In estate agent's speak, there's 'cosy', and then there's Ivy Cottage – surely one of the smallest and cutest properties to come to market in Kent.

With just one ground floor room and a ceiling hatch to reach the first floor, it would be fair to say it's in need of improvement and extension to become a proper home.

But nestled in St Peter's Place next to the picturesque Westgate Gardens in Canterbury, the tiny, pretty, detached flint and brick building, with its own parking space, is expected to attract keen bidders when it goes under the hammer next week with a guide price of £100,000.

Owned by the city council and used as a store, it is now surplus to requirements and is being sold for the authority by Clive Emson Property Auctioneers, with the sale going live on December 13.

Auctioneer Kevin Gilbert says the property could be turned into a cosy home or even a small cafe, subject to renewed planning permission for change of use and extension.

That was last granted by Canterbury City Council in 2015 but has now expired.

"I have to say that since it went up on our website, there's been quite a bit of interest because it's very pretty, in a fabulous location and has great potential," Mr Gilbert said.

"Perhaps not on a Grand Designs scale, but I would imagine that with a small extension, it would make a lovely pied-a-terre or weekend retreat.

"It's in walking distance to Canterbury West and the city centre and, in my opinion, it's next to one the most beautiful parks in the area.

"There are people out there with great imaginations and the skills who could transform this property into a little gem."

For more information on bidding click here.