This utterly charming brick and flint thatched cottage enjoys an idyllic location off a quiet lane in Sparsholt, just on the fringes of Winchester. The pretty village is unspoilt by development and forms part of an important conservation area. Hunter’s Lodge sits within three quarters of an acre of garden which abuts open countryside with a network of footpaths and bridleways, created from ancient drovers’ routes.

Grade II listed, the cottage is believed to be a former yeoman dwelling and not only retains much period charm but also suits the demands of modern living. Exposed beams and fabulous fireplaces feature in both spacious reception rooms and the cottage is beautifully presented internally and has recently been re-thatched.

A basement room adds to the living space and can be used as a study or guest bedroom. The welcoming entrance hall has stairs to the first floor and a rear lobby has doors to the utility room, cloakroom and the farmhouse style kitchen which has an Aga and space for a dining table in the middle.

Three double bedrooms are arranged off the split level first floor landing, each with fitted wardrobes and lovely views across gardens or countryside. There is an en suite shower room and a family bathroom on this level.

From Locks Lane a private driveway sweeps up to an area of parking for around eight cars. The magnificent grounds are secluded and have been landscaped to provide various rooms around the central lawn with carefully selected shrubs and trees with well stocked borders linked by a number of winding pathways. A summer house is useful through the warmer months and there is also a large workshop, sheds and a log store.

The community in Sparsholt centres around the village primary school, church, superb pub and restaurant and a local post office and store. It is an easy run from here into Winchester with its excellent city amenities and the mainline station providing services into London in less than an hour.

Further information is available by calling Charters in Winchester on 01962 830880. A price of £1,200,000 is quoted.