Ep 7. Hampshire

Escape to the Country is a British reality show that follows prospective buyers as they search for their dream rural home. In season 18 episode 7, entitled Hampshire, viewers are taken on a journey to the stunning county of Hampshire in southern England.

The episode begins with presenter Jules Hudson meeting the featured couple, a husband and wife looking to escape their busy London lives for a calmer pace of life in the Hampshire countryside. They have a budget of £700,000 and are looking for a spacious family home with plenty of outdoor space for their young children to play.

Jules takes the couple on a tour of the picturesque county, highlighting some of the area's key selling points such as its charming villages, rolling hills, and historic landmarks. He also touches on some of the practicalities of living in the area, including commute times and the availability of local amenities.

The first property that Jules shows the couple is a beautiful Grade II listed farmhouse in the village of Kingsclere. With its exposed beams, inglenook fireplace, and stunning views of the countryside, the property certainly ticks the couple's boxes for character and charm. However, with a guide price of £825,000, it's slightly over budget.

Next up, Jules takes the couple to a converted barn in the village of Hursley. With its open plan living space, modern features, and stunning views, the property is a real gem. The couple is particularly taken with the spacious kitchen and the large garden which would provide ample space for their children to play. The property is priced at £675,000, making it well within their budget.

The third property that Jules shows the couple is a stunning Georgian rectory in the village of Nately Scures. With its grand entrance hall, original features, and mature garden, the property is a real showstopper. However, with a guide price of £1,100,000, it's significantly over budget. Despite this, the couple can't help but be impressed with the property's grandeur and elegance.

The final property that Jules shows the couple is a beautifully renovated detached house in the village of Overton. With its stylish interior, spacious rooms, and large garden, the property is a real winner with the couple. Priced at £725,000, it's just within their budget and they can't help but imagine themselves living in the property's peaceful surroundings.

Throughout the episode, Jules also meets with local experts who provide insights into the local property market and the benefits of living in the area. He also visits some of Hampshire's key attractions, such as the historic cathedral city of Winchester and the Jane Austen House Museum in Chawton.

As the episode draws to a close, the couple reflects on their journey and the properties they've seen. They're torn between the charming farmhouse in Kingsclere and the modern converted barn in Hursley, but ultimately they've realized that the important thing is finding a property that suits their needs and lifestyle, rather than just its aesthetic appeal.

Overall, Escape to the Country season 18 episode 7 is a delightful and informative journey through the beautiful county of Hampshire. With its stunning countryside, charming villages, and fascinating history, it's no wonder that the area is such a popular choice for those looking to escape city life and find their dream rural home.