A couple who appeared on the BBC programme 'Escape to the Country' were moved to tears after viewing a property that broke the show's usual conventions. Michael and Maryan, who wanted to leave the Isle of Wight for a new life in Scotland, were shown a townhouse in Grantown-on-Spey, which is unusual for the show as it typically features rural homes.
The couple had a budget of £650,000 and a specific wish list, including a large plot of land, a bike store, and a workshop for their proposed mountain bike business. They also wanted at least three bedrooms, a mix of traditional and contemporary design, and a magnificent staircase. The first property they viewed was a converted school near Glenshee, which sat on 0.75 acres and was priced at offers over £650,000. Although it was on a main road, it offered great visibility for their business, and Maryan fell in love with its modern staircase.
The second property was an Edwardian detached house in Grantown-on-Spey, with five bedrooms and beautifully restored period features. Upon entering, Maryan was overcome with emotion at the sight of the staircase, exclaiming through tears, 'Oh my goodness, I feel quite emotional, that's something else.' The house had a 'his and hers' fireplace with built-in drinks cabinets, and the kitchen diner featured a large island. However, the property only had half an acre of land and was in a town, which presenter Jules Hudson acknowledged was a gamble for the show.
Despite the land issue, Maryan said the house immediately felt like home. Michael noted the practical challenges of maintaining such a large property but was won over by the staircase. The price of over £560,000 was within their budget, and Michael joked they could even afford a yacht. The couple then viewed a third property, a mystery house near Muir of Fowlis with 10 acres of land and a workshop, priced at offers over £590,000. They promised to return for a second viewing, hoping to realise their dream of escaping to the country.
