Original subtitles

That's me, Dick Strawbridge, my darling wife Angel,

and our two beautiful children.

and our two beautiful children.

Nearly three years ago,

we upped sticks for a whole new life in France,

we upped sticks for a whole new life in France,

and bought this magnificent chateau.

Oh!

Oh!

We've been doing it up ever since.

We've been doing it up ever since.

Oh, baby... Oh, you're so strong.

Oh, baby... Oh, you're so strong.

Turns out we're not the only ones.

Oh, yeah, yeah.

Oops.

Dozens of Brits are taking the plunge

Dozens of Brits are taking the plunge

to rescue these stunning buildings.

to rescue these stunning buildings.

Oh!

Oh!

What amazing colours.

We need to get on top of it.

Get on top of the goats.

In this series,

we'll reveal more on how we are running our chateau as a business.

we'll reveal more on how we are running our chateau as a business.

Ta-da! Back on dry land!

I'm still finding things that I haven't seen.

I'm still finding things that I haven't seen.

And we'll help these daring families run theirs.

And we'll help these daring families run theirs.

Mwah! Here's to the meeting of two like-minded couples.

Mwah! Here's to the meeting of two like-minded couples.

Yes, cheers. Cheers.

As they face the highs.

I'm absolutely terrified.

And lows.

It's extremely expensive.

It's financial suicide.

Of running these gorgeous buildings,

Of running these gorgeous buildings,

as everything from B&Bs to beautiful wedding venues.

as everything from B&Bs to beautiful wedding venues.

Owning a chateau isn't glamorous.

Owning a chateau isn't glamorous.

HE COUGHS

Anyone who thinks it is, is delusional.

Anyone who thinks it is, is delusional.

Today, frustrations rise

when entertaining friends at one chateau...

when entertaining friends at one chateau...

Rachel wants to have a bit of breakfast.

Rachel wants to have a bit of breakfast.

She can't keep everybody else waiting.

She can't keep everybody else waiting.

The quirks of looking for your dream chateau.

The quirks of looking for your dream chateau.

Has he stayed with the house?

And I offer my skills to a couple

attempting to build an ambitious bridge.

attempting to build an ambitious bridge.

It's not quite a bridge yet. It's a bit wobbly and it's a bit bouncy.

It's not quite a bridge yet. It's a bit wobbly and it's a bit bouncy.

You're looking a bit concerned.

Chateau de Bailleul is the home of Philip and Angelina,

Chateau de Bailleul is the home of Philip and Angelina,

who are looking to swap their estate agent jobs in England

who are looking to swap their estate agent jobs in England

for running a chateau here in France.

for running a chateau here in France.

London is a great life for a limited amount of time.

London is a great life for a limited amount of time.

You know, work as hard as you can, earn as much as you can and save,

You know, work as hard as you can, earn as much as you can and save,

and then get out as quickly as you can, you know.

and then get out as quickly as you can, you know.

And it's true.

Chateau Bailleul is in the Pays de la Loire,

Chateau Bailleul is in the Pays de la Loire,

and Philip and Angelina are renting it

and Philip and Angelina are renting it

as an events venue before deciding whether to buy their own chateau.

as an events venue before deciding whether to buy their own chateau.

I think my boot's leaking.

Today, they need to build a bridge across a moat

Today, they need to build a bridge across a moat

so the guests can cross to a marquee

for their first paid booking here in a few weeks.

for their first paid booking here in a few weeks.

It's not just that "Hey, here's a big house, come along and have a party."

It's not just that "Hey, here's a big house, come along and have a party."

There's so much stuff that goes with it that a venue has

There's so much stuff that goes with it that a venue has

that we just don't.

What most people don't realise is the physical cost

What most people don't realise is the physical cost

of trying to get everything together

so you have actually got something to sell to people

so you have actually got something to sell to people

as an event venue.

Yes, something like that.

Right now, we are doing everything for the party,

Right now, we are doing everything for the party,

and there's a lot to do.

Like, for the Zen lines.

The plan right now is for me

to dig up and find as many stones as possible.

to dig up and find as many stones as possible.

Usually, Angelina's priority

is renovating furniture for the chateau's 30 rooms,

is renovating furniture for the chateau's 30 rooms,

but, today, she's upcycling five tonnes of granite

but, today, she's upcycling five tonnes of granite

from an old chateau wall.

It's needed for the bridge support.

We tend to work separately, so we progress very quickly but, at times,

We tend to work separately, so we progress very quickly but, at times,

We tend to work separately, so we progress very quickly but, at times,

we have to work together, so right now, I'm helping out Phil

we have to work together, so right now, I'm helping out Phil

do his man things, you know.

It's not that easy, but...

Great, we're putting things to use that have been here,

Great, we're putting things to use that have been here,

God knows how long, really.

But, yeah, everything that we're doing is literally for that party.

But, yeah, everything that we're doing is literally for that party.

Aah! Oh, my God.

Aah! Oh, my God.

It's a toad. Oh, he's so cute.

OK, I don't think I'll kiss him.

The granite is free,

but Phil had to splash out over 70 euros on the steel mesh

but Phil had to splash out over 70 euros on the steel mesh

for the support's cage.

That's becoming really solid down there.

It seems to be

sinking in and, sort of, finding its level,

sinking in and, sort of, finding its level,

which could mean...

..it's going to work.

When that little island is finished, I'm going to pay them a visit,

When that little island is finished, I'm going to pay them a visit,

roll up my sleeves, and help them build the rest of the bridge.

roll up my sleeves, and help them build the rest of the bridge.

If all goes well, it should get done in a day.

If all goes well, it should get done in a day.

Currently, I am done.

That's a huge amount.

Wow. When it settled, I can cement the whole lot together.

Wow. When it settled, I can cement the whole lot together.

We did such a huge job today.

After unearthing all that granite by hand,

After unearthing all that granite by hand,

there's just enough time for a little breather.

there's just enough time for a little breather.

Do you still think it's worth it?

I think I'll just have to cross that bridge when I get there.

I think I'll just have to cross that bridge when I get there.

To get a bridge right isn't easy.

To get a bridge right isn't easy.

If you want to cross it, maybe you'd better wait for me, Phil.

If you want to cross it, maybe you'd better wait for me, Phil.

Two minds are better than one.

Just two and a half hours south-east is Chateau de Jalesnes.

Just two and a half hours south-east is Chateau de Jalesnes.

Just two and a half hours south-east is Chateau de Jalesnes.

In 2012, couple Michael and Jonathan moved here

In 2012, couple Michael and Jonathan moved here

after paying £764,000

after paying £764,000

for this beautiful place in the Loire Valley.

for this beautiful place in the Loire Valley.

It was the same price as our flat in London.

It was the same price as our flat in London.

That's how ridiculous it was.

That's how ridiculous it was.

They've turned it into five-star apartments

They've turned it into five-star apartments

and a luxury location for weddings,

but the investors who backed them now want to see a profit.

but the investors who backed them now want to see a profit.

That's where the trouble started!

That's where the trouble started!

Because you've got to turn it into something

Because you've got to turn it into something

which is commercially viable.

This is massively harder than we ever thought it would be.

This is massively harder than we ever thought it would be.

It's relentless.

The thought of failure is so ever present,

The thought of failure is so ever present,

and we are not going to let it overtake us.

and we are not going to let it overtake us.

They've managed to book a handful of weddings,

They've managed to book a handful of weddings,

but they need to increase the amount of holidaymakers coming to stay.

but they need to increase the amount of holidaymakers coming to stay.

So, today, there trying out a new venture on some guinea pigs.

So, today, there trying out a new venture on some guinea pigs.

Michael's old college mates who are coming for a reunion.

Michael's old college mates who are coming for a reunion.

It's a business proposition, as well.

A chance for me and Jonathan to practise

what it would be like to go out on excursions,

so we have planned to go to the Saumur market,

which is brilliant on a Saturday morning.

We're also going to go to our local vineyard.

We're also going to go to our local vineyard.

Wine-tasting. So I want it to be a quality experience.

Wine-tasting. So I want it to be a quality experience.

Not just your run-of-the-mill,

let's go backpacking around Europe tour

that we'd have done when we were at college.

that we'd have done when we were at college.

You now in a five-star self-catering accommodation,

You now in a five-star self-catering accommodation,

and, therefore, the excursion to go with that with the same quality.

and, therefore, the excursion to go with that with the same quality.

Part of that five-star experience is enjoying the best quality local produce.

Part of that five-star experience is enjoying the best quality local produce.

Part of that five-star experience is enjoying the best quality local produce.

Bonjour.

I'm going to get milk, which I do every week, with our bottles, fresh,

I'm going to get milk, which I do every week, with our bottles, fresh,

I'm going to get milk, which I do every week, with our bottles, fresh,

unpasteurised, straight out of the cow.

unpasteurised, straight out of the cow.

We know by studying the market,

We know by studying the market,

boutique hotels and experience holidays

boutique hotels and experience holidays

are the in thing for this year,

are the in thing for this year,

so we can offer it to our guests as something a bit different.

so we can offer it to our guests as something a bit different.

It also doesn't hurt that the milk run is saving him money.

It also doesn't hurt that the milk run is saving him money.

Hello! Bonjour.

It's cheaper than the supermarket.

It's cheaper than the supermarket.

I think I pay 70 cents a litre,

I think I pay 70 cents a litre,

and the cheapest bottle you can get at the supermarket is 84,

and the cheapest bottle you can get at the supermarket is 84,

so I don't mind washing the bottles every day.

so I don't mind washing the bottles every day.

Today, he's decided to break the bank

and get a couple of extra bottles.

Some of it's for me.

I still like my cornflakes, even though I'm in France.

I still like my cornflakes, even though I'm in France.

I still like my cornflakes, even though I'm in France.

But the college reunion, they need breakfast,

But the college reunion, they need breakfast,

so the bulk of this is going to become yoghurt tomorrow morning.

so the bulk of this is going to become yoghurt tomorrow morning.

so the bulk of this is going to become yoghurt tomorrow morning.

At least, that's the idea.

Merci bien. Oui. Bon. Au revoir.

Merci bien. Oui. Bon. Au revoir.

Jonathan needs to concentrate on the upcoming excursions,

Jonathan needs to concentrate on the upcoming excursions,

so to make the yoghurt, he's enlisting the help

so to make the yoghurt, he's enlisting the help

of two of Chateau de Jalesnes' volunteers programme,

of two of Chateau de Jalesnes' volunteers programme,

Julia and Fiona.

In return for food and lodging, they work for free.

In return for food and lodging, they work for free.

We've spent, like, eight and a half hours one day

We've spent, like, eight and a half hours one day

just digging up all of these beds.

But Jonathan and Michael,

But Jonathan and Michael,

they make us feel like we are a part of the experience that happens here,

they make us feel like we are a part of the experience that happens here,

because they're enthusiastic

and they want you to share that enthusiasm.

and they want you to share that enthusiasm.

Look at that.

Sometimes, you have to pinch yourself to think, "I own that."

Sometimes, you have to pinch yourself to think, "I own that."

Amazing.

Hello. Just who I wanted.

Hello. Just who I wanted.

This is the stuff we got from the farm.

This is the stuff we got from the farm.

Here's the yoghurt maker, fresh out of its box,

Here's the yoghurt maker, fresh out of its box,

so breakfast for the morning for all the college reunion people.

so breakfast for the morning for all the college reunion people.

Nothing like a bit of pressure!

I'm very grateful.

See you later. Bye!

"Switching the machine on."

"Switching the machine on."

Plug it in.

I don't know how to turn that one off.

I don't know how to turn that one off.

We are not this hi-tech.

We are not this hi-tech.

We're the gardeners!

It's at times like this you're very grateful that

It's at times like this you're very grateful that

people aren't on an hourly rate.

people aren't on an hourly rate.

Over 450 miles south-east in Pezenas,

Over 450 miles south-east in Pezenas,

live artist Johnny and television producer Ashley.

live artist Johnny and television producer Ashley.

They want to buy a chateau.

They want somewhere with outbuildings

that Johnny can convert into a workshop and gallery.

that Johnny can convert into a workshop and gallery.

And three days ago, they made an offer on a place.

And three days ago, they made an offer on a place.

This is just a dream for an artist.

This is just a dream for an artist.

But their opening bid was 150 grand below the asking price.

But their opening bid was 150 grand below the asking price.

But their opening bid was 150 grand below the asking price.

Difficile. Difficile, oui. The price is very difficile.

Difficile. Difficile, oui. The price is very difficile.

Oui, oui.

So, whilst the owner mulls it over, there's another chateau to view.

So, whilst the owner mulls it over, there's another chateau to view.

So we're headed off to another chateau.

So we're headed off to another chateau.

This one is two turrets, so I'm kind of excited to see it.

This one is two turrets, so I'm kind of excited to see it.

And it comes with outbuildings, right?

And it comes with outbuildings, right?

And it has outbuildings, so it has turrets, it has outbuildings,

And it has outbuildings, so it has turrets, it has outbuildings,

so on paper, it checks a lot of boxes.

so on paper, it checks a lot of boxes.

On paper, yeah. We'll see.

But then...

..a phone call.

It's Herve. Oh, is it? Yeah.

Herve is the agent dealing with their offer.

Herve is the agent dealing with their offer.

Hello?

Herve, can you hear me?

Let me just pull over, because we are driving.

OK, OK.

It looks like a decision's been made.

It looks like a decision's been made.

Bonjour, Herve. It's Ashley.

Bonjour, Herve. It's Ashley.

Did you talk to the owners?

Did you talk to the owners?

Ah.

OK. One moment.

He says 500.

They still think 450 is too low.

Yeah. What if we just say 480, that's all we can do.

Yeah. What if we just say 480, that's all we can do.

OK, babe.

Herve?

I'm sorry, I had to...

I just had to talk to Johnny.

Please let them know that we really love it,

Please let them know that we really love it,

but 480 is really as high as we can go.

but 480 is really as high as we can go.

OK. Thank you. Merci, au revoir.

OK. Thank you. Merci, au revoir.

Herve's promised to give them a final answer by this afternoon.

Herve's promised to give them a final answer by this afternoon.

Nothing else we can do.

Have to wait, and I hate it.

Hate it. Horrible.

In the meantime, they have to refocus,

In the meantime, they have to refocus,

because there's another chateau to view.

Ah, bonjour!

Bonjour. Nice to meet you, Ashley. Nice to meet you.

Bonjour. Nice to meet you, Ashley. Nice to meet you.

They've come to see the beautiful Chateau Le Bonnecasse,

They've come to see the beautiful Chateau Le Bonnecasse,

which dates back to the 16th century.

which dates back to the 16th century.

Their guide is estate agent Benoit.

This place has a very, very nice story.

This place has a very, very nice story.

The first owner was a colleague of Henry IV, they king.

The first owner was a colleague of Henry IV, they king.

The first owner was a colleague of Henry IV, they king.

Ah! That person, Mr Bonnecasse, de Bonnecasse,

Ah! That person, Mr Bonnecasse, de Bonnecasse,

Ah! That person, Mr Bonnecasse, de Bonnecasse,

received the property from Henry IV.

received the property from Henry IV.

OK. And the name of the property is Bonnecasse, which means,

OK. And the name of the property is Bonnecasse, which means,

OK. And the name of the property is Bonnecasse, which means,

the good house. All right. Ah!

the good house. All right. Ah!

This place oozes history and, inside,

This place oozes history and, inside,

there's lots of gorgeous period features,

there's lots of gorgeous period features,

including two 300-year-old fireplaces.

including two 300-year-old fireplaces.

And it works, the fireplace is bon?

And it works, the fireplace is bon?

Yes, that's the...

..heating system.

That's the heating system.

Ah. The main heating system is wood.

Ah. The main heating system is wood.

Is wood? OK. Wood.

No central heating in the house.

If they want to buy this place,

getting a centrally heated will be a top priority.

getting a centrally heated will be a top priority.

You have also an old floor,

which is from the 19th century.

which is from the 19th century.

Wood. So no termites?

Wood. So no termites?

No termites for the moment.

We will have to check it again.

But, for the moment, no termites.

But, for the moment, no termites.

So how would you check for termites?

So how would you check for termites?

There is one specialist coming.

He's called the diagnostiqueur.

And he comes in the house.

And he comes in the house.

SOMEONE PLAYS GUITAR

SOMEONE PLAYS GUITAR

Monsieur...

It's the owner of the chateau,

who seems to be wooing them with an impromptu performance.

who seems to be wooing them with an impromptu performance.

Mr Bitrand. It's beautiful music.

Mr Bitrand. It's beautiful music.

Superbe, Mr Bitrand. We love it, Monsieur.

Superbe, Mr Bitrand. We love it, Monsieur.

We love it! He's whipped out his guitar!

We love it! He's whipped out his guitar!

And he's just given us a nice little concerto.

And he's just given us a nice little concerto.

How awesome is that, babes? It's pretty amazing.

How awesome is that, babes? It's pretty amazing.

You don't get that in New York City, do you?

No, you don't get that in New York City.

No, you don't get that in New York City.

That's part of the ambience.

Yeah. Does he stay with the house?

Coming up, the guinea pigs arrive

Coming up, the guinea pigs arrive

to test Michael and Jonathan's new day trip idea.

to test Michael and Jonathan's new day trip idea.

It's a jolly for them, but for us, it's about business.

It's a jolly for them, but for us, it's about business.

I just can't get the other place out of my mind.

I just can't get the other place out of my mind.

News finally comes in for Johnny and Ashley.

News finally comes in for Johnny and Ashley.

Bonjour, hello?

Bonjour, hello?

And I go bridge building.

And I go bridge building.

I quite like it! I'm in the middle of a moat on something I've built.

I quite like it! I'm in the middle of a moat on something I've built.

Boys like playing on water.

At Chateau de Bailleul in the Pays de la Loire,

At Chateau de Bailleul in the Pays de la Loire,

Philip needs to build a bridge for an upcoming party.

Philip needs to build a bridge for an upcoming party.

Luckily, I love a challenge,

Luckily, I love a challenge,

and I'm only 35 minutes down the road.

and I'm only 35 minutes down the road.

When you look at his chateau, the roof's new, bit jealous of that.

When you look at his chateau, the roof's new, bit jealous of that.

Lots of double glazing.

Lots of double glazing.

Big, chunky house.

Big, chunky house.

Last time I spoke to Phil he was just about to start his bridge.

Last time I spoke to Phil he was just about to start his bridge.

Last time I spoke to Phil he was just about to start his bridge.

Promised to give him a hand, and I've brought my waders.

Promised to give him a hand, and I've brought my waders.

Big problem is trying to find him.

What's really nice about visiting a neighbour is

What's really nice about visiting a neighbour is

a chance for a bit of a nosey.

It's a duck house. I haven't got a duck house.

It's a duck house. I haven't got a duck house.

Haven't got any ducks either.

I'm just following the water cos this is bridge territory.

I'm just following the water cos this is bridge territory.

Ah, there he is.

Ah, there he is.

Hiya, matey, how we doing?

Not bad, you?

Good to see you. Good to see you.

Good to see you. Good to see you.

Mate, I thought I was gonna have to do some work!

Mate, I thought I was gonna have to do some work!

That was the hard part, the stepping stone.

That was the hard part, the stepping stone.

That means you've moved a couple of tonne in a day. Yeah.

That means you've moved a couple of tonne in a day. Yeah.

We filled up the boat with a small amount until we looked like

We filled up the boat with a small amount until we looked like

we were sinking and then I just literally lifted it in.

we were sinking and then I just literally lifted it in.

Are the stones held together?

I basically made the basket out of mild steel. That won't last forever.

I basically made the basket out of mild steel. That won't last forever.

It won't last.

Have you actually put some of the concrete in to hold

Have you actually put some of the concrete in to hold

the granite together? Yeah.

I shuttered it off as best as I could with wheelie bin liners

I shuttered it off as best as I could with wheelie bin liners

and clingfilm, which, enough of it round, held it in.

and clingfilm, which, enough of it round, held it in.

It's... I love it.

It's... I love it.

Have you got down to the bottom of the silt to the actual clay?

Have you got down to the bottom of the silt to the actual clay?

No. But I left it for a week. It's as settled as it possibly can.

No. But I left it for a week. It's as settled as it possibly can.

You're putting more weight on there, several hundred kilos. Yeah.

You're putting more weight on there, several hundred kilos. Yeah.

Plus bodies. Yes.

But it's not gonna move, it's just gonna go down a little bit.

But it's not gonna move, it's just gonna go down a little bit.

It shouldn't. If it moves a little bit, the way we're making the frame

It shouldn't. If it moves a little bit, the way we're making the frame

is I can always put a few bits of wood to lift it up. OK.

is I can always put a few bits of wood to lift it up. OK.

How did you plan to get it built?

How did you plan to get it built?

I was simply gonna walk into...

I was simply gonna walk into...

One beam, someone hands it to me from here, I'll walk it in,

One beam, someone hands it to me from here, I'll walk it in,

I'll stick a beam in, walk out, put three, then we've got enough

I'll stick a beam in, walk out, put three, then we've got enough

to either walk across or I can board it up to that point.

to either walk across or I can board it up to that point.

Do you know, I brought my waders.

But a man my age shouldn't be in there anyway.

But a man my age shouldn't be in there anyway.

That is a tub.

If we take a couple, maybe three of the bits of wood,

If we take a couple, maybe three of the bits of wood,

just sit them on there, push them out, walk across,

just sit them on there, push them out, walk across,

put it on the island, we should be able to do this without getting wet.

put it on the island, we should be able to do this without getting wet.

Which will be quicker because... HE MAKES SLURPING NOISE

Which will be quicker because... HE MAKES SLURPING NOISE

We'll just see how it gets on. Shall we do a beam at a time...

We'll just see how it gets on. Shall we do a beam at a time...

They're heavy. You're looking a bit concerned. Just chill.

They're heavy. You're looking a bit concerned. Just chill.

They're heavy. You're looking a bit concerned. Just chill.

This is how they cross big rivers in the Army. I never actually did that!

This is how they cross big rivers in the Army. I never actually did that!

This is how they cross big rivers in the Army. I never actually did that!

But it doesn't matter, it'll work.

I may not have Phil's full confidence just yet

I may not have Phil's full confidence just yet

but I'm impressed with his planning.

The weather-treated timber beams have been cut to equal lengths,

The weather-treated timber beams have been cut to equal lengths,

so it shouldn't matter which side of the island they sit on.

so it shouldn't matter which side of the island they sit on.

Look at that.

How much did you pay for your wood?

How much did you pay for your wood?

I think the beams, for eight of them, was just shy of 300 euros.

I think the beams, for eight of them, was just shy of 300 euros.

It's painfully expensive, isn't it?

That's yours, this is mine.

That's yours, this is mine.

There you go.

There you go.

Look at that. OK.

Look at that. OK.

How does that feel? Pretty good. Walk across, nice and steady.

How does that feel? Pretty good. Walk across, nice and steady.

Trust your Uncle Dick. Well, I'm gonna be testing it in a minute -

Trust your Uncle Dick. Well, I'm gonna be testing it in a minute -

you think you're worried. Onto the island.

you think you're worried. Onto the island.

Look at you!

I quite like it. I'm in the middle of a moat on something I've built!

I quite like it. I'm in the middle of a moat on something I've built!

Boys like playing on water. It doesn't matter what age you are.

Boys like playing on water. It doesn't matter what age you are.

Boys like playing on water. It doesn't matter what age you are.

What you wanna do now, is to get your ride-on lawn mower...

What you wanna do now, is to get your ride-on lawn mower...

THEY LAUGH

That was a no? OK.

Phil on his own would probably struggle to complete this

Phil on his own would probably struggle to complete this

bridge in a few days.

There we go.

What I suggest we do is take the boat now, walk them around,

What I suggest we do is take the boat now, walk them around,

take it over there.

When you've got them in place then we've got the ability to

When you've got them in place then we've got the ability to

sort of start building. Yeah.

Why get wet for the sake of it? In there it's a quagmire

Why get wet for the sake of it? In there it's a quagmire

and it's actually quite physical to wade around in it, so to make our

and it's actually quite physical to wade around in it, so to make our

life easier and build it from the top, it's gotta be a way forward.

life easier and build it from the top, it's gotta be a way forward.

You're a country boy, aren't you? Grew up in Cornwall.

You're a country boy, aren't you? Grew up in Cornwall.

OK, that's the end of the country boy. Yeah.

OK, that's the end of the country boy. Yeah.

OK, that's the end of the country boy. Yeah.

With my help and the right approach,

With my help and the right approach,

we could have it all done in a matter of hours -

we could have it all done in a matter of hours -

and nobody's had to get wet...

and nobody's had to get wet...

Whoa, no. Let me get in.

Whoa, no. Let me get in.

..so far.

Right.

Right.

Just leave that there, that's good. Looks like you did that on purpose.

Just leave that there, that's good. Looks like you did that on purpose.

As well as making the island, Phil has poured concrete footings to

As well as making the island, Phil has poured concrete footings to

stop the two beams sinking into the ground, on each of the two banks.

stop the two beams sinking into the ground, on each of the two banks.

OK, just put it down there. Yeah.

OK, just put it down there. Yeah.

Next one. Leave a gap.

Next one. Leave a gap.

In just 20 minutes we've reached the other side.

In just 20 minutes we've reached the other side.

Your first heavy load. Coming through.

Your first heavy load. Coming through.

I have faith. Look at that. Congratulations.

I have faith. Look at that. Congratulations.

We've reached the other side.

It looks very different on this side.

It looks very different on this side.

It's a view you don't ever get

because of how difficult it is to get to it.

because of how difficult it is to get to it.

It's either waders or about a mile round

and sneaking through farmers' land.

Which is why it's worth building the bridge.

Which is why it's worth building the bridge.

It's not quite a bridge yet. It's a bit wobbly and bouncy

It's not quite a bridge yet. It's a bit wobbly and bouncy

but now it's just a matter of making it, isn't it? It is.

but now it's just a matter of making it, isn't it? It is.

Even though the beams can take the weight of two well-grown men,

Even though the beams can take the weight of two well-grown men,

Even though the beams can take the weight of two well-grown men,

we still need to turn it into a load-bearing structure,

we still need to turn it into a load-bearing structure,

otherwise a summer wedding party might end up rather wet.

otherwise a summer wedding party might end up rather wet.

520 miles south,

520 miles south,

having increased their offer on their favourite chateau,

having increased their offer on their favourite chateau,

Johnny and Ashley are keeping their options open

Johnny and Ashley are keeping their options open

by viewing the lovely 16th-century chateau La Bonnecaze.

by viewing the lovely 16th-century chateau La Bonnecaze.

I have itchy fingers because I'm just waiting for the call.

I have itchy fingers because I'm just waiting for the call.

If we don't get it, I think I'll be crushed.

If we don't get it, I think I'll be crushed.

So...it's nerve-racking.

So...it's nerve-racking.

While they wait, they check out the quirky features.

While they wait, they check out the quirky features.

This place is the old bank of the house,

This place is the old bank of the house,

that's where they used to put the money to hide it.

that's where they used to put the money to hide it.

In the turret? In the turret. How cool is that? That makes sense.

In the turret? In the turret. How cool is that? That makes sense.

Yes. OK.

Upstairs, there are six bedrooms and two bathrooms.

Upstairs, there are six bedrooms and two bathrooms.

Upstairs, there are six bedrooms and two bathrooms.

I think that in this room there is one thing that you're gonna

I think that in this room there is one thing that you're gonna

keep, this bath tub.

Yes. Which is quite nice. Very heavy. Yeah.

Yes. Which is quite nice. Very heavy. Yeah.

Maybe from 19th century. OK. It's very nice and not very easy to find.

Maybe from 19th century. OK. It's very nice and not very easy to find.

Maybe from 19th century. OK. It's very nice and not very easy to find.

No, no, no. Yes. Be a good little project. Yeah.

No, no, no. Yes. Be a good little project. Yeah.

It's nice, it's very cute.

It's nice, it's very cute.

This place has bags of potential inside and out.

This place has bags of potential inside and out.

But as ever, this couple have one thing on their minds.

But as ever, this couple have one thing on their minds.

Shall we look at the outbuildings? Yes. Let's go.

Shall we look at the outbuildings? Yes. Let's go.

There are 650 square metres of outbuildings here.

There are 650 square metres of outbuildings here.

Not as much as at the chateau they've made an offer on

Not as much as at the chateau they've made an offer on

but it should be more than enough for Johnny.

but it should be more than enough for Johnny.

So this is the attic. He wants a workshop. He's a artist.

So this is the attic. He wants a workshop. He's a artist.

So this is the attic. He wants a workshop. He's a artist.

Are you an artist?

The idea is to use a building like this for atelier.

The idea is to use a building like this for atelier.

The idea is to use a building like this for atelier.

OK. Workshop and gallery.

OK. Workshop and gallery.

This would be great. Yes. It's beautiful.

This would be great. Yes. It's beautiful.

But we've recently viewed one a little time ago and it was very,

But we've recently viewed one a little time ago and it was very,

But we've recently viewed one a little time ago and it was very,

But we've recently viewed one a little time ago and it was very,

very, very expansive. Yes. Very grand. Yes.

very, very expansive. Yes. Very grand. Yes.

very, very expansive. Yes. Very grand. Yes.

See, now I'm spoilt cos after seeing that place... I know.

See, now I'm spoilt cos after seeing that place... I know.

..this looks tiny. Yes.

Where initially this would look big to me. Yes.

Where initially this would look big to me. Yes.

DOG BARKS

DOG BARKS

Oh, he bit me. Did he bite you? Yes.

Oh, he bit me. Did he bite you? Yes.

Hold on, we've got our first casualty.

Hold on, we've got our first casualty.

That's not a good omen.

That's not a good omen.

Maybe he's trying to tell me something, babe.

Maybe he's trying to tell me something, babe.

He very well might be. What are you trying to tell us?

He very well might be. What are you trying to tell us?

Is it too small for Daddy?

Is it too small?

The last outbuilding they saw also had a brand-new roof

The last outbuilding they saw also had a brand-new roof

and double glazed windows.

This place is a little more rustic.

This place is a little more rustic.

It becomes clear that his heart's just not in this at all.

It becomes clear that his heart's just not in this at all.

Walking round here I kind of feel like I'm on a bit of a museum

Walking round here I kind of feel like I'm on a bit of a museum

tour, if I must be honest.

I'm just not interested, I'm just not.

I'm just not interested, I'm just not.

Yeah, I just can't get the other place

Yeah, I just can't get the other place

and the other offer out of my mind.

But as he joins them downstairs, she gets a phone call.

But as he joins them downstairs, she gets a phone call.

But as he joins them downstairs, she gets a phone call.

Will it be the answer they're waiting for?

Will it be the answer they're waiting for?

Bonjour, hello.

Bonjour, hello.

About 600 miles away in the Pays de la Loire,

About 600 miles away in the Pays de la Loire,

at Chateau de Jalesnes,

owner Michael is expecting some old college friends for a reunion

owner Michael is expecting some old college friends for a reunion

and wants everything to be perfect.

and wants everything to be perfect.

None of them have seen this before and you want your friends

None of them have seen this before and you want your friends

to like where you live. Show the chateau off to its best.

to like where you live. Show the chateau off to its best.

But to Jonathan, they're going to be guinea pigs to test out local

But to Jonathan, they're going to be guinea pigs to test out local

But to Jonathan, they're going to be guinea pigs to test out local

excursions for future paying guests.

excursions for future paying guests.

I know it's a jolly for them but for us it's about business.

I know it's a jolly for them but for us it's about business.

I know it's a jolly for them but for us it's about business.

You have to give people added values.

You have to give people added values.

We have to visit places to see

whether or not we can weave them into the sort of chateau experience.

whether or not we can weave them into the sort of chateau experience.

What do you reckon? Big old place, innit?

What do you reckon? Big old place, innit?

Just like when we were students.

Just like when we were students.

Amazing.

400 years ago the chateau was used by Marquis and Marquess

400 years ago the chateau was used by Marquis and Marquess

De Jalesnes to impress the elite and powerful.

De Jalesnes to impress the elite and powerful.

Now Michael gets to impress his old college mates.

Now Michael gets to impress his old college mates.

The history of the staircase.

The Infante of Spain came here, the pretender to the throne of Spain,

The Infante of Spain came here, the pretender to the throne of Spain,

The Infante of Spain came here, the pretender to the throne of Spain,

so they brought the opera, all the comedians from Paris,

so they brought the opera, all the comedians from Paris,

they put the staircase in for him, he left to live in England and his

they put the staircase in for him, he left to live in England and his

servants nicked all the silverware and left the marquis bankrupt.

servants nicked all the silverware and left the marquis bankrupt.

Chapel.

The chateau chapel was built in 1862.

The chateau chapel was built in 1862.

Louis-Ferdinand Ackerman, a rich merchant and prospective buyer,

Louis-Ferdinand Ackerman, a rich merchant and prospective buyer,

insisted that some "original features" were removed.

insisted that some "original features" were removed.

The crypt is down there.

They were originally buried in there

They were originally buried in there

and when Ackerman bought the chateau he said, "I'm buying the building

and when Ackerman bought the chateau he said, "I'm buying the building

"but I'm not buying the bodies, you've gotta get rid of the bodies."

"but I'm not buying the bodies, you've gotta get rid of the bodies."

So the bodies are down in the village now.

And when he came as well he put the balcony in.

And when he came as well he put the balcony in.

He said, "I don't like to go to mass with the common people."

He said, "I don't like to go to mass with the common people."

So he used to go to mass up there.

So he used to go to mass up there.

It takes your breath away. There's no words, really. Amazing.

It takes your breath away. There's no words, really. Amazing.

This is the girls' room.

It's the biggest apartment. Everyone's got their own kitchen.

It's the biggest apartment. Everyone's got their own kitchen.

Bedroom there, bedroom there.

Bedroom there, bedroom there.

SHE LAUGHS Oh, it's fantastic.

SHE LAUGHS Oh, it's fantastic.

Wow.

You can see the garden.

You can see the garden.

These were fields when we bought it.

These were fields when we bought it.

Had two horses, a donkey and four goats.

Had two horses, a donkey and four goats.

This really is beautiful.

CHEERING

CHEERING

It's great having them cos they're gonna be the ones to tell us

It's great having them cos they're gonna be the ones to tell us

what it's really like. When we have guests in they'll tell you,

what it's really like. When we have guests in they'll tell you,

"Yeah, it's amazing, it's fantastic." But they might leave

"Yeah, it's amazing, it's fantastic." But they might leave

and say, "What are they doing there?" So it's really important

and say, "What are they doing there?" So it's really important

they leave here telling us it's a brilliant place.

they leave here telling us it's a brilliant place.

ALL: cheers!

Tomorrow we're gonna show them the market and my favourite vineyards

Tomorrow we're gonna show them the market and my favourite vineyards

and caves, see if we can paint the town red again, even at our age.

and caves, see if we can paint the town red again, even at our age.

I really hope they're gonna have a good night's sleep tonight.

I really hope they're gonna have a good night's sleep tonight.

Coming up...

Two of them aren't even up yet.

..plans for the day trip almost fall at the first hurdle.

..plans for the day trip almost fall at the first hurdle.

She wants to have a bit of breakfast.

Can't keep everybody else waiting.

Can't keep everybody else waiting.

And Phil faces up to the pressures of becoming a chateau party host.

And Phil faces up to the pressures of becoming a chateau party host.

From my wife's point of view, if this party doesn't work,

From my wife's point of view, if this party doesn't work,

we're done. We'll go.

At Chateau de Jalesnes in the Loire Valley,

At Chateau de Jalesnes in the Loire Valley,

volunteers Fiona and Julia

are moving on.

Hopefully, I won't need my rain jacket

Hopefully, I won't need my rain jacket

when I'm in the south of France. Yeah.

It's bittersweet to, like, leave it behind,

It's bittersweet to, like, leave it behind,

but it's also cool that we actually had something to contribute.

but it's also cool that we actually had something to contribute.

It's been fantastic.

Thank you so much. Not only for the work, but also,

Thank you so much. Not only for the work, but also,

you've been great company.

Give us a hug.

Give us a hug.

And this is for this bloody garden. Take care.

And this is for this bloody garden. Take care.

It's always sad.

If you work so closely with them, you've got a real bond going.

If you work so closely with them, you've got a real bond going.

Of course I'm emotional.

Of course I'm emotional.

I don't think it's wrong for men to show their emotions these days.

I don't think it's wrong for men to show their emotions these days.

Michael's college friends have spent their first night in the chateau.

Michael's college friends have spent their first night in the chateau.

Good morning. How did you sleep?

Your dog was barking rather early.

Your dog was barking rather early.

It'll be the farm dog.

Cheeky bugger.

After catching up on old times,

some of the group have managed to make it down for breakfast.

some of the group have managed to make it down for breakfast.

We need coffee.

Rachel's not even out of bed.

Jonathan wants to get everyone out of the chateau

Jonathan wants to get everyone out of the chateau

and off on his carefully planned day trip.

and off on his carefully planned day trip.

He is getting more and more wound-up.

He is getting more and more wound-up.

It's always me standing by the door tapping my foot.

It's always me standing by the door tapping my foot.

Do you want a home-made yoghurt?

Do you want a home-made yoghurt?

Hopefully, Fiona and Julia's home-made yoghurt

Hopefully, Fiona and Julia's home-made yoghurt

will help to start the day off well.

Well, it's yoghurt.

It's a bit on the sour side.

I think I'm going to have to put

some jammy stuff in it to make it work.

some jammy stuff in it to make it work.

So, how are you all feeling this morning?

Fresh as a daisy.

Well, there are two of us missing, I suppose.

Well, there are two of us missing, I suppose.

Those beds are gorgeous.

Those beds are gorgeous.

But Jonathan's worried that his schedule is slipping behind.

But Jonathan's worried that his schedule is slipping behind.

A quarter of an hour late already.

We're supposed to leave at ten.

The market finishes at 11, and two of them aren't even up yet.

The market finishes at 11, and two of them aren't even up yet.

I'm just getting more and more wound-up,

and I shall get more and more wound-up as the day goes on.

and I shall get more and more wound-up as the day goes on.

So, we're going to go to the Saumur market today,

which is the food market.

The bloke said, where I buy the red wine from,

said he'd open his personal cellar, so we are going into his cave.

said he'd open his personal cellar, so we are going into his cave.

No way. I mean, because we are really ready for a drink, aren't we?

No way. I mean, because we are really ready for a drink, aren't we?

Michael seems to be happy just drifting along,

Michael seems to be happy just drifting along,

but we've got a schedule. Here he comes.

but we've got a schedule. Here he comes.

Miriam's not going to go, so she can catch up with us later.

Miriam's not going to go, so she can catch up with us later.

And Rachel wants to have a bit of breakfast.

She can't keep everybody else waiting.

Jonathan's day of activities has got off to a bad start.

Jonathan's day of activities has got off to a bad start.

At Chateau de Bailleul in the Pays de la Loire,

At Chateau de Bailleul in the Pays de la Loire,

somewhere in its six-acre estate,

somewhere in its six-acre estate,

I'm helping Phillip Bailey Smith to build a bridge.

I'm helping Phillip Bailey Smith to build a bridge.

We've placed six beams from one side to the other,

We've placed six beams from one side to the other,

but now we've got to turn it into a load-bearing frame.

but now we've got to turn it into a load-bearing frame.

but now we've got to turn it into a load-bearing frame.

I'll just take a little seat on the island.

I'll just take a little seat on the island.

Are you good? If you are ready, just go for it.

Are you good? If you are ready, just go for it.

OK. Beautiful the way Phil's done it.

OK. Beautiful the way Phil's done it.

He's done all the hard work.

We've got five pieces to make half a bridge.

We've got five pieces to make half a bridge.

If he's got it wrong, then it becomes much more important,

If he's got it wrong, then it becomes much more important,

but at this precise moment in time,

but at this precise moment in time,

he's over there trying to squeeze it and see if...

he's over there trying to squeeze it and see if...

The seal of approval will come from the boss.

The seal of approval will come from the boss.

Angelina? Oh, yeah.

HE LAUGHS

Phil has brought some galvanised coach bolts for the frame.

Phil has brought some galvanised coach bolts for the frame.

Their zinc coating prevents them from rusting.

Their zinc coating prevents them from rusting.

This will stop the bridge from falling apart,

This will stop the bridge from falling apart,

if we can get them in.

This bolt head has to go further in.

OK. Bring out your bump hammer.

OK. Bring out your bump hammer.

Bring it here. Let me see your socket,

and we'll just have a little go at this.

I'm not happy for you to start putting decking on that, really.

I'm not happy for you to start putting decking on that, really.

No. When we try and put the two together,

you're going to have to undo it. Yeah?

Yeah. Phil may have done that end, but he's got to screw this end.

Yeah. Phil may have done that end, but he's got to screw this end.

He's got the piece of kit that does it, and...

He's got the piece of kit that does it, and...

Not frightfully stable.

So, if he gets across here,

that means we're going to stay dry all day.

Let's get the hammer on it.

Yeah? Yeah. Let's get it tapped.

Yeah? Yeah. Let's get it tapped.

It is a couple of ml each one, isn't it?

It is a couple of ml each one, isn't it?

Try that one. Try putting that one in now, there.

See with that.

I think Phil's idea of renting the chateau

before deciding whether or not to buy one

before deciding whether or not to buy one

is a great way to test the water

is a great way to test the water

before making full commitment to chateau life.

before making full commitment to chateau life.

The chance to have a try before you buy...

The chance to have a try before you buy...

Yeah. You must have been really chuffed with that, mate.

Yeah. You must have been really chuffed with that, mate.

From a business point of view,

you wouldn't decide to set up a shop in a place you didn't know,

you wouldn't decide to set up a shop in a place you didn't know,

selling an item you didn't know to a market you didn't know,

selling an item you didn't know to a market you didn't know,

and invest vast sums of money.

That's all I'm doing here.

If you're about to lose hundreds of thousands,

If you're about to lose hundreds of thousands,

you end up putting stress on a marriage that...

you end up putting stress on a marriage that...

You know? Especially a young one.

Basically, you're nearly halfway through your trial period.

Basically, you're nearly halfway through your trial period.

I am. Yeah.

Is it a yes, is it a no? Do you know yet?

From my point of view, it's a yes,

From my point of view, it's a yes,

and I would even go as far to say as at this party coming up, for me,

and I would even go as far to say as at this party coming up, for me,

and I would even go as far to say as at this party coming up, for me,

it is kind of a make or break, as in, will it work?

it is kind of a make or break, as in, will it work?

I enjoy it so much here,

I would take the financial risk to try one more after that,

I would take the financial risk to try one more after that,

but that would be me holding on to something

but that would be me holding on to something

rather than it being a sensible choice.

rather than it being a sensible choice.

From my wife's point of view, if this party doesn't work,

From my wife's point of view, if this party doesn't work,

we're done, we're going.

Angelina is a townie, isn't she?

Angelina is a townie, isn't she?

She's a city girl.

Yeah, she keeps busy here with the amount of stuff we've got to do,

Yeah, she keeps busy here with the amount of stuff we've got to do,

and she sees a deadline and a chance to make money

and she sees a deadline and a chance to make money

and make it all worthwhile,

and make it all worthwhile,

and as nice as this setting is, I'm kind of reminded,

and as nice as this setting is, I'm kind of reminded,

I'm a bit scared, because I don't want to give it up, and she will.

I'm a bit scared, because I don't want to give it up, and she will.

But I won't think about that right now,

But I won't think about that right now,

I'll think about a bridge and hope for the best.

I'll think about a bridge and hope for the best.

In fact, when you've finished, you'll be spending more time

In fact, when you've finished, you'll be spending more time

over there chilling out, won't you? Yeah.

over there chilling out, won't you? Yeah.

It's not a bad setting, is it?

The end of the bridge will need to sit squarely

The end of the bridge will need to sit squarely

on the two concrete bases.

If his measurements are wrong,

the bridge will not be standing on firm foundations.

the bridge will not be standing on firm foundations.

You're right against the edge.

What you need to do,

if you could take us a couple of inches the other way...

if you could take us a couple of inches the other way...

Yeah. Yeah? And lift that one up, we'll ease it this way.

Yeah. Yeah? And lift that one up, we'll ease it this way.

Right on.

OK. I want you with a leg either side of the post,

OK. I want you with a leg either side of the post,

this way, towards me. Gently.

this way, towards me. Gently.

A little bit more.

Yeah. It's all right. We're squeezing in.

Yeah. It's all right. We're squeezing in.

That's the way it should be. Yay.

That's the way it should be. Yay.

You know when they built the Channel Tunnel,

and they did the whole hands through bit? That's how I feel.

and they did the whole hands through bit? That's how I feel.

This is the miniature version.

I'm really happy with this one.

As well as the £260 he spent on the timber beams,

As well as the £260 he spent on the timber beams,

he spent another £40 on decking,

which we have to screw onto the base, of course.

which we have to screw onto the base, of course.

I like that.

We can go on an outside edge.

We can go on an outside edge.

I saw a smile there. I like this!

You stay ahead of me. Yeah.

I'll be pushing you. OK.

Yeah, yeah.

Add that to the cost of the island,

Add that to the cost of the island,

and this bridge will come to about £400.

and this bridge will come to about £400.

Not bad, really.

You get little guns that do these screws

automatically, you know.

You feed them in a belt.

Now, it's just a matter of screwing it on.

He doesn't actually need me. He can do this himself quite happily,

He doesn't actually need me. He can do this himself quite happily,

with a big smile. Get moving faster, you!

with a big smile. Get moving faster, you!

So, nearly done, but is the bridge going to do the job?

So, nearly done, but is the bridge going to do the job?

In the Loire Valley at Chateau de Jalesnes,

In the Loire Valley at Chateau de Jalesnes,

the excursion planned by Jonathan is already 25 minutes behind schedule.

the excursion planned by Jonathan is already 25 minutes behind schedule.

the excursion planned by Jonathan is already 25 minutes behind schedule.

It might have a little bit to do with the champagne,

It might have a little bit to do with the champagne,

but I can't be bothered to get out of bed.

It's too comfortable. Too warm and too cosy and nice.

It's too comfortable. Too warm and too cosy and nice.

It's too comfortable. Too warm and too cosy and nice.

Michael's old college friends are ready to go,

Michael's old college friends are ready to go,

but there is still someone missing.

but there is still someone missing.

Sod's law, when I'm the one complaining,

and yet, I'm the one last here.

The first stop is the nearby town of Saumur.

The first stop is the nearby town of Saumur.

It sits astride France's longest river, the Loire.

It sits astride France's longest river, the Loire.

Do you fancy lard sausage? Yes.

Do you fancy lard sausage? Yes.

They've come to sample the Saturday morning market

They've come to sample the Saturday morning market

that sells the finest food from the region.

that sells the finest food from the region.

Bonjour, Jean Paul. Ca va?

Bonjour, Jean Paul. Ca va?

Anchovies and olives, I have never had at this time in the morning,

Anchovies and olives, I have never had at this time in the morning,

but they taste fantastic.

Amazing. What did you get?

Amazing. What did you get?

Pain au chocolat. Oh, pain... Oh.

Pain au chocolat. Oh, pain... Oh.

While the friends are having fun,

While the friends are having fun,

Jonathan is still watching the clock.

Jonathan is still watching the clock.

If you had have asked me to come shopping with some friends,

If you had have asked me to come shopping with some friends,

I'd have had it down to, right, we've got 30 minutes, off you go.

I'd have had it down to, right, we've got 30 minutes, off you go.

All I'm thinking of is chivvying then on.

All I'm thinking of is chivvying then on.

There's only so much fish and olives you can do in one day.

There's only so much fish and olives you can do in one day.

It is hard to chill.

It is hard to chill.

It's not in my nature.

We were very fond of tarts at college.

Yeah. We didn't get this big by not eating tarts.

Yeah. We didn't get this big by not eating tarts.

But that works. We both know who's going to be

But that works. We both know who's going to be

the more suitable for the task at hand.

The next stop for these guinea pigs

should be right up Michael's street, then.

should be right up Michael's street, then.

This is the vineyard where we buy our wine

This is the vineyard where we buy our wine

that we serve in the chateau.

I've got here within a minute of the time that I was meant to.

I've got here within a minute of the time that I was meant to.

This vineyard is called Caves du Plessis,

This vineyard is called Caves du Plessis,

and is owned by Stephane Renou.

His family have been making wine here for 120 years.

His family have been making wine here for 120 years.

His family have been making wine here for 120 years.

A special tour with our own vigneron.

A special tour with our own vigneron.

That's what sells holidays,

and that's what's going to get the people to come.

and that's what's going to get the people to come.

Look at the size of that key, for heaven's sake.

Look at the size of that key, for heaven's sake.

Oh, I say.

Jonathan's persuaded Stephane to open up the private caves

Jonathan's persuaded Stephane to open up the private caves

for an exclusive tour.

Look at it. Look at the ceiling!

Are those stalactites?

And bats.

THEY LAUGH

The Renou family cover their bottles

The Renou family cover their bottles

in old sods of moss to keep the wine at a constant temperature.

in old sods of moss to keep the wine at a constant temperature.

As the wine ages, so does the moss.

As the wine ages, so does the moss.

That's mould on top of it.

He has chosen one specifically for us to try.

He has chosen one specifically for us to try.

Merci bien.

Stephane's going to play a little game with us.

Stephane's going to play a little game with us.

He won't tell us which year it is.

We're going to have to try to guess, by smelling it,

We're going to have to try to guess, by smelling it,

by looking at the colour.

The browner colour, it's starting to get older and older.

The browner colour, it's starting to get older and older.

Shall we put up a prize, Michael?

Shall we put up a prize, Michael?

I've got two euros left in my pocket.

So, two euros to the person who gets the closest.

So, two euros to the person who gets the closest.

Oh. Wow.

Oh. Wow.

Are you getting that? Yeah.

Are you getting that? Yeah.

It's like chocolate.

No, I'm loving it. I like that. It's so nice.

No, I'm loving it. I like that. It's so nice.

It's amazing. 2003.

It's amazing. 2003.

2002.

2010.

Quatre-vingt-seize. 1996. '96. 2001.

Quatre-vingt-seize. 1996. '96. 2001.

Quatre-vingt-seize. 1996. '96. 2001.

2001. 2002.

2001. 2002.

Yeah!

Deux mille trois.

THEY CHEER

THEY CHEER

Well done. Thank you very much.

It's been a great day for Michael's old college mates.

It's been a great day for Michael's old college mates.

This is absolutely the highlight of the whole trip.

This is absolutely the highlight of the whole trip.

You don't see this stuff at home normally.

You don't see this stuff at home normally.

Not in Nottingham, no.

We were laughing on the plane, saying,

"All we are going to do is drink,"

but we have actually learned so much.

We have. Yeah! It has actually been educational as well.

We have. Yeah! It has actually been educational as well.

It's a unique experience you can't get anywhere else.

It's a unique experience you can't get anywhere else.

It's just something you want to see,

people really enjoying it

and saying they got this experience

because they came to Chateau de Jalesnes,

and we introduced them to something unique.

and we introduced them to something unique.

Michael and Jonathan will soon discover

the results of their day-trip experiment,

the results of their day-trip experiment,

once the guests have returned to the chateau.

once the guests have returned to the chateau.

They seem pleased enough right now,

but that could just be the wine talking.

but that could just be the wine talking.

Coming up... The college reunion finally comes to an end.

Coming up... The college reunion finally comes to an end.

If you are overly brutal, it helps, because we can pull back from that.

If you are overly brutal, it helps, because we can pull back from that.

If you are overly brutal, it helps, because we can pull back from that.

You do need this.

You do need this.

Phil's bridge is put to the test.

And we find out if the estate agent is calling Ashley

And we find out if the estate agent is calling Ashley

with good news or bad.

Yes.

Philip Bailey Smith and I have nearly completed his most ambitious

Philip Bailey Smith and I have nearly completed his most ambitious

engineering project at the rented chateau.

engineering project at the rented chateau.

We're nearly on dry land.

Come on, nearly there!

I'm quite excited. It's a bridge, mate.

I'm quite excited. It's a bridge, mate.

Last one's yours, fella. Last one.

That's a ten metre expanse. Well done.

That's a ten metre expanse. Well done.

By the time the edges are on it's ten and a half, I think.

By the time the edges are on it's ten and a half, I think.

I nearly did you out of half a metre there. Yeah.

I nearly did you out of half a metre there. Yeah.

It doesn't matter how you look at it, that is a decent span.

It doesn't matter how you look at it, that is a decent span.

First man to cross the bridge!

First man to cross the bridge!

I'm not testing it.

I'm not testing it.

You'd get a wedding party in there.

Do you know what? It takes two of us as well.

Do you know what? It takes two of us as well.

No deflection whatsoever.

No deflection whatsoever.

Hey, mate, in the middle. Look. Yeah.

Hey, mate, in the middle. Look. Yeah.

That's a proper test. I'm over the moon, actually.

That's a proper test. I'm over the moon, actually.

Mate, well done. Thanks for the help.

Mate, well done. Thanks for the help.

All right. Pleasure. A pleasure.

Now, you've just got to make it look pretty now.

Now, you've just got to make it look pretty now.

But it's not quite finished yet.

You do need this.

You do need this.

There's one more test I need to see before I go.

There's one more test I need to see before I go.

How many bridges had you built before you bought your chateau?

How many bridges had you built before you bought your chateau?

One, when I was about ten.

It got my little BMX across the streams.

It got my little BMX across the streams.

What's happened is, as you get older your house gets a lot bigger

What's happened is, as you get older your house gets a lot bigger

and you go from BMX across a stream to your ride-on mower across a moat.

and you go from BMX across a stream to your ride-on mower across a moat.

and you go from BMX across a stream to your ride-on mower across a moat.

They say the grass is always greener on the other side.

They say the grass is always greener on the other side.

And now it's shorter, too.

And now it's shorter, too.

It's a solid old bridge, matey.

It is. I'm happy with that.

It is. I'm happy with that.

In Bordeaux, while Johnny is checking the outbuildings

In Bordeaux, while Johnny is checking the outbuildings

of a prospective chateau, girlfriend Ashley takes a call

of a prospective chateau, girlfriend Ashley takes a call

from the estate agent of a chateau they put an offer on last week.

from the estate agent of a chateau they put an offer on last week.

from the estate agent of a chateau they put an offer on last week.

Bye-bye.

Bye-bye.

Guess what?

Guess what?

They accepted the offer!

I can't wait to tell Johnny.

It's amazing. I'm speechless. I don't even know what to say.

It's amazing. I'm speechless. I don't even know what to say.

I really didn't expect it.

I didn't expect it at all.

Our dream chateau is now ours.

Our dream chateau is now ours.

We're going to get the keys to the castle!

We're going to get the keys to the castle!

It's great news.

But they still have to finish their current viewing of another chateau

But they still have to finish their current viewing of another chateau

with estate agent Benoit.

Yes. Yes.

See, you have a very nice point of view on the...

See, you have a very nice point of view on the...

Oh, the two turrets. Yeah.

Oh, the two turrets. Yeah.

Ben, thank you so much. It's my pleasure.

Ben, thank you so much. It's my pleasure.

Thank you, my friend.

Thank you.

Have a nice way back. Thank you. Have a good day. Bye.

Have a nice way back. Thank you. Have a good day. Bye.

We got news. Oh, right, so he called back?

We got news. Oh, right, so he called back?

Yeah. OK.

Yeah. OK.

And? Guess what?

What? They accepted our offer.

No way. Yes way. Seriously? Yeah.

No way. Yes way. Seriously? Yeah.

Oh, my God. We can get out of here now, then.

Oh, my God. We can get out of here now, then.

We have our chateau! Oh, babe, I can't believe it.

We have our chateau! Oh, babe, I can't believe it.

Wow. And we're now going to be the new guardians of the beautiful

Wow. And we're now going to be the new guardians of the beautiful

chateau, with amazing outbuildings, everything we...

chateau, with amazing outbuildings, everything we...

Oh, I want to scream, babe. Scream.

Oh, I want to scream, babe. Scream.

Oh, my God. HE SCREAMS

Oh, my God. HE SCREAMS

Since they met and fell in love a year ago,

Since they met and fell in love a year ago,

getting the keys to their very own slice of French history

getting the keys to their very own slice of French history

has been Johnny and Ashley's dream.

has been Johnny and Ashley's dream.

That's awesome, babe. Oh, I'm so happy.

That's awesome, babe. Oh, I'm so happy.

And six weeks on from having their offer accepted...

And six weeks on from having their offer accepted...

Chateau, here we come!

Chateau, here we come!

Give us a jingle.

So, we have the keys, and we're moving in today to our chateau.

So, we have the keys, and we're moving in today to our chateau.

So, we have the keys, and we're moving in today to our chateau.

And it's surreal. I mean, we've been waiting so long

And it's surreal. I mean, we've been waiting so long

and we looked at so many, and I can't even believe it.

and we looked at so many, and I can't even believe it.

Honestly, it's... It's so exciting.

Honestly, it's... It's so exciting.

Here we are, babe. There's our new baby.

Here we are, babe. There's our new baby.

In you go, boo-boo. In you go.

In you go, boo-boo. In you go.

Come here, baby.

SHE LAUGHS

And it was all going so well.

Come here, baby.

Come here, baby.

Here we go. Straight in.

Here we go. Straight in.

Oh, sweetie, give me a hug.

Oh, sweetie, give me a hug.

This chateau, with its huge, cavernous outbuilding,

This chateau, with its huge, cavernous outbuilding,

is perfect for their needs.

Is this going to be the workshop?

I think so - workshop downstairs.

I think so - workshop downstairs.

The brand-new roof and heating system

mean they can start living in it immediately...

mean they can start living in it immediately...

mean they can start living in it immediately...

That's good. It does work.

..but there's still plenty of renovation work needed to get

..but there's still plenty of renovation work needed to get

this place up and running as a business.

this place up and running as a business.

I want to knock through this wall. Yeah?

And connect it to the bathroom behind it.

And connect it to the bathroom behind it.

Today marks the beginning of the next stage

Today marks the beginning of the next stage

of their chateau adventure.

This is where the hard work really starts.

This is where the hard work really starts.

Now we get to actually start doing the fun stuff. Yeah.

Now we get to actually start doing the fun stuff. Yeah.

No, it's awesome. Yeah, no, we're mega, mega excited.

No, it's awesome. Yeah, no, we're mega, mega excited.

We really are.

Look at this, boo-boo. How nice is this?

Look at this, boo-boo. How nice is this?

At Chateau de Jalesnes,

it's time for Michael's old college friends to go home.

it's time for Michael's old college friends to go home.

Thank you for making the effort to come.

No, thank you for making the effort.

For us it was definitely not an effort.

For us it was definitely not an effort.

Thank you very much for being the guinea pigs as well.

Thank you so much. It was lovely to meet you.

Thank you so much. It was lovely to meet you.

The guests have all spent time filling in the visitors' book

The guests have all spent time filling in the visitors' book

about the activities they've experienced while staying

about the activities they've experienced while staying

at the chateau, and Jonathan and Michael are keen to read them.

at the chateau, and Jonathan and Michael are keen to read them.

Getting your friends over to visit your new house

is always quite a laugh. Maybe I did show off, but I've got a big house -

is always quite a laugh. Maybe I did show off, but I've got a big house -

I'll show it off.

Most importantly, though, you were going to leave a critique.

Most importantly, though, you were going to leave a critique.

If you're overly brutal it helps because we can pull back from that.

If you're overly brutal it helps because we can pull back from that.

If you're overly brutal it helps because we can pull back from that.

If we can get groups here that's the better business for us,

If we can get groups here that's the better business for us,

rather than individuals.

Having a look at the visitors' book or the livre d'or,

Having a look at the visitors' book or the livre d'or,

Having a look at the visitors' book or the livre d'or,

the golden book, as they call it in France,

the golden book, as they call it in France,

words fail us.

"An amazing experience with so many laughs."

"An amazing experience with so many laughs."

"An amazing experience with so many laughs."

And a couple of cases.

So, yes.

"An unforgettable trip.

"The wine caves were a once in a lifetime experience.

"The wine caves were a once in a lifetime experience.

"The wine caves were a once in a lifetime experience.

"Back soon." Yeah.

"Back soon." Yeah.

I think we might have hit on something

I think we might have hit on something

that's going to do the business a world of good. Onwards and upwards.

that's going to do the business a world of good. Onwards and upwards.

that's going to do the business a world of good. Onwards and upwards.

It's a good result for Michael and Jonathan,

It's a good result for Michael and Jonathan,

who hope that by laying on these activities

they'll attract more paying guests to the chateau.

they'll attract more paying guests to the chateau.

But until then, they need to find other sources of revenue.

But until then, they need to find other sources of revenue.

Next time... I help Jonathan search for some hidden booty...

Next time... I help Jonathan search for some hidden booty...

Next time... I help Jonathan search for some hidden booty...

This is why people treasure hunt!

Let me have a look.

Let me have a peek, too. Ow!

Let me have a peek, too. Ow!

..and Jonathan gets to work on his money-saving discovery...

..and Jonathan gets to work on his money-saving discovery...

We discovered the well but we don't know quite how much

We discovered the well but we don't know quite how much

water's in there.

..there are arguments and toilet troubles For Phil and Angelina...

..there are arguments and toilet troubles For Phil and Angelina...

What's the point of me being here if you're not going to listen to me?

What's the point of me being here if you're not going to listen to me?

..and a single mum gets more than she bargained for when renovating.

..and a single mum gets more than she bargained for when renovating.

..and a single mum gets more than she bargained for when renovating.

Oh, it's your hand. Don't worry, I've got another one.

Oh, it's your hand. Don't worry, I've got another one.

This has literally been soaked in cat urine.

This has literally been soaked in cat urine.

It's actually making my eyes sting.

Subtitles by Red Bee Media

Subtitles by Red Bee Media

Subtitles by Red Bee Media