A property described by agents as “one of Wallingford’s signature homes” has come on to the market.

Anchor House is steeped in history and for many years was the home of the poet and novelist Rex Warner, a contemporary of W.H. Auden, Cecil Day Lewis and Anthony Burgess.

Originally believed to be two buildings, the Grade II-listed property which dates back to the 17th century, was once The Anchorage pub and the cellar still exists to this day.

Tucked away near St Leonard’s Church in the conservation area of the town, accommodation is spread over three floors. The 20ft lounge features an inglenook fireplace, exposed beams and views of the rear garden with a dining room and a further reception room and the kitchen has been updated over recent years.

On the first floor are two double bedrooms and a family bathroom while the second floor has two further double bedrooms.

Outside the property there is a driveway with parking for one car, a large garage and gardens.

Rex Warner, who studied at Wadham College, Oxford, where he read classics and English, is best known for the novel The Aerodrome and translating Greek and Roman classical texts.

After the war, he worked as director of the British Institute in Athens from 1945 to 1947, and lectured at several American universities, including holding the post of Professor of English at Connecticut from 1964 until 1974. He died in 1986.

Julian Walley, of Wallingford-based estate agent Lesters, said: “As a long-time business owner and resident it’s great to be involved in selling part of the town’s important history.”

For more and to book a viewing, call Lesters on 01491 824000 or see lestersonline.co.uk