Settle down near an historic settlement

Yew Abbey, Drogheda, Co Louth

EXPATS returning from the UK, US and the Middle East in search of a large family home close to Dublin Airport and the M1 motorway have accounted for much of the demand at Yew Abbey, a highend enclave near Tinure, a rural village about 8km north of Drogheda.

Indeed, the scheme has bucket-loads of Irish heritage for buyers homesick for the auld sod — it has views of the 10th century Muiredach round tower at Monasterboice, the early Christian settlement home to what is regarded as the finest high cross in the country.

DML Homes-built Yew Abbey was originally launched in September and was designed to have 11 large detached properties in three different styles, including a seven-bed home that has since sold. The selling agent has released four four-bed homes, two of which have already been snapped up.

The four-beds are double-fronted with 2,400 sq ft of accommodation over two storeys. The ground floor has a kitchen/dining/sunroom area, a utility and two sitting rooms. Upstairs are the bedrooms, two of which are ensuite, and the family bathroom. These are on the market for around €495,000.

The exteriors of the fourbed style are in a painted render with natural slate to the roof and a hardwood front door. Inside, there are solid precast concrete floors. All shower enclosures, bathroom and ensuite floors are fully tiled with ceramic tiles, and there is underfloor heating throughout. The fitted kitchens and wardrobes are hand-crafted by Christoff, though there is also a €15,000 allowance for the kitchens.

The A3 BER at Yew Abbey comes courtesy of a renewable energy heating system with customised zoned-heating controls and uPVC double glazed windows.

The scheme is a 30-minute drive to Dublin Airport along the M1, which is 1.5km away. Commuters to Dublin and Belfast can also use the train station in Drogheda.

Viewing is by appointment. Enquiries to: Sherry FitzGerald Lannon (041) 983 8168.