03-08-2025
Look out! Ardmore's not so round tower on a cliff could be yours for €450,000
On the lookout for.... a tower?
ON the lookout for a Munster coastal property with heritage, expansive views, and bragging rights galore?
Tiny tower could be a one-bed weekend get-away?
Look no further than Ardmore's historic lookout tower, on 26 acres of dramatic headland and cliffs, abutting the picturesque west Waterford village, ringed by a clifftop path.
'It's a slice of Ardmore magic, situated in one of Ireland's most scenic locations: this property has been admired by thousands over the years and now is your opportunity, subject to planning permission, to recreate and bring back to life,' says estate agent Brian Gleeson, who is selling the farmland and Napoleonic-era tower all-in for €450,000. The cliff walk experience will not be affected.
Lookout tower has 26 acres, with about 17 arable/grazing: the rest is outside the cliff path traveled by hundreds daily
Ardmore's lookout tower was built in the early 1800s to allow watchkeepers to spot approaching French ships during the Napoleonic wars; it's one of dozens along the south coast, each one within sight of the next for signalling, including Martello towers.
A small number have been converted to private residences. The 26 acres include 17 acres of tillage/pasture and nine wilder acres surrounding the cliff path, with one of Munster's top hotels, the Cliff House Hotel, trading on the adjacent headland.
High end: Ardmore's Cliff Top Hotel in 2012
Auctioneer Brian Gleeson says the 220-year-old lookout tower 'would make an ideal, sensitive restoration project, transformed in to a unique micro-accommodation experience, offering a luxury retreat perched above the dramatic coastline'.
With 'careful restoration and minimal modern additions, such as a spiral staircase, rooftop viewing deck, and eco-friendly amenities, the tower could serve as a one-of-a-kind stay for couples or solo travellers seeking privacy, history, and panoramic sea views', he adds, all subject to planning approval.
'This type of experiential tourism aligns with growing demand for distinctive, off-grid destinations and could significantly enhance Ardmore's appeal' says Mr Gleeson.
