In the latest episode of BBC’s Escape to the Country, presenter Nicki Chapman accompanied Polly, a South London resident, on her journey to find a new home in Wiltshire. With a budget of £450,000, Polly was seeking a house with at least three bedrooms and a garden, ideal for her and her young daughter.
Polly’s mother, Mary, joined the search, and their first viewing was at a charming property in Maiden Bradley. While Polly and Mary admired the home’s exterior, Nicki took a moment to explore a unique village highlight: a fresh-milk vending machine.
“This is a first for me,” Nicki exclaimed as she demonstrated how the machine dispensed fresh milk into a reusable glass bottle. She expressed genuine surprise and delight, saying, “Who knew you could get so excited getting fresh milk? This is a lifeline for local villagers. Along with milk, you can also buy cheese and butter. It’s such a brilliant idea!”
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The trio then toured the inviting cottage, with Polly describing it as “adorable” and surprisingly affordable. Mary agreed, envisioning peaceful afternoons spent together in the garden. Although the asking price was at the top of Polly’s budget, Nicki encouraged her to negotiate with the owner.
Despite viewing two other properties — one in Ludwell, which was too small, and another in Trowbridge that didn’t quite fit — Polly felt the Maiden Bradley home offered a “financial safety net,” thanks to the potential rental opportunity in the garden space.
As the episode concluded, Polly revealed that she had returned for a second viewing and made an offer on the property. However, she remains unable to finalize the purchase until her London flat is sold.
Escape to the Country continues to capture the hopes and emotions of those searching for their perfect rural retreat, with Nicki’s genuine reactions adding warmth and authenticity to the journey.