Escape to the Country Fans React to Gareth Malone’s Emotional House-Hunting Episode

In the latest episode of Escape to the Country, fans were left puzzled when choirmaster and TV presenter Gareth Malone took his mother, rather than his wife, house-hunting. The emotional installment, which aired on December 22, followed the star’s search for a new home for his family of five as they consider relocating from busy London to the peaceful surroundings of Hampshire.

Gareth, 50, appeared alongside his mother, Sian, as they explored properties near the New Forest—a place full of childhood memories for him. The choice to bring his mum instead of his wife raised eyebrows on social media, with viewers questioning the decision.

“Married with three kids, and you take your mum house hunting?” one commenter wrote on X (formerly Twitter). Another asked, “Why not take his wife??” Others echoed the sentiment, expressing surprise that his wife wasn’t part of the search.

Despite the confusion, the show’s narrator mentioned that Gareth’s mum lived nearby, which added context to her presence. Many viewers warmed to Sian, praising her as a “lovely woman” and noting how her demeanor reflected positively on Gareth himself.

Throughout the episode, Gareth’s connection to the area was clear. Walking among the rolling countryside, he became visibly emotional, recalling visits with his mother and grandmother in 1986. “It was beautiful then, and it is still beautiful,” he shared candidly.

Though the family didn’t find the perfect property, Gareth reflected on the experience as a meaningful journey. “I feel like I’ve been on a real journey, a learning curve even,” he said. “I think I’ve learnt about myself… and about what it is that I’m looking for. I don’t know that I’ve entirely found it, but I’ve definitely got closer—it’s been really useful.”

Escape to the Country continues to air on the BBC, sharing heartwarming stories of families seeking their dream rural homes.