The place: Fort Faulkner, Cronebeg, Aughrim, Co Wicklow
The price: Asking €2.3m
The low down: A charming 4000sq.ft. period house on 25 acres with commanding views towards the Wicklow hills. Recently extended to include a guest wing and a tastefully designed courtyard that would suit a variety of uses.

Every house should have a story and if yours doesn't, I advise making one up. Fort Faulkner in Aughrim has no such problems, as this house was allegedly lost by Buck Whaley in a game of cards to one Mr Faulkner, hence Fort Faulkner. Edgy or what?

Some homes just have that X factor and this one is no exception. The house is protected by mature trees, flanked by wide lawns which are interspersed by numerous shrubs and a number of specimen trees. Due to the property's fine elevated position, the main reception rooms and many bedrooms have uninterrupted views across the gardens and surrounding countryside. The house was recently restored and its many period features include a Georgian fanlight, fine granite staircase, pitch pine floors, carved marble fireplace, high ceilings and sash windows with shutters. God I love it.

I particularly like the newly constructed courtyard which offers further accommodation for family or guests, or alternatively it could be easily be divided into three or four holiday apartments for Dublin types - or indeed Kerry types come to think of it - or perhaps any type at all. Subject to planning, other uses might be offices, corporate headquarters, gallery or even a holistic centre for those Kerry types whent he swing of life down there gets too hectic.

All you lardy bottoms out there will be particularly interested to note the studio/gym area and check out the gallery area (c.1,300sq.ft.) and guest apartment (c.780sq.ft.), not to mention the self-contained office area (c.950sq.ft.) with two large reception rooms/bedrooms.

This is one home and then some. Mr Whaley must be turning in his grave. Go visit.

For further information contact Colliers Jackson-Stops on 01 6333 700 or Savills Hamilton Osborne King on 016634356.