IT'S the ultimate country pad.

The stunning Victorian Old Vicarage in Lockerley is set in 40 acres and has a river, with some of the world's best fly fishing, running through its extensive grounds.

A property steeped in history and full of character, it's on the market for a cool £2 million.

Approached via a private gravel driveway, you arrive at the charming pitched entrance porch, which leads to the generous entrance hall, from which the principal reception rooms flow. Of particular note is the superb drawing room with large bay window, which floods the room with an abundance of light and offers superb views over the formal gardens. The room also benefits from high ceilings typical of its era and there is an open fire for the winter nights.

The ground floor also offers a large kitchen/breakfast room, delightful dining room with views out to the garden, snug with bay window, separate utility room and cloakroom. Many of the rooms offer high ceilings, large windows and other period features synonymous with the architectural style and age.

Ascending to the first floor via the splendid staircase, you arrive at a large galleried landing from which the dual aspect master suite flows, with its own generous modern en suite and plethora of built in wardrobes. There are two further good-sized double bedrooms both with fine views and with family bathroom on this level.

Rising to the second floor there are two further bedrooms one with en suite and kitchenette perfect for au pair or lodger.

Formal gardens and grounds of nearly five acres surround The Old Vicarage, which is unlisted and could be extended subject to planning permission.

The River Dun flows through the wonderfully secluded grounds. There are numerous mature trees and shrubs within the various borders and a charming games lawn perfect for hosting events.

Outbuildings include garaging with large independent secondary accommodation that is currently set up as a home office, with meeting area and cloakroom facilities.

Beyond the old canal lies some 35 acres of additional pasture land that can be accessed via a charming bridge from the formal grounds or via two separate rights of way over neighbouring land. The current owners also rent additional land which borders their own. There is currently a private shoot operating on the land run by the owners.

The longstanding Natwest Fly Fishing Association, whom stock the river with trout on a regular basis and own the fishing rights to the river. The new owner could seek membership from the club in order to fish from their own land.

Lockerley is a desirable rural village with a local store, garage, primary school and two churches. The nearby market town of Romsey provides a range of amenities including schools, shops and restaurants with the larger cathedral cities of Winchester and Salisbury providing more extensive facilities. The area is renowned for its country pursuits including excellent riding, beautiful walks and superb fly fishing in the Test Valley and on the nearby River Dun.

The property is perfectly located for access to the south coast and its sailing opportunities with further outdoor pursuits in the nearby New Forest. Transportation links are excellent, with connections via the M27 to the M3 and in turn with the A34 and A303 to the north providing excellent access to the west country.

Railway stations at Grateley, Romsey and Winchester provide first class access to London Waterloo and Southampton International Airport is within easy reach.

Excellent schooling is available nearby.

The property is being marketed by Strutt & Parker Winchester and Charles Powell Estate Agents, Romsey.

Call 01962 869 999 or 01794 322 999.