Photograph 1 of 18 of Shephards Cottage, Coolattin, Shillelagh, County Wicklow
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Shephards Cottage, Coolattin, Shillelagh, County WicklowY14XF20

€90,000

4 Bed~1 Bath~100 m²~BER D

What you'll like:

  • Attractive Asking Price: Listed at ninety thousand euros, this cottage presents an accessible entry point for buyers seeking a renovation project in a scenic rural location.
  • Generous Plot Size: Set on approximately half an acre of land, the property provides ample outdoor space for gardening, landscaping, or future extensions.
  • Charming Traditional Character: The two-storey layout features original elements and a traditional stone wall border, offering immense aesthetic appeal and rustic architectural charm.
  • Four Bedroom Layout: Providing four bedrooms across two floors, the accommodation is surprisingly spacious for a traditional cottage and suits families or visiting guests.
  • Scenic Countryside Views: Several bedrooms enjoy elevated county views, ensuring a picturesque and peaceful living environment immersed in natural South Wicklow beauty.
  • Outbuilding Storage: Includes a stone-built outbuilding and a separate block-built shed, delivering practical external storage solutions for tools, equipment, or bikes.
  • Proximity to Shillelagh: Positioned only one kilometre from the picturesque village, residents can easily access local amenities, schools, churches, and everyday services.
  • Outdoor Sporting Hub: The local area offers renowned sporting facilities including hunting, fishing, and the acclaimed nearby Coolattin Golf Course for active lifestyles.
  • Nature Lover Setting: Situated close to the Wicklow Way and Tomnafinogue Oak Woods, outdoor enthusiasts have immediate access to stunning walking and hiking trails.
  • Manageable Floor Area: Extending to approximately one hundred square metres, the home provides a comfortable scale that avoids excessive heating and maintenance costs.
  • Rayburn Stove Installed: The dining room features a solid fuel Rayburn stove, adding traditional warmth and potential cooking functionality to the heart of the home.
  • Dual Aspect Kitchen: The kitchen benefits from dual aspect windows, allowing natural light to flood the workspace throughout different times of the day.
  • Feature Fireplaces: Multiple rooms retain traditional feature fireplaces, enhancing the authentic rustic ambiance and providing options for open fires.
  • Convenient Carlow Border: Located close to the Carlow border, the property offers a convenient base for exploring neighbouring counties and regional attractions.
  • Accessible Regional Towns: Situated just nine kilometres from Carnew and fifteen kilometres from Tullow, daily shopping and secondary services remain within easy reach.
  • Commuter Accessibility: Positioned about twenty-five kilometres from Gorey and an hour's drive from South Dublin, providing reasonable connectivity for occasional city commuters.
  • Expansion Potential: The generous garden grounds offer exciting potential for outdoor living enhancements, including patios, vegetable plots, or custom landscaping designs.
  • Well-Balanced Accommodation: The layout neatly separates communal living areas on the ground floor from private sleeping quarters located on the upper level.
  • Peaceful Privacy: Enjoying a quiet countryside setting, the property acts as a true haven of peace away from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
  • Private Boundary Wall: The front is bordered by an attractive traditional stone wall, creating a strong first impression and a defined property boundary.

But keep in mind:

  • Moderate Energy Rating: Carrying a D energy rating with an indicator of 257.50 kWh per square metre per year, the home will likely require significant thermal upgrades.
  • Online Auction Format: The property is offered via online auction with pre-auction bids accepted, creating potential pressure and competitive bidding dynamics for buyers.
  • Untested Services Warning: The selling agents explicitly note that fixtures, fittings, and services remain untested, requiring buyers to independently verify their working condition.
  • Private Water Supply: Utilising a private water source, purchasers must commission thorough water quality and flow rate testing to ensure domestic safety and reliability.
  • Septic Tank Maintenance: Equipped with a private septic tank, buyers should arrange a professional inspection to verify compliance with current environmental regulations and structural integrity.
  • Oil Fired Central Heating: Relying on oil heating, prospective owners should inspect the age and efficiency of the boiler and oil tank to avoid unexpected replacement expenses.
  • Compact Kitchen Footprint: The kitchen measures under two metres in width, offering limited workspace and requiring careful planning for modern appliance integration.
  • Dated Interior Finishes: The presence of laminate and carpet flooring alongside older fittings suggests the interior requires a comprehensive modern refurbishment programme.
  • Single Bathroom Facility: With only one shared family bathroom for four bedrooms, busy households may experience morning congestion and require additional sanitary facilities.
  • Upstairs Storage Room: The inclusion of a small dedicated storage room on the landing highlights the overall lack of built-in bedroom wardrobes and closet space.
  • Rural Commuting Costs: The remote countryside location necessitates regular driving for all errands, schools, and employment, resulting in higher ongoing transport fuel expenses.
  • Potential Insulation Deficits: Built in 1910, original stone or early cavity walls likely lack modern insulation standards, contributing to higher heating demands and drafts.
  • Roof and Timber Checks: Given the age of the structure, buyers must commission a detailed structural survey to inspect roof timbers, slates, and potential damp issues.
  • Electrical System Age: Older rural cottages often feature outdated electrical wiring that may not meet current safety standards or modern power load requirements.
  • Window and Glazing Condition: The efficiency and sealing of the windows should be carefully checked, as older frames can be prone to heat loss and draughts.
  • Outbuilding Condition: The stone-built and block-built sheds should be inspected for damp, structural shifting, and roof integrity before relying on them for storage.
  • Garden Drainage Assessment: The expansive lawn and garden areas should be evaluated for potential seasonal water retention or poor drainage common in rural clay soils.
  • Boundary Verification: Buyers must cross-reference the folio map with the physical boundaries on site to ensure there are no historical encroachment or access disputes.
  • Local Planning Restrictions: Restrictions in rural Wicklow planning zones may limit a buyer's ability to construct large extensions or significantly alter the exterior facade.
  • Limited Public Transport: The rural setting lacks reliable public transport infrastructure, making private vehicular ownership an absolute necessity for all occupants.

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 somewhat undervalued compared with the available evidence.
  • The asking price appears attractively positioned below typical local transactions, potentially reflecting the need for modernization or its auction method of sale to draw competitive interest.
  • Signals pointing toward under-valuation include its lower entry point compared to wider regional cottage and residential sales, though this is tempered by a moderate energy rating.
  • Factors that could support such pricing include competitive bidding dynamics typically found at online auctions, while necessary capital expenditure on upgrades might undermine higher valuation assumptions.
  • Relevant considerations involve the rural setting and outbuildings offering strong lifestyle appeal, balancing the lower price tag against ongoing maintenance and renovation costs for a historic structure.

Build Analysis

What we know from similar construction types

  • The property is a traditional two-storey detached cottage originally built around 1910, featuring a two-storey layout spanning approximately 100 square metres on a 0.5-acre site.
  • Buyers should investigate the structural integrity, dampness levels, and insulation standards of older traditional cottages, particularly given the 1910 construction date.
  • The presence of outbuildings, including a stone-built outbuilding and a separate block-built shed, requires verification of their structural condition and compliance with planning permissions.
  • Services include a private water supply and a septic tank, meaning a buyer should commission professional inspections to verify the capacity, condition, and regulatory compliance of the wastewater treatment system and private well.
  • The heating system relies on oil-fired central heating alongside a Rayburn stove and open fireplaces, which should be inspected for safety, efficiency, and ventilation compliance.

Retrofit Cost*

Possible renovating / insulating expenditure

  • The property has a D BER rating, which falls into the D to G range requiring a deep-retrofit cost estimate.
  • A comprehensive deep retrofit for a 100 m² older detached cottage typically ranges from €40,000 to €70,000 depending on the extent of works needed.
  • Key measures would likely include upgrading external wall insulation or internal dry-lining, replacing older windows and doors with high-performance double or triple glazing, upgrading attic or roof insulation, and potentially installing an air source heat pump or upgrading the heating controls and radiators to achieve a modern B2 or A-rating.

Heating cost*

Estimated expense to heat this property every year

  • Estimated annual heating cost: approximately 1,800 euro to 2,400 euro.
  • Explanation: Based on the 100 square metre floor area and a D BER rating indicating moderate energy efficiency, combined with oil fired central heating and a solid fuel stove.

Pollution Safe

9/10

Environmental situation to investigate

  • The property is situated in a deeply rural agricultural and wooded setting in South County Wicklow, distant from major heavy industrial zones.
  • There are no apparent large-scale industrial pollution sources, incinerators, or major modern landfills immediately nearby, though any legacy local land uses should be independently verified.

Flood Safe

8/10

Water overflow reports to follow up

  • The property occupies an elevated rural site near Coolattin and Shillelagh, generally reducing the likelihood of surface water flooding.
  • Buyers should review local drainage and minor watercourse proximity during their structural survey to confirm specific site resilience against heavy rainfall.

Recent Local Sales

Verified residential transactions published in the previous five years

Sales on the same street or estate

  • TAYLORS COTTAGE, COOLATTIN, SHILLELAGH

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €107,500.00

Recent sales in the wider Shillelagh area

  • 13 MILLBANK, SHILLELAGH, ARKLOW

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €184,000.00
  • COTTAGE, COOLKENNA, SHILLELAGH

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €310,000.00
  • 1 MILLBANK, SHILLELAGH, WICKLOW

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €225,000.00
  • 20 OAKRIDGE MANOR, SHILLELAGH, WICKLOW

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €320,000.00
  • LOTHLORIEN, BALLYNULTAGH HILL, SHILLELAGH

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €245,000.00

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 of the purchase price, or roughly 900 euro.
  • Solicitor legal fees: generally range between 1,500 euro and 2,500 euro plus outlay and VAT.
  • Land registration fees: approximately 175 euro to 700 euro depending on the registration type.
  • Property valuation fees: typically around 150 euro to 300 euro.
  • Surveyor fees: generally range from 400 euro to 800 euro for a standard structural survey.
  • Annual home insurance: estimated between 400 euro and 800 euro depending on the policy and coverage.

Forum Talk

What people are saying about this area

  • Locals frequently highlight the scenic appeal of Shillelagh and proximity to the Wicklow Way as a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Residents in the wider South Wicklow and Carlow border area often discuss community-led rural development and local infrastructural maintenance.
  • Community groups in Shillelagh actively promote local heritage, such as the nearby Tomnafinogue Oak Woods and Coolattin amenities.
  • Discussion on rural forums often centers on the benefits and tranquility of countryside living paired with the importance of reliable local private services like septic tanks and well water.

LifeFit Assessment

How well this property may suit your lifestyle

Family

7 areas
  • Young Children

    The property offers four bedrooms and a generous c. 0.5-acre garden, providing plenty of outdoor space for young children to play. However, buyers should verify the safety and suitability of the local roads and surrounding environment for family life.

    6/10
  • Teenagers

    With four bedrooms, there is adequate personal space for teenagers. The rural location, however, means limited local youth amenities and a heavy reliance on driving for social activities.

    5/10
  • Multi-generational Living

    The traditional cottage layout features one bathroom and shared living spaces across two storeys, which may feel restrictive for multi-generational living without substantial modification.

    4/10
  • Single Buyers

    At an asking price of €90,000, this property presents an affordable entry point for single buyers willing to take on a traditional home, though maintenance and remote location factors should be considered.

    6/10
  • Couples

    Provides a charming countryside retreat with four bedrooms and outdoor space, ideal for couples looking for a peaceful lifestyle or a project home within reach of local amenities.

    7/10
  • Empty Nesters

    Offers a tranquil rural setting and manageable c. 0.5-acre grounds. The two-storey layout requires stair climbing, which is an important consideration for ageing in place.

    7/10
  • Retirees

    The peaceful countryside setting and garden space are ideal for retirement, but the rural location and stairs between the ground-floor living areas and first-floor bedrooms should be evaluated for long-term comfort.

    6/10

Work

3 areas
  • Remote Working

    The tranquil setting provides a distraction-free home office environment, but buyers should investigate local broadband speeds and connectivity to support reliable remote work.

    6/10
  • Hybrid Commuting

    With South Dublin approximately a one-hour drive away and towns like Gorey and Carlow at a distance, hybrid commuting is feasible but involves significant travel time.

    4/10
  • Retired

    An ideal home for retirees seeking a quiet country retreat with garden space, outdoor pursuits, and a scenic village community nearby.

    9/10

Practical

8 areas
  • Ageing in Place

    While the ground floor includes a living room, kitchen, and a bedroom, the presence of stairs to three further bedrooms and the bathroom on the first floor presents challenges for long-term ageing in place without adaptation.

    5/10
  • Low Maintenance

    As a traditional 1910 two-storey cottage with a BER rating of D, ongoing maintenance, preservation of character features, and potential energy upgrades should be anticipated by the buyer.

    4/10
  • Secure Gated Entry

    The property is bordered by a traditional stone wall but does not feature a formal secure gated entry system, which buyers may wish to install.

    3/10
  • Minimalist Design

    The home is rich in traditional character, original features, and a historic cottage layout rather than modern minimalist architectural design.

    3/10
  • Flexible Floor Plans

    Provides a traditional layout with a kitchen, dining room, living room, and four bedrooms, offering some flexibility in room usage but fixed structural boundaries typical of older cottages.

    5/10
  • Heritage Home

    Originally built in 1910, this charming traditional two-storey cottage retains plenty of original character, features, and historic appeal.

    9/10
  • Ecological Setup

    Features a c. 0.5-acre plot with potential for organic gardening or wildlife habitats, though the D energy rating indicates there is room to improve thermal efficiency.

    5/10
  • Outdoor areas

    Comprises a c. 0.5-acre site featuring a traditional stone wall, a stone-built outbuilding, a block-built shed, an expansive lawn, and excellent potential for outdoor living spaces.

    9/10

Interests

9 areas
  • Gardening

    Features a generous c. 0.5-acre plot with an expansive lawn, traditional stone walls, and excellent potential for vegetable plots, flower beds, and landscaping.

    9/10
  • Walking

    The area boasts proximity to the scenic Wicklow Way and Tomnafinogue Oak Woods, offering fantastic walking and hiking opportunities right on the doorstep.

    9/10
  • Gym

    Being in a rural countryside location, dedicated commercial gym facilities are not within immediate walking distance and require travel to larger nearby towns.

    2/10
  • Cycling

    The surrounding scenic country roads provide great routes for cycling enthusiasts, though traffic conditions and road widths should be checked locally.

    8/10
  • Golf

    Shillelagh is renowned for its outdoor pursuits, notably being right on the doorstep of the acclaimed Coolattin Golf Course.

    9/10
  • Fishing

    The local area is well known for excellent fishing opportunities, making it a prime spot for angling enthusiasts.

    9/10
  • Horse Riding

    The rural Wicklow setting and local country lanes offer a welcoming environment for equestrian pursuits and horse riding.

    8/10
  • Water Sports

    The inland rural location lacks immediate access to major water sports facilities, which are primarily found on the coast or larger lakes.

    2/10
  • Entertaining

    The property features a separate living room, dining room with a Rayburn stove, and generous outdoor space, making it suitable for hosting guests in a rustic setting.

    7/10

Lifestyle

5 areas
  • Quiet Living

    Positioned in a peaceful countryside setting in South County Wicklow approximately 1km from Shillelagh, offering an exceptionally quiet and tranquil living environment.

    10/10
  • Rural Living

    Set on c. 0.5 acres surrounded by scenic countryside, traditional stone walls, and local woodland, perfectly matching a rural lifestyle.

    10/10
  • Village Living

    Located just 1km from the picturesque village of Shillelagh, providing convenient access to local shops, churches, and everyday services.

    7/10
  • Coastal Living

    The property is located inland in South County Wicklow, far from coastal areas and beaches.

    2/10
  • Urban Living

    Situated in a deeply rural setting far from major urban centers, with the nearest towns being smaller settlements like Carnew and Tullow.

    1/10

Social

6 areas
  • Community Involvement

    Proximity to Shillelagh village allows residents to easily engage with local community groups, sports clubs, and village events.

    8/10
  • Café Culture

    While the local village offers basic amenities and restaurants, a vibrant café culture is limited and typically requires travel to larger nearby towns.

    4/10
  • Nightlife

    The rural location offers very limited nightlife options beyond local country pubs in the surrounding villages.

    2/10
  • Health/Wellness groups

    Local wellness groups would likely be small-scale or community-led, with a wider variety of classes available only in larger towns.

    4/10
  • Networking Opportunities

    Professional networking opportunities are minimal in this rural area, with most business networking concentrated in major employment hubs.

    2/10
  • Tech-Hub Connectivity

    The property is located in the countryside far from established tech hubs, meaning connectivity relies entirely on remote digital infrastructure.

    2/10

Listing information

Agent
Quinn Property (Gorey)
Phone
053 948 0000
Published on HouseDelve
13 September 2026
Correction
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Property reference: HD-915B19HouseDelve · 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.