Four on the market... thatched

Killoran Cottage, Tipperary

€275k, Frontline Estate Agents (061) 639 070

This dormer-style thatched cottage has 195 sqm, so it is definitely on the larger end of the cottage spectrum and is suitable as a full-time family home as well as a retreat or holiday home.

The property has been recently renovated yet still maintains many traditional cottage features such as the original 2ft thick walls and wooden ceiling beams. Salvaged and reclaimed materials have been used throughout during the course of the restoration, and Killoran features antique cast-iron radiators and a wood-burning stove to keep things cosy. There are four bedrooms, an open-plan kitchen/dining/living room, and separate living room and sunroom, as well as a separate bathroom with antique-style free-standing bath and shower-room.

The cottage sits on a three-quarter acre site, so there is plenty of room to grow vegetables and keep chickens if the new owners are keen on that sort of thing.

The cottage has mountain and river views and its own private water well, which will appeal to anyone keen to thumb their nose at Irish Water. There is also off-road parking and oil-fired central heating. The house is wired for cable television.

Killoran is a 5km drive from the village of Garrykennedy, and 10km from lovely Killaloe. Limerick is 33km distant, which could make commuting to the city a possibility, while Shannon Airport is 50km away.

Meenagown, Lettermacaward, Donegal

€99,950, campbells.ie

Pretty Meenagowan in Lettermacaward,  Co Donegal is as traditional as a traditional thatched cottage gets. It is definitely one that deserves the "property of character" tag - with bog oak ceilings and flagstone floors. Sitting on a 0.8 acre site, the cottage has views across to the Gweebarra River and is within easy reach of shops, pubs, beaches and good walks. There are a bedroom, a living room with an open fireplace plus kitchen, loo and shower. Living in a place such as this, there'd be no excuse not to write the definitive Irish novel... or at least pretend to be working on it.

Ballyfollwn, Limerick

€89k, Liston Auctioneers, (069) 61888

Located about 10 minutes from the lovely village of Adare in Limerick, Ballyfollen is a traditional thatched cottage in good condition and comes with a kitchen, sitting room, bedroom, sunroom and bathroom. There are manicured lawns, apple trees and a garage. Adare is a draw for tourists, and the cottage would have potential as a holiday rental if made chi-chi and comfortable for Airbnb-type renters who would jump at the chance to stay in a traditional thatched cottage. Adare is home to some great restaurants and the fine golf course at Adare Manor.

Lemybrien, Waterford

€95k, Sherry FitzGerald Reynolds, (058) 23444

This three-bedroom thatched cottage in Lemybrien, Co Waterford, has been restored, yet retains its original charm and character. Described by the agent as being in pristine condition, The Old Thatch is a 15-minute drive from the tourist hub of Dungarvan, with its popular bars and restaurants, and half an hour's drive from Waterford city. The cottage is over 400 years old, and the village of Lemybrien is surrounded by beautiful countryside, of which there are views from all rooms. All contents are included in the sale, making it ready for immediate occupation.