THERE IS evidence of a keen gardener at work in the well tended and mature grounds surrounding this impressive Victorian villa, just one of six period houses on an imposing terrace just off Grove Avenue in Blackrock, south Dublin.

The same family has owned the 1866 three-storey property since the l930s, and many original features are still in place, including expansive bay windows that allow natural light "ow into high-ceilinged rooms.

Accommodation is spread through a "oor area of some 225sq m (2,420 sq ft), comprising four bedrooms, interconnecting living and dining rooms, family room, kitchen-cum-breakfast room, a study and two bathrooms. The main bedroom to the front boasts bay windows and overlooks an open green area. There is a double garage and wonderful gardens, to the front, side and rear, extend to 0.14 acre.

The sheltered rear garden is bounded by the original granite wall and combines patio area, huge lawns, mature shrubs and old apple trees. There is potential for development, subject to planning permission.

Address: 2 Conquer Hill Road, Clontarf, Dublin 3 Price: 750,000 Agent: HOK Residential 01 - 853 0630

TO THE REAR of this four-bed, end of terrace period home is an equally spacious back garden designed for play and al fresco dining in mind.

The 70-foot length of the garden is divided neatly into a large expanse of lawn and, closer to the house, a hard landscaped area with paved "oor and ample space for large outdoor furniture and containers.

The owner of this house reared nine children here, so it's very much a family home too. The "oor area of the house is 122 sq m (1,300 sq ft), with accommodation comprising the entrance hall, front reception room, rear reception room, breakfast room, kitchen, four bedrooms and bathroom.

Among the interesting period features are plaster ceiling coving and centre roses, as well as attractive original "replaces, in many rooms.

To the front of the house is a neat, railed garden with off-street parking; the garage has double folding doors.

There is potential to further extend the property, or to convert the large garage situated to the side.