NESTLED AMIDST THE landscape of Blessington, Co Wicklow is The Barracks – a beautifully renovated five-bed home with a rich past.
Dating to 1857, it was built as an RIC (Royal Irish Constabulary) barracks to protect the local houses, including Russborough and Tulfarris. Over the years, it has seen various owners and uses, including a stint as the residence of Patrick, John, and Catherine O’Sullivan. Patrick, a renowned footballer, made a mark in Wicklow, Leinster, and Ireland football, securing a Junior All-Ireland medal in 1936.
Now on the market for €790,000, this gem is a piece of Irish heritage that merges historic charm with contemporary luxury. The Barracks was extensively restored in 2002 and this meticulous process ensured the property kept its original charm but has modern additions.
The property welcomes you with original flagstones and the same entrance gate from its early days. The roof, completely restored, features copper valleys, Blue Bangor slates and original Dublin chimney pots.
Inside, the steel security doors with intact gun slits in the porch serve as a reminder of its historic roots. Throughout the home, pitch pine boards and beams salvaged from Chelsea docks in London add character and warmth. The combination of wood, red brick and granite internal walls creates a cosy and solid atmosphere that’s nothing if not interesting.
The space inside is well-proportioned and comprises a downstairs porch, hallway, sitting room, living room and a kitchen with a dining area. There is also a home office that could be a fifth bedroom if needed. A utility room completes the ground floor.
Upstairs sits four double bedrooms, two of which have their own bathrooms. A family bathroom completes this level.
The home offers great panoramic views of Blessington lakes on two sides, with the Wicklow mountains to the south and the plains of Kildare to the west. Gardens, balconies and bay windows provide perfect vantage points to soak up the sights.
The Barracks is part of the vibrant Baltyboys community. The golf club and sailing club are just a stone’s throw away, offering a range of recreational activities. The nearby village of Valleymount, only 3 km away, provides essential amenities such as a national school, church, pub, village hall, theatre company, and a thriving GAA club.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Blessington Lake offers water sports, while the Wicklow mountains will be a favourite for hikers. Horse racing fans will find Punchestown, Naas, and the Curragh within easy reach.
And for those who still need to go to the office, The Barracks is close to the N81 and the 65 bus route to to the capital. A 25 minute drive will have you at the Luas Park and ride at Citywest.
The house is set on about .33 acres, and it has gardens to the front and on both sides. There is a patio to the back of the home. To the front, a large gravel driveway can park multiple cars.
This property is not just a house; it’s a piece of living history.
To embed this post, copy the code below on your site
have your say