Stilebawn Cottage is a truly remarkable country residence, set within two acres of magical, mature gardens and nestled in the gently rolling foothills of County Wicklow. Originally built in 1760 as a pair of stone farm cottages on the historic Charleville Estate, the property has evolved over the centuries into a warm and characterful six-bedroom home. Carefully unified and extended in the 1970s and 1990s, it blends the timeless appeal of its 18th-century origins with a selection of more recent additions. While the house has been lovingly maintained and retains immense charm, it now offers an exciting opportunity for new owners to update and enhance certain elements, bringing it in line with the expectations of contemporary living, without compromising its rich character or extraordinary sense of place.
Privately positioned down a quiet country lane, this home offers rare seclusion and serenity, yet remains just minutes from the N11 and within easy reach of Dublin. The setting is truly exceptional, with mature trees encircling the house and panoramic views stretching out across one of Ireland’s most scenic valleys. A south-west facing elevated patio offers spectacular sunset views across the valley, creating a natural extension of the living space and a perfect vantage point to enjoy the surrounding landscape.
The gardens, lovingly curated by the current owners over two decades, are among the property’s most striking features. A remarkable collection of specimen trees, including Persian Ironwood, Foxglove tree, and various maples, blend with rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, and ornamental birches to form a garden of rare beauty and seasonal richness. An orchard planted with apple and pear trees, a vegetable garden, a tranquil wildlife pond, and access to a gentle stream complete this idyllic setting. Every element has been designed to enhance the natural beauty of the home, offering both visual splendour and a deep sense of peace.
The house itself is a delightful blend of charm and timeless appeal, offering a layout that adapts effortlessly to both family living and creative or professional pursuits. At its heart is a split-level drawing room, where polished timber floors, built-in bookshelves, window seating, and a solid-fuel stove create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Expansive picture windows frame views of the surrounding gardens, filling the space with light and a sense of connection to the landscape. From here, glazed double sliding doors lead to a striking conservatory, a favourite gathering place year-round. This generous space, used as both dining and living area, showcases original 18th-century exposed stonework, a wood-burning stove, and retractable sun blinds.
The country-style kitchen is both functional and full of character, centred around an Alpha oil-fired range. It opens directly into a well-equipped secondary catering kitchen with its own external access. The ground floor also includes a spacious study or home office, a walk-in pantry, two adaptable storerooms, a sixth bedroom, a family bathroom, a welcoming entrance hall, and a cloakroom. Together, these rooms offer a rare combination of period charm and layout flexibility, with scope for further refinement to suit modern needs.
The first floor offers five further bedrooms, with the main bedroom enjoying direct access to the family bathroom. A separate WC adds further convenience for family and guests. There is also potential to create additional en suite bathrooms if desired. Throughout, the house exudes warmth and character, with considered updates that respect its heritage.
Almost 300 years, Stilebawn Cottage is much more than a house, it is a deeply loved home filled with soul, offering tranquillity, privacy, and a magical garden sanctuary. The current owners have enjoyed over two decades here, drawn by the peace, the wildlife, and the sense of living in harmony with nature, all while having easy access to schools, shops, and the city.