PERCHED by the River Wye, Hoarwithy Toll House makes a picture from a fairy tale.

And it will soon work its magic on would-be buyers. For the Toll House, one of Herefordshire's most off-beat homes, is up for sale next month with interest expected from all over the country.

Current owner Herefordshire Council wants an auction to draw that interest in and the asking price for this three-storey curiosity with one room on each floor will be "whatever people are prepared to pay", said council property services manager Colin Birks.

Estate agent Bill Jackson is already sold. He told the Hereford Times the Toll House would be a big draw when the market for "quirky" properties and lots here was booming.

Even with basic amenities, the Toll House made an excellent long-term investment, he said.

The Toll House has been owned by Herefordshire's various councils since 1935 when it was bought with work on the bridge it guards in mind. It was not until 1990 this work was finally done.

Probably dating from the mid-1800s, the Toll House was the purpose-built base for a bridge keeper who also operated a cross-river ferry from the site.

Most recently, it has been leased out as a fishing lodge and keen anglers won't want it to get away being so close to the Wye that lines can be cast from the downstairs windows.