Escape to the Country is a beloved British television series that has been guiding prospective buyers to their dream rural homes since its debut in 2002.
Over the years, the show has featured diverse presenters, each bringing their unique charm and expertise to the screen.
Let’s take a closer look at some notable hosts who have made the journey to the countryside so captivating.
1. Alistair Appleton
Alistair Appleton, a familiar face on the show, has been enchanting viewers with his insightful property tours and deep appreciation for rural life.
Beyond his television career, Alistair is a trained psychotherapist, which adds a unique depth to his interactions with house hunters.
2. Jules Hudson
Jules Hudson is an English archaeologist and television presenter. He is best known for presenting the BBC series Escape to the Country and frequently contributes to the environmental documentary series Countryfile on BBC One.
Jules’s background in archaeology and his passion for history provide viewers with enriching insights into the heritage of the properties and areas featured on the show.
3. Nicki Chapman
Nicki Chapman, renowned for her work in the music industry, brings her vibrant personality and keen eye for detail to Escape to the Country.
Her warm demeanor and genuine interest in helping buyers find their perfect home have made her a cherished presenter on the show.
4. Jonnie Irwin
terminal lung cancer in 2020. Image: X/AtackJason.
Jonnie Irwin, known for his role in Escape to the Country, brought extensive property and business knowledge, helping prospective buyers make informed countryside relocations.
His approachable style and expert advice made him a trusted figure in real estate television. In 2020, Irwin was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer, which later spread to his brain.
Despite his illness, he continued working and sharing his journey publicly until his passing on February 2, 2024, at the age of 50.
5. Sonali Shah
Sonali Shah is a British journalist and broadcaster best known for Escape to the Country. She previously worked as a BBC reporter and hosted Newsround, covering major news and sporting events.
Her warm presence and storytelling make her a key part of the show. Married with two children, she balances her media career with family life.
6. Ginny Buckley
Ginny Buckley, Ginny Buckley is a British journalist and presenter known for her work in motoring and property.
A former Top Gear reporter, she now brings her investigative skills to Escape to the Country, offering in-depth insights into rural homes. She is also the founder of Electrifying.com, a platform focused on electric vehicles.
7. Denise Nurse
Denise Nurse, a qualified solicitor, combines her legal expertise with a passion for rural living.
Her analytical skills and personable nature assist buyers in navigating the complexities of purchasing countryside properties.
8. Catherine Gee
Catherine Gee, a property expert and former CountryLiving deputy editor, hosted Escape to the Country from 2002 to 2007, helping shape its success.
She later presented Through the Keyhole and 60 minute Makeover and held senior editorial roles, including COO at Artists’ Collecting Society.
9. Steve Brown
Steve Brown, a former Paralympian and disability advocate, brings expertise in accessible living to Escape to the Country.
Paralyzed at 23, he later captained Great Britain’s wheelchair rugby team in the 2012 Paralympics. Beyond TV, he promotes inclusivity through shows like Countryfile and The One Show.
10. Briony May Williams
Briony May Williams, known from The Great British Bake Off, joined the presenting team, infusing the show with warmth and enthusiasm.
Her creative flair and genuine interest in people’s stories resonate with participants and viewers.
11. Aled Jones
Aled Jones, celebrated for his musical talents, brought charm and affable nature to Escape to the Country.
His episodes are remembered for their warmth and his genuine interest in the countryside lifestyle.
12. Margherita Taylor
Margherita Taylor is a British radio and TV presenter known for Escape to The Country, Classic FM, and Smooth Radio. She started in radio after winning a talent competition and became one of the few Black female presenters in UK broadcasting.
As a former presenter of Escape to The Country, she explores rural life, sustainability, and conservation. Despite her public career, she keeps her personal life private.
13. Tim Vincent
Tim Vincent, a former “Blue Peter” presenter, brought his experience and enthusiasm to “Escape to the Country.” His engaging style and rapport with participants added a dynamic element to the show.
14. Chris Bavin
Chris Bavin, Chris Bavin is a British TV presenter, food expert, and a former Escape to the Country presenter, he focused on food production, sustainability, and rural life.
He co-founded The Naked Grocer and has written cookbooks promoting healthy eating and reducing food waste. Despite his public career, he keeps his personal life private but is known to be married with children.
15. Nick Page
Nick Page, a comedian and former Escape to the Country presenter, brought humor and a unique perspective to the show. His lighthearted approach made property searches enjoyable and relatable.
Beyond television, he built a successful stand-up comedy career, reaching the finals of Britain’s Got Talent in 2018. Despite his public persona, he keeps his personal life private.
16. Melissa Porter
Melissa Porter a former Escape to the Country presenter, brought her expertise in lifestyle and interior design to the show, offering viewers insights on transforming houses into homes.
Her creative approach and eye for aesthetics made her a standout host. Beyond television, she has worked in property development and presented other lifestyle programs. Despite her public career, she keeps her personal life private.
17. Anita Rani
Anita Rani, a broadcaster passionate about cultural stories, is a former Escape to the Country presenter who appeared as a guest. Her episodes often explore the rich histories and traditions of rural communities.
Beyond the show, she is known for hosting Countryfile, The One Show, and Woman’s Hour, bringing diverse perspectives to British television. Despite her public career, she keeps her personal life relatively private.
18. Nicki Shields
Nicki Shields, a former Escape to the Country presenter, combined her passion for science, technology, and nature to offer a unique perspective on countryside living. Best known as a motorsports and sustainability broadcaster, she has worked on Formula E and CNN Supercharged.
Her analytical approach made her a standout on the show, blending innovation with rural life. Despite her public career, she keeps her personal life private.
Final Thoughts
Each presenter has contributed their unique talents and perspectives to “Escape to the Country,” enriching the show’s narrative and helping countless individuals and families find their ideal rural retreats.
Their collective efforts have made the series a cherished staple for viewers dreaming of countryside living.