Channel 4 has acquired Somersault Studio’s Saving Country Houses, distributed by TVF International, for More4 and Channel 4 Streaming in 2026.
Hosted by Penelope Keith, the series chronicles nine owners of some of Britain’s oldest and grandest homes as they revamp them into revenue-generating enterprises, from cafes and restaurants to ghost tours.
TVF International is handling distribution for the 10×47-minute production, which will launch a companion YouTube channel next year, along with additional social media content and a podcast.
“Being to the manor born has always been a privilege, but today’s country house owners face challenges as never before, so I’m delighted that so many of them are rolling up their sleeves and putting heart and soul into brave new ventures,” Keith said. “I am thrilled to be sharing with Channel 4 viewers the stories of these wonderful buildings and the owners who are shepherding them into the modern world.”
Owen Rodd, creative director at Somersault Studio, added: “Great characters and an array of projects have helped us take a subject that feels like pure heritage and turn it into something thoroughly modern. Topped off with the knowing humour of Dame Penelope.”
Richard Farmbrough, executive chair at Somersault Studio, noted, “The broadcast series is the most significant part of our ambition to bring audiences a multiplatform entertainment offering based on the U.K.’s glorious country houses. This continues Somersault Studio’s innovative business model of combining funded broadcast projects alongside delivering additional content through distribution channels that we control.”
