Escape to the Country's most painful viewings from disagreements to deal-breakers

The BBC property show is a hit with viewers but it’s seen some of disastrous viewings over the years

BBC’s popular programme Escape to the Country has been keeping audiences engaged since its debut in October 2002.

The enthralling property show, which aids potential buyers in their quest for a rural dream home, has guided thousands of city dwellers yearning for a dramatic shift to tranquil country living.

For some hopeful homeowners, the show serves as an ideal springboard towards securing their perfect property or gaining insights about the locale. However, as many property seekers can attest, not every viewing unfolds as expected.

We’ve taken a look back at some of the most calamitous property viewings featured on the daytime show, reports Wales Online.

Not convinced

The thatched roof left the couple divided(Image: BBC)

In an episode broadcast in August this year, a couple found themselves at odds over a thatched-roof house. The beautiful property, nestled in Wiltshire, saw Stephanie and Ollie divided over the roof.

Standing outside the dwelling, it was evident that Stephanie wasn’t enamoured with the design. Ollie, however, had a different opinion, stating: “I like thatches, nothing wrong with thatches, as long as they are looked after and well kept. I think they’re great!”

But presenter Ginny Buckley observed that Stephanie’s feelings remained unchanged even inside the property. She expressed: “I’m not convinced, I don’t know. It’s just not quite warm and homely. That’s the vibe I’m getting.”

Ginny responded: “So I guess what you should perhaps do is go off and explore yourself.” She added: “Have a wander, keep that open mind.”

Unforgivable

The grand home was shut down by the buyer(Image: BBC)

A participant on the BBC’s popular property programme was left underwhelmed after discovering the proximity of a home to its neighbours.

During a November 2024 broadcast, Kicki, originally hailing from Sweden but residing in Surrey, was on the hunt for a peaceful countryside retreat to enhance her wellbeing. Yet, when shown around a striking, spacious dwelling in Nyewood, West Sussex by presenter Alastair Appleton, Kicki voiced concerns, remarking: “The neighbours are a bit close. The road is a bit close. The house looks fascinating and beautiful.”

Despite the impressive interior, Kicki remained unconvinced post-viewing, expressing: “The house is beautifully done up. I don’t think I can forgive the neighbours being so close. It’s not what I’m looking for at the moment. I’m sorry.”

Way too far

Caroline was not chuffed about moving to the countryside(Image: BBC)

In another case which unfolded in September, presenter Alistair found himself tackling a challenging brief as a hopeful buyer grappled with the notion that her desired relocation distance might just be too extensive.

Caroline, hailing from West London, aimed to make the bold move to Pembrokeshire, Wales, driven by a quest for stunning vistas and generous living quarters. However, throughout the episode, it became apparent to viewers and the presenter alike that Caroline’s zeal was somewhat lacking.

By the close of the episode, Caroline had peeled back the layers of her lukewarm response to the properties showcased on the show.

She remarked: “The ‘but’ started on my inbound journey coming into Pembrokeshire actually, I have to say so. While I studied in depth the different routes on getting to and from London, while I realised I wouldn’t be living somewhere that isn’t a skip and hop, I hadn’t expected it to take more than double the amount of time on paper.”

She then termed the ordeal as a “step too far” and elaborated: “Rural doesn’t need to be remote, that’s the biggest lesson I’ve learned.”

Hidden horrors

The home had a hidden aspect to it (Image: BBC)

In an episode broadcast last year, presenter Alastair had to point out what could be considered a hidden horror rather than a gem.

Merely minutes into showing Xiaonan and her daughter, Xinyi, around the property during their house search, he disclosed that within the wall of this particular house were old children’s shoes that seemed to have been worn by youngsters.

This home was among the select few that withstood the devastating great fire of Leonard Stanley in the 1600s, resulting in its designation as a Grade II listed building.

Alastair mentioned: “There’s a nice little quirky story. For good luck in these old buildings, in the walls – in the left-hand wall here, there’s two pairs of children’s shoes.”

Taken aback initially, Xiaonan responded: “I like it, I actually have some designs already in my mind!”

Haunted home

The buyers labelled the home ‘haunted’(Image: BBC)

In March last year, a well-off couple promptly termed a stately mansion they visited “haunted”.

Grace and Joe, a couple fresh from Florida seeking to settle back in the UK, were absolutely astounded by a stunning £800,000 property. With their hearts set on something contemporary, they were taken aback when they encountered an imposing Victorian home in Cheshire.

Gazing at its exterior, Joe couldn’t help but quip: “Wow, it’s haunted! ” Grace added with anticipation: “It’s very grand, I’m definitely intrigued.”

However, despite being captivated by its splendour, both Joe and Grace conceded that the property was more than they had bargained for.

“The mystery house was a little bit too much for us,” Joe said candidly. “It’s just too much house.”

Escape to the Country airs weekdays at 3pm on ITV1.

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