Bono, born Paul Hewson, lives primarily at Temple Hill, a historic mansion on Vico Road in Killiney, South County Dublin. This is his long-time main residence and one of the most famous celebrity homes in Ireland. Bono also has a deeply meaningful childhood home in Finglas, along with several high-profile international properties.
This article explains exactly where Bono lives, why these homes matter, and what makes each property unique.
Bono’s Primary Residence: Temple Hill, Killiney
Temple Hill is Bono’s main home and has been since the 1980s. The estate sits high above Killiney Bay on Vico Road, a stretch often called Millionaires’ Row because of its sea views and elite residents. The location offers privacy, security, and sweeping views of the Irish Sea.
Temple Hill is not a single house but an expanded estate created over decades. Bono and his wife, Ali Hewson, gradually purchased neighboring properties and connected them into one private compound.
Location and Setting of Temple Hill
Temple Hill is located on Vico Road in Killiney, South County Dublin. The road is known for steep hills, dramatic coastal scenery, and some of the most expensive homes in Ireland. The mansion overlooks Killiney Bay and benefits from mature trees that shield the property from public view.
This setting balances exclusivity with proximity. Dalkey village is nearby, where Bono is often seen at local spots like Finnegan’s of Dalkey.
Architecture and Size of Temple Hill
Temple Hill began as a Victorian era mansion built in the 1860s. The original home measured roughly 6,000 square feet.
Through multiple renovations and acquisitions, the estate now spans between 7,800 and 11,800 square feet, depending on how connected structures are measured. Bono purchased adjoining homes known as Curlews and Lios Beag, including a miniature castle where he installed a private lift.
A notable addition was a 1,400 square foot roof extension made from lightweight steel and glass. It was designed to be reversible so the original roofline could be restored if required by conservation authorities.
Interior Features and Grounds
Temple Hill includes at least five bedrooms, multiple en-suite bathrooms, dressing rooms, and a private study. A glass conservatory sits on the ground floor, with a terrace built above it to maximize views of the bay.
One unusual detail often mentioned is a reinforced upper floor built to support a massive antique freestanding bathtub. The grounds are set on a steep hillside, landscaped with mature trees that provide privacy and panoramic coastal views.
The Famous Copper Gates
Temple Hill’s copper-finished gates are almost as famous as the house itself. Fans regularly visit the gates and leave handwritten lyrics, sketches, and messages. Over time, the gates have become a public guestbook for U2 fans from around the world.
Despite the attention, the gates also serve as a clear boundary. The house remains a private residence and is well protected.
Neighbors and Community Context
Bono’s neighbors include The Edge, who lives nearby at Fortlands, and Enya, who resides at Manderley Castle.
Because Temple Hill is over 150 years old and located in a conservation area, several renovations faced opposition from groups such as An Taisce. Bono addressed energy concerns in 2009 by adding an underground plant room with a wood pellet boiler to improve efficiency.
Bono’s Childhood Home: 10 Cedarwood Road, Finglas
Bono grew up at 10 Cedarwood Road, Finglas East, Dublin 11. He lived there from his birth in 1960 until the early 1980s. The house sits on Dublin’s northside and remains a place of pilgrimage for fans.
The street and its memories inspired the song “Cedarwood Road” on U2’s 2014 album Songs of Innocence by U2.
The house has been privately owned by the Ryan family since 1986. While it is not open to the public, it holds cultural significance for fans who want to understand Bono’s roots and early life.
Bono’s International Properties
While Temple Hill is his primary residence, Bono maintains a global property portfolio that reflects his international career.
French Riviera: Èze-sur-Mer
Bono owns a large beachfront villa in Èze-sur-Mer on the French Riviera, often referred to as Villa Les Rose. The property includes more than 20 rooms and a basement recording studio. Its location between Nice and Monaco makes it both secluded and strategically placed.
New York City: San Remo Building
In New York City, Bono owns a penthouse in the iconic San Remo on Central Park West. He reportedly purchased the apartment in 2003 from Steve Jobs. The building is known for its twin towers and celebrity residents.
Los Angeles: Hollywood Hills Investment
In late 2024 and early 2025, Bono was revealed as an investor in a $7 million architectural project in the Hollywood Hills, located above the Sunset Strip. While not confirmed as a full-time residence, it adds to his presence in the United States.
Why Temple Hill Remains Bono’s True Home
Despite owning luxury properties around the world, Temple Hill in Killiney remains Bono’s anchor. It reflects his long connection to Dublin, his commitment to privacy, and his desire to live close to bandmates, family, and the landscape that shaped his music.