This abandoned house and caravan can be found in the lush green fields of rural Ireland, just a short distance away from the border with Northern Ireland.
It was a small, unassuming home but what made it stand out was the contents and the aesthetic of the house.
Walking up the path to the house, visitors are greeted by red window frames, blue sills, and white windows – reminiscent of the Union Flag of the United Kingdom.
On entry to the property, we were wary for rats as the bottom of the door was missing but instead, we stumbled into a homely kitchen. The Pride O’Scotland Red Hackle Pipes and Drums record was left behind, just waiting to be played. Alongside it on the table was a print, showcasing an Ulster Volunteer Force mural in Dover Place in the Lower Shankill area of Belfast.
The Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF) is a paramilitary organization that was formed in Northern Ireland in 1965 by Gusty Spence. The group was formed to protect and promote the interests of the Protestant community. The UVF carried out numerous bombings and shootings during the Troubles, targeting both Catholic civilians and members of the Irish Republican Army (IRA). To this day, it remains a proscribed organisation in Northern Ireland.
By the main chair was an unfinished packet of cigarettes with a book about George Best. George Best was born in Belfast and played for Manchester United and the Northern Ireland national team. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time.
The drinks cabinet was well stocked with an eclectic selection of Russian Vodka, Grape and Apricot mixer, American Whiskey and Californian Wine. Tins of Bud Light and Smithwick’s were scattered on the floor.
The bungalow also had two bedrooms, a kitchen, a bathroom, and an outbuilding where a beer brewing kit was found. In the bathroom, a razor and brush had been left out. In the master bedroom, ties were still hanging up waiting to be worn.
Radio equipment was also scattered throughout the bungalow. Other urban explorers who had spoken to nearby neighbours said that many moons ago the house was used as a base for neighbourhood watch.
The abandoned caravan on the property is also in great condition, complete with a TV cupboard filled with VHS tapes of popular English soaps, including “Brookside” and “Coronation Street,” and even a taped copy of “Elvis and Me” from 1988. There are also two Rangers F.C. table coasters and retro Ranger mugs in the kitchen.
With a bit of cosmetic work, this house and caravan could be restored to their former glory and become the perfect retirement home.
