One of Cheltenham's most recognisable homes is on the market with Savills.

The Zookeeper's House is a Grade II listed Italianate villa, designed by local architect Samuel Daukes, who was renowned for his work on churches, and also designed Cheltenham Spa railway station.

The designs were part of a wider speculative scheme in 1833 by local solicitor and landowner, Thomas Billings, to create Gloucestershire Zoological, Botanical and Horticultural Gardens at The Park Estate.

The property, also known as Cornerways, was built in around 1865 as the zookeeper's house and an 'eyecatcher' for the zoological gardens, the design of which is thought to have been influenced by Regent's Park in London.

Over the years, The Zookeeper's House has been home to many well-known locals, including a Cheltenham College schoolmaster, a professional rugby player and an army major.

In the 1960s, it was acquired by St Paul's College, which later became the University of Gloucestershire, and was used to conduct seminars and lectures, as well as for accommodation.

Fifty years later, an architect took on the meticulous task of restoring it to its former glory.

Located at the tip of The Park, The Zookeeper's House is set over three floors, extends to 3,556 sq ft and has numerous elegant period features, including floor-to-ceiling sash windows.

The five bedrooms are arranged across the first and second floors, with the open-plan principal suite having a dual aspect and freestanding bath and shower facilities.

A unique feature of The Zookeeper's House is the low-arched doorway on the second floor which leads to what was originally known as the smoking room, providing a ladder to the viewing tower - a one-of-a-kind in Cheltenham - with a boarded seating area and views over The Park, Cheltenham and the Cotswolds.

A sizeable lower ground basement has previously been granted planning permission for conversion into a living space.

Phil Bates, head of Savills residential sales in Cheltenham, said: "Properties of this calibre and history rarely come to the market, particularly in such a desirable location in the heart of Cheltenham.

"With its blend of period character, modern conveniences, and unique viewing tower, it promises an exceptional lifestyle for its next owners."

The Zookeeper's House is on the market with Savills Cheltenham for a guide price of £1,695,000.