Escape to the Country

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

When Kay and Paul’s young son fell dangerously ill last year, they decided to get out of Cannock and head for North Shropshire. They boy’s grandmother is coming too, so it means the hunt is on for a large house with an annex and land to keep horses.

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.