7 British Home Shows That Are Equally Calming as They Are Inspiring
If you’ve had your fill of U.S. TV shows and would like to try out something new, why not give British home shows a go? From bargain hunting and express makeovers to sunseekers looking for a new vacation home, British property television is up there with some of the best.
From “Homes Under the Hammer,” which features delightful soundtracks as the hosts tour residences from all over the country that have headed to auction, to “A Place in the Sun” that brings a touch of sunshine to rainy Britain, here are the must-watch home shows to add to your list.
Escape to the Chateau
“Escape to the Chateau” follows British husband and wife duo, Dick Strawbridge and Angel Adoree, who swap their two-bedroom apartment in Essex for an abandoned French chateau with the aim to restore it back to its 19th-century regal glory.
Available to watch on Peacock
Location, Location, Location
Every Brit’s favorite property experts (and, what I believe to be the UK’s answer to Chip and Joanna, sans marriage and kids) is Kirstie Allsopp and Phil Spencer, hosts of “Location, Location, Location.” It’s an entertaining and sometimes heartwarming show that aims to find couples, families, and friends their dream home.
Available to watch on Pluto TV and Tubi TV
Kirstie & Phil’s Love It or List It
“Kirstie & Phil’s Love It or List It” is the same concept as the U.S. version, with the hosts going head to head as they battle it out to convince homeowners to either sell their home and opt for somewhere new or refurbish their current home.
Available to watch on YouTube
Homes Under the Hammer
Presented by Martin Roberts, Dion Dublin, and Martel Maxwell, “Homes Under the Hammer” is one of the BBC’s most popular daytime television shows — and for good reason. There are edge-of-your-seat auctions, impressive renovations, and a specially curated soundtrack that just fits so well.
Available to watch on Amazon Prime
Grand Designs
British designer Kevin McCloud presents “Grand Designs”, an inspiring home renovation show that follows the progress of ambitious architectural projects. The show, which first aired in 1999, often showcases elaborate designs across the country, including the rustic South Cornwall abode featured in the video above.
Available to watch on YouTube
Mary Berry’s Country House Secrets
You may know Mary Berry best from “The Great British Bake Off“, but the much-loved food writer, baker, and presenter has a whole host of shows in the UK. One of her most spectacular is “Mary Berry’s Country House Secrets”, where she explores some of the nation’s greatest stately homes. “Downton Abbey” fans will be thrilled to know that Berry has even visited Highclere Castle, one of the show’s most charming filming locations.
Available to watch on BritBox
Escape to the Country
Not to be confused with “Escape to the Chateau”, “Escape to the Country” is an extremely charming watch that follows prospective buyers as they plan to leave behind city life for the peace and nature of the British countryside. Tempting.
Available to watch on BritBox and Amazon Prime