A house with its own island - yours for Ј3,333 a month

But there are a number of unusual caveats for whoever moves into this Grade II listed 18th century mansion, in the seven-acre grounds of Derwent Island.

The mail is collected from the mainland, the house has to be opened up to visitors at least five days of the year and its occupants have to be trained in how to look after the antiques and works of art which form part of its ornate furnishings.

And if anyone is thinking the expansive lawn looks like a good place to land the helicopter they can think again.

Prospective tenants who have already asked whether they fly in have been told politely, but firmly, that it is against the conditions of the lease laid down by the owners, the National Trust.

The Italianate house, which has seven bedrooms, five reception rooms and a balconied loggia, is now available for long term rent at a cost of Ј40,000 a year, or Ј3,333 a month, following the departure of the previous tenants who have lived there for ten years. telegraph