Stunning Lockhouse near Athy on market for €695,000

A unique architectural residence near Athy, Co Kildare located in a stunning location has come for sale on the Barrow Line.

Perched on the banks of the Barrow Line where the Grand Canal meets the River Barrow at Levitstown, the five bed home is located 1.49 hectares (3.7 acres) and has a guide price of €695,000.

Originally constructed in 1800, the property was once the operational heart of Levitstown Lock. It originally comprised two canal workers' houses linked by a central forge. One house was home to the lock keeper, who also operated the nearby bascule (vertical-lifting) bridge, while the second, an unusual feature for a lock location, was built for a canal overseer.

This was due to Levitstown Lock's key role as the point where boats and barges entered or exited the Barrow Navigation system, necessitating toll collection and paperwork checks.

In 2001, the current owners undertook a complete refurbishment of the property, including the addition of two architecturally sensitive extensions. The front extension was built in a traditional style to complement the original limestone buildings, while the rear extension offers a contemporary contrast, showcasing the harmonious blending of old and new.

Internally, The Lock House opens into a large reception room with double-height ceilings, tiled flooring, generous natural light, and underfloor heating throughout the ground floor. This space encompasses both living and dining areas and flows into a modern kitchen/diner with high-quality units, also enjoying a double-height ceiling and excellent natural light. A utility room offers practical storage and garden access.

Adjacent to the kitchen is a flexible-use home office, perfect as a playroom, guest bedroom, or creative space. A shower room and sitting room continue the seamless, tiled flooring, underfloor heating and open flow of the home.

There are stunning views over the gardens as it leads to a self-contained apartment. This private living space includes a fully equipped kitchen/diner/living room, a bright double bedroom with extensive windows, and direct access to a decked outdoor terrace, and fully equiped shower room, ideal for guests or multi generational living.

Upstairs, the accommodation includes two double bedrooms and a master suite. The property sits on 3.7 acres, with approximately half an acre devoted to formal gardens.

The remaining land is a meadow teeming with native wildlife, where birdsong, kingfishers, and even otters are occasional visitors. The site features spectacular specimen trees, including chestnut, Scots pine, sycamore, and oak, as well as Box hedges believed to date back to the early 1800s.

Opposite the house lies the dramatic Levitstown Mill, where barley was once malted and transported by barge to the Guinness brewery in Dublin. The canal itself widens into a small harbour at this point to allow barges to turn, an enduring reminder of the location's industrial past.

The mill, lock, and bascule bridge are all Protected Structures, preserving the unique character and historical importance of the area. This landmark property, once vacant for nearly 70 years, now stands revitalised and ready to welcome its next custodians.

Contact DNG McCormack today to make an appointment to view this exceptional home. 0599133800. BER: B2.

More information here.