Characterful homes for sale in Cork

Steeped in history, this south-east Ireland city has a rich cultural scene and a beautiful riverside location – plus extremely reasonable house prices

Perched on the banks of the River Lee, Cork is the second largest city in the Republic of Ireland after Dublin.

With the average house price coming in at £272,000 (€317,500), it's more reasonably priced than the former, offering prospective buyers an affordable slice of city life.

The river divides the city, with the historic Victorian Quarter and its plethora of flea markets and independent shops to the north.

Meanwhile, if you venture south you’ll discover the Huguenot Quarter, which is bursting with an eclectic mix of eating establishments, from fine dining restaurants and gastro-pubs to wine bars and chic cafes.

READ MORE: Five dazzling homes for sale in Dublin

For history buffs, 18th-century St Anne’s Church offers a fascinating window into Cork's past, while culture vultures will delight in the many festivals held in Cork every year – think World Book Fest, Indie Cork and the Jazz Festival. Plus, those who love to travel can do so easily, thanks to the nearby airport.

There’s plenty to see and do in this fascinating city, and its high employment rate is a real draw for those looking to settle.

But it’s not just the city centre that’s appealing. For young families, East Cork is a good place to put down roots, thanks to its local amenities, proximity to the beach and good range of schools.

Other attractive neighbouring towns include Cobh and Kinsale to the south, which offer a relaxed pace of life while still being within easy reach of the city. 

Tempted? Here are a few of our favourite properties on the market at the minute…

Two-bedroom terraced house, Blackpool, Cork City, £116,00 (€135k)

Only 20 minutes' walk to the city centre, this ideally-located property is a real steal.

Recently renovated, the interior has been decked out with a stylish grey colour scheme throughout – the ideal space for a couple or young family to settle down in.

A spacious sitting room is found at the front of the house, with a galley kitchen and bathroom located towards the rear, plus a dining room complete with a characterful feature fireplace and handy built-in storage units.

Upstairs, you'll find two extremely generous double bedrooms, while a private rear garden offers a patio and lawn for homeowners to put their own stamp on.

On the market for £116,00 (€135k) with Savills.

Three-bedroom terraced house, Hawthorn Villas, South Douglas Road, £265,000 (€310k)

A colourful Victorian property, this charming home still has many of its original features including ornate ceiling arches, period fireplaces, and deep-set windows.

On the elevated ground floor, the open-plan kitchen and dining room is finished to a modern standard, giving access to the real gem of the property – the roof garden!

A sun-soaked decked area provides plenty of space for a table and chairs – perfect for whiling away the summer evenings.

Three attractive bedrooms, complete with tiled fireplaces, are found on the first floor, serviced by a generous family bathroom.

Set close to the city centre, the property is in prime position for those wanting to be close to the action, with transport links and plenty of local schools just a stone's throw away.

On the market for £265,000 (€310k) with Sherry FitzGerald.

Five-bedroom house, Woodville, Dunkettle, £471,000 (€550k)

This stunning five-bed home sits proudly on a south-facing corner in the highly desirable spot of Woodville.

Inside, accommodation is light and tasteful with a sociable open-plan living area that comprises a dining space, living room and kitchen. A further sitting room is also on this level, as well as a downstairs cloakroom.

On the first floor are a family bathroom and four bedrooms, the master of which boasts an ensuite and a handy walk-in wardrobe.

A real treat lies on the second floor, where you’ll find the fifth bedroom, which is served by an ensuite and a spacious dressing area. Also on this level is a den or study area that could be a good spot for a home office, or perhaps a hideaway from teenagers wanting their own space.

Outside, wooden decking wraps around the house, giving way to a large lawned area with plenty of space for the whole family to enjoy.

On the market for £471,000 (€550k) with Sherry FitzGerald.

Six-bedroom house, New Road, Whitegate, £681,000 (€795k)

A gorgeous country residence accessed by a sweeping driveway and set amongst beautiful landscaped gardens, this handsome home is giving us all the feels.

Combining old and new architecture, a spectacular open-plan living space is located at the heart of the house. Original brickwork merges with a dramatic mezzanine level and double-height windows for a stunning family room with real wow-factor.

A beautiful light grey kitchen gives way to a cosy family room, complete with log-burning stove and expansive glazing.

The property's six bedrooms, including four with ensuite bathrooms, are located around a sociable courtyard that’s an ideal spot to dine alfresco.

However, it's the little extras that give this property so much character, such as the polished wooden floorboards, stone tiles and striking spiral staircase.

On the market for £681,000 (€795k) with Sherry FitzGerald.

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