Herbert Road in Bray started its journey in the mid 19th century. Established by the honourable Sidney Herbert on a portion of the Pembroke Estate, it transformed into a breath of fresh air, providing an escape from urban pollution. The commencement of the Dublin to Kingstown railway in 1854, fueled its expansion, contributing significantly to the development of this area in Wicklow town.
Over time, grand dwellings around Herbert Road and its vicinity had their boundaries shrunk to accommodate new structures due to the escalating demand for housing. Architectural designs distinct to the road showcase Italianate touch in Mount Herbert and Ardmore House (currently film studios), and the subtle Tudor influence in William Fogerty’s Violet Hill.
Listed on the Buildings of Ireland site, Kilbride Hill House is an intriguing domicile flaunting an eclectic appearance and unique character. Interestingly, the site indicates that the original name was perhaps Kilbride Tower. It’s been posted for sale through Sherry FitzGerald with a price tag of €2.45 million.
Once housing the Danish government in Ireland, it went under significant restoration to preserve its antiquated features. It last hit the market in 2021, and the Property Price Register states that it was sold for €2.2 million. It included the house and an acre of land with the remaining – adding up to nine acres – being sold separately.
The neighbouring lands now feature 33 recently finished dwellings nestled in a lush woodland backdrop, leaving the historical house resting on a downsized, but manageable three acres. A newly installed hedge, standing 6ft tall, promises increased privacy in the coming years.
Constructed in 1880, the house is situated on a raised piece of land just off the N11. Intricately carved marble fireplaces and elaborate wooden fixtures highlight the home’s preserved entrance. External brickwork accentuated by stone columns with decorative quatrefoils exemplifies its architectural grandeur.
Thanks to the diligent preservation efforts by the Danish delegation, the house, characterised by remarkable period details melded with modern comforts, is in tip-top shape for 21st-century living. Recent refurbishments have brought attention to detail to many aspects of the house including the electrical system, new boilers, floor refinishing, and revamped kitchen and bathrooms. The improvement indeed manifests the house as a prime example of turnkey property.
With a staggering 560 square metres (or 6,027 square feet, if you prefer) of space, the property is expansive, to say the least. Combined with a prime location – picturesque views of the Wicklow Mountains and a swift 30-minute drive during off-peak hours to the city, it’s not hard to see why it was chosen by the Danish government.
The posh interiors feature two impressive entrance halls that can comfortably host a hundred guests for cocktails. The modern Fitzgerald kitchen and breakfast room open up into a luxurious dining area. A breakfast bay-window spot offers a respite for quiet morning coffees, and the stylish marble fireplace and exceptional cornicing bring a touch of elegance.
This grandeur continues to a beautifully lit drawing room that sits across the games room with a compact bar service area – a spot that must have seen its fair share of hustle-bustle during embassy get-togethers. A gym, a study, and a lavishly appointed powder room that rivals any high-end hotel also form part of the house.
In the main house, you’ll find five sumptuous bedrooms, complemented by an extra room in an independently accessible, fully renovated one-bedroom apartment – an ideal arrangement for household staff. Additional accommodation is procured in a coach house, showcasing its versatility of uses.
Oozing elegance and light, Kilbride Hill House showcases impressive features set on a sprawling three-acre property appealing to enthusiastic gardeners. Given its ‘protected structure’ status, it is exempt from Ber, which means new owners can take comfort in knowing that all laborious renovations have already been handled. All that’s left is to decide is where to host the inaugural housewarming party.