Ep 1. Reeds Windmill, Canterbury , Kent

In the season 2 premiere of The Restoration Man, host George Clarke travels to the beautiful county of Kent to visit Reeds Windmill - an iconic landmark that has stood proudly in the countryside of Canterbury for over two centuries. The windmill is in desperate need of restoration and George is on hand to offer his expertise and guide the owners through the process of transforming this historic building into a stunning family home.

George meets with the owners Dean and Ann who eagerly show him around the windmill, pointing out the various issues and challenges they face. The windmill is currently nothing more than a shell, with the original roof and floors long gone, leaving the interior exposed to the elements. However, Dean and Ann are determined to restore the windmill to its former glory, preserving the structure's rich history and character.

The experts are brought in to assess the scale of the work needed and George is impressed by the sheer amount of effort required. The windmill is a complex structure with intricate mechanics involved in its operation, and the restoration process will require a great deal of attention to detail. The experts begin the daunting task of restoring the original machinery, starting with the sails and cap.

Meanwhile, Dean and Ann get to work on the interior, planning out the design and layout of the rooms. They want to create a comfortable and functional space that still celebrates the heritage of the building. Using reclaimed materials, they hope to add character and warmth to the living spaces whilst incorporating modern luxuries into the home.

Throughout the restoration process, the team faces challenges and setbacks, both big and small. The unpredictable weather causes problems with the restoration of the exterior while the interior renovation reveals hidden challenges like unstable floors and outdated plumbing. However, the team perseveres, working tirelessly to overcome every obstacle and bring the windmill back to life.

As the restoration nears completion, Dean and Ann reflect on their journey. They are proud of what they have achieved, and grateful for the opportunity to restore such a historic landmark. Now transformed into a stunning home with all the modern conveniences, the Reeds Windmill stands proudly in the countryside, a testament to the skill and dedication of those who restored it.

Overall, The Restoration Man season 2 episode 1 offers a fascinating insight into the restoration of a cherished piece of history. With George Clarke's expertise, the team overcomes numerous challenges to bring the Reeds Windmill back to life, creating a beautiful home whilst preserving the heritage of this important landmark.