
"Forty Shades" Laurelhill, Inistioge, Co KilkennyR95P9H3
€475,000
5 Bed~3 Bath~172 m²~BER E2
What you'll like:
- Generous site size: The property sits on circa 1.6 acres of elevated and secluded gardens, offering immense privacy and outdoor space for buyers seeking a rural retreat.
- Substantial floor area: Providing approximately 172 square meters of living space, the bungalow layout offers plenty of room for family life without feeling cramped.
- Expansive attic potential: Featuring a massive uncounted attic space of around 68 square meters with six Velux windows, there is huge potential for further development subject to permissions.
- Dual aspect kitchen: The kitchen and dining room benefits from a bright dual aspect design, centered around a striking electric range cooker in a brick arched alcove.
- Multiple reception rooms: Alongside the main living room, a versatile sitting room or potential sixth bedroom provides flexible living arrangements for larger families or remote workers.
- Master suite features: The impressive master bedroom includes direct access to a raised gravelled patio via French doors, a dedicated dressing room, and a spacious en-suite bathroom.
- En-suite convenience: With two bedrooms featuring en-suite facilities, morning routines for family members or visiting guests are significantly streamlined.
- Relaxing sunroom: A sunny triple aspect sunroom overlooks the rear garden and includes dedicated plumbing for laundry appliances, creating a practical and peaceful transition space.
- Abundant mature planting: The extensive grounds boast an incredible selection of mature trees including weeping willow, chestnut, and oak, creating a truly established natural sanctuary.
- Established home orchard: An orchard area featuring eating and cooking apple trees, pears, a cherry tree, and plums offers a wonderful homegrown harvest for aspiring gardeners.
- Homegrown berries and herbs: The gardens already contain strawberry and raspberry plants alongside a rich selection of culinary herbs like basil, thyme, and mint.
- Practical detached garage: A substantial detached garage measuring over five meters by four meters comes complete with power sockets and houses the oil burner.
- Additional outdoor storage: A dedicated wooden garden shed and a glasshouse provide extra utility space for maintaining the extensive grounds and cultivating plants.
- High speed connectivity: The availability of Eir fibre broadband offering speeds up to 1GB makes remote working from this tranquil country setting entirely feasible.
- Scenic local area: Situated near the picturesque village of Inistioge, residents can easily enjoy stunning local landscapes, historic buildings, and the famous Woodstock Gardens.
- Convenient regional access: A short fifteen-minute drive leads to Thomastown with its train station and supermarkets, while Kilkenny City is reachable within thirty-five minutes.
- Private winding driveway: The property is well hidden from the road, accessed via a winding gravelled driveway bordered by traditional post and rail fencing.
- Abundant local wildlife: Surrounded by mature trees and natural habitats, the grounds attract diverse birdlife and wildlife throughout the seasons, enhancing the peaceful atmosphere.
- Outdoor entertainment spaces: The extensive grounds and raised patio areas offer ample scope for outdoor dining, hosting family gatherings, or simply relaxing in total tranquility.
- Solid core amenities: The home is connected to mains water and features oil-fired central heating, ensuring basic modern comforts are readily established upon moving in.
But keep in mind:
- Poor energy rating: The property carries a weak E2 BER rating, which indicates poor thermal efficiency and signals that a buyer should budget for significant insulation upgrades.
- High energy consumption: With an energy performance indicator exceeding 373 kWh/m2/yr, future occupants may face notably higher monthly heating bills during colder winter months.
- Septic tank maintenance: The home relies on its own private septic tank, requiring regular servicing, independent inspection, and potential future compliance checks by the buyer.
- Attic conversion compliance: Although the expansive attic space is fully floored and features Velux windows, buyers must verify if proper planning permission and building regulations were met for its current finish.
- Oil heating dependency: The home relies on an oil-fired central heating system housed in the detached garage, which exposes the buyer to fluctuating home heating oil prices.
- Potential modernization needs: Certain interior finishes and layout elements may require cosmetic updating to match contemporary buyer preferences, adding to initial post-purchase expenses.
- Plumbing system age: Prospective buyers should commission a thorough survey of the plumbing, including the multiple bathroom installations and jacuzzi tubs, to ensure no hidden leaks or issues exist.
- Single-pane or older glazing: Given the E2 energy rating, buyers should closely inspect the window seals and frame efficiencies across all exterior elevations for potential drafts.
- Extensive garden upkeep: Maintaining circa 1.6 acres of mature gardens, an orchard, and various outbuildings will demand significant time, physical effort, or ongoing landscaping costs.
- Rural isolation risks: Being set in a very private country retreat means the location is heavily car-dependent for groceries, schools, healthcare, and social activities.
- Local road conditions: The winding rural approach roads around Laurelhill and Inistioge can be narrow and challenging during winter weather or peak agricultural seasons.
- Potential drainage concerns: Given the extensive sloping gardens and mature trees, buyers should check surface water management and ensure there are no dampness issues near the foundation.
- Roof insulation gaps: The listing notes the oversized attic is only part-insulated, meaning the buyer will need to invest in additional roof insulation to improve energy performance.
- Electrical system verification: Buyers should ensure that the electrical wiring throughout the 1851 square foot bungalow and detached garage meets current safety standards and has been recently tested.
- Appliance lifespan uncertainty: Included integrated appliances such as the range cooker and dishwasher should be checked for age and working condition during the pre-purchase survey.
- Non-standard bathroom fittings: Specialized fixtures like steam cabins and jacuzzi baths can be expensive to repair or replace if mechanical components fail after purchase.
- Boundary verification required: With 1.6 acres of rural grounds, the buyer's legal representative must carefully verify all property boundaries and fencing against the official land registry map.
- Proximity to nature pests: The heavy concentration of mature trees and wildlife close to the structure can occasionally increase risks of damp, falling debris, or household pests.
- Limited public transport: The immediate rural townland lacks immediate public transport links, requiring residents to drive to Thomastown for rail connections.
- Future retrofit investment: Achieving a modern, comfortable energy profile for a large detached bungalow of this vintage will likely require a substantial capital investment beyond the purchase price.
Price positioning
?
- The asking price appears somewhat undervalued given the generous floor area and substantial site size, though the lower energy rating creates a notable offset that tempers broader market enthusiasm for the residence.
- Signals supporting potential under-valuation include the extensive acreage and large detached footprint, while counter-signals involve the weaker energy performance rating requiring likely capital investment for efficiency upgrades.
- Market factors that could support this price level include sustained demand for private rural retreats, whereas further energy efficiency disclosures or modernization costs might undermine prospective buyer readiness.
- Additional considerations encompass the property's unique location attributes, extensive outbuilding provisions, and expansive undeveloped attic potential which collectively enhance the overall lifestyle proposition.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is a detached bungalow extending to approximately 172 square meters with an additional large attic space of roughly 68 square meters accessed via a folding ladder and fitted with Velux windows and French doors. A buyer should investigate whether proper planning permission and building control compliance were obtained for the conversion or finishing of this extensive attic space.
- The home features its own private septic tank system. A prospective buyer should commission a specialist inspection to verify the condition, capacity, and current regulatory compliance of the septic tank and percolation area.
- Heating is provided by an oil-fired central heating system utilizing an external Firebird oil burner housed in a detached garage, and the property relies on mains water supply.
- The BER rating is E2, indicating poor energy efficiency which contributes to higher heating demands and operational costs.
Retrofit Cost*
Possible renovating / insulating expenditure
- Given the E2 BER rating, a comprehensive deep retrofit is recommended to bring the energy efficiency up to a modern standard.
- Estimated total cost for a deep retrofit on a 172 sqm detached bungalow ranges from €55,000 to €85,000.
- Key measures required include external wall insulation, upgrading attic insulation, replacing old windows and external doors with high-performance double or triple-glazed units, upgrading the oil heating system or installing a renewable heat pump system, and sealing air leakage points to significantly improve the energy rating.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost: €2,500 to €3,300.
- Explanation: Given the 172 square meter floor area and the E2 BER rating indicating lower energy efficiency, oil-fired central heating will consume higher volumes of fuel to maintain comfort compared to a modern well-insulated home.
Pollution Safe
9/10Environmental situation to investigate
- The property is located in a deeply rural, elevated countryside setting surrounded by mature trees, significantly minimizing proximity to major industrial pollution sources or active heavy landfills.
- Any historical or localized agricultural runoff is typical of rural farming areas, and prospective buyers can investigate local environmental records if specific concerns arise.
Flood Safe
8/10Water overflow reports to follow up
- The property description highlights an elevated position on circa 1.6 acres of gardens, which naturally reduces the likelihood of structural flooding from surrounding low-lying areas.
- While the wider region features the River Nore valley, buyers should consult detailed local flood maps and verify drainage performance as part of their standard pre-purchase investigations.
Recent Local Sales
Verified residential transactions published in the previous five years
Sales on the same street or estate
No verified results were found for this group in the previous five years.
Recent sales in the wider Inistioge area
WOODSTOCK, INISTIOGE, KILKENNY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €185,500.00
THE BEECHES, DEERPARK, INISTIOGE
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €725,000.00
CLUEN, INISTIOGE, CO KILKENNY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €650,000.00
KILCROSS, INISTIOGE, CO. KILKENNY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €7,620.00
FOREST HILLS, INISTIOGE, KILKENNY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €200,000.00
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
No confidently matched previous sale was found in the Property Price Register.
Buyer fees*
Associated expenses guide
- Stamp duty: approximately 1% to 2% of the purchase price (around €4,750 to €9,500).
- Solicitor legal fees: roughly €1,500 to €3,000 excluding outlays and VAT.
- Land registration fees: approximately €600 to €800 depending on property deeds and registry type.
- Property valuation fees: around €150 to €300.
- Surveyor fees: approximately €500 to €1,200 depending on the level of detail required for a detached property.
- Annual home insurance: roughly €400 to €800 depending on the insurer and policy coverage.
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Local residents in the Inistioge and Laurelhill areas frequently discuss the tranquil, scenic nature of the countryside and the strong community spirit in nearby villages.
- Community forums often highlight local amenities such as Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum as major recreational highlights for families and visitors.
- Discussions regarding infrastructure occasionally mention the scenic but narrow rural roads, emphasizing the need for careful driving and local maintenance.
- Residents in rural County Kilkenny frequently share tips on maintaining private septic tanks and sourcing reliable local rural broadband services like Eir.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children6/10
The property offers extensive and secluded outdoor space with 1.6 acres of gardens, an orchard, and nature habitats that young children will love exploring. However, parents should verify safety aspects given the secluded rural setting, own septic tank, and proximity to rural roads.
- Teenagers7/10
With five bedrooms, a large floored attic space, and separate living areas, there is plenty of room for teenagers to have their own space. Fibre broadband is connected, which is ideal for gaming and studies.
- Multi-generational Living7/10
The substantial five-bedroom layout featuring two en-suites, an oversized attic space with its own French doors, and generous square footage provides excellent potential for extended family arrangements, subject to any necessary configuration.
- Single Buyers4/10
A 172 square metre detached bungalow on 1.6 acres represents a significant amount of maintenance and a higher price point for a single occupant, though the rural seclusion will appeal to those seeking absolute peace.
- Couples8/10
Provides an idyllic private country retreat with spacious reception rooms, a sunroom, beautiful landscaped gardens, and a master bedroom suite with a dressing room and Jacuzzi bath en-suite.
- Empty Nesters7/10
Single-level bungalow living offers convenience, but the large 1.6-acre garden and extensive grounds require ongoing maintenance unless external help is employed.
- Retirees7/10
The property benefits from all-ground-floor bedroom and living accommodation, making mobility easier without navigating staircases. However, the rural location means driving is essential for accessing daily amenities and healthcare services.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working9/10
Equipped with fibre broadband (1GB with Eir) and a dedicated fifth bedroom/office space, making it exceptionally well-suited for working from home in a quiet environment.
- Hybrid Commuting5/10
Thomastown Train Station is a 15-minute drive away, offering rail connectivity, but regular commuting to major cities like Dublin or Cork would be a significant journey.
- Retired8/10
Single-level accommodation and a tranquil environment make it attractive for retirement, provided one is comfortable managing a large rural garden and depending on a car for travel.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place7/10
All primary living areas and bedrooms are located on the ground floor, reducing stair usage. Buyers should verify if minor modifications to bathrooms or doorways are required for long-term accessibility.
- Low Maintenance4/10
The property requires upkeep associated with a large 1.6-acre mature garden, own septic tank, oil-fired central heating, and a detached bungalow structure.
- Secure Gated Entry5/10
The property is well hidden from the road and accessed via a winding gravelled driveway with post and rail fencing, though it lacks an automated security gate system.
- Minimalist Design4/10
Features traditional country styling including tongue and groove wall panelling, exposed ceiling beams, and an open fireplace rather than stark minimalism.
- Flexible Floor Plans8/10
Offers five to six bedrooms, including a flexible sitting room/bedroom six, an office, and an enormous floored attic space with significant conversion potential.
- Heritage Home3/10
This is a substantial detached bungalow of modern construction style rather than a protected period heritage home.
- Ecological Setup8/10
The property boasts an established orchard, glasshouse, natural wildlife habitats, diverse tree species, and vegetable and herb growing areas, though its BER rating is E2, suggesting energy efficiency upgrades should be investigated.
- Outdoor areas10/10
Set on circa 1.6 acres of stunning elevated and secluded gardens featuring mature trees, an orchard, a detached garage, a wooden garden shed, a glasshouse, and a raised patio.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening10/10
An absolute haven for gardeners featuring 1.6 acres of grounds, a glasshouse, an orchard with apple, pear, cherry, and plum trees, as well as established vegetable, herb, and diverse tree plantings.
- Walking9/10
Positioned close to Inistioge, renowned for its local loop walks, Woodstock Gardens & Arboretum, and proximity to the Nore and South Leinster Way walks.
- Gym3/10
There is no dedicated fitness facility on site, though one of the bedrooms features an enclosed shower and steam cabin. Commercial gym facilities would require driving to nearby towns.
- Cycling7/10
The scenic local country roads around Inistioge offer fantastic cycling routes, though rural positioning means navigating country lanes with varying traffic conditions.
- Golf5/10
While the surrounding County Kilkenny region is famous for world-class golf courses, players will need to travel to nearby towns such as Thomastown for course access.
- Fishing8/10
Proximity to the River Nore in Inistioge provides excellent angling and fishing opportunities nearby.
- Horse Riding7/10
The rural setting with a winding gravel driveway and spacious grounds provides a country lifestyle conducive to equestrian interests, though local stables would need to be sourced externally.
- Water Sports4/10
River activities may be accessible along the local waterways, but coastal or major water sports facilities are limited.
- Entertaining9/10
Features a large kitchen/dining room with an electric range, a sunroom, a living room with an open fireplace, and extensive outdoor grounds and raised patio areas ideal for hosting guests.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living10/10
Set on 1.6 acres of elevated, secluded gardens surrounded by mature trees and wildlife, the property is well hidden from the road and offers supreme peace and tranquility.
- Rural Living10/10
A true country retreat featuring an orchard, glasshouse, detached garage, own septic tank, and surrounding natural habitats near the scenic village of Inistioge.
- Village Living8/10
Located just a five-minute drive from the picturesque village of Inistioge, providing convenient access to local national schools, creches, pubs, a post office, and a supermarket.
- Coastal Living1/10
Inistioge is an inland village in County Kilkenny, far removed from coastal areas and marine activities.
- Urban Living2/10
Situated in a rural countryside setting, well away from city environments, with the nearest large towns a 15 to 35-minute drive away.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement8/10
Proximity to Inistioge village allows residents to easily participate in local community groups, historical society events, and village activities.
- Café Culture6/10
Inistioge and nearby Thomastown offer charming local coffee houses and pubs, though a wider café selection requires traveling to larger towns.
- Nightlife3/10
Nightlife is limited to local country pubs in the village; vibrant nightlife requires traveling into Kilkenny City or New Ross.
- Health/Wellness groups5/10
Local wellness opportunities can be found in nearby towns, while the immediate surroundings offer peaceful walking trails and natural serenity for personal wellbeing.
- Networking Opportunities3/10
The rural, secluded location offers minimal local professional networking opportunities outside of remote working connections.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity7/10
Benefit from strong 1GB fibre broadband connectivity allowing seamless connection to tech hubs, despite the physical rural location.
Listing information
- Agent
- Property Partners Doherty Buggy
- Phone
- 051425270/0862324941
- Published on HouseDelve
- 21 September 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-7B4B57HouseDelve · Republic of Ireland* Estimate — not advice. Actual costs and outcomes can vary materially. Obtain current quotations and professional advice before making financial or property decisions.