Right of Way

Considering buying a house but access to it is off the public road and down a lane owned(I think) by the vendor.

He already has a house at the end of the lane and there are two other houses between it and ours. Am a little concerned re right of way in this situation-could he ever refuse us access to our house(assuming we purchase) as he is owner of the lane.

And what if the lane needs to be upgraded(tarred, kerbed) do we have to pay?

Vendor seems to be a reasonable chap but I`m feeling a tad cautious before the big purchase. Would appreciate any sensible thoughts and advice.

Have you received legal advice on the matter from your solicitor yet? Is it an established public right of way or does it have some other standing? Buying a house with potentially restricted access would seem risky even if the current owner of the access seems reasonable.