
08:59Let's go.
09:00Don't get stuck, Sue.
09:02Oh, you can see it all the way up.
09:04Does it echo?
09:05Shout up it.
09:07Hello.
09:09Echo.
09:10I think we might have to warn the neighbours.
09:12I think someone should have warned me.
09:14Passing through a dining room, we come to a kitchen that even Sue could appreciate.
09:20Oh.
09:20I know.
09:21Oh.
09:23Look at the bees.
09:25That surprised me.
09:26I could have a hammock hanging off there.
09:29Oh, that would be something else, wouldn't it?
09:32Carol, are you happy with the kitchen?
09:33I am happy with the kitchen.
09:34Get familiar with it.
09:35Yeah, come on, Carol, have a look.
09:37We need you to sign this off.
09:39Yeah, I guess I do have to, you know, she doesn't cook much.
09:42And it's big enough I can wear my roller blades around it.
09:45Oh, wow.
09:46You've got to have a little bit of space in the kitchen.
09:48I've never known somebody double up a kitchen with a roller blade in rink.
09:52You'll, because if you lose your balance, you've got to have something to catch a hold of, haven't you?
09:56Yeah.
09:56So a kitchen's ideal.
09:57I mean, don't try that at home.
09:58No.
09:59Yeah.
09:59Well, I try it in my house.
10:01LAUGHTER
10:03This whole tour might need a safety warning.
10:06At the top of the stairs is the family bathroom, and then there's a bedroom on either side.
10:11Whoa.
10:12Into the main bedroom.
10:14Look at this.
10:16Ooh.
10:16Wow.
10:17That's a good feature scene.
10:18That's amazing.
10:19It's beautiful, isn't it?
10:20It is.
10:21That's unusual.
10:22Oh, hang on a minute.
10:24No, it's this way.
10:261721.
10:27So that's the age of the house, yes?
10:29I mean, there's so much character in here, isn't there?
10:32There is.
10:32There is.
10:32That's really...
10:33It's gorgeous.
10:34They've finished it really well.
10:37Mm.
10:37Across the landing is another double bedroom with an en suite.
10:42Carol, imagine waking up in here.
10:44Ooh.
10:45Wow.
10:46Oh, yes.
10:47Oh, yes, we like that.
10:48I can imagine that.
10:49Oh, yes.
10:50I get the view.
10:51You've got dual aspect too.
10:52I have.
10:53I could lay here waiting for my coffee, because she does bring me coffee in bed.
10:57I do bring her coffee.
10:57She makes a good coffee.
10:58She does.
10:58She's very good at coffee.
10:59I keep her sweet from first thing.
11:01I take her a coffee.
11:02There's a further floor above, with two more bedrooms and a third bathroom.
11:07Outside is the sloped lawn at the front, and then to the back.
11:11An elevated entertaining space that I could see getting a lot of views.
11:18So, Carol, I've blessed you with some gorgeous views around this property.
11:23And I thought I'd throw in one more.
11:25Wow.
11:26Yeah.
11:26I know.
11:27It's amazing.
11:29Yeah.
11:29Really, really gorgeous.
11:30To see for miles.
11:32Right then, shall we talk numbers?
11:34So, this pink thatched dream.
11:36I know.
11:36What do you think it's on the market for?
11:39I'm going to go for 645.
11:42Sue?
11:45Well, I reckon 640.
11:49Well, you are right that it is at the ceiling of your budget.
11:52Yeah.
11:53But right at the ceiling of your budget, it's on for £650,000.
11:57Right.
11:57So, in the ballpark, what you were expecting?
12:00Yes, it was.
12:00No, it's still good.
12:01I'd say for that.
12:02First attempt.
12:03Yeah.
12:03The view is kind of well worth the money.
12:08This Grade II listed pink cottage is arranged over three floors and offers an impressive
12:15four bedrooms with three bathrooms.
12:17It boasts picturesque views due to its elevated position above the village hall and is on the market for £650
12:26,000.
12:28It feels really comfortable, really homely. You could just move in straight away.
12:35It's nice and pink and it's bright, very open and it's a very calming space. The kitchen is very nice
12:43for me to use.
12:44Living here with my little Yorkshire Terriers, I think the height of the steps approaching the building would be too
12:53much of a challenge and not fair on them.
13:07Kingsbridge sits between Sulcum, Plymouth and Torquay, so it's a great hub for the area, but full of its very
13:14own attractions, which we're sending Sue and Carol to discover.
13:19Amazing view. And with the moors behind, this is such a nice town.
13:25We're surrounded by really beautiful beaches, fabulous countryside. We're not far from the moors. We've got lots of really interesting
13:32businesses here.
13:34I mean, if you could live anywhere, I just can't see why you wouldn't want to be here.
13:38This is a lovely little market, isn't it? It's got everything.
13:42There's been a market since 1219, and as well as offering a wide selection of sought-after products, the storeholders
13:49can also share their local knowledge.
13:51We like our 50s rock and roll.
13:53Right, so I know in Ivy Bridge there is a big rock and roll scene there.
13:57Really?
13:58I know people who come and actually buy 50s jewellery off me in order to go with the proper outfits.
14:04Well, that's what we saw.
14:06Yes, there's a lot going on.
14:07The town punches above its weight for the arts and boasts its own gallery.
14:12I like these colours. Look, that's my colour.
14:17So we showcase local contemporary artists as well as contemporary artists from further afield.
14:22We also run a series of workshops, classes, which range from movement, so yoga, to street dance, but also we
14:30run art classes and art workshops for the community.
14:35Many of the streets are adorned by hanging baskets and raised beds that have won regional medals.
14:41Our heritage features that we garden around make a big difference to the town.
14:47People come up and comment on it all the time. They're very invested in what we do.
14:52It's just a joy living here, and we're all very proud of it.
14:56There's music at venues like The Old Warehouse, which produces its own award-winning mead.
15:03Alright, so we'll start off with the classic mead.
15:05This is just purely honey, water and yeast, no sulphites or additives.
15:10It's just all natural.
15:11Chin-chin.
15:14Oh, that's nice.
15:15That's nice.
15:15That isn't what I was expecting.
15:17So you get more of the...
15:18It's very crisp.
15:18Yeah, more of the florality from the honey rather than the sweetness.
15:21Oh, I could drink that. That's really refreshing, isn't it?
15:25They say you have to have the local honey to help prevent hay fever.
15:29I think mead counts.
15:30Yeah, I think so.
15:31I think we're doing that.
15:32I think it does.
15:32Yeah, we should drink more of it.
15:34Yeah.
15:35Definitely.
15:36Welcome back.
15:37I've got a feeling Sue's going to fit in just fine around here.
15:41But for now, it's down to me to find her a home to make it happen.
15:51Our next property is in the village of Stokenham, just a 25-minute walk from the beach.
15:58The village church was rebuilt in 1431, and judging by the scaffolding, they've almost finished it.
16:06There's a choice of historic pubs offering food and accommodation that overlook the green,
16:12and next to that is the house we've come to see.
16:15I give to you house number two.
16:18No way.
16:20Oh.
16:20This looks interesting.
16:22I like that.
16:23I'm tingling.
16:23Oh, tingling.
16:24That's good.
16:25Oh, yes.
16:27I love that.
16:28Yeah.
16:28And I love this reaction.
16:30So, it's lovely on this little country lane as well.
16:32Very nice.
16:34Very pretty.
16:35Does the church bells ring?
16:36Well, I think you'll drown them out anyway.
16:38I know.
16:39There's no worry of that.
16:40I went for a bell ringing lesson.
16:42Oh, do you?
16:43Twice.
16:43Go and get involved.
16:44Well, not quite, because I nearly damaged my drive arm, and I couldn't afford to do that.
16:49Oh, we can't have that.
16:50So, when you go in there, it's a bit like walking into Narnia, because it's so big.
16:54We're going through a wardrobe.
16:55Not quite, through a door, but follow me and I'll show you.
16:58Excellent.
17:01Built in 1700, this Grade II listed property was originally three houses,
17:06and two of them were converted into the home I'm showing Sue and Carol.
17:11Watch your head as you come through.
17:13Wow.
17:14And this...
17:14Oh, wow.
17:15...could be your stunning sitting room.
17:18Oh.
17:20Look at that.
17:21Oh, the exposed beams are beautiful, aren't they?
17:23Yeah, very nice.
17:24So much character.
17:27This is so...
17:28Look at that fireplace.
17:29I know.
17:30Inglenock fireplace.
17:31Wow.
17:32Oh, look, through the window.
17:33That view.
17:34Oh.
17:35She's off.
17:36I'm off, I'm off.
17:37I've got to look through the window.
17:39That is amazing through there.
17:41How's your view?
17:43Brilliant.
17:44Come back in, come back in.
17:45Sorry, I'm like a headteacher, aren't I?
17:46You are.
17:47You're going to have to try harder.
17:48I know.
17:49Not like our headteacher.
17:50I'll never succeed with you two.
17:51But you happy?
17:52It's brilliant.
17:53Big enough for you?
17:54Yeah.
17:54Very nice.
17:55Have you noticed the wooden floor?
17:57Timber floors.
17:58I do.
17:58I do.
17:59And it's real.
18:00It's real wood.
18:02How does this compare to your sitting room at home at the moment?
18:06It's tidier.
18:09You can change that, Sue.
18:10That's very true.
18:11I can see your furniture in here.
18:13Oh, my furniture would fit in here easily.
18:15So, Sue, this space behind us, when it used to be three cottages, this was a little kitchen
18:20here.
18:20Oh!
18:22And speaking of kitchen, shall we see the actual one?
18:25Go on, then.
18:25Follow me, then.
18:27So far, so good?
18:28Lovely.
18:31Also on the ground floor is a study, or fourth bedroom, plus a utility room with shower.
18:37And then along the hall is the kitchen.
18:40Oh, look at this beautiful kitchen.
18:42I know.
18:44This is incredible.
18:46Oh, that's surprising.
18:47Oh, look, beams.
18:49Look at the wall.
18:51I know.
18:51I bet...
18:52Very natural.
18:53Exposed brickwork.
18:54Yeah.
18:55Beautiful.
18:56Exposed brickwork.
18:57It's just very light.
18:59Mm.
18:59That's great.
19:00Now, some people like to dance in the kitchen.
19:02Oh.
19:03Could you jive in here?
19:04Is the space for you two to jive?
19:06I reckon we could over there.
19:09Hmm.
19:09Shall we give it a go?
19:10Oh.
19:11We could practice.
19:12I'm not going to stop, yeah?
19:13Right, okay.
19:14Are you ready?
19:15Here we go.
19:17We don't need music, you see.
19:18Oh, wow.
19:18Do it everywhere.
19:19It's just in our head.
19:20Look, you can even...
19:21Yeah.
19:23Yeah, we could even get that bit up like that.
19:24You can even get that stretch.
19:28Woo!
19:30John.
19:31I mean, it's a ten from me.
19:32Come on.
19:33Round of applause.
19:34It's your turn, Lex.
19:35Oh, am I going for it?
19:36Yeah, come on.
19:37So how does it go?
19:38Just follow her lead.
19:39Just follow her lead.
19:40They match, look.
19:41Okay, one, two.
19:42Backstep.
19:43So we go back, so let's go again.
19:44One, two.
19:45Backstep.
19:46One, two.
19:48Backstep.
19:48So you've been replaced, babe.
19:50Twirl.
19:50And twirl again.
19:52Twirl.
19:52Sign him up.
19:53One, two.
19:54Backstep.
19:55One, two.
19:56Backstep.
19:57Well, there's enough room to swing a cat, or twirl a Richie.
20:01And while I calm myself, Sue and Carol are checking out the three upstairs bedrooms.
20:07Mind your head, Carol.
20:08Ah, look at this.
20:10Oh, that's a nice bedroom.
20:12Oh, this feels really nice.
20:15Oh, nice window seat.
20:16That's nice.
20:17And I can see, come sweet.
20:20Oh, sweet.
20:20Let's have a look.
20:22This is huge.
20:24Found a window in here.
20:26That's very nice.
20:26Well, it's actually got a full-size bathroom.
20:28Oh, I like this.
20:29The other two bedrooms are of a good size and share a bathroom.
20:34Outside, there's a tiered terrace plus a lovely renovated outbuilding.
20:38That used to be the cobblers.
20:40And finally, a separate patch of lawn.
20:44Ah, this is nice.
20:45Look.
20:46And welcome to what could be one of your gardens.
20:49Oh, wow.
20:50Oh, this is pretty.
20:52Oh.
20:52Oh.
20:53This is really nice.
20:54Lovely, isn't it?
20:55I'm surprised at this.
20:57Oh, wow.
20:58Look at the seating area.
20:59I know.
21:00Well, it's south-west facing, so you can have the best tan in Devon.
21:04Definitely.
21:05It's really nice.
21:07Right.
21:07Shall we talk price?
21:08Oh, yeah.
21:09Forgot about that.
21:10Well, I still think it's going to be kind of nearly to the high end.
21:14Hmm.
21:16Probably six, four, seven.
21:18Six, four, seven.
21:19She's so specific.
21:21Sue?
21:22I think six, four, eight.
21:26It's slightly over budget.
21:28Oh.
21:29At £675,000.
21:32OK.
21:33I mean, it hits every mark.
21:35The cottage is stunning.
21:36Yes.
21:36You can walk to the beach.
21:37You can get a bus to Plymouth.
21:39Yeah.
21:39You can get to Kingsbridge in ten minutes.
21:41And you could always put in a cheeky offer.
21:43Well, you'd never know, do you?
21:44Yeah.
21:45Nothing's stopping you doing that.
21:46Absolutely.
21:49£675,000 for this Grade II listed early 18th century cottage packed with period features.
21:57There are four good sized bedrooms and a kitchen big enough to jive in.
22:01All situated in the heart of the village and close to the beach.
22:07I'd feel proud to call this place home because it's just such a nice vibe, a nice feel.
22:13It looks like a chocolate box, picture story cottage.
22:19Well, it's got a lot of history, hasn't it?
22:21I know.
22:22And this garden is really nice, isn't it?
22:25Not high maintenance.
22:26No.
22:27So that means more beach walk time.
22:29Well, they're all like little sun traps, aren't they?
22:31And they're all cottagey garden.
22:32Yes.
22:33Old fashioned plants, which is nice.
22:40When it comes to beaches, Devon is spoiled for choice.
22:45But there aren't many that can beat Sulcum down on the county's south coast.
22:50Wow.
22:50Look at this.
22:51I mean, when you think of escaping to Devon, this is the life, right?
22:56It's amazing.
22:57Take a seat.
22:59What I've loved today, Sue, is your zest for life and your energy.
23:04And this move really represents freedom for you, doesn't it?
23:10It does.
23:10Yeah.
23:11So I'm going to be nearer to my close family, have more opportunity to see them, have more
23:19quality time with them.
23:21There's something really comforting about being close to family, but I'm also thinking
23:25they can come down to here because it's not too far away and you get to show off this.
23:29They will love it.
23:31Well, listen, we've got more of this beautiful county to see tomorrow, including one more house.
23:35Wow.
23:36But I can't tell you anything about it at the moment because it's a mystery.
23:39Yeah.
23:40We love a mystery.
23:42We do love a mystery.
23:43Well, I hope you're going to love this mystery.
23:44But in the meantime, should we just enjoy this?
23:47Yes.
23:48Can we have a paddle?
23:50Nice and relaxed.
23:51I'm not going to stop you, Sue.
23:53Come on, let's go and have a paddle.
23:54Oh, watch the shoes.
23:56Okay, you watch the shoes.
23:59Watch your dress, Carol.
24:00I will.
24:01I'll hold it up.
24:01Don't you get in that way.
24:02Oh, it's nice.
24:06It's really nice.
24:09Quick, quick, quick, quick, quick.
24:11Oh, I'm not going that far.
24:13Oh, it is.
24:14It's really good.
24:15Oh, it's cold.
24:17Is it cold?
24:18It is cold.
24:19It's very cold.
24:20Are you regretting it, Carol?
24:21It's very cold.
24:21Yes.
24:24Naughty.
24:39Right along the south coast, property prices exceed the national average, and Devon is no exception.
24:47with the cost of a detached home fetching around £488,000 compared to the £436,000 average across the UK.
24:59And while many residents benefit from the sea views, some of the interiors can be equally attractive.
25:05Such as this stylish two-bedroom character cottage with an open-pan reception room, a modern open-tread staircase, and
25:15a roll-top bath looking out across the traditional garden on the market for £275,000.
25:24Or, for £375,000, this three-bedroom home has an even more unusual way of reaching the bedrooms, as well
25:33as the conventional stairs.
25:34There's the country kitchen, plus outside dining and a fire pit.
25:40If you're after a shorter stay, this cabin offers another ladder to access the double bedroom, while downstairs there's a
25:48cosy sitting room and a kitchen diner.
25:51To really get back to nature, the shower is outdoors, and so is the bathtub. Just be careful the neighbours
25:58aren't peeping.
25:59It's available for £135 per night in low season.
26:12It's Mystery House Day, and I'm hoping that Sue and Carol love our final home so much that they start
26:18dancing around the kitchen again.
26:20But listen, I'm not getting involved today. For your sake, and mine. I can't keep up with them. I haven't
26:26got the moves.
26:29Our Mystery House is to be found in the southern county village of East Allington.
26:36One of the most notable buildings here is the 15th century church, where in 1943, local residents were told they
26:44had to evacuate in six weeks,
26:46which they later discovered was so the nearby beach could be used to practice for the D-Day landings.
26:53The other significant site is a prestigious 13th century estate, once owned by one of the most powerful families in
27:02the county.
27:02And I'm taking Sue and Carol for a stroll by its lake.
27:06I thought I'd start the day by bringing you to this tranquil haven.
27:11When you think of escaping to the country, Sue, is this what you imagine?
27:15This is beyond imaginable. Just gives you time to relax, to reflect, to collect your thoughts. It's just perfect.
27:26So if I can find somewhere maybe just like this, just for my reference, that's near to the Mystery House,
27:33that would work for you?
27:34It would, yeah.
27:36Well, actually, this is on the grounds of the Mystery House.
27:41So this could be all yours, Sue.
27:44Whoa.
27:44Well, I'm assuming I'd share it and not have to do all the gardening.
27:48Well, listen, I will leave you with that thought.
27:50I'll let you explore because I feel like there's a lot to take in.
27:53Wow.
27:54And I'll go and open up the Mystery House.
27:55And I like that wow.
27:56Keep the wows coming.
27:57We will.
27:58See you in a minute.
27:58You like it.
28:01Yeah.
28:02Amazing.
28:02Look at this.
28:04Our Mystery House is one of 14 barn conversions on the estate, giving a sense of community and privacy.
28:13So she likes the grounds.
28:15We're off to a good start.
28:16But will she like the house?
28:17Yes.
28:17So this property, it's set over three floors.
28:20And one thing we know about Sue, she's a social butterfly.
28:23And down there feels like its own entity.
28:25So if she's got guests over, which she will, whether it's family or of course Carol, they
28:29can be down there without encroaching on Sue's freedom.
28:32And most importantly, look at all this.
28:34It works for the dogs.
28:36So fingers crossed.
28:38In addition to around 20 acres of communal land, the home has its own garden.
28:44So what did you make of the ground, Sue?
28:46We loved it.
28:47Did you?
28:47Yeah, we've had a good old look round.
28:49Mmm.
28:50So come on then, the Mystery House, what do we think?
28:52I love it.
28:52Do you?
28:53I like the slate roofing.
28:55Yeah.
28:56I like the walls.
28:58And the reason this is the Mystery House is because I wanted to do something a little
29:03bit different, Sue, and choose a house and a community solely based on your personality.
29:10Amazing.
29:11You're a free spirit.
29:12You're a sociable gal.
29:13That's so nice.
29:14You like to be the heart and soul of the party.
29:16Well, I can be.
29:18If I say so myself.
29:19If I've got to be.
29:20If they need me to be.
29:22Yeah.
29:22And I just thought you, in the middle of a community with lots going on, where you've
29:27got all those grounds outside, a tennis court, a fire pit.
29:31I think it's really great.
29:33And if they're like-minded people who understand there are times when you just need to go and
29:38be on your own.
29:39Yep.
29:40But they're there for you, then that's great.
29:44And it works both ways.
29:45Shall we go and look in some way?
29:46Yes, please.
29:46Follow me.
29:48I've got a good feeling, you know.
29:50I know.
29:50I'm loving it.
29:53The property was originally one of the agricultural barns, but has been thoroughly modernised
29:58and is entered on the middle floor.
30:02So it's open plan.
30:03It's spacious.
30:05It's light.
30:06It's airy.
30:07And this could be your kitchen.
30:09It's really nice.
30:11You like it?
30:12Yeah.
30:12It's got a nice feel to it.
30:15Loads of storage space.
30:17Modern cabinets as well.
30:18Hang on a minute.
30:19Nice wooden floor.
30:20Carol, find a cooker.
30:21What do you think?
30:21Do you like it?
30:22Stand up against it, Carol.
30:23I'll see if it works for you.
30:24See if it actually should.
30:24Shall I get a pan out?
30:25You look good.
30:26Put that in your hand.
30:28Make it more natural.
30:29Look, I'll be washing up for you.
30:31I can prep your stuff here.
30:33I love this and I'm just here.
30:35Well, I'll cook you something.
30:36Compost.
30:36Oh, you're a good egg.
30:38Yeah.
30:38No, it is.
30:39It's a lovely kitchen.
30:40I'm loving this positivity.
30:42I like it.
30:43It's very positive.
30:44Shall we take it through to the lounge?
30:45Yes.
30:46Follow me, then.
30:47Let's go.
30:49Nice.
30:54And this is the lounge.
30:56This is amazing.
30:58I love it.
30:59I don't know about you, but you know when we were stood outside, I think when you walk in,
31:02it's like stepping into the TARDIS.
31:04Because you don't realise how big it is.
31:06It's three floors.
31:07Three?
31:08Three floors.
31:08We don't mess about.
31:09I just thought it was all on one level.
31:11No.
31:11Three floors.
31:12Five bedrooms.
31:14Five.
31:15I love these reactions.
31:17Whoa.
31:18And the downstairs feels like it's kind of cut off from the rest of the house.
31:21It feels really independent, almost like a little apartment downstairs.
31:25So whoever's down there is sort of out your way.
31:28They've got their own space.
31:29You've got your own space.
31:31Yeah.
31:33Brilliant.
31:34That's good.
31:35I think this is a bit of you, Sue.
31:36I do.
31:37I think this is growing on you, isn't it?
31:40I love how it's got us summed up.
31:42Yes.
31:42And it's only almost two days.
31:43It doesn't take long.
31:45I'm sending them to explore the top floor family bathroom.
31:49Plus a pair of bedrooms.
31:51The larger of which has a dressing area.
31:54Ah, look at this.
31:57Dressing room.
31:58Got one size bed in it.
31:59Ah, walking wardrobe.
32:02Yeah.
32:03Wow.
32:04Great, isn't it?
32:06Yeah.
32:06All your dresses would fit in here.
32:08Petticoats.
32:10Wow.
32:11Hey, there's a real calmness about Sue that I've not seen or heard in the other two properties.
32:16And I'm wondering if the mystery house is really starting to make her consider whether
32:21this could be her home.
32:23I'd better get out of the way as they head down to the lower ground floor, where there's
32:27another bathroom and three bedrooms.
32:31Wow.
32:32This is like...
32:35This is just like another flat.
32:38It is, isn't it?
32:39Oh, whoa.
32:41Wow.
32:43Oh, look at all the cupboard space.
32:45I know.
32:48Spacious, isn't it?
32:50Yeah.
32:50It's good with the built-in cupboards.
32:52The property is brimming with eco features like underfloor heating and solar panels.
33:00Outside the lower bedrooms is a paved patio, but I'm waiting in the communal garden to see
33:05if they can put a price on it all.
33:07Oh, here they are.
33:09Thought I'd pull you for a chat by the fire pit, Sue.
33:11Yes.
33:12Have a seat.
33:14Come on, Carol.
33:16What did you think of the rest of the house then?
33:18Oh, we loved it.
33:19Yes.
33:21Absolutely amazing.
33:22Right then.
33:23Let's hold our horses because it comes at a cost.
33:27What are we thinking, Sue?
33:29Well, I think this is going to be over budget.
33:33Oh.
33:35Six.
33:37Sixty?
33:38Hmm.
33:39Carol?
33:40Yeah, I'm thinking it could be over budget, so probably I'm going to go for 670.
33:45So you're both wrong.
33:46Right.
33:47Both massively wrong.
33:48Nothing new there.
33:50You're both wrong in the best possible way.
33:52Oh, really?
33:53No way.
33:54Because it comes in at £575,000.
34:00No.
34:00Oh.
34:01No way.
34:02Yes way.
34:03Oh.
34:03Yes way.
34:05For all of this.
34:07I know.
34:07All of that.
34:08That is unbelievable.
34:09That's amazing.
34:11That is...
34:12You've got a lot for your money there.
34:14Yeah.
34:14And in a great location.
34:17I know.
34:17Look at Carol doing my job.
34:19I know.
34:19I know.
34:20If Carol will allow me, well under their guesses at £575,000, this barn conversion is
34:28arranged on three floors and offers five bedrooms, plus spacious living areas, there are private
34:34gardens to the front and rear, and it shares communal grounds that include a lake and tennis
34:40court.
34:42This mystery house has blown me away.
34:47I absolutely love the layout.
34:50I love the feel.
34:52I don't know if on my own I would have looked at something that on paper said it had communal
34:58areas, but these look very serene, very peaceful.
35:05I can see Sue living here in the community, and it's just kind of amazing that there's
35:11so many rooms and so many levels, and so quiet and peaceful.
35:21To the east of the county, in the town of Colleton, lies an estate of a similar size and heritage
35:28to the mystery house.
35:29That's been the inspiration for another rural relocation.
35:34Sue can't wait to make her move, but one couple who've already made their West Country
35:39escape is Hugo and Olive.
35:42They've traded in the super busy capital city for a more foodie way of life here in beautiful
35:49East Devon.
35:51Hugo and Olive had previously worked in finance and advertising, but leapt at the chance of
35:56pursuing their passions for cookery and art by taking over his parents' guest house.
36:02So we kind of designed the kitchen round the Yaga, just my parents put this in 45 years
36:09ago.
36:10Having spent time in Italy, the couple was inspired by the concept of agritourism, blending agriculture
36:18with tourism.
36:19Guests get to stay on a farm, that's the source of most of the produce they enjoy, at large
36:25tables spread around the ground floor of the house.
36:28This is our kitchen, this is where some of our guests eat.
36:36And the rooms are embellished with artworks by Olive and other local artists.
36:42So just last month we opened a little gift shop and we sell art and ceramics from some
36:48of our favourite local artists and we also have started bottling up our own preserves and
36:56sources.
36:57Oh my goodness me, how fabulous does their life look?
37:00Literally like it's been plucked from the pages of a magazine.
37:03So since I'm in the area, I thought I'd invite myself along for a look.
37:09Set within 15 acres, Glebe House is a Grade 2 listed former vicarage.
37:15Hello.
37:17Hi.
37:17I mean this is a bit stunning.
37:20Lovely to meet you, Olive.
37:21Lovely to meet you.
37:21Hi.
37:21Hugo, how are you?
37:23Welcome to Glebe.
37:24Thank you so much, there's not many better doorstep views than this.
37:28No, definitely not.
37:28So what brought you here, Hugo?
37:31Well, Glebe's like first and foremost my family home.
37:34Left home for university and then moved to London.
37:36But I guess in my sort of mid-twenties we kind of started coming back most weekends and going
37:44back to London again at the end of the weekend just became harder and harder.
37:47I think what our priority was really was to kind of work with our hands and work in a way
37:53that
37:53we could both practice what we are passionate about and how can we kind of provide that same
37:59opportunity for guests who come and stay here.
38:01So we run things like art retreats and cooking courses and it's really about kind of celebrating
38:07East Devon and the best of what's to offer.
38:10Hugo and the restaurant's head chef hone their crafts in some of the best restaurants in London
38:16and beyond and they have a particular interest in artisan techniques, nose to tail cookery and seasonality.
38:24With their emphasis on high quality, they're not letting me near the kitchen but said I could see the vegetable
38:31patch.
38:31Probably wise.
38:33Look at this.
38:35This is our rhubarb bed.
38:38Okay.
38:39So, you know, we turn this into ketchups, hot sauces.
38:43Really?
38:43We serve it at breakfast as a compote.
38:45And it's, yeah, very easy to grow and delicious.
38:49Well, can I help with the picking of it?
38:51Yeah, definitely.
38:52We've actually got a bit to process today.
38:54If you get your hands close to the base, you kind of wiggle and pull and you can see it
38:59kind of comes away from the crown.
39:01So, just kind of hold it at the base like that and give it a wiggle and just pull it.
39:04He makes it look so easy, Olive.
39:05Just pull.
39:06Have a go with this one here.
39:07Okay.
39:09So, right by the bottom and then just give it a shake.
39:10Yeah, give it a shake and pull it out.
39:12Yeah.
39:12I might even get on my knee for it.
39:13Yeah.
39:16Don't look at me, Olive.
39:17You're putting pressure on.
39:20You can give it a good pull.
39:21It should just come away.
39:22This is a little bit embarrassing.
39:25Oh, there we go.
39:26Yeah, nice one.
39:26Look at that.
39:27Is that all right?
39:28That's perfect, yeah.
39:29Is that going to go in one of your sauces?
39:30Yeah, I think we're probably going to get these like processed into like breakfast fruits.
39:34Doesn't seem short.
39:35Maybe.
39:36All good.
39:38The kitchen garden shapes the daily menu and everything is grown without synthetic pesticides or chemical fertilisers.
39:46Olive, what would you say to somebody who's thinking of starting a new life in the countryside?
39:51I would say I haven't looked back and I have no regrets.
39:54It can sometimes be a gradual thing, so maybe just try weekends, try months and see how it goes, but
40:01I can...
40:03The positives outweigh the negatives.
40:05Yeah, exactly.
40:06Right, these aren't going to pick themselves.
40:08Come on, don't let those standards slip just because I'm here.
40:13It's not easy, is it?
40:14I don't know.
40:16Well, I mean, me and Olive have done most of the picking.
40:20Just been jamming away.
40:21Over here.
40:25In no time at all, that rhubarb will be chopped into one of the restaurant's delicious dishes.
40:31But most importantly, have we been able to find our house hunter her own slice of beautiful Devon?
40:39We've danced our way around Devon and seen so much of what this great county has to offer.
40:44But now, it's time to see what Sue and Carol made of it all.
40:54Oh, darling Sue and Carol, I've loved the last two days.
40:58So have we.
40:59So come on then Sue, which of the three properties have perked up your interest?
41:05There was a little bit of all of them.
41:08Oh.
41:08That I liked.
41:09Yes.
41:12However, when we got to the Mystery House, it just wowed me.
41:18Really?
41:18It really did.
41:20It felt great.
41:22It felt great.
41:22The energy felt great.
41:24I didn't think I was really looking for it, but there were people nearby as well.
41:30Are you surprised that the Mystery House was the one that grabbed Sue?
41:34I am, because I thought that she would like to be...
41:37She's always said to me she wants to be kind of in the middle of nowhere and away from people.
41:41So, yeah, very surprised.
41:43But I think it's going to be a nice kind of little community there.
41:46So what are the next steps then, Sue?
41:48I'd like to bring my boys to come and have a look at it.
41:51Oh, that's a big step.
41:53It's actually another road trip.
41:54Yeah.
41:54Because Carol will have to come as well.
41:56Not that Carol needs any invitation.
41:58No, I don't know.
41:59I just invite myself.
42:01The Mystery House, come on.
42:03Yes.
42:04Yeah.
42:04Well, listen, I have loved hanging out with you two for the last two days.
42:09Oh, it's been great.
42:09Please stay in touch.
42:11Oh, you will.
42:12Careful what you wish for.
42:14And I hope that very soon we are dancing on another kitchen floor, but in Devon.
42:19Yes.
42:19It will be great.
42:20And you're welcome any time.
42:28I've had a blast with Sue and Carol these last few days.
42:31I love them, but it's been 100 miles an hour, so I'm just taking a minute to...
42:36But you know what?
42:37I do that, safe in the knowledge that Sue is finally one step closer to calling Devon
42:42her home.
42:43And I wish her all the best as she explores the Mystery House and the tight-knit community
42:47it's in a little better.
42:49And I just hope her boys like it as much as she does.
42:52I'll see you next time, but for now, don't mind me.
42:58If you would like to escape to the country in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales
43:04and need our help, why not apply online at bbc.co.uk forward slash take part.
43:11MUSIC PLAYS
43:20MUSIC PLAYS
43:22MUSIC FAST
Comments