'A walk into a Fairytale' - A visit to Florence Court
As the restrictions on movement have finally been lifted, a renewed sense of relief and excitement to travel once again has gripped the country. I chose to take my first intercounty trip this week to our neighbouring county of Fermanagh to visit one of my favourite places; Florence Court. It is a short drive from our farm; and upon entering its impressive gateway, you feel like you are stepping back into an era long forgotten.
The main 18th century Georgian mansion dominates the pastoral landscape, its immense granite form even taking precedence over the looming Cuilcagh mountain adjacent to it. The house and gardens are in the care of the National Trust, who have completed years of painstaking restoration, and ongoing maintenance to the buildings and the current vegetable gardens. As the mansion is currently closed to visitors, we had a lovely walk around the grounds, visited the little stone book shop, and wandered through the enchanting walled garden.
For me, Rose Cottage has my heart. Built in the 1840’s, it was the head gardeners residence. It must have been such a wonderful profession to have - caring for the magnificent gardens and allotments, and then retiring into your own fairytale cottage at the end of a hard working day. To the front of the cottage there is an orchard of heirloom apple trees, randomly scattered on the lawn. At their feet is a colourful carpet of wildflowers and fallen pin-striped blossoms. It is a sight to behold even when the heavens open above. You can follow me around the gardens in the video below - no need for a brolly, so enjoy your walk!
- Gillian x
The chocolate box Rose Cottage sitting pretty amongst the apple blossoms.
Raspberry ripple petals of the apple blossoms.
The majestic pile that is Florence Court mansion.
Even when storm clouds are brewing, Rose Cottage still retains its beautiful charm.
Even a humble gardeners shed displays its rugged allure. A true testament to vernacular craftsmanship.
Peek-a-boo! The imposing Georgian windows of the main mansion house veiled in a canopy of emerald foliage.
Take a walk through the magical walled garden with me.
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