Rose Cottage is a red-brick Victorian cottage at the heart of the Florence Court estate, with lots to see and do from the doorstep. It was once the head gardener’s cottage, and after hours, once other visitors have gone home for the day, you’ll have the gardens and pleasure grounds to yourself.
Inside the cottage, you’ll find rich Victorian colours and period furniture. The sitting room, with an open fire, and the dining room are bright rooms, with views of the apple orchard. The large kitchen is well equipped and looks onto the walled garden.
The cosy upstairs has one double bedroom with a view of the orchard, one twin with a view of the garden and a small family bathroom.
With gardens, orchard and miles of footpaths and trails surrounding the cottage, there’s plenty of outdoor space to discover. Spot the original Irish Yew tree in the native woodland and explore the buildings of the historic working demesne including a blacksmith’s forge, carpenter’s workshop, and sawmill. The project to restore the Kitchen Garden to its 1930s glory is well under way, with two new glasshouses on the original footprint. Florence Court is a thriving estate, and you’ll see groups of volunteers working in the garden, happy to chat and answer questions.
Beyond the estate, the forests, and hills at the foot of Benaughin are nearby. Head 5 miles to reach the Cuilcagh Mountains. Follow one of the many walking routes before taking the boardwalk to the 666-metre-high summit.