Dick and Angel Strawbridge captivated audiences for six years on Escape to the Chateau, the Channel 4 series that documented their ambitious renovation of the 19th-century Château de la Motte-Husson in France. Alongside raising their two young children, Arthur and Dorothy, the couple transformed the crumbling estate into a thriving events venue, all while sharing their journey with viewers.
Throughout the show, which aired from 2016 to 2022, the pair overcame numerous challenges with charm and determination. However, after nearly 50 episodes, Dick and Angel made the heartfelt decision to step away from the cameras to allow their children to enjoy a more private upbringing. The announcement marked the end of an era for devoted fans, who had followed the family’s progress closely.
Despite stepping back from TV, the Strawbridges have remained in the spotlight. Most recently, they took to the stage with their Forever Home UK tour, offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at their life in France since the show ended.
The live show shared stories of how the couple fell in love and brought their chateau dreams to life. The tour visited cities across the UK, including a stop in Liverpool in October, before wrapping up in November.
Now, the family is embracing another new chapter. Taking to social media today, September 1, the family announced they had entered a “new era”.
Posting to their official Facebook page, alongside photos of Dorothy posing with her school backpack, the Strawbridge Family wrote: “Hello to you on this marvellous Monday! It’s a very special day for our family as we head into a new era..
“Dorothy had her first day of senior school.. there was of course the normal nerves.. and as we said our goodbyes it hit home.. no matter what age.. it really does not get any easier!
“We (us parents) both had tears in our eyes.. worried all day… but when we picked up our gorgeous young lady, she was smiling from ear to ear!
“Tomorrow.. Arthur joins Dorothy for his first day in ‘cinquième’ and a new era truly begins!
“For everyone having their first day back to school. Have fun and embrace every moment and for the mums and dads… big love!”
Taking to the comments, one fan praised the couple’s parenting, saying: “Both kids are a credit to you. Living in the limelight could have made them totally entitled and objectionable, but having met you all this summer at the chateau, it’s clear to see how grounded and happy they are. Proper parenting, done properly.”
Another wrote: “I remember when you arrived at the chateau with her in a wrap on your tummy.”
A third added: “Wow! So grown up all of a sudden! My daughter is off to senior school too. A mixture of emotions, want to keep them little forever but so proud of the little lady she is growing into!
“Smashing life Dorothy! Keep smiling.”