On Tuesday’s instalment of viewers were introduced to Nicky and Paul, a couple eager to relocate from West Sussex to Herefordshire after 15 years in their home.
With a budget of £550,000, they sought a three-bedroom detached house complete with a garden. Their excitement was palpable when Jules, the show’s host, presented them with their first option.
However, it was the mystery property in Bartestree, just outside Gloucester, that truly captivated them. The unique home, a converted church, was described by Jules to the viewers as “Very rare and very beautiful.”
Despite modern conversions done in the late ’90s, the building maintained its charm with original features like stained glass windows, solid oak doors, painted ceilings and even an old donations box, reports .
Upon arrival, Nicky and Paul were visibly stunned. Nicky, lost for words, said: “I’ll just get my voice back. Ok, I have been rendered speechless!”
The mystery home was a Grade II converted church (Image: BBC)
Inside the Grade II listed property, Nicky’s emotions surged, prompting Jules to observe: “You are genuinely speechless.”
Nicky emotionally responded: “I’m emotional as well. It’s just amazing. It’s got a really, really lovely feel.
“Excuse me, I’m fine, I’m fine. Yeah, it’s just the vibe the place gives. This is good crying, not bad crying.”
In an effort to lighten the atmosphere, Jules playfully showcased a still-functional bell, Nicky suggested with a chuckle that it could become a novel way to announce tea time.
Nicky was moved to tears over the ‘rare’ home (Image: BBC)
As they toured more of the property, Nicky couldn’t hide her admiration, admitting there was nothing she’d wish to change.
When it was time to guess the value of the unique residence, the couple feared it would stretch beyond their budget, but their astonishment was palpable when Jules revealed an asking price starting at £500,000.
At the end of the episode, Jules was eager to discover their decision, learning that the property is very much in the running, with Nicky disclosing, “It is very much a contender. So, we’re going to book a couple of nights there and actually stay there.”
The property maintained some of its original features (Image: BBC)
As they discussed that the property is already listed as a holiday let, Jules commended the chance to experience living there before committing to purchase.
Paul expressed his sentiment saying, “What a privilege you know, to potentially be the custodians of something so beautiful.”
Escape to the Country is available to watch on iPlayer.