That location is suitably in keeping with the property's old-world look, being in the shadow of the historic Anglican church. The three bed residence was built in 1910 and overlooks the Vartry river and Wicklow harbour and would make a lovely family home in what is a pleasant seaside town.

Ardeevin was comprehensively refurbished by the current owners in 1999, with major work including rewiring and replumbing. As far as possible, original features have been retained, and these are evident from first entering the house.

The reception hall marks a charming introduction, with its coloured glass-panelled door surround, mahogany staircase, original chequered floor tiles and the high ceilings that define most of the other rooms.

In the livingroom, the period style is marked by decorative cornicing on the elevated ceiling, and by the traditional tiled fireplace with wooden surround. There are two reception rooms to the front of the property, each with bay windows that fill the space with natural light and overlook the sheltered front garden. A separate diningroom is very much a feature of a period layout, but here it leads to a contemporary, compact, yet functional kitchen with beech units and granite worktops.

Care has been taken to blend the vintage trappings of the house with the needs of modern living, and the decor of light paint colours brings a very fresh, welcoming feel to all rooms. Completing the accommodation at the ground level is a larger than average bathroom.

Upstairs, what was originally two bedrooms has been transformed into one generous master en-suite. The room benefits from full light from the bay window overlooking the rear of the property; the private bathroom has a jacuzzi bath with waterfall tap and a separate shower.

Underfloor heating is another feature of the room. The two remaining double bedrooms are equally bright and both have views over the river and harbour.

To the front of the house is a paved area for off-street parking. A gated side entrance leads to the private courtyard to the rear which includes a patio surrounded by shrubs and raised flower beds.

Price: 650,000 AMV at auction on 20 April 2006 Agent: Clarke Auctioneers 0404-40421