- 33 minutes ago
Escape To The Country - Season 26 - Episode 23: Pembrokeshire
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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?
00:08It'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.
00:27But 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, that'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.
01:47And 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 adelaideau hanesyddol nifer yno gydon ni.
02:10Fel y rhaglwys gydaelol yn Tudewi a y cystell Pembro.
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, five o'clock.
02:29You can drive to the beach.
02:30You can swim.
02:30You can go and get a coffee on the cliffs.
02:33You know, you can't do that in many places in the UK.
02:36Inland and surrounded by woodland, Daigleddai 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
03:14and has no recollection of the trip.
03:17But her intuition has told her that this is the place
03:22and that we are going to help her find a new home here.
03:29Hi, I'm Ruth. This 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,
03:46living 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 thirties, I had some family members who moved to Cornwall
04:01and I was like, oh, this is 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. It'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 businessmen to embrace spirituality.
04:38They can bring their intuition, their own knowing, their connection to the other world,
04:43where it's everything that they do in their 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,
05:02that would be fantastic. And 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,
05:12who 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,
05:25as well as her 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
05:40to find a two bedroom property with 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.
06:39It's beautiful.
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.
06:47But I'm, I'm so looking forward to today.
06:49Bubble over, be unbearable.
06:50We like the excitement.
06:52Please bring it.
06:53The more the better.
06:54Now, Pembrokeshire.
06:55Yes.
06:56I mean, it's a stunning place, but what, 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 just, it's all of that that kind of drew me to this place to learn more about it and
07:13to live in it.
07:14What about you, Tracey?
07:15It must be so exciting to hear your friend doing this.
07:17Oh, absolutely.
07:18I 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.
07:42And who's the sensible one?
07:43I think I can guess.
07:45Me, obviously.
07:46Yeah, obviously you.
07:47Yeah, yeah.
07:48It's Tracey.
07:49That's why Tracey's here.
07:50Tracey will be the one who'll 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, Tracey.
08:04Glad you're here.
08:05Shall we get it going?
08:06Yes, please.
08:07Come on.
08:11We're kicking things off less than a 20-minute drive from the coast in the market town of Narbeth.
08:17Frequently appearing on the Sunday Times list of best places to live in the UK,
08:21Narbeth 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 Narbeth.
08:36Isn't it 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.
08:41Well, 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 Ruth Street.
09:01I can just see you and Marvin coming out for your walks.
09:04Definitely.
09:05So, we like Narbeth so far?
09:06We do so far.
09:08Really 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 you going to have a look?
09:15Yes, please.
09:15Oh, my God then.
09:19Just a short stroll brings us to this semi-detached home, tucked away in a small 1980s development.
09:26Currently 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.
09:38Okay.
09:40This is a nice size.
09:41It's good, isn't it?
09:42Yes, it is.
09:44Yes, 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.
09:50I really like that.
09:51Very handy with the 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 do 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.
10:36Voila.
10:36It does.
10:37It's the old and the new together, sort of, isn't it?
10:40Yeah.
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.
10:52OK, so we might get a few visits from Spruits at night time.
10:56The 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.
11:32Wow, 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.
11:41Loved at wardrobe space.
11:43Which I need.
11:45I really like it, Bryana.
11:47Oh, good.
11:47I'm so pleased.
11:49So, I'm going to send you and Tracy off to have a look and I'll meet you in the garden
11:51in a minute.
11:52Okay.
11:53Thank you very much.
11:54In a minute.
12:01It's a big room, isn't it?
12:02I wasn't expecting this.
12:03Yeah, it's a good size.
12:04It is a big room.
12:05This could almost be a master as well, couldn't it?
12:08Absolutely.
12:08It's your bedroom when you come to stay.
12:10Ooh.
12:12Lovely.
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.
12:40Hello.
12:40How's it going?
12:41Really good, thank you.
12:42Good.
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,
12:50there'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,
13:00because we want to spend more time outdoors and out in nature.
13:04Low maintenance.
13:05Yep.
13:05I think so.
13:06I think it doesn't need a lot doing to it.
13:09Ruth just needs to put her touch in it.
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.
13:25And 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.
13:41Yeah.
13:41I'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.
13:52And when it's time to head out, some of Pembrokeshire's most picturesque landscapes are practically on the doorstep, with the
14:00coast just a short drive away.
14:03I think this house meets a lot of Ruth's needs. It doesn't need a lot of work doing to it,
14:09which pleases me greatly. The aspects are lovely.
14:13She's got Narberth town centre just on the doorstep, so I do think this will be a good buy for
14:19Ruth.
14:19This house in Narberth is definitely a contender.
14:24Once you come through the door, it is like the TARDIS.
14:26The rooms are a fantastic size and it's just amazing. It's difficult to know how the rest are going to
14:33beat 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, well 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, helped by
15:18great transport connections.
15:20But people don't choose to live here just because it's practical.
15:25Halfford West is a very friendly town. The people, it'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 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 and the town is home to several charities and social
16:08enterprise 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 genes and stuff.
16:17I love the Harbour 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 so.
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?
16:55I'll give you the short version.
16:57My 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.
17:14I'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.
17:34No 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.
17:41Yeah, excellent.
17:43And remember that an F is a V.
17:45So even if you don't know Yutraveen from Yukiwai,
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.
18:11Named 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.
18:29Then, welcome. Here we are.
18:32Thank you. Our next property. Yes.
18:35A bit newer than the last one. Yes, yes.
18:37How do we feel about newer houses?
18:39I wasn't that keen, but it looks nice and I'm kind of liking the parking situation.
18:46Yes, yes. Yeah, you do get a parking space. Yeah.
18:49And yeah, I mean, it's very quiet. It is, isn't it?
18:52It's lovely and quiet. It's peaceful.
18:54Shall we go and have a look? Yes, please. Right then.
18:59Built just five years ago, this modern terraced home boasts an A-rated EPC,
19:05so it's top of the class when it comes to energy efficiency.
19:08That means a smaller carbon footprint and, for budget-savvy Tracey,
19:12some welcome savings on those monthly bills.
19:17Come on through. Thank you. Downstairs loo. Okay.
19:20Always very handy.
19:22Welcome to this lovely kitchen.
19:24It's a nice kitchen, isn't it? Isn't it?
19:27It's nice. Yeah.
19:28Yeah, it's been really nicely done, hasn't it? It has.
19:31It's really small. A nice flooring.
19:32It's all ready to move into, isn't it? Yeah.
19:34You wouldn't have to do anything. No. Nothing to do here.
19:37Other than add a bit of roof pizzazz.
19:40Yes. Yeah.
19:40It needs a bit of...
19:42A bit 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.
19:47So 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. Okay.
20:00Come on in. Thank you.
20:04Okay.
20:05So you've not got the kitchen diner.
20:07You've got more of a lounge diner.
20:09Yeah.
20:09Nice big space in here.
20:10Yes.
20:11Good sized 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.
20:21But I have some very similar furniture to this,
20:23so 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.
20:29Yes.
20:30It's a lovely house.
20:31It is.
20:32But knowing where Ruth lives and how she lives,
20:35I 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.
20:43This 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.
20:49Well, that's fine.
20:49You go upstairs, have a little explore.
20:52Come find me in the garden.
20:52Okay.
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,
21:02and 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,
21:12two of which are doubles.
21:14Oh, this is a nice room.
21:16Oh, this is pretty, isn't it?
21:17Yeah.
21:18It's big as well.
21:18You think it's got the double bed.
21:20Look at the view as well.
21:22Yes.
21:22That's a lovely view, isn't it?
21:25Yeah.
21:25This 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,
21:33but she hasn't heard the 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,
21:53and 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,
22:11meaning less time with a trowel,
22:13and more time for beach walks or countryside adventures.
22:16Hello.
22:18Hi.
22:18All right.
22:19Yes, thank you, yes.
22:20Good.
22:21What did you think of upstairs, Tracy?
22:23Yeah, there were good sized bedrooms,
22:25and a lovely view uninterrupted,
22:27which was really, really nice.
22:30But yeah, I think it lacked something that Ruth wants from her home.
22:35Yeah.
22:35How are we feeling about the flow still?
22:37Still not feeling it.
22:38It's OK.
22:39Still not feeling it.
22:39I think this is a really lovely house.
22:41It's just not the house for me.
22:44Well, let's talk price,
22:45because you never know.
22:46What are we thinking?
22:47Trace, you go first this time.
22:48I think three bedrooms, £220,000.
22:52£220,000?
22:54£230,000.
22:56OK.
22:56Well, you're both wrong again.
22:58Actually on the market for offers over £200,000.
23:00Right.
23:02Do you know what?
23:02Someone's going to get a lovely home for that price, aren't they?
23:04Yeah.
23:05Yeah, but unfortunately not me.
23:07No, that's OK.
23:07That's OK.
23:08But that's 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 under Ruth's top budget, but this terraced eco home isn't quite the right fit for
23:19her.
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, energy 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 do very much like in here.
23:44It's got some beautiful wooden doors and I really thought actually if those wooden doors were in house number one,
23:50they would look fantastic.
23:52And they've got some very natural wood furniture that really sets the whole house off and gives it character.
23:59So there's definitely some touches here that they have that I'm taking away with me.
24:07As our first day of property hunting wraps up, I thought it would be fitting to reflect on everything we've
24:13seen 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 Tracy, 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.
24:42This 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.
24:53I think it is.
24:54You think it is?
24:55I think it's here.
24:57Oh, it's arrived!
24:58Yeah, it'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.
25:09There'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.
25:19And we've still got the mystery house to go.
25:20I have no idea what you're going to throw at me tomorrow, but I'm really looking forward to seeing it.
25:26So I've watched this often enough to know that there's going to be a curveball, there's going to be something
25:30different.
25:31So bring it on.
25:32Watch this space.
25:33Yeah.
25:33Let's go and have a little potter.
25:35Good night's sleep.
25:36And go again tomorrow.
25:37Perfect.
25:38Thank 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, here's what you need to know.
26:09Property prices are slightly lower in Pembrokeshire than in Wales as a whole, with the average price of a detached
26:16property standing at just over £322,000.
26:20And when compared to the UK figure, which is just over £440,000, Pembrokeshire stands out as a great value
26:28destination 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, including this unique twin pod lodge located on a small holding in the village of Pelcom.
26:46Its 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, a conservatory and a large garden.
27:07It'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.
27:40Now 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.
28:08The 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, close to the vibrant community she's
28:28been 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, it's also probably
29:18one 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! Hi!
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! We've got a mystery.
29:52Yeah.
29:52I like it. I like stonework.
29:54Yeah.
29:55I like the boards. I 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. Thank you.
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 is that?
30:48You can swim in there.
30:49Can you feel it? Feel that flow. Feel it.
30:51Wow, this 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.
31:08Well, 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 plus.
31:16It's got solar panels, air source heat pump.
31:19Energy bills work out around about £600 a year in this house, which is...
31:25Wow.
31:26Mega.
31:26Yeah.
31:27It's got underfloor heating.
31:29Has it got underfloor heating?
31:30Tracey 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.
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, and
31:55not one, but two en suites.
32:00Ooh.
32:01This is nice, isn't it?
32:03It is, isn't it?
32:04I love the fitted wardrobes.
32:06Plenty of storage space.
32:07A lot of storage space.
32:08Yeah.
32:09Oh, nice en suite.
32:11En suite bathroom.
32:12Yeah.
32:12I like that.
32:13Lovely.
32:14Cooler 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.
32:24I'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 suite 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 suite, isn't it?
32:38Yeah.
32:39It's really pretty.
32:40It's bright all the way through.
32:42It is.
32:43It's 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
33:02panels must be in overdrive.
33:05Hi.
33:06Hello again.
33:07The sun is shining, isn't it gorgeous?
33:10It's beautiful.
33:11It'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 it
33:34does 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 off for £210,000.
33:49£210,000.
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 must
33:59be 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.
34:17Yeah.
34:17Your bills are £600.
34:19Yeah.
34:19On that alone for Tracey, it's a serious contender.
34:22Absolutely.
34:22Absolutely.
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
34:47coast we'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, so 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.
35:26Shall we 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.
35:48So, I'm Sue.
35:49I'm John.
35:50This is John.
35:52We've moved from Whitechapel to Pembrokeshire about 12 years ago
35:57to start a new life adventure.
35:59And we're now in a glamping site over in Pembrokeshire.
36:03Near the village of Bonkaff is the couple's luxury eco-glamping site,
36:08set across 27 acres on what was once an 18th century farmstead.
36:13Our sort of glamping site is all about being in nature.
36:16And this is one of our lovely nature dines.
36:18We've got some safari lodges up the other meadow.
36:20So, if you look all the way round,
36:23you've got some amazing views of the National Park and the woodlands.
36:27And that's what it's all about,
36:28is 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, how's it going?
36:42Hi there.
36:42Hi, welcome 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.
36:50This way, let's go.
36:54The Times newspaper recently named the site
36:56one of the coolest places to stay in Britain.
36:59And with safari lodges, nature domes and former barns
37:04converted into a cinema and play areas for children,
37:07it's not hard to see why.
37:09Oh, that's not a bad spot, is it?
37:11No, no, not at all.
37:13When you look back now at your life before here,
37:17what did it involve?
37:19Early morning commutes, long car journeys,
37:21sales targets, stressful meetings.
37:24Sitting in the office, all that kind of stuff, yeah.
37:26And now what does life look for?
37:27This is our office now.
37:29This is the best office ever.
37:31I know, it's a bit jammy, really.
37:32It is, it is fantastic.
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,
37:44because it's so beautiful, it's an old Georgian farm.
37:47Yeah, I mean, there hadn't been any farming for a few years
37:49before 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.
37:57And the roofs were falling in.
37:59So, it was a blank canvas, but it was a hell of a lot of work.
38:02And how long has that taken?
38:04Twelve years.
38:05Twelve years and counting.
38:06It's a lifetime project.
38:08The couple's nature-led ethos has earned them multiple awards
38:12for innovation and sustainability.
38:14They've restored wildflower meadows
38:16and planted a tree for every guest who's 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.
38:34Oh, hi, team.
38:36Now, this one's Myrtle.
38:38Myrtle.
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?
38:51Cooney Coonies are a small, easy-handling breed that make good pets
38:54and also they graze more than they root, so we can use them for conservation grazing.
39:00So you don't think about pigs as grazing animals,
39:02but actually the grass on the ground here is their food for 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.
39:11You see these little pockets of habitat.
39:12So with habitat, what you want is diversity.
39:15So having different bits of diversity, where you've got long grass there,
39:18you've got tussock here, you've got bramble there.
39:20So it's just creating different levels of habitat and provides richness of food
39:25for different sort of creatures that then feed 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 it hard today.
39:40He's an old boy now, he 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, it's been lovely.
39:51I know, it's been super.
39:52It's been super duper.
39:54This eco-glamping retreat offers a peaceful escape and also gives something back,
40:00making it a great fit for the natural 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?
40:22Hi.
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.
40:38And you've just done a great job and I've loved seeing all of Pembrokeshire, the houses.
40:45Yeah.
40:45And I'm reassured that Ruth's making the right move.
40:50Makes 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.
41:02Okay.
41:03Okay.
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.
41:29Well, before I go to pick up Marvin, I'm going for a second viewing at house number
41:32one.
41:33Yay.
41:33So I am 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.
41:52And I wish you all the best.
41:54Thanks.
41:54Please stay in touch and let us know what happens.
41:55I will do.
41:56Fully 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.
42:23So 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's 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.
43:09The End
43:10The End
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