Escape to the Country

Artist Julia seeks Dorset inspiration, trading her London flat for a family home. Can £200k meet her dreams?

Up until now the Kent family’s enjoyment of the countryside was limited to weekends. They’ve sold their home in Bristol and need to find a new country home fast. It must be in the Forest of Dean and have three bedrooms and a large garden—for £250k.

IT Consultant Helen wants to swap her heels for wellies and her trendy city flat for a grown-up home in the countryside. She’s got £450k for a house in the Essex countryside with a kitchen that’s built for entertaining. Melissa Porter is on the case.