A dilapidated three-bedroom house in Swansea, hidden amongst lush greenery on a hill, is up for grabs at a staggering £450,000. That’s more than double the city’s average house price of £212,427, according to housing website Rightmove.
The property, which has been vacant for years, may not seem like much with its missing roof slates, worn-out wooden decking and overgrown plot. However, it’s located in Mumbles, where the average house price over the past year was £325,058, with detached properties like this one fetching an average of £518,500, as per Rightmove.
The real selling point is the breathtaking view across Swansea Bay towards the city centre and the hills beyond, reports Wales Online. You just might need to hack the overgrown vegetation back to see it.
Mumbles has always been a sought-after yet pricey place to live. According to Swansea councillor Will Thomas, it’s 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 for the seaside ward, expressed his desire for Mumbles to be an attractive place for all residents, particularly young families, in order to keep local 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 revealed.
The house in question, Cairnside, is tucked away off Western Lane and has been listed since May. The estate agents marketing it have labelled Cairnside as a “hidden gem” on a large plot that 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. Local bar owner Harry Gillies praised the former fishing village as a great place to live. “It’s fantastic – everything is on your doorstep,” he enthused.
However, he did acknowledge a minor issue: “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 minute. My bar is doing well.”
First-time buyers may find themselves 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.
But for those lucky enough to secure a home there, the allure is as potent 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,” said 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 said 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.”
