ONE of Southampton's most exclusive - and expensive - properties has come on the market.

Priced at a staggering £3,250,000, Stoneham Park House near Stoneham Golf Course, is an eight-bedroom home that even has its own state-of-the-art horse walker for training horses.

It has ten stables, four kennels, a heated outdoor swimming pool and even a two-bedroom flat in the 14-acre grounds.

Owned by a mystery local businessman, who's extended the house over the past 20 years, it far outstrips property competition in the city.

Morris Dibben estate agent Simon Edser said: "It's simply the top of the pile. I've been working here for 17 years and this is the most significant house I've ever come across.

"Normally we deal with homes that cost a maximum £1.5m - houses in Chilworth, for example, which have around two or three acres of land. But this is more than double that value."

Prospective owners of Stoneham Park House, parts of which date back to the 19th century, could be lured by the two stable blocks, complete with tack rooms, horse training area and paddocks.

Or they might be dreaming of holding parties in the 35ft wood panelled dining room, with guests staying in the on-site two-bedroom flat.

With a price tag beyond the budget even of most lottery winners, who's going to buy the costly mansion tucked away on the outskirts of Southampton?

"I believe it will be a local person who wants to buy this, someone who wants to be on top," said Mr Edser.

"They are likely to be equestrian-minded. It's really a small equestrian estate on the edge of town.

"It's totally secluded but only five miles from Southampton, five miles from Romsey and ten miles from Winchester. It's the best of all worlds.

"We've advertised in several magazines and have had inquiries from Cumbria, Surrey, Sussex and as nearby as Fordingbridge. One family put in an offer but it wasn't enough, unfortunately."

WHAT YOU WILL GET FOR YOUR MONEY:

Eight bedrooms, five with en suites.

Five reception rooms, including a 35ft dining room.

Games room with full-sized snooker table and adjoining bar.

Master bedroom with walk-in dressing room, sitting area, sun lounge and en suite with jacuzzi and double shower.

Paved courtyard and heated swimming pool.

Double and single garages.

Two-bedroom mews flat.

Four kennels.

Two tractor sheds.

Staff accommodation including a one-bedroom flat, a groundsman's kitchen and dining area and a workshop.

Ten stables.