A three-bedroom house in Swansea that has been overtaken by nature, is up for sale at an astonishing £450,000 – more than double the average house price of £212,427 in Wales’ second city, according to property website Rightmove.
The dilapidated property has been vacant for years, with missing roof slates and worn-out wooden decking, while nature gradually reclaims the plot with ever-creeping greenery.
However, this house is located in Mumbles, where the average house prices over the past year were £325,058, with detached properties like this one selling for an average of £518,500.
Despite its rundown state, this overgrown home also benefits from one major draw for prospective buyers. From this house, residents can enjoy a stunning view across Swansea Bay towards the city centre and the hills beyond.
Mumbles has always been a sought-after yet pricey place to live, and according to Swansea councillor Will Thomas, it has become even more desirable with recent additions such as a new seawall, promenade, 3G sports pitch at Underhill Park, improved park facilities, and road crossings.
Cllr Thomas, one of three councillors representing the seaside ward, expressed his desire for Mumbles to be an attractive place for all residents, particularly young families, in order to keep the schools bustling.
“A lot of Airbnb properties are up for sale since new Welsh Government policies and the 200% council tax in Swansea [for second homes],” he told WalesOnline.
Cairnside, a run-down property on the market for £450,000, is located off Western Lane and has been listed since May. The estate agents marketing it have described Cairnside as a “hidden gem” on a large plot which could either be renovated or demolished and replaced with a new house, subject to necessary permissions.
In addition to nearby shops and restaurants, the Blue Flag swimming beach Langland is within walking distance, and beyond that lies Caswell.
Harry Gillies, a bar owner in Mumbles, said the former fishing village was a wonderful place to call home. “It’s fantastic – everything is on your doorstep,” he commented.
“But there is a bit of a problem with parking.”
Mr Gillies, who owns Harry’s Bar on Newton Road, added: “It’s very busy at the moment. My bar is doing well.”
First-time buyers may be taken aback by the house prices in Mumbles. Based on an annual survey of earnings by the Office of National Statistics, average salaries in Swansea were £34,871 in April 2024, making an average Mumbles property more than nine times the average wage.
However, for those lucky enough to buy a place there, the allure is as strong as ever.
“Mumbles has always been a sought-after location thanks to its coastal charm, vibrant community, and excellent local amenities but in recent years we have seen demand grow even further,” stated Ricky Purdy, business partner at Dawsons estate agents, which isn’t marketing the Western Lane house.
“The new promenade has enhanced the seafront experience, creating a stunning space for walking, cycling, and enjoying the views while the area’s restaurants, cafés, and independent shops continue to thrive.”
Mr Purdy expressed that homes requiring significant work could hold great potential as buyers were investing not just in bricks and mortar but in the location. He added: “It’s not just the sales market that sees the allure of Mumbles – our lettings team also see a high demand in those wishing to rent too.”
