In a heartfelt moment on the BBC’s Escape to the Country, Joey, a long-time Heathrow airport resident, was overwhelmed with emotion as she stepped into a dream cottage priced well below her budget.
The episode, aired on May 13, features Joey, a customer service employee for a major airline, who is eager to leave her small one-bedroom flat near the airport after more than 40 years. As she plans for retirement and reduced working hours, Joey’s goal is to find a peaceful home in the Wiltshire countryside that offers tranquility and space.
Joining her on this journey is Sandra, a close friend and former coworker, who supports Joey’s search for a minimum of two bedrooms and a garden, all within a two-hour commute to Heathrow.
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The standout property was a charming 19th-century cottage boasting a period fireplace, two bedrooms, a courtyard garden, and off-street parking. Located in a picturesque village just over an hour and a half from Heathrow, it immediately captured Joey’s heart.
Upon entering the living room, Joey was moved to tears, exclaiming, “Oh my word,” as the presenter, Alistair Appleton, shared a comforting gesture. Sandra noted that this home perfectly matched what Joey had envisioned for years.
The surprise came when Alistair revealed the asking price: a remarkably affordable £220,000—well under Joey’s £260,000 budget. Overcome with joy, Joey expressed her excitement about the property’s size, location, and potential for personalization within her financial means.
Despite her instant connection to the cottage, Joey chose not to make an offer on the spot and continues her search for the ideal countryside escape.
Escape to the Country continues to inspire viewers with stories of hopeful buyers pursuing peace and charm in rural Britain, airing weekdays at 3pm on BBC One and iPlayer.