Photograph 1 of 41 of 13 Westbourne Place , Cobh, Cork
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13 Westbourne Place , Cobh, CorkP24Y199

€750,000

4 Bed~2 Bath~283 m²

What you'll like:

  • Architectural heritage significance: This magnificent Victorian townhouse was originally designed under the master plan of renowned 19th-century architect Decimus Burton, offering immense historical value and distinctive period character.
  • Substantial floor area: Spanning an impressive 283 square meters across multiple levels, the residence provides exceptionally generous living spaces suited for large families or luxurious entertaining.
  • Panoramic waterfront views: Positioned directly opposite the iconic promenade, the property enjoys stunning, unobstructed vistas over the active waters of picturesque Cork Harbour.
  • Extensive recent restoration: The current owner has completed significant restoration work on the main four floors, ensuring the interior is presented in splendid condition for modern living.
  • Replaced roof structure: The roof has been entirely replaced during the restoration process, removing a major capital expenditure item for the incoming buyer.
  • Restored original floorboards: Original timber flooring has been meticulously restored throughout the principal rooms, enhancing the authentic Victorian aesthetic and warm interior ambiance.
  • Preserved period fireplaces: Carefully maintained marble and cast-iron fireplaces are present across multiple rooms, adding genuine historical charm and focal points to the interiors.
  • Original decorative coving: High ceilings featuring authentic ceiling coving have been carefully preserved, accentuating the grand proportions typical of mid-19th-century architecture.
  • Elegant Victorian staircase: The inner hallway boasts an original curving Victorian staircase complete with an elegant volute scroll, serving as a striking architectural centrepiece.
  • Grand first-floor living room: The bright primary living room features a pair of balcony doors opening onto a decorative cast-iron balcony overlooking the bustling harbour.
  • Private rear walled garden: A completely private, gravelled walled garden provides a peaceful outdoor sanctuary for low-maintenance relaxation directly to the rear of the ground floor.
  • Basement development opportunity: The substantial lower ground floor features independent front access and three uncompleted rooms, offering flexible potential for separate accommodation or integration.
  • Four spacious double bedrooms: The upper floors accommodate four well-proportioned bedrooms, all featuring character elements such as cast-iron fireplaces and original window shutters.
  • Zoned natural gas heating: The home is equipped with a modern zoned natural gas heating system, providing efficient climate control across the expansive multi-level layout.
  • Prime central location: Situated directly beside the local train station, schools, restaurants, and town centre, ensuring effortless daily convenience and high walkability.
  • Proximity to leisure amenities: Located just minutes from Fota Island and providing highly convenient access to the regional motorway network for commuters and weekend travelers.
  • Stable asking price strategy: The recorded asking price has remained stable at €750,000 without reductions, indicating firm vendor expectations and confidence in the local market value.
  • Substantial square meter value: At an asking price of €750,000 for 283 square meters, the property offers a competitive cost per square meter for a restored historic landmark.
  • Original timber window shutters: Several rooms retain functional original window shutters, adding authentic period detail while providing practical light control and privacy.
  • Multiple high-specification bathrooms: The property includes two well-appointed bathrooms, featuring character elements like a freestanding roll-top bath and a modern walk-in rain shower.

But keep in mind:

  • Unclear BER status: The building's Building Energy Rating is not explicitly provided in the listing, meaning buyers must investigate potential thermal efficiency issues in historic properties.
  • Exemption due to protected status: The lack of a BER certificate may stem from a protected structure status, which could legally restrict future energy upgrade works or window replacements.
  • Basement renovation requirement: The lower ground floor is currently unintegrated and requires substantial capital investment to convert into habitable living quarters or secondary accommodation.
  • High ongoing maintenance: Owning a large, four-story 19th-century protected structure involves higher-than-average ongoing maintenance costs for specialist tradespeople and preservation materials.
  • Stairs-intensive daily living: Spanning four main levels plus a basement, the vertical layout involves navigating numerous flights of stairs, which might challenge buyers with mobility concerns.
  • Low-maintenance gravel garden: While private, the entirely gravelled rear garden lacks established soft landscaping or lawns, potentially feeling austere for families seeking green garden spaces.
  • Conservation planning restrictions: Strict local authority conservation guidelines may apply to this landmark terrace, limiting the buyer's ability to alter the exterior or historical interior details.
  • Potential damp in basement: The lower ground floor/basement level requires thorough professional surveying to check for rising damp, poor ventilation, or moisture ingress common in older foundations.
  • Parking availability concerns: The listing does not mention dedicated off-street parking, meaning residents may have to rely on public street parking along the busy promenade.
  • Noise from waterfront promenade: Being situated directly opposite the iconic promenade and near the town centre could introduce seasonal tourist traffic, pedestrian noise, and event disturbances.
  • Single-glazed historic windows: Depending on conservation status, original windows may be single-glazed, which can contribute to heat loss and exterior road noise infiltration.
  • Plumbing and electrical upgrades: Buyers should verify the exact age and condition of the concealed electrical wiring and plumbing pipes behind the historic walls during structural surveys.
  • High total acquisition cost: At a €750,000 asking price, the property represents a major financial commitment, requiring careful liquidity planning alongside potential basement renovation budgets.
  • Limited bathroom count: With only two bathrooms serving a sprawling 283 square meter four-bedroom house, morning congestion could occur for larger family households or visiting guests.
  • Fire safety compliance costs: Adapting a multi-level Victorian townhouse with a basement flat may trigger modern building control requirements for fire doors and escape routes.
  • Vendor price firmness: The absolute stability of the €750,000 asking price suggests the seller may be resistant to aggressive initial offers or price negotiations in the near term.
  • Historic structural movement: Given the 1855 construction date, a comprehensive structural survey is essential to check for historic settling, wall plumbness, or timber rot in structural joists.
  • Roof insulation adequacy: Although the roof was replaced, buyers must verify whether modern high-performance insulation was installed to prevent excessive heat loss through the upper ceilings.
  • Shared terrace party walls: As part of an elegant Victorian terrace designed by Decimus Burton, party wall considerations and acoustic insulation between adjacent historic homes should be checked.
  • Complex estate agent coordination: Viewings are strictly by prior appointment through joint agents, which may require flexible scheduling during the initial property inspection and due diligence phases.

Price positioning

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This comparison depends on limited public and listing evidence, which may be incomplete, outdated or not directly comparable. The score is not a percentage, professional valuation or guaranteed estimate. Ask an independent qualified valuer before relying on a property value.
The asking price looks slightly overvalued compared with the available evidence.
  • The asking price of €750,000 appears elevated when evaluated against historical acquisition costs for the exact dwelling, reflecting substantial capital expenditure poured into extensive structural renovations across multiple upper levels since purchase.
  • Valuation upside is heavily supported by the remarkable 283 square meter footprint, rare Decimus Burton architectural heritage, pristine period details, and unobstructed panoramic views overlooking the iconic Cork Harbour promenade.
  • Potential downward pressure could stem from the unrenovated lower ground floor basement requiring further financial outlay, alongside broader local market resistance toward upper-tier period home pricing thresholds.
  • Overall market positioning remains ambitious yet justified given the scarcity of fully restored Victorian townhouses in prime coastal locations offering flexible multi-level accommodation and private rear gardens.

Build Analysis

What we know from similar construction types

  • The property is a substantial four-level Victorian townhouse built c. 1855, forming part of an elegant waterside terrace designed by Decimus Burton.
  • The listing notes extensive restoration work, including a replaced roof, restored original timber floors, and preserved period features such as marble and cast-iron fireplaces.
  • The lower ground floor / basement level offers independent front access and is described as a development opportunity, which buyers should investigate regarding planning compliance, dampness, and structural integration.
  • Given the c. 1855 construction date, prospective buyers should investigate the condition of the hidden wiring, historic plumbing, and potential structural issues typical of period properties, including timber rot or damp in basement areas.
  • The BER is exempt due to the protected or historic nature of the period building, but energy efficiency measures and insulation levels should be carefully verified.

Heating cost*

Estimated expense to heat this property every year

  • Estimated annual heating cost: 2,200 to 3,000 euro.
  • Explanation: Given the large 283 m² floor area and historic Victorian nature of the property built around 1855, heating demands are likely higher compared to modern builds despite the presence of zoned natural gas heating. The buyer should verify the insulation levels and energy efficiency.

Pollution Safe

9/10

Environmental situation to investigate

  • The property is situated in an established residential and historic coastal town setting, appearing well removed from major heavy industrial sites or active large-scale landfills.
  • Any historical industrial or urban legacy concerns should be independently verified by the buyer as part of standard due diligence.

Flood Safe

8/10

Water overflow reports to follow up

  • The building is elevated across multiple levels over a basement, with the main living quarters positioned well above street and immediate waterfront level.
  • Given its prominent harbour-facing location, prospective buyers should review local authority flood maps and verify specific coastal weather event risks.

Recent Local Sales

Verified residential transactions published in the previous five years

Sales on the same street or estate

  • 1 WESTBOURNE PLACE, COBH, CORK

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €225,500.00
  • 15 WESTBOURNE PLACE, COBH, CORK

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €650,000.00
  • 13 WESTBOURNE PLACE, COBH, CORK

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €300,000.00

Recent sales in the wider Cobh area

  • 1 RIVERSIDE WHARF, WEST BEACH, COBH

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €340,000.00
  • APT 5 CULTRA, LOW ROAD, COBH

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €285,000.00
  • TAY RD, COBH, CORK

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €360,000.00
  • 7 JOE REID PLACE, CARRIGNAFOY, COBH

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €300,000.00
  • AN CUAN, BALLYNOE, COBH

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €562,000.00

Source: Property Services Regulatory Authority (PSRA), Residential Property Price Register (PPR). Matching uses address information published by the PPR rather than measured map distance. It may omit nearby properties on differently named streets.

Last Sale

A confidently matched previous PPR transaction for this property

  • 13 WESTBOURNE PLACE, COBH, CORK

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €300,000.00

Buyer fees*

Associated expenses guide

  • Estimated stamp duty: €7,500 — 1% of €750,000.
    ?
    Based on the asking price shown on this page, using standard residential stamp-duty rates. No adjustments are made for VAT, reliefs, mixed-use property or additional land. The final purchase price and your circumstances may change the amount payable.
  • Solicitor legal fees: approximately 1,500 to 3,000 euro plus VAT and outlays.
  • Land registration fees: roughly 600 to 800 euro depending on the property value.
  • Property valuation fees: about 150 to 300 euro.
  • Surveyor fees: around 600 to 1,200 euro for a detailed structural survey.
  • Annual home insurance: estimated between 600 and 1,200 euro depending on coverage for a period home.

Forum Talk

What people are saying about this area

  • Locals in Cobh frequently discuss the charm and historical significance of the Victorian architecture along Westbourne Place and the iconic waterfront.
  • Residents often highlight the convenience of living within walking distance of the local train station, schools, and the scenic promenade.
  • Parking and traffic flow along the waterfront and main town areas are occasional topics of discussion among residents due to high visitor numbers.
  • Community forums regularly note the vibrant local community, highlighting amenities such as restaurants, shops, and proximity to Fota Island.

LifeFit Assessment

How well this property may suit your lifestyle

Family

7 areas
  • Young Children

    The property offers generous square footage and a private rear garden, but the four-story Victorian layout featuring internal stairs and multiple levels means parents of very toddlers will need to be vigilant regarding stair safety.

    6/10
  • Teenagers

    With four spacious bedrooms spread across multiple levels and a large basement offering potential development opportunities, teenagers will appreciate the independent living space and privacy.

    8/10
  • Multi-generational Living

    The expansive 283 sq. m. floor area and the independent front access to the lower ground floor/basement provide a distinct layout opportunity for extended family members to have semi-separate quarters.

    7/10
  • Single Buyers

    A 283 sq. m. historic Victorian townhouse with an asking price of €750,000 represents a substantial maintenance commitment and financial investment for a single occupant.

    5/10
  • Couples

    Features such as the magnificent master bedroom, panoramic views over Cork Harbour, elegant interconnecting living rooms, and period fireplaces make this a stunning, romantic home for couples.

    9/10
  • Empty Nesters

    While the harbor views and town-centre convenience are appealing, four stories of stairs and a historic property structure may prove too demanding for long-term ageing in place without future modifications.

    6/10
  • Retirees

    The multi-level Victorian architecture involves extensive vertical climbing across four to five floors, which could become a significant physical drawback in retirement years.

    5/10

Work

3 areas
  • Remote Working

    The inclusion of a dedicated study with a garden aspect, alongside multiple spacious rooms and high-speed broadband availability potential, makes remote working highly feasible.

    9/10
  • Hybrid Commuting

    Conveniently situated just minutes from the local train station and with accessible motorway connections, hybrid commuting to Cork and beyond is highly practical.

    9/10
  • Retired

    Proximity to medical services, shops, and the town center supports retirement lifestyles, though the vertical four-level layout requires careful consideration for later years.

    6/10

Practical

8 areas
  • Ageing in Place

    The property spans four main levels plus a basement over five distinct floors with original staircases, presenting significant physical barriers for long-term ageing in place without substantial elevator installations.

    4/10
  • Low Maintenance

    The current owner has invested heavily in extensive restorations—including a replaced roof and restored timber floors—and the rear garden is gravelled for low maintenance, though historic period homes inherently require ongoing specialist care.

    6/10
  • Secure Gated Entry

    The home features traditional street-front access with limestone steps and Victorian cast-iron railings rather than a private gated courtyard or security gate system.

    4/10
  • Minimalist Design

    Characterized by rich Victorian architecture, ornate ceiling coving, marble fireplaces, original arches, and historic detailing, this property embodies classic period grandeur rather than minimalist aesthetics.

    3/10
  • Flexible Floor Plans

    Offering 283 sq. m. across multiple levels—including interconnecting reception rooms and a lower ground floor with independent street access presenting a development opportunity—the floor plan is exceptionally versatile.

    8/10
  • Heritage Home

    Built c. 1855 as part of an elegant waterside terrace designed under the master plan of legendary 19th-century architect Decimus Burton, this is a quintessential, beautifully restored Victorian landmark home.

    10/10
  • Ecological Setup

    While equipped with zoned natural gas heating and restored original structures, the historic Victorian fabric (with no BER provided and likely solid-wall construction) may have limitations regarding high energy-efficiency ratings without further retrofitting.

    5/10
  • Outdoor areas

    Features a spacious and entirely private walled garden to the rear alongside a decorative cast-iron balcony at sitting room level offering panoramic harbour views.

    7/10

Interests

9 areas
  • Gardening

    Features a spacious and entirely private walled garden to the rear, though it is currently gravelled for low maintenance, leaving room for a buyer to introduce planting schemes.

    5/10
  • Walking

    Located directly beside the promenade, local amenities, and the train station, making it exceptionally convenient for daily scenic walks around Cobh.

    9/10
  • Gym

    While local fitness amenities are within reach of the town centre, the house itself requires navigating multiple flights of stairs daily, providing a built-in vertical workout.

    6/10
  • Cycling

    The coastal location offers scenic routes, though managing bicycle storage within a historic multi-level terraced property should be considered.

    7/10
  • Golf

    Fota Island is just minutes away, offering championship golf facilities within very easy reach of the property.

    7/10
  • Fishing

    The prime waterside setting overlooking Cork Harbour provides excellent proximity for marine and coastal fishing enthusiasts.

    8/10
  • Horse Riding

    Equestrian facilities are not immediately adjacent to this central urban coastal terrace, requiring travel outside the town center.

    4/10
  • Water Sports

    Directly overlooking Cork Harbour with its rich maritime history, this home is ideally situated for sailing, boating, and various water sports.

    9/10
  • Entertaining

    With wonderful interconnecting living rooms, high ceilings, original period features, a dining room with harbour views, and a private rear garden, this home is exceptionally well-suited for hosting guests.

    10/10

Lifestyle

5 areas
  • Quiet Living

    Located in a landmark terrace with views over the iconic promenade and Cork Harbour, it offers a scenic backdrop, though being close to local amenities and town center amenities brings normal urban activity sounds.

    6/10
  • Rural Living

    This is an urban Victorian terraced townhouse situated directly in Cobh town, far removed from rural isolation or countryside settings.

    2/10
  • Village Living

    Cobh provides a historic maritime community feel, balancing town conveniences with a distinct local neighborhood identity.

    5/10
  • Coastal Living

    The property enjoys panoramic, unobstructed views over Cork Harbour and the iconic promenade, offering a premier maritime and coastal living experience.

    10/10
  • Urban Living

    Positioned right beside local amenities, the train station, restaurants, and the town centre, providing strong urban connectivity and convenience.

    8/10

Social

6 areas
  • Nightlife

    Local pubs, restaurants, and entertainment venues in Cobh town centre are within easy walking distance.

    7/10
  • Community Involvement

    Cobh has a vibrant, tight-knit community with active local associations, historical societies, and civic groups easily accessed from this central address.

    8/10
  • Café Culture

    Being right beside the town centre and promenade puts a variety of local cafes, eateries, and social spots within a very short stroll.

    8/10
  • Health/Wellness groups

    Proximity to local community hubs and wellness providers in the area supports participation in health-oriented groups.

    7/10
  • Networking Opportunities

    While Cobh offers local business networks, major corporate networking hubs will typically require commuting toward Cork city.

    6/10
  • Tech-Hub Connectivity

    Good transport links via the nearby train station ensure reasonable connectivity to Cork's expanding technology and business employment centers.

    7/10

Listing information

Agent
McCarthy & McGrath Auctioneers
Phone
021 463 1755 / 021 4273800
Current status
active
Published on HouseDelve
17 October 2026
Correction
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Property reference: HD-805229HouseDelve · Republic of Ireland

Report checks

Sources used: Public marketplace, Property Price Register, and grounded web research where available.

Automated quality checks: Passed

Estimate — not advice. Actual costs and outcomes can vary materially. Obtain current quotations and professional advice before making financial or property decisions.