Escape to the Country Makes Manx Debut

In a landmark moment for Manx television, BBC’s Escape to the Country aired its first-ever episode filmed entirely on the Isle of Man this week, showcasing three island homes and stunning scenery to a nationwide audience.

Presenter Jules Hudson declared it his maiden voyage to the island, and certainly not his last.

Filmed in the sun of July, the episode followed retired Lincolnshire nurse Pat, who at nearly 82 is seeking a slower pace of life across the Irish Sea.

Accompanied by her friend Sue, also on her very first visit, Pat explored three distinctive properties while Jules took viewers up Snaefell for panoramic views and along the prom in Peel.

Pat, a long-time island visitor who confessed she already ‘knew a lot’ about the place, fell instantly for the opening property: a charming, fully-furnished Manx stone cottage in Port Erin with sweeping sea views, priced at £279,500.

Later options included a two-bedroom early 20th-century cottage in Laxey (£295,995), complete with a nostalgic stop at the Great Laxey Wheel (where Pat proudly revealed she had climbed to the top years ago), and a freshly renovated 1970s apartment near Rowany Golf Course, also in Port Erin, for £269,000.

Though Pat kept her cards close to her chest and did not confirm a purchase on air, she admitted the first Port Erin cottage had won her heart and would be seriously considered once her Lincolnshire house sells.

The programme also spotlighted some local personalities: podcaster Percy Hampton, Media Isle of Man sports journalist John Watterson, and Manx Gaelic singer Ruth Keggin all shared their love for Peel and the island way of life.

Reaction among islanders has been warm, with many describing Pat as a ‘lovely’ and ‘friendly face’ who would be very welcome.

A few, however, gently suggested she might prefer somewhere with stronger transport links and closer neighbours at her age.

Whether Pat swaps the fens for the Manx hills remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure, the Isle of Man has never looked more inviting on primetime BBC One.

You can rewatch the full 45 minute episode here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m002mdxv/escape-to-the-country-series-26-13-the-isle-of-man