
Ivy Cottage, 2 Meath Place, Bray, Co. WicklowA98VF86
€495,000
2 Bed~1 Bath~51 m²~BER G
What you'll like:
- Prestigious Meath Road location: Positioned just off one of Bray's most established addresses, offering exceptional long-term neighborhood desirability and strong underlying capital value retention.
- Unbeatable DART connectivity: Situated only a three-minute walk from Bray DART Station, providing effortless daily commuting access directly into Dublin City Centre.
- Coastal lifestyle proximity: Located moments away from Bray's famous seafront and promenade, granting immediate access to scenic coastal walks, leisure amenities, and seaside dining.
- Charming period character: Features a pretty cottage facade and original cast-iron fireplaces that infuse the interior with warmth, personality, and historic appeal.
- Enhanced vertical space: Vaulted ceilings throughout create an open, airy ambiance that significantly maximizes the interior volume of the compact 51 square meter footprint.
- Modern kitchen finishes: Equipped with contemporary cabinetry and classic subway-tiled splashbacks, offering a stylish and functional culinary space ready for immediate use.
- Light-filled bathroom: Includes a fully tiled bathroom featuring a large Velux window that floods the room with natural daylight and ensures effective ventilation.
- Private outdoor retreat: Features a private east-facing rear courtyard style garden, providing an ideal secluded spot to enjoy the morning sun.
- Valuable exterior storage: Includes a practical block-built storage shed in the rear courtyard, solving common spatial limitations typical of historic compact cottages.
- Double-glazed windows: Fitted with modern uPVC double-glazed windows and doors, helping to improve interior thermal retention and reduce outside street noise.
- Gas-fired central heating: Equipped with a gas central heating system, ensuring reliable and easily controllable warmth throughout the cozy living accommodation.
- Walkable town amenities: Bray Main Street and the town center are within a short stroll, placing local shops, supermarkets, and essential services on your doorstep.
- Ideal downsizing opportunity: Offers a manageable, single-level or compact layout that appeals strongly to downsizers seeking convenience without sacrificing character.
- First-time buyer appeal: Represents a rare entry point into a prestigious coastal neighborhood, perfect for young buyers wanting a distinctive starter home.
- Established community setting: Located in a highly convenient pocket surrounded by an excellent selection of neighborhood cafés, restaurants, and local services.
- Turnkey interior aesthetic: The blend of modern upgrades and original features creates a welcoming atmosphere requiring minimal immediate cosmetic investment.
- Strong rental demand: The combination of DART proximity and coastal appeal ensures robust future tenant interest if the property is used as an investment.
- Manageable footprint size: A total floor area of 51 square meters ensures very low ongoing maintenance overheads, utility costs, and property management simplicity.
- Desirable orientation: The east-facing rear courtyard captures morning sunlight perfectly, creating a pleasant microclimate for early breakfast outdoors.
- Pedestrian convenience: The ultra-central setting allows residents to comfortably run daily errands completely on foot without relying on a car.
But keep in mind:
- Critically poor energy rating: The property carries a G energy rating, indicating severe thermal inefficiency and high heating costs that require immediate investigation.
- Substantial insulation upgrade costs: Bringing a G-rated historic cottage up to modern energy standards will likely require significant capital expenditure on wall and roof insulation.
- Compact living space limitations: At only 51 square meters, the overall floor area is quite restricted, which may feel cramped for growing families or multiple occupants.
- High heating carbon footprint: The G rating suggests reliance on inefficient energy usage, meaning buyers should budget for a new heating system or heat pump.
- Potential damp in historic walls: Solid-wall period cottages often lack modern damp-proof courses, requiring careful inspection for rising or penetrating moisture issues.
- Limited indoor storage capacity: Beyond the single garden shed, internal built-in storage appears minimal, requiring clever space-saving solutions for everyday belongings.
- Shared boundary considerations: Being part of a historic cottage terrace means buyers should verify party wall agreements and maintenance responsibilities with neighbors.
- East-facing light restrictions: While morning sun is captured, the east-facing courtyard will lose direct sunlight by the afternoon, limiting evening outdoor sitting.
- On-street parking uncertainty: The listing does not mention dedicated parking, so buyers must verify local permit rules and parking availability on Meath Place.
- Roof structure due diligence: Vaulted ceilings mean attic spaces may be absent or tricky to insulate, requiring a surveyor to inspect roof timber conditions.
- Ventilation and condensation risks: Compact historic homes with modern double glazing can suffer from condensation buildup if background ventilation is inadequate.
- Plumbing and wiring age: Buyers should commission a thorough electrical and plumbing survey to confirm whether older services have been fully modernized.
- Extension planning constraints: The small courtyard footprint and conservation context may strictly limit any future architectural expansion or rear extension plans.
- High price per square meter: At the asking price of 495,000 euros for 51 square meters, the cost per square meter reflects a heavy location premium.
- Potential external noise: Proximity to the DART station and bustling town center may introduce ambient railway and pedestrian noise during peak hours.
- Conservation and listing checks: Buyers should verify if the structure is protected or sits within an architectural conservation area restricting exterior changes.
- Compact bathroom layout: A single bathroom serving the entire home means careful coordination is needed if multiple occupants share the living space.
- Lack of utility room: There is no separate utility space mentioned, meaning laundry appliances likely need to fit compactly within the kitchen.
- Future retrofit disruption: Undertaking the necessary energy efficiency upgrades to escape the G rating will cause significant domestic disruption after purchase.
- Resale liquidity concentration: While charming, ultra-compact two-bedroom cottages cater to a specific niche of buyers, which could occasionally influence resale timelines.
Price positioning
?
- The asking price appears attractively positioned relative to verified local market comparables, reflecting a modest valuation that accounts for the compact floor area and the substantial energy upgrade works required given the poor energy rating.
- Upward valuation signals stem from the highly desirable coastal location, proximity to rapid transit links, period character features like vaulted ceilings, and a private rear courtyard which strongly appeal to first-time buyers and downsizers alike.
- Potential factors that could undermine this pricing include significant capital expenditure needed to improve the thermal performance and energy efficiency, whereas strong local demand and limited supply of character cottages heavily support the value.
- Overall, the pricing strategy sits slightly below broader neighborhood transaction averages for similar coastal settings, balancing the inherent appeal of a prime residential address against the practical costs of modernizing a smaller footprint.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is a traditional two-bedroom cottage with a floor area of 51 m², featuring original period elements such as cast-iron fireplaces and vaulted ceilings.
- Features double-glazed uPVC windows and doors and gas-fired central heating, though the overall thermal efficiency is severely compromised given the G BER rating.
- A buyer should investigate the structural condition of the external walls, roof integrity, and damp-proofing, as older cottages often lack modern insulation and damp courses.
- Verify whether any alterations to internal layouts or roof space (such as vaulted ceilings) complied with building regulations and planning permissions at the time they were carried out.
Retrofit Cost*
Possible renovating / insulating expenditure
- The property holds a G BER rating, indicating poor energy efficiency and high heat loss. A comprehensive deep retrofit to bring the home up to a modern B2 standard would typically cost between €40,000 and €60,000, depending on the extent of external wall insulation, roof/attic insulation, upgrading the heating system, and installing renewable technologies such as a heat pump or solar panels. Given the small footprint of 51 m², costs might lean towards the lower end of this range, but older cottages often present hidden complications such as damp treatment and ventilation upgrades that should be factored into the budget.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost: €1,800 to €2,400.
- Explanation: Given the property has a G BER rating indicating poor energy efficiency across its 51 square metre floor area, heating costs are expected to be significantly higher than average despite the gas-fired central heating system.
Pollution Safe
8/10Environmental situation to investigate
Flood Safe
7/10Water overflow reports to follow up
- While the property is situated in a central coastal town close to the seafront, standard site-specific flood risk varies across parts of Bray.
- Prospective purchasers are advised to consult local authority flood maps and carry out appropriate due diligence regarding proximity to coastal or river zones.
Recent Local Sales
Verified residential transactions published in the previous five years
Sales on the same street or estate
SAINT GERARD'S, MEATH PLACE, BRAY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €600,000.00
1 AUGUSTINE VILLAS, MEATH PLACE, BRAY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €450,000.00
Recent sales in the wider Bray area
88 OLDCOURT GROVE, BOGHALL RD, BRAY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €440,000.00
24 SEAPOINT COURT, BRAY, CO WICKLOW
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €694,000.00
71 HEADLANDS, PUTLAND ROAD, BRAY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €525,000.00
75 LA VALLEE, UPPER DARGLE RD, BRAY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €430,000.00
18 UPPER DARGLE RD, BRAY, WICKLOW
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €300,000.00
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 percent to 2 percent of the purchase price, amounting to roughly €4,950 to €9,900 for an asking price of €495,000.
- Solicitor legal fees: generally range between €1,500 and €3,000 plus VAT and outlays.
- Land registration fees: approximately €175 to €700 depending on the application type.
- Property valuation fees: typically between €150 and €300 for mortgage purposes.
- Surveyor fees: approximately €500 to €1,000 depending on the level of detail required for a 51 square metre home.
- Annual home insurance: estimated between €400 and €800 per year depending on the policy level and provider.
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Residents frequently discuss the convenience of living near Meath Road for its quick access to the DART station and the seafront.
- Local community forums often highlight the vibrant café and restaurant culture along the Bray seafront and promenade.
- Discussions in local groups occasionally touch upon parking constraints and traffic calming measures in central Bray streets.
- Homeowners in the area frequently share tips on energy efficiency upgrades for older character properties, especially given changing BER standards.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children4/10
The property features two bedrooms and a compact floor area of 51 square metres with an east-facing courtyard, making it tight on space for growing families with young children.
- Teenagers3/10
With only 51 square metres of living space and one bathroom, teenagers would find accommodation quite cramped with very limited private space.
- Multi-generational Living1/10
A two-bedroom cottage of 51 square metres lacks the layout, separate living areas, and footprint required to support multi-generational living.
- Single Buyers9/10
An ideal setup for a single buyer looking for a character-filled home in a central, highly accessible location close to the DART station and seafront.
- Couples8/10
Great for couples starting out or downsizing, offering a manageable layout, modern kitchen and bathroom, and an appealing coastal location.
- Empty Nesters8/10
The manageable single-level layout and low-maintenance courtyard appeal strongly to empty nesters wanting to stay close to urban amenities and the coast.
- Retirees7/10
The single-level cottage style is convenient, though buyers should verify if any steps or access points pose challenges for long-term ageing in place.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working6/10
With two bedrooms, one can easily double as a home office, though the G energy rating and compact overall floor area of 51 square metres should be considered.
- Hybrid Commuting10/10
Outstanding connectivity with Bray DART Station just a 3-minute walk away, providing direct and efficient access to Dublin City Centre.
- Retired8/10
An appealing option for retirees seeking proximity to health services, public transport, cafes, and coastal walks without the burden of extensive upkeep.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place7/10
Single-level accommodation is beneficial for later life, though prospective buyers should verify door widths, bathroom adaptations, and general accessibility.
- Low Maintenance8/10
The compact 51 square metre floor area and small courtyard garden mean minimal ongoing maintenance, though the G BER rating indicates energy efficiency upgrades will likely be required.
- Secure Gated Entry2/10
The property opens directly onto Meath Place with no gated community or private security entry system.
- Minimalist Design7/10
Features vaulted ceilings and contemporary kitchen finishes that lend themselves well to a clean, minimalist aesthetic.
- Flexible Floor Plans4/10
With a total area of 51 square metres across two bedrooms, living space is fixed and offers very little structural flexibility for reconfiguration.
- Heritage Home8/10
Retains charming original period character, including vaulted ceilings and an original cast-iron fireplace that highlight its cottage heritage.
- Ecological Setup2/10
The property carries a G BER rating, indicating poor energy efficiency; buyers should budget for significant retrofitting to improve environmental performance.
- Outdoor areas5/10
Features a private east-facing courtyard style garden complete with a block-built storage shed, providing a manageable and sunny outdoor retreat.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening3/10
The outdoor space is restricted to a private east-facing courtyard style garden with a block-built shed, offering very limited potential for traditional gardening.
- Walking10/10
Superb location for walking enthusiasts with the seafront, promenade, Bray Head, and town amenities all within easy walking distance.
- Gym7/10
Proximity to Bray town centre ensures good access to local fitness facilities and wellness clubs within a short distance.
- Cycling6/10
The coastal and town location provides good local cycling routes, though secure bicycle storage inside the compact 51 square metre cottage would need careful planning.
- Golf7/10
Bray and the surrounding North Wicklow area boast several highly regarded golf clubs within a short drive.
- Fishing7/10
The coastal setting provides convenient access to local sea angling spots along the Bray and Wicklow coastline.
- Horse Riding5/10
While equestrian facilities exist in the wider County Wicklow region, they will generally require a short drive from this central town location.
- Water Sports8/10
Proximity to the seafront and marine amenities makes this an excellent spot for enthusiasts of coastal water activities.
- Entertaining5/10
The open living and dining room combined with the private courtyard allows for modest gatherings, but the 51 square metre footprint limits large-scale entertaining.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living5/10
Positioned centrally just off Meath Road and close to the station and promenade, residents may experience urban and transport-related activity rather than absolute rural quiet.
- Rural Living1/10
This is a town-centre residential setting with immediate proximity to transport links, shops, and the seafront, entirely lacking a rural environment.
- Village Living8/10
The property offers a strong community feel with Bray town centre, local shops, and cafes within a short stroll from the front door.
- Coastal Living10/10
Located just moments from Bray seafront and promenade, offering exceptional access to coastal walks and marine amenities.
- Urban Living7/10
Situated right in the heart of Bray with superb DART connectivity to Dublin City Centre, retail, and dining options practically on the doorstep.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement7/10
An established residential address with an active local community, nearby churches, community groups, and civic amenities.
- Café Culture10/10
An exceptional location with a wide array of cafes, restaurants, and eateries situated moments away along the seafront and Main Street.
- Nightlife7/10
Bray town centre and seafront offer a good selection of pubs, bars, and evening dining venues within easy walking distance.
- Health/Wellness groups8/10
Close proximity to local fitness hubs, seaside walking routes, and wellness classes operating throughout the town.
- Networking Opportunities6/10
Good transport links to Dublin facilitate professional networking, though local business hubs in Bray are more lifestyle and retail oriented.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity7/10
Direct DART links to Dublin provide straightforward access to major employment and tech hubs, though buyers should verify local broadband speeds.
Listing information
- Agent
- DNG Bray
- Phone
- 01 286 7625
- Published on HouseDelve
- 13 September 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-DB3F9CHouseDelve · 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.