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00:02Searching for a new life in the countryside can be emotional.
00:07Don't use my Cardi for your tears. It's only... It's £12.
00:11Sometimes you get an instant good feeling about people.
00:14What do you use the living room for at home?
00:16Just for watching escape to the country, mate.
00:18I knew you had good taste. I knew it.
00:20We go the extra mile, even if it doesn't feel like we're moving.
00:25See, nobody told me it was going to be this much hard work.
00:27You know what I mean?
00:28And we'll always aim to find a work of art.
00:32Oh, my goodness.
00:33This is Monet, isn't it? This is really, really lovely.
01:03Today, we're in a county where the picture-perfect, peaceful countryside is only interrupted by world-class attractions.
01:14Oxfordshire is bursting with heritage, but it's also got this old-world countryside beauty and charm.
01:22It's alive with culture, but also buzzing with creativity and connectivity.
01:27It's got a city that shaped minds for centuries. You may have heard of it.
01:31It's fair to say Oxfordshire is proof that a shire can be as forward-looking as it is steeped in
01:36tradition.
01:38Situated in the south of England, Oxfordshire gives off a golden aura, thanks in part to the glow of its
01:45Cotswold Stone architecture, as well as its first-class university.
01:50I couldn't think of anywhere better to study than Oxfordshire. I can get on the bus and in 15 minutes
01:56I'm in some of the world's most famous historic libraries.
02:01You get to meet all sorts of people from different parts of the world, especially those that come to study.
02:06Very interesting people.
02:07But it's got stacks to offer younger families too.
02:11Yeah, we're raising our son here, so it's perfect for us. The transport links are great, schools are great as
02:17well. There's always green spaces around.
02:21Aside from its world-famous towns, the county boasts lesser-known gems like the village of East Hagbourne.
02:29Over 40 of its buildings are listed, including the award-winning 17th-century pub.
02:34And East Hagbourne itself has won the title of best-kept village in Oxfordshire on multiple occasions.
02:44Now, you don't need to move a million miles to make your escape to the country.
02:48Take today's couple, for example. They're up in sticks and moving just a few miles down the road, actually.
02:58Kevin Naomi met online four years ago and live in the Reading suburb of Caversham.
03:04The traffic is just bonkers all the time. It's quite early on in the day here and it just never
03:10stops.
03:12Peace and quiet is important for both of their careers. Kev works as a TV sound supervisor.
03:19And I'm looking for a slightly more private studio. But what are you doing in here? You're not supposed to
03:25be in here, are you? Don't press buttons.
03:28Naomi teaches forest school and would like some woodland to develop her own business.
03:36I have seen first-hand the powerful and positive impact the forest school approach has on children in general, but
03:44more so children who have special educational needs.
03:49Naomi and Kev met following the death of her husband. She took a bereavement course and would now like to
03:55offer support and residential breaks to families going through similar experiences.
04:00And just offer them a package where they can stay for a couple of nights for free, just to give
04:06them some time in nature to heal.
04:09They want to remain within 90 minutes of Reading to stay near extended family.
04:15Hello. Hello, my darling.
04:21Naomi enjoys baking for those family members and anyone else really.
04:25I've made more wedding cakes and birthday cakes than I care to mention.
04:30And they don't mind a building project.
04:32The only issue being that she watches a lot of DIY programmes on the telly and can't quite understand how
04:39if they can do it in 25 minutes, why it might take me two weeks.
04:43Kevin Naomi wants a detached property with four bedrooms, studio space, a large kitchen and grounds of at least two
04:51acres.
04:51By selling a big house in a highly popular location, they have a seriously impressive budget.
04:57Brace yourselves, they've got £1.6 million.
05:01But get this, they could even stretch a little further, depending on the extent of the business potential.
05:10I'm really excited about this, actually.
05:13I think it's fantastic that Naomi and Kev want to give back to the local community.
05:17Their retreat is really going to connect people, but also immerse children into the great outdoors, which, again, is just
05:24fantastic.
05:25But there is a challenge here, because it's not just a business.
05:28This is their first house together, so they've got to be happy, it's got to be cosy, it's got to
05:33be private.
05:34And it's a special one this week, because, my goodness me, it's a big budget.
05:38So I can't wait for this.
05:42To get in the mood for forest school, I've found just the spot for a natter.
05:48Naomi and Kev, I mean, this is alright, isn't it?
05:51It's beautiful. Gorgeous.
05:52This is your first house together, which is very exciting.
05:56Do you always sing from the same hymn sheet?
05:59How do you work when you're making big decisions? Kev's face is saying no.
06:03No, I think Naomi's got her own book with stuff in it.
06:07My list is ever-changing, my criteria is ever-changing, to be honest.
06:11You're quite good with me, aren't you?
06:14Yeah, I think it's just giving another perspective.
06:16I think sometimes, like the house where we live now, Naomi would tell you herself,
06:21she walked in there when they looked at that house, and you said no.
06:25When we drove down the driveway, I said no, no.
06:27Don't even want to look at it.
06:28I need a bit more patience than that today.
06:31You all have it, you all have it, I've learnt, that was a lesson learnt.
06:34Shall we go and see some houses and meet some great people?
06:36Follow me then, come along, this is going to be great.
06:41We're kicking off our search in the southern half of the county,
06:45destined for the village of Radley.
06:48Like Kev, the pub is award-winning.
06:51And there's a village shop, staffed by volunteers,
06:53that has an emphasis on local produce, which is popular, judging by the empty trays.
07:00Family in Reading can be reached by rail in under 30 minutes,
07:04and around half a mile from the platform is the first property for their consideration,
07:10which Kev will tell you is an entertainment awards phrase.
07:15How are we feeling?
07:16Excited.
07:18Excited, that's what I like to hear, and so you should be, because I give you our first offering.
07:23Wow, pretty house.
07:25Really lovely, lovely, clean-looking house.
07:28I love the stonework.
07:29I love the colour of the door, that's right up my street.
07:33It's absolutely stunning inside.
07:35I'm so excited to show you.
07:36Yeah.
07:37You'll bring it up.
07:38I know, I know this is what I do, but you know what, I'm that confident.
07:41I'm that confident.
07:42All right, I like it.
07:43Shall we go and look inside?
07:44Yes, please.
07:44Let's hope we don't disappoint.
07:45Follow me.
07:48This house was built around 1750, but has been extended throughout its life,
07:54and is constructed from a mix of stone, wood lattice, lime render, and brick.
08:00We're starting in the oldest part.
08:01Here we go.
08:04Just mind your head, as you come through here, into one of the living room spaces.
08:09I'm right under there.
08:10Oh, look.
08:10It's very cosy, isn't it?
08:12It's interesting you say that, because the owners actually call it the snug.
08:16The snug, I love that word.
08:17Yeah, and it does feel like a big warm hug when you get here, doesn't it?
08:20Yeah, it does.
08:21Do you like the character?
08:22Yeah, I love the character.
08:23I love the beams.
08:24Yeah.
08:24Yeah, and it smells.
08:26It smells old.
08:27It's a nice smell, I'm not saying it's horrible.
08:30I was worried that was me, though.
08:34No, it's lovely.
08:35I'm surprised you like the ceilings this low,
08:39because other places we've been, you've not liked the low ceilings,
08:42but I guess the windows are big, so there's lots of light coming in.
08:45Yeah.
08:46So I think that's probably maybe why you like it.
08:49I like the shutters, because you can actually shut everything out as well
08:52when you really do want a cosy night.
08:53Yeah.
08:53So I like that, I like that feature.
08:55What do you use the living room for at home?
08:57We actually don't...
08:58It's just for watching Escape to the Country, mate.
09:00Yeah, yeah.
09:00I knew you had good taste.
09:01I knew it.
09:03Oh, I do like these, too.
09:06There's another larger sitting room where they could watch us on an even bigger TV.
09:13And look, you've got a nice mantelpiece for all your BAFTAs.
09:17Is that enough to get all of them on, though?
09:19Well, yeah.
09:20You've got to have a photograph of me on them as well.
09:21Come on.
09:23It's all about me.
09:25It's such a lovely sense of space.
09:27It depends, cos we've not been round the whole house yet,
09:29depends where the kitchen is, but I wonder what we'd use this for.
09:32I'm sure we'd find something.
09:33Oh, yeah, I'm sure we would.
09:34I reckon roller skating.
09:36Do you think?
09:37What?
09:38Everything.
09:39Everything.
09:39You any good on wheels, Kev?
09:41Yeah.
09:42There's a lot to see, so we're getting our skates on
09:45and whizzing past the good-sized playroom
09:47and through the huge dining room.
09:50Yeah, this is fabulous.
09:52We'd live in here, and I think the Christmas tree would definitely go.
09:55Oh, of course.
09:56Buy those patio doors over there.
09:58Fantastic.
09:59Maybe that'd be the second Christmas tree.
10:00Oh, fabulous.
10:01With a hatch connecting to the kitchen.
10:04Is this enough kitchen space for you, Naomi?
10:07I would say this is on the small size of a kitchen for me.
10:12I've not used a range before for cooking, so that would be interesting.
10:15Oh.
10:15A bit of a few cakes in the bin, won't there?
10:17The birds would be happy.
10:19Yeah.
10:19I've got to be honest, although that works, I don't think this works,
10:23knowing you and the size of the kitchen.
10:25This is so wide.
10:26Well, maybe.
10:27Okay.
10:27So that's what I think.
10:29And it's cold, so you could actually model chocolate
10:31and do all sorts of things.
10:34Okay.
10:34You've got a good space around, and you've got your roundabouts in the middle.
10:38Turning left off the roundabouts is a utility room.
10:42And there's a servant staircase.
10:44But for the lord and lady of the manor, the main stairs are by the front door.
10:49If you follow me this way, this could be one of your main bedrooms.
10:55With an en suite.
10:57Yeah.
10:57First thoughts on this?
10:59I love the window.
11:00Yeah, I like the shape.
11:00The shape's really interesting.
11:02I really like the shape.
11:03I like the shape.
11:04It's big.
11:05It's a really good size.
11:07Lovely view over the fields.
11:08Yeah.
11:09Stunning views.
11:09This is the most modern part of the house.
11:12It was completed six years ago.
11:13It's interesting, isn't it?
11:14Because the window, the window shape, you'd think it was older.
11:17Yeah, you were.
11:18Yeah, okay.
11:20There are another four double bedrooms, one of which is en suite, and the others share a bathroom.
11:29With outside space so important for the forest school and glamping pods, I'm sending them to explore the grounds alone,
11:35which cover just over 1.7 acres.
11:41That's intriguing.
11:42It's, yeah.
11:43There's lovely little pockets of stuff going on here that could be very...
11:45Wow, yeah.
11:45This is a proper...
11:46Yeah.
11:47It's a bit of a game changer.
11:48Yeah.
11:49Oh, wow, look.
11:51Another little orchard.
11:52Gosh, that's awesome.
11:53And enclosed as well.
11:54Look, that's lovely.
11:55You could have pods here.
11:58People can pick their own fruit.
11:59Mm, yeah.
12:01You could do.
12:01You could have little jam-making workshops.
12:02You could.
12:04You have.
12:05You've got climbing trees.
12:07So the lovely bit about this is you've got so many different areas, haven't you?
12:11This feels a million miles away from kind of a house, doesn't it?
12:14Even though it's not.
12:16When it's time for the pupils to learn complex shapes, the summer house is a dodecagon.
12:22And there's also a substantial barn.
12:25Oh, my goodness.
12:26Look at this.
12:28Oh, wow.
12:29That's the most exciting room I've seen so far.
12:31Wow.
12:32My goodness.
12:33Oh, my gosh.
12:34That is really impressive.
12:35That is such a good size.
12:36It's not too big.
12:37It's not too small.
12:38Yeah.
12:39Now, I mean, you could talk about so many different things you could do with this.
12:41You know, it could be a forest school centre, couldn't it?
12:43It could be a studio.
12:44It could be a craft area.
12:45It could be a...
12:46It could be all of them.
12:47...entertaining space.
12:48It doesn't have to be just one space, does it?
12:50Yeah, it's a trap.
12:50It could be one space for multiple uses.
12:52Yeah, I love it.
12:53Yeah.
12:54Wow.
12:56So, could all this potential add up to a profit?
13:00Right, shall we talk price?
13:02Whoa.
13:05It's so hard.
13:071.3?
13:09I'm going to say 1.35.
13:14So, it's on the market for 1.75 million, which I know is right at the top of your budget,
13:22but it's got everything you want.
13:24It's got all this land.
13:26Yeah.
13:26It's got a beautiful house, but it's already got things there which are ready-made for you to come in
13:31and live in.
13:32And we're thinking of the business.
13:33All of this land, you've got to come and work with.
13:37I think, if I'm honest, I think for the work that we'd need to do, I think that would be
13:41a push.
13:42We'd want to do some stuff.
13:43Well, it's on the market for 1.75.
13:44For sure.
13:45Yeah.
13:46Of course.
13:46Absolutely.
13:47Like Naomi's thinking.
13:48Yeah, exactly.
13:48It's always after a bargain.
13:53Priced at 1.75 million pounds, this 18th century farmhouse boasts over 5,000 square feet.
14:01Arranged as multiple spacious reception rooms and five generous bedrooms, the land covers 1.7 acres and includes a substantial
14:11barn.
14:13When you come up to the front of the property, it looks like a really quite small cottage.
14:18The house then opens up massively as you walk through it, and the garden does that fivefold.
14:25Loads of outbuildings, loads of little hidden corners, little pockets, hiding places.
14:31It just keeps giving.
14:32I mean, it's so exciting.
14:33And I'm quite sure, even though we've walked around it quite extensively now, I'm sure there's still quite a lot
14:37of stuff that we've missed.
14:53We're sending Naomi and Kev to discover the picture perfect postcard town of Burford.
14:59It dates back to the Saxon period, and given Naomi's love of trees, its future looks even brighter.
15:08Since 2019, a total of about 15,000 trees have been planted in and around Burford.
15:15So we really want to increase the green spaces, and we really want to increase the biodiversity.
15:21That's around 10 trees per resident, who also benefit from a range of independent shops and eateries,
15:28including England's oldest pharmacy, all housed within historic buildings.
15:35The stone's beautiful, though, isn't it?
15:36Well, that would definitely be a dream come true, wouldn't it?
15:39Yeah, I love Cotswold Stone.
15:43Could we have a flat white coffee, please?
15:45And do you want an iced coffee?
15:46An iced coffee with oat milk, please.
15:48Yeah, would you like oat milk as well?
15:50No, just normal for me.
15:51Can't do normal, because we're dairy-free here.
15:54Oat milk would be lovely, wouldn't it?
15:55I hope no.
15:56Serving a wide range of plant-based, gluten-free food and drink, nutmeg and thyme is based within
16:03a small collective of independent Cotswold creators, with a focus on sustainability.
16:09That's nice.
16:10Right, I know.
16:11Locals love to come in and buy something a bit unique that they know has been well made
16:16and created ethically.
16:19This area is very popular for farming.
16:22Lots of farmers, lots of producers of cheese.
16:24So, yeah, I can talk about cheese all day.
16:28And you know what's better than hearing about cheese?
16:31I would like to try the single Gloucester, please.
16:36Single Gloucester is quite special to this area.
16:38It can only be made here.
16:40Oh, really?
16:40So you don't see it so commonly.
16:41I didn't know that was such a thing.
16:46Oh, a big hill.
16:47It's a very steep hill, isn't it?
16:49I'm going to need some cheese at the top of the hill, I think.
16:51Definitely going to need a rest.
16:53That's for sure.
16:53Give your feet a rest.
16:54Bench and cheese.
16:55Too much shopping.
16:58I'm going to have that one there.
17:00Lovely.
17:01Burford cheesy cheers.
17:02Burford cheesy cheers.
17:04Cheese.
17:08That's worth the trip to Burford on its own.
17:12Burford and cheese go together like cheese and crackers.
17:15They're both great.
17:18Grated cheese.
17:19Sorry.
17:41We had some great reactions yesterday, but today is Mystery House Day.
17:47And Naomi and Kev might have to bring their friends to the house.
17:49The French phrase book.
17:51Don't worry.
17:51It's not actually in France.
17:53It just looks a little bit like it.
17:54You wait.
17:57But before that, nous allons tout droit.
18:01Headed for the village of Piddington, near the market town of Thames, which is apparently
18:06Brill.
18:07The village hall is licensed and can accommodate 120 guests who benefit from free Wi-Fi.
18:14And they host a pop-up pub on the last Friday of the month.
18:18Around a mile and a half from it is a property packing a picturesque punch.
18:24I give you this absolutely stunning grade two listed period farmhouse.
18:33Psst.
18:39That's all right, isn't it?
18:40I'm taking this as a good sign.
18:43Wow, look at that.
18:44Oh, my goodness me.
18:46Oh, come here, darling.
18:50Just take a breath.
18:52Yeah, good reaction.
18:53Well done.
18:54I'm taking it.
18:54It's tears of joy.
18:55I don't like it.
18:56I hate it.
18:59It's just so homely, isn't it?
19:00It's really, really inviting.
19:01That's a very special looking house.
19:03It's actually exactly what we've been looking for, isn't it?
19:07Amazing.
19:07Can't wait to get in there.
19:08I can't wait to get in there.
19:09Well, from that, shall we go in there?
19:10Yes.
19:11Come on.
19:11Please.
19:13Gosh.
19:17Wow.
19:19This farmhouse was built around 400 years ago
19:22and has been extended by the current owners.
19:26It's so beautiful, isn't it?
19:28Oh, gosh, there's so much to look at, isn't there?
19:29So much to look at.
19:32It's got a few quirks and surprises up its sleeve,
19:34as we'll soon see.
19:38This farmhouse kitchen is just divine.
19:41Look at this.
19:42It is beautiful.
19:43That's charming, isn't it?
19:44Really charming.
19:45Absolutely right.
19:46It is charming.
19:47It's the beams.
19:48Look at the size of that page.
19:50Yeah.
19:51I could definitely make a few cakes in there, couldn't I?
19:54I mean, you could do an old bakery in here, to be honest.
19:57This is the best reaction in three years of looking for an elf.
20:02Buy a country mile.
20:04I'd love this.
20:05It's a bit speechless.
20:06And this kitchen works for you?
20:08Oh, God, yeah.
20:09He's not allowed in the kitchen, doesn't he?
20:12The kettle's there.
20:13That's all I need, really.
20:14So that's fine.
20:15It's all good.
20:16Shall we see some more?
20:17Definitely.
20:18Come on.
20:21There are two dining rooms,
20:24one next to the kitchen and another by the front door.
20:28To one side of it is a snug and on the other is an office
20:32that leads to the main sitting room.
20:35And again, just bags of character.
20:39Come and have a look at this.
20:40Oh, wow.
20:41Wow, indeed.
20:42Look at that.
20:45I mean, where to start?
20:46I don't know where to start.
20:47I don't have to say, really.
20:48I really don't know what to say.
20:49This is amazing.
20:52A lot bigger.
20:52Feels a lot eerie than I thought it would feel in here.
20:54Love the staircase.
20:56I mean, that spiral staircase is just mad.
20:58I mean, you could do a dramatic exit up there, couldn't you?
21:00Or an entrance at the start of the day, Kevin.
21:02I'll slide down on the banisters.
21:03I mean, don't try that at home.
21:06No, no.
21:08I mean, this is genius architecture, isn't it?
21:11Yeah.
21:11The way it lets the light in, actually.
21:13Yeah, they really thought about it.
21:14Really thought about it.
21:15Made the most of it.
21:15Yeah.
21:16These sort of houses, there's a lovely sense of stillness in this house.
21:20Mm-hmm.
21:20When you walk through the door, it just makes you sigh.
21:24Yeah.
21:24And that's the thing that I most like about it, is the feeling of stillness.
21:28Mm-hmm.
21:29There's a very peaceful feeling here.
21:31Really love it.
21:31I'm hoping that you love the upstairs just as much.
21:34Are we going to have a look?
21:35Yes, please.
21:35I mean, you've got the option of the spiral staircase, or there is another staircase.
21:38Spiral.
21:39I knew you'd say that.
21:40Go on then, Naomi.
21:43As she makes her dramatic exit.
21:46Oh, there she goes, stomping up the stairs.
21:48Stomping.
21:50The spiral stairs give access to the ensuite main bedroom, with a special bonus addition.
21:58Oh, what a lovely light room.
21:59I know.
22:00You could sunbathe on that bed.
22:01Oh, my goodness.
22:02I love this window.
22:03Adds real character, doesn't it?
22:05Well, loads and loads of storage.
22:08That's only the half of it.
22:10Ah.
22:10Ah.
22:13Ah, you're happy, aren't you? Look.
22:14I know what this is.
22:16Yeah, me too.
22:16This is your dressing room, isn't it?
22:18If that was the master bedroom, and the bathroom there, then this kind of all works,
22:22doesn't it?
22:23Because it's like this little end of the house.
22:24You just shut that door.
22:25Yeah.
22:25If we were going to build a house, this is what we would build.
22:29Quite likely.
22:30For this, for us.
22:32I'm not sure there's enough space.
22:34I'm pretty sure she's joking, but there are two more bedrooms on this floor,
22:38and another floor above, with a fourth bedroom that's, again, en suite.
22:44Wow, that's a real treat.
22:46I just love the fact that there's a door and a secret set of stairs.
22:49And that's a relatively small surprise, compared to what's waiting outside,
22:54where there's a super-sized annex covered with solar panels.
23:01I tell you what, you guys go and have a look in there.
23:03OK.
23:03And I'll see you on the other side.
23:09What?
23:10What?
23:11Oh, that's a surprise.
23:14My word.
23:16What?
23:17It's a whole other house.
23:18So the annex was originally a tractor barn and a hay store,
23:22but the current owners have turned it into a living space.
23:25There's a gym, there's a wine store.
23:27You've got to have a wine store and a utility room.
23:29But I'm hoping that it screams loud enough
23:32that Kev wants to use it as his sound studio.
23:35Nice.
23:36I mean, you could rent this out.
23:38Oh, my goodness.
23:41Oh, that's just lovely.
23:44Look at this lovely kitchen as well.
23:46Have you seen the kitchen?
23:47There's so much to look at, isn't there?
23:49There is, yeah.
23:53Well, there you go.
23:54Oh, my goodness.
23:56Who would have known?
23:59So actually, this would be a better room.
24:02Yeah, I'll be in here.
24:03Yeah.
24:04Yeah, if you need me, I'll be in here.
24:05Oh, my gosh.
24:07Yeah, I'm sure I could make this work.
24:08But it's got everything, hasn't it?
24:10Yeah.
24:10It could be a studio area, but it could hive a bit off
24:12so that, in adverse weather, I could bring children inside.
24:17Yeah.
24:18No, for sure.
24:19I love it.
24:21Terrific.
24:22But if the weather's nice, there are 2.3 acres of land
24:26packed with trees, trees, and more trees.
24:33So I thought it was only right that we had this chat
24:37right next to this beautiful willow tree.
24:41It's beautiful, isn't it?
24:42It's gorgeous.
24:43Absolutely gorgeous.
24:44Nature's crown, really.
24:45Yeah.
24:45It's just absolutely beautiful in full glory.
24:47Right then, let's talk about the price.
24:49I think it's over budget, and I think it will be 1.9.
24:55I'm going to be optimistic.
24:57Oh.
24:58And I'm going to say 1.7.
24:591.7.
25:00Wow.
25:02This is on the market for 1.375 million pounds.
25:08Oh, dear.
25:10Oh, dear.
25:12Oh, dear.
25:16Don't use my Cardi for your tears.
25:18It's only ice.
25:19It's £12.
25:20Is it?
25:20Yeah.
25:21Where'd you get that?
25:22You light them away.
25:23So, as I promised, lots of surprises.
25:28Not least my Cardi being such a bargain.
25:31As for the house, this Grade II listed 400-year-old farmhouse
25:35has five ground floor reception rooms, four bedrooms,
25:39plus the spacious annex and 2.3 acres of land,
25:43priced at £1.375 million.
25:48The approach is just wonderful,
25:50and you are surrounded by a whole mixture of trees.
25:55This is more than we hoped for, if I'm honest.
25:57The house itself has got a beautiful, warm feeling about it.
26:02It's just wonderful.
26:04And whoever lives here right now has just done such a good job.
26:07You can see their personalities shine through this house,
26:10and I should imagine their personalities might be similar to ours, actually.
26:23Boasting some of the most desirable addresses in the country,
26:26such as Oxford, Henley-on-Thames and Chipping Norton,
26:29it's no surprise that the average price of a detached property in the county
26:33is significantly higher than the £438,000 UK figure at £660,000.
26:43But you can find more affordable homes without having to scrimp on character,
26:48such as this two-bed terrace cottage with historic details like exposed beads,
26:54an Inglenock fireplace, plus a fitted kitchen with butler sink,
26:59on the market for £325,000.
27:04While offers in excess of £475,000 could get you this Grade II listed three-bedroom cottage
27:11with all the heritage features alongside mod cons,
27:15and a mature walled garden to the rear.
27:21Or for £615,000, how about this lovely detached character cottage?
27:27It's accessed by bridge over a stream, in a central village location,
27:32the Grade II listed home boasts three bedrooms,
27:35timeless decor, and a tranquil garden.
27:46Our final property is towards the east of the county,
27:50in the village of Cudston, bounded by the River Tane.
27:54We're setting Naomi and Kev for a mooch,
27:56although it's a bit windy and Kev's only in a T-shirt,
27:59so better make it brief.
28:02There's a community pub with a world-renowned menu,
28:06prioritising seasonality and sustainability.
28:10During the 60s, the vicar of the 12th century church was Robert Runcie,
28:15later the Archbishop of Canterbury.
28:18But I can see the chills setting in, and they're in a hurry.
28:21So I'll get the heating on at the Mystery House,
28:23which has a certain je ne sais quoi that reminds me of France.
28:29Do you know what? I've been looking forward to this all day.
28:32Look at that stonework.
28:33I cannot wait to show them inside, but first, I'll show you. Come on.
28:38Oh, my goodness me.
28:41You know when a property just smacks you over the head with personality?
28:44I just hope it gives them the ooh-la-la sensation.
28:48On a side note, though, I do think they're going to kind of hate me,
28:51because it's another one in the mix, but sorry about it.
28:56Perhaps surprisingly, this substantial 18th century property isn't listed.
29:02Although, why would you want to change a thing?
29:06I know.
29:07Oh, come on down.
29:10Oh, what have you done?
29:11Oh.
29:13Oh, man.
29:15Well, you certainly haven't made it easy, have you?
29:17I know, that's what I'm literally here for, Naomi.
29:19Oh.
29:19And all of that, because there's a lot of building, is the property.
29:23It's huge.
29:24It's huge.
29:24It's amazing, isn't it?
29:26Yeah.
29:26I had to check we were still in Oxfordshire, because it looks like something off a postcard
29:29from a beautiful, peaceful European village, doesn't it?
29:33It actually looks like a French chateau, doesn't it, don't you think?
29:35It does.
29:36This isn't even the most beautiful angle of the house, and look how stunning that is.
29:39Seriously?
29:40Follow me for the money shot.
29:46This converted water mill has its own private mill race, diverted from the River Tame, offering
29:53a special bit of wow.
29:56Oh.
29:57Oh.
29:57Imagine, follow me, having this in your back garden.
30:05Oh.
30:06This is Monet, isn't it?
30:08This is really, really lovely.
30:09Wow.
30:11That's beautiful.
30:12Absolutely beautiful.
30:14I mean, you said how important nature was to you.
30:16Yeah, yeah, yeah.
30:17Voila.
30:17Yeah.
30:18Here it is.
30:18Got it by the spade load here.
30:21Aren't you sure you'll get a...
30:23Oh, swans and herons galore in here.
30:25Yeah, yeah.
30:25Maybe even a kingfisher, a deer.
30:28Who knows?
30:28Who knows?
30:28Imagine having family and friends around here in the summer.
30:31Some lounges over there on the banks of the river.
30:34Yeah.
30:34Pina colada.
30:36Mojito.
30:36Amazing.
30:36Whenever floats your boat.
30:38Yeah, yeah.
30:39Quite literally.
30:39Quite literally.
30:41This is really beautiful.
30:42This is gorgeous.
30:43I have to take you inside, but I feel like I just want to stand out here and just take
30:47it in.
30:48Yeah.
30:48I just want to go over there.
30:49Yeah.
30:49Listen, let's go inside.
30:51And I promise you, it's just as mesmerising.
30:53Oh, sorry.
30:56On first inspection, this outdoor space might not work for the business, but the mystery
31:02house has another surprise up its sleeve later.
31:04It's arranged over four floors and we're starting at the bottom.
31:12Wowzers.
31:13Oh my goodness.
31:16Oh, this is really, really cute.
31:17That's very cute.
31:18Yeah.
31:19Yeah, it is really sweet.
31:21Wow.
31:22Yeah.
31:22Yeah.
31:23I quite like it.
31:24It reminds me of Morocco actually, standing here.
31:26Does it hear?
31:27Yeah, yeah, yeah.
31:27It's the Mediterranean feel about it.
31:29Yeah, I really love it.
31:30Yeah, I like this kitchen.
31:31Look at those windows.
31:32Yeah.
31:32And also when you're cooking, that view.
31:34Yeah.
31:35And you can open the doors.
31:36Shall we go into the living room?
31:37Yes, please.
31:38Follow me.
31:39Definitely.
31:41And how stunning is this staircase?
31:44Seriously.
31:45It's gorgeous.
31:45So unique, isn't it?
31:46It's beautiful.
31:46Follow me.
31:50I'm sorry.
31:51I'm just in love with these stone walls.
31:54Yeah, me too.
31:54Look at this living room.
31:55They're beautiful.
31:56They're such a nice feature, but also probably my favourite thing is the staircase column that
32:01just goes through the whole house and just adds this lovely character.
32:07Just funny shaped rooms.
32:08But it gives a lovely shape to the room, doesn't it?
32:10Yeah.
32:10I really like that.
32:11It's so charming, that staircase, isn't it?
32:13Yeah, for sure.
32:13Yeah, it really is.
32:14Lovely thick deep walls as well, though.
32:17Of course they are thick, aren't they?
32:18Yeah.
32:19And you've literally got a view from every single window.
32:22You look out the window and it's like looking at a picture.
32:24Look at that.
32:25Yeah, you're right, everywhere.
32:26At least you've got a door to get the sofa in and out, because I don't think it's coming
32:28to the stairs, is it?
32:29Yeah.
32:30It's good thinking.
32:31Yeah.
32:32In fact, how would you?
32:35Not my problem.
32:36Next to the sitting room is a study.
32:39A spacious reception room.
32:41I'm thinking sound studio for Kevin.
32:43I mean, you know more about sound than me.
32:45Now that's interesting.
32:46Yeah.
32:47If I could get rid of the noise of the river, which has reduced substantially since we've
32:51been in this, I'd have to do a little bit of work.
32:53But then the acoustics would be really nice, actually.
32:55This is a really romantic house.
32:57I've got to be careful here.
32:58And we've got to be careful here that we use our heads and our hearts.
33:02Yeah, for sure.
33:03Yeah, but, yeah.
33:04Well, listen, why don't you take those hearts upstairs and have a look at the bedroom quarters.
33:09Okay.
33:10And the family bathroom.
33:11And then I'll see you outside.
33:12Because there's a lot to see outside as well.
33:14I can sense that.
33:15Yeah.
33:17The main bedroom is on the floor above.
33:22Oh, my goodness.
33:23Yeah.
33:24This is full of character, isn't it?
33:26Oh, look what they've done.
33:27It's really clever.
33:28That's genius.
33:28Little en suite.
33:30Little en suite.
33:30Big en suite.
33:31It's a big en suite.
33:32That's the favourite bathroom I've seen today.
33:34Yeah.
33:34But also imagine if you're in the bar.
33:36Look at the view.
33:37Just got a huge willow tree outside the bathroom window.
33:40The light in this bedroom and the height.
33:42I wouldn't sleep with curtains closed.
33:44No, I wouldn't.
33:45You'd just want to wake up naturally, wouldn't you?
33:48And there's a family bathroom.
33:50Plus two more bedrooms on the same floor.
33:55So all the rooms are a really lovely size.
33:57What are you thinking so far?
33:59I adore it.
34:00You'd almost feel a bit honoured to live somewhere like this.
34:02I know what you mean.
34:03You don't feel deserving.
34:04Yeah.
34:05I mean, I'm just absolutely blown away by this.
34:07I've never seen anything like this.
34:10The only time I'd actually go swimming in here.
34:12And just imagine that on a summer's day.
34:14I mean, I did offer to do it to show you.
34:16But I thought I'd spare you meeting my swim costume.
34:21On the top floor is another large bedroom.
34:24And outside there's a garden measuring around three quarters of an acre.
34:28Chock full of mature trees.
34:35If we're talking from our hearts, this is absolutely perfect for us.
34:41It's ideal.
34:42It's unique.
34:43It's by water.
34:45Yeah.
34:45Practically for a business with children.
34:48I'm not sure it would work.
34:49Wow.
34:50Oh.
34:51This isn't the only part of the garden.
34:53Just over the road, through the paddock, you've got 1.5 acres of land and no water.
35:00Oh, my God.
35:01Oh, that's another game changer.
35:02Yeah.
35:02I mean, it is really, really beautiful.
35:04How much do you think it's on the market for?
35:07I think it's got to be top end of the budget.
35:111.65.
35:121.65.
35:13Kev?
35:14I was going to say 1.6.
35:16So it's up for 1.5 million.
35:18I expect it to be more.
35:19Yeah.
35:19So I'm pleasantly surprised.
35:211.5 million pounds for this 18th century water mill, spread over four floors and offering
35:29four bedrooms, a spacious kitchen, the potential studio for Kev and over two acres of land.
35:35That's as practical as it is beautiful.
35:39If I were thinking completely with my heart and romantically, this is where I want to live
35:46because it's so beautiful.
35:48So the setting is beautiful.
35:51You could be anywhere in the world.
35:53I actually prefer where this house is set.
35:55I prefer the countryside around it.
35:57I think if we were retiring.
35:59Perfect.
36:00And we didn't have a dream to do something, I think this would be the perfect house for
36:07us.
36:08Should we just retire?
36:10It's tempting.
36:18Naomi is such an advocate of the benefits of immersing yourself in woodland.
36:23And that's where I've chosen to meet an intriguing artist.
36:27Harriet Riddle stitches wonderful works of art.
36:30And having worked in Nairobi and the Himalayas, this forest should be a breeze.
36:35And what's more, she says I can help.
36:39Oh, here you are.
36:41I found you.
36:42Hello Harriet.
36:43Hi Richie.
36:44How's it going?
36:44Good.
36:45This is quite the setup.
36:46So what's going on here then?
36:47So I like to draw what I see with my sewing machine and I take myself to interesting places
36:52to make artworks with thread.
36:56So obviously a sewing machine needs power and there's no plugs around here.
37:01So I've got the bike which generates electricity and that powers the sewing machine.
37:05So do you fancy doing some pedalling?
37:07Okay.
37:09Oh, look at that.
37:10So how hard and how fast do I need to pedal?
37:13You're going to have to give me a little bit more weight, please.
37:14A little bit more.
37:14It's like the Tour de France, have you?
37:16Keep going.
37:16We're not on yet.
37:18Still more?
37:19That's good.
37:20So nobody told me it was going to be this much hard work.
37:22You know what I mean?
37:22I feel like I'm in a spin class.
37:27So I'm going to stitch a portrait of you.
37:31Yeah, starting with your face.
37:32You might need a lot of material for the teeth.
37:37It's got great cheekbones.
37:39Thank you very much.
37:40I've heard that before.
37:41Has art always been in your family?
37:43Where did this come from?
37:44My grandmother, she's an artist in Canada and she taught me how to use the machine and
37:50how to use this free motion technique when I was about ten.
37:54Yeah.
37:55Whew.
37:57But it took an expensive three year degree course to kind of come back round to the idea.
38:04And I was stitching the naked models and life drawing.
38:07I'm not doing that.
38:08I won't make you take your clothes off.
38:11Not on this saddle.
38:12Wow.
38:13And it's amazing that this has taken you all over the world as well.
38:17Yeah.
38:18I've been very lucky.
38:20Sometimes I take myself on adventures to India.
38:23I've done residencies in Kenya and Taiwan.
38:27Some street festivals around Europe.
38:30I grew up in Oxfordshire.
38:32This woodland was actually the first place I'd ever took my sewing machine.
38:36How intricate can you be with the detail?
38:38Pretty intricate.
38:39I'm just doing your spiders.
38:41Oh, do you want me to do it no handed so you can see it all?
38:43Like, look mum, no hands.
38:44I know, look at me.
38:46Showing off now.
38:47How long we got left?
38:49Just asking for a friend.
38:54Not long.
38:55I'm on your knees.
38:56Yeah.
38:56You and me both, Harriet.
38:58All good.
38:59You okay?
39:00Yeah.
39:01It's just the pressures of cycling and entertaining.
39:03Have a little rest.
39:04Thank you so much.
39:05I was hoping you'd say that.
39:06It's doing good.
39:07I was like, please give me a break, Harriet.
39:08Please give me a break.
39:09Right, let me just turn that beep off for a moment.
39:12What's that beeping?
39:13That's not my heart monitor, is it?
39:15No.
39:16I don't know.
39:18Here is your portrait.
39:19You have worked so hard for.
39:21Well done.
39:21Oh my goodness me.
39:22That is so incredible.
39:23In here you've got black country, dance, pedal power and the woods.
39:29Anyway, you've been very generous with the teeth as well.
39:32Thank you for doing that.
39:33Pleasure.
39:34It's been a pleasure to meet you and thank you for pedaling the bike.
39:37Without you, there'd be no art.
39:38No, it's a team effort, Harriet.
39:39I refuse to take all the credit.
39:41I mean, I did a lot of it, but not all the credit.
39:44How incredible is that?
39:48A portrait and a workout, not a bad afternoon.
39:58I've had such a joy house hunting with Naomi and Kev this week.
40:02And we've had some glowing reviews of our properties.
40:04To be honest with you, I don't know which way this is going to go.
40:08Let's go and find out.
40:11Hello there.
40:12Hiya.
40:12Right there.
40:14Let's get down to it.
40:15I mean, this is stunning here, isn't it?
40:17It's gorgeous.
40:17Yeah.
40:18So where are you at?
40:19Come on.
40:20Let's talk business.
40:21I think it was quite obvious.
40:23I think the farmhouse that we saw with the outbuildings and the land was just beautiful.
40:32It was beautiful and ready to move into actually.
40:35It's so important that we haven't got any neighbours too close because of what we're going
40:39to do with the business.
40:40And it's so important that people can drive and park easily in and out without disrupting
40:46anybody.
40:47And at that house, that was taken care of.
40:49Do you know when you kind of...
40:50It's a bit like your love story.
40:51You know when you meet someone and they're the one?
40:53Yeah.
40:53I feel like you kind of get that from a house.
40:55Yeah.
40:55That's the vibe I got when you were in there.
40:57I did.
40:57Yeah, for sure.
40:58I felt very at home there.
40:59I felt very, very at home.
41:00And funnily enough, if I'd have seen that in particular, I don't know if I'd have gone
41:05to look at it, to be honest.
41:06But being there...
41:07It just goes to show how important it is, isn't it, to actually be there so that you
41:10can feel it.
41:11And that's why you should always trust Escape to the Country.
41:13We bring it to life.
41:14I'm not going to argue with that.
41:15Don't worry about them brochures.
41:17Yeah.
41:17We can't argue with that.
41:18So what's next then?
41:21We both really love the farmhouse.
41:24Mmm.
41:25We can ask for a second viewing.
41:26So it's in the mix and it could be the one.
41:28Oh, it's well in the mix.
41:29I think so, yes.
41:30It's well in the mix.
41:30Yes, definitely in the mix.
41:31I will absolutely take that.
41:33Will you do me a favour though?
41:34As soon as you get it, because I'm crossing everything, you call me and let me know.
41:37I'm going to.
41:38We will.
41:39There'll be a party, don't worry.
41:40I've already got you a house band.
41:42No, not really.
41:42This is there.
41:43You can't take that.
41:44You can't take that.
41:45Listen, thank you so much.
41:48You've made the week lovely, so thank you very much.
41:50It's been amazing.
41:50You know, and all your team, it's just been such a joy, hasn't it?
41:54Yes.
41:54We've laughed until we've cried.
41:56Well, I've certainly cried.
41:57You have.
42:04I've had the best time exploring Oxfordshire with Naomi and Kev.
42:08And it never ceases to amaze me actually just how beautiful this county is.
42:13It's been inspiring to hear more about their plans.
42:16And just knowing it's going to make such a difference to so many people.
42:20It's funny because a few years ago they met on a dating app and it was a love at first
42:24sight.
42:25And when they walked in that farmhouse, I think they kind of had the same reaction.
42:30Love at first sight.
42:31I'm so happy they're going back for a second viewing.
42:34And I hope this marks that fresh start they're looking for.
42:38I'll see you next time.
42:41Naomi and Kev did book to go back and see the farmhouse again.
42:45But having researched the wider area, they found it didn't meet all their needs.
42:50And so their search continues.
42:52We hope they find their perfect property soon.
42:57If you would like to escape to the country in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales
43:01and need our help, why not apply online at bbc.co.uk forward slash take part.
43:09We'll see you next time.
43:10Bye.
43:10Bye.
43:20Bye.
43:26Bye.
43:28Bye.
43:28Bye.
43:29Bye.
43:30Bye.
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