The Grey House

The Grey House

A timeless sanctuary on the shores of Belfast Lough

Discover the Property

One of Northern Ireland's most iconic private homes

A timeless sanctuary on the shores of Belfast Lough, offering sweeping sea views, 2.2 acres of landscaped gardens, and an unrivalled sense of peace and privacy.

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The Grey House is a magnificently restored B1 listed coastal residence dating to 1853, nestled in an elevated position in the exclusive village of Cultra, Craigavad. Set within immaculately tended grounds, the house commands uninterrupted panoramic views across Belfast Lough to the County Antrim shoreline — a setting of rare and enduring beauty. The principal accommodation is laid out across four floors and designed thoughtfully for contemporary family living, whilst offering generous entertaining space for the most formal of gatherings.

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Grade B1 Listed

An exceptional piece of architectural heritage dating to 1853, lovingly restored while retaining its original corniced ceilings, marble fireplaces and ornate period detailing throughout.

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Belfast Lough Views

Elevated above the shoreline with sweeping, uninterrupted panoramas across Belfast Lough to the County Antrim coast — visible from multiple principal rooms.

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Exceptional Kitchen

A 35ft kitchen and dining space, fully glazed on three sides, with hand-crafted Canadian pine cabinetry, polished granite surfaces, a four-oven Royal Blue Aga and a central island with Belfast sink.

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2.2 Acres of Gardens

Beautifully landscaped grounds with mature specimen trees, an ornamental pond with water feature, sheltered patio, all-weather tennis court and a garden gazebo.

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Flexible Basement

A recently refurbished lower ground floor with kitchen and bathroom facilities — suitable as a home cinema, gym, self-contained apartment, wine cellar or additional storage.

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Private & Secure

Approached via electric gates with intercom system, a sweeping driveway with ample parking — a genuine sanctuary set back from the world outside.

Video Gallery

Experience The Grey House

Take a closer look at this exceptional property through our short film.

The Grey House · Film

The Accommodation

Laid out across four floors · 10,805 sq ft in total

Ground Floor

Entrance hall, drawing room, living room, library, study, conservatory, games room with Inglenook fireplace, kitchen and dining — all with views across the Lough

Lower Ground Floor

Flexible basement accommodation with kitchen, bathroom and wine cellar — suitable as a home cinema, gym, self-contained apartment or additional entertaining space

First Floor

Principal suite with walk-in dressing room and ensuite, three further bedrooms each with wash hand basins, family bathroom and shower room

Second Floor

Three additional bedrooms with characterful dormer windows, many with Belfast Lough views, and a further shower room

The Grounds

Gardens of rare distinction

Bounded by an array of mature trees and approached by a sweeping electric-gated driveway, the grounds of The Grey House are one of its defining features. Immaculately tended lawns give way to a sheltered patio with a delightful outlook over the gardens and Belfast Lough — perfect for a morning cup of coffee or an evening glass of wine. An all-weather tennis court, garden gazebo, ornamental pond with water feature, garden storeroom and covered carport complete this exceptional outdoor offering.

2.2Acres in total
1853Year established
7Bedrooms

The Area

Scenic walks, beaches & world-class hospitality

Nearby Attractions

  • North Down Coastal Path0.5 miles
  • Royal Belfast Golf Club0.8 miles
  • Culloden Estate & Spa Hotel1.0 miles
  • Ulster Folk & Transport Museum1.1 miles
  • High Tide Covers Rocks Beach1.2 miles
  • Cultra Railway Station1.2 miles
  • Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club1.8 miles
  • Holywood Golf Course3.4 miles

Travel Distances

  • Holywood town centre3.2 miles
  • Bangor5.9 miles
  • Belfast City Airport5.2 miles
  • Belfast city centre8.1 miles
  • Belfast International Airport25.7 miles
  • Derry / Londonderry76.6 miles
  • Dublin city centre111.2 miles

The surrounding area is renowned for its natural beauty, with coastal walks and beautiful beaches on the doorstep. From the property, guests can access the North Down Coastal Path / Ulster Way from Holywood to Bangor, with further walks at Redburn Country Park and Cairn Wood. The area offers a wonderful range of hospitality experiences including Noble, the Cultra Inn and The Dirty Duck. For golfing enthusiasts, The Royal Belfast Golf Club — the oldest golf club in Ireland, established in 1881 — is less than a mile away.

The most sought-after address in Northern Ireland

The Grey House is located in the Cultra area, widely regarded as the most exclusive and affluent residential area in Northern Ireland. Nestled in a tranquil elevated position with a wooded backdrop, yet with exceptional access to Belfast, Dublin and two international airports.

Future Potential

Planning Permission

The Grey House presents a rare and exciting opportunity to extend and enhance one of Northern Ireland's most distinguished period residences. Full planning permission has been granted for a single storey extension, renovation and replacement double garage, as designed by the award-winning Des Ewing Residential Architects — widely regarded as one of Ireland's foremost authorities on the sympathetic restoration and extension of historic properties.

Planning reference: LA06/2022/0178/LBC

Proposed elevations by Des Ewing Architects
Proposed elevations · Des Ewing Residential Architects · Drawing No. 21-46-07 Rev A
Planning overview by Des Ewing Architects
Planning overview including garage elevations and floor plans

The Grey House · Planning & Vision Film

The Layout

Floor Plans

The Grey House extends to approximately 10,805 sq ft across four floors, offering exceptional flexibility and space throughout.

The Grey House floor plans showing basement, ground floor, first floor and second floor
10,805 sq ftTotal gross internal area
2,754 sq ftBasement
7,703 sq ftAbove ground
4Floors

Private Rental Enquiries

Plan your stay

To enquire about availability, rates, or to arrange a private viewing, please complete the form below or call us directly.

+353 85 112 4405