Annes Grove Miniature Castle Itinerary

Annes Grove Miniature Castle offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the charm of a beautifully restored gatelodge within the tranquil Cork countryside. This historic property, managed by Irish Landmark Trust, serves as an ideal base for exploring the stunning landscapes and attractions of the region.

Located in the picturesque area of Castletownroche, the gatelodge is steeped in history, with roots that trace back to the late 13th century when the Anglo-Norman family of Roache established a fortress nearby. The nearby Awbeg River was immortalised by Edmund Spenser in his poem The Faerie Queene.

A stay at Annes Grove Miniature Castle is sure to inspire, as the location is full of beautiful scenery and historical landmarks. Keep reading for our 7-day itinerary featuring all the best there is to see, do, and eat in the local area.

The History of Annes Grove

An intensely romantic property, Annes Grove is built in Gothic style, the building being a mediaeval castle in miniature. It is situated at the junction of three quiet country roads and surrounded by mature beech trees, which cradle the property and stonewalls. Inside timber ceilings, wood floors, stone arches, and snug rooms make this property an idyllic setting for those looking for a romantic break.

Annes Grove was designed by Benjamin Woodward, of the distinguished firm of architects Deane and Woodward in 1849. Since Woodward designed only two gatelodges of this type, it is of some architectural importance. The lodge, prior to restoration, had not been lived in since the 1940s.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

If you’re staying between April and September, your first stop should be exploring what’s on your doorstep: Annes Grove House and Gardens. This historic estate was the home of the Annesley family from the 1600s until 2015, when it was gifted to the Irish state and entered the care of the Office of Public Works. The OPW has carried out extensive work on the house, outbuildings, and gardens, and this work is ongoing. Please check their website for opening times and visiting information. Tours can be pre-booked by calling 087-3497972. Please note dogs (except assistance dogs) are not permitted onsite.

NB: Guests must access Annes Grove Gardens via the main entrance to the estate only, there is no direct access from the Gatelodge.

Day 2: Gardens and Wildlife

In the morning, visit Doneraile Court and Estate, North Cork’s real-life “Downton Abbey” (10-minute drive from Annes Grove). Doneraile Court is the stunning centrepiece of one of Ireland’s most beautiful estates. Located on the banks of the Awbeg River in north Co. Cork, the house dates from the 1720s, when it was built by Arthur St. Leger, the first Viscount Doneraile and father of the renowned Lady Freemason. It has a lovely tearoom and a children’s tree trail. For opening times visit here.

Bridgetown Priory (20-minute drive) is somewhat off the beaten track but well worth a detour and a fascinating place to visit. The well-preserved ruins date from the 13th century – though there is some evidence of earlier settlement here – and are among the most extensive remains from this period in Ireland. The priory is beautifully located in a valley where the Awbeg and Blackwater rivers meet, and while far longer a ruin now than it was ever a working priory, once you start exploring it’s not hard to imagine it at its peak. The Priory was founded by Augustinian monks and built between 1202 and 1216 with the assistance of monasteries in Meath and Dublin and from a wealthy Anglo-Norman benefactor, Alexander Fitz Hugh de Roche. He endowed it with rich lands as well as fishing and milling rights on both rivers. It remained connected to the Roche family for centuries and was a wealthy and thriving community.

Day 3: Fota Arboretum and Gardens

The arboretum and gardens on Fota Island, (50 minutes from Annes Grove) are an essential destination for anyone with horticultural interests. The arboretum extends over 11 hectares and contains one of the finest collections of rare, tender trees and shrubs grown outdoors in Europe. The unique conditions at Fota – its warm soil and sheltered location – enable many excellent examples of exotics from the southern hemisphere to flourish. The gardens include such stunning features as the ornamental pond, formal pleasure gardens, orangery, and sun temple. James Hugh Smith-Barry laid them out in the first half of the nineteenth century. Fota House, the Smith-Barrys’ ancestral home, still stands. The house, arboretum, and gardens share the island with a hotel golf resort and a wildlife park.

Day 4: Discover Cork City

The best way to explore Cork is to lace up your walking shoes and wander around the city on foot. Whether you want to check out the galleries or browse at a local market, most of the city’s top attractions are all within walking distance of each other.

You could also consider a TFI Bike – there are 36 locations all over the city, a 3-day pass is €3 and the first 30 mins of every journey is free.

Some key highlights in Cork City include:

Elizabeth Fort – an important piece of the city’s history with daily tours. Did you know you can stay inside the walls? Irish Landmark Trust have two properties inside called Garrison House and Parade House, each feature a double room and single room and make a wonderful base to extend your visit to Cork.

The famous English Market: walk around the various food stalls, and grab a coffee from one of the café stands.

The city’s docklands are in the middle of a regeneration project, and Marina Market was one of the first places to pop up in the neighbourhood. Set in an old warehouse, there are over 35 food stalls selling everything from rotisserie chicken and sushi, to pizza and doughnuts. When your food is ready, you can sit at one of the communal tables or a cluster of vintage couches. It’s open every day from 8 am-8 pm, and there’s often live music.

If you can get a reservation, a meal in the Michelin-starred Ichigo Ichie is one of the hottest tables in town. But if not, head chef Takashi Miyazaki also owns the Miyazaki Japanese Takeaway, where you can get the same taste of Japan at more affordable prices. It’s open at lunchtime, too.

Day 5: Take a Hike

Killavullen (more correctly pronounced as Killawillin) translates as the church of the mill. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Annes Grove Miniature Castle. The village sits astride the River Blackwater with its high gorges surmounted by castellated houses, some in ruins, some still intact.

The locality abounds in amenities and many places of historical and literary interest. The modern Ballymacmoy House, the home of the Hennessy Brandy family is located on the cliff, high above the River Blackwater, and Edmund Burke (1729-1797) received some of his early education in the area.

This loop incorporates a short section of the Blackwater Way (a long-distance route) before ascending woodland paths and forest roads towards Corran Mountain (the third-highest mountain in the Nagles Mountain range). On gaining higher ground, the walker is treated to some excellent views over the Blackwater Valley, Ballyhoura Mountains, and Nagle Mountains.

Day 6: Coastal Adventure

Visit Dungarvan (50-minute drive). Dungarvan is a harbour town located at the heart of County Waterford, Ireland. It is an ideal base for any tourist wishing to tour or holiday in Ireland’s ‘Sunny South East’. There are lots of activities, places to see and things to do. So whether you want an energetic walk in the Comeragh Mountains, a bike ride along the Waterford Greenway, or maybe just a relaxing coffee overlooking the harbour, then Dungarvan is the perfect place for a day trip. If the weather is good you can also have a dip in the sea.

Where to eat?

As Annes Grove Miniature Castle is a self-catering holiday let, you may wish to pick up supplies to prepare your own food. There is an excellent butcher’s shop in the village and Sheehan’s Farm Shop (just out of the village on the N72 Mallow Road) sells fresh eggs, baked goods, home-made jams, farm produce and peat briquettes, coal and wood.

In the local area there are several farmers’ markets where you can buy delicious local produce to prepare at the lodge; these markets are held every two weeks in Killavullen, County Cork, as well as on Sundays in Fermoy (13.6 km away) and Fridays in Mallow (13.7 km away).

A 5-minute drive from Annes Grove is the main street of Castletownroche. There, you’ll find the Rockforest Bar for classic drinks and a warm welcome, and just around the corner you’ll find the Kebab House Chipper. There is a great relationship between the two establishments. The Castle Arms is another welcoming local pub. If you fancy a takeaway to bring back to Annes Grove, there is also the Great Wall Chinese on the main street.

Other spots to eat out:

Townhouse Cafe, Doneraile (12-min drive) – breakfast and lunch
Mallow has several lovely spots, 15-20 minutes from Annes Grove by car

When to visit?

Annes Grove Miniature Castle is a great destination year-round, so the best time to visit depends on your personal preferences and what you’d like to do during your stay. If you want to take a visit to Annes Grove Gardens on your trip you will need to visit between March and September. You can also plan around events in Cork by checking What’s On.

Keep in mind that Irish Landmark Trust holidays become more affordable the longer you stay. With so much to see and do in the area, consider booking a few extra nights to make the most of your visit to Annes Grove Miniature Castle, Co. Cork.

Please note that these suggestions are meant to help you plan your trip and are based on information available as of Summer 2024. Always check individual websites for the most up-to-date opening times and booking details before finalising your itinerary.

How to Book

Ready to experience the charm of Annes Grove Miniature Castle and other Irish Landmark Trust properties? Booking your stay is easy—simply visit the Irish Landmark Trust website to reserve your accommodation, contact bookings@irishlandmark.com, or dial 00353 (1) 670 4733 to speak to our Bookings Manager.

Featured Property

Salterbridge Gatelodge

Salterbridge Gatelodge, located in the glorious Blackwater valley, dates from the mid 19th Century.

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The Irish Landmark Trust is a company limited by guarantee and a registered charity. Republic of Ireland Charity No.20028909; Northern Ireland Charity No.NIC101205

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Booking Conditions

HOW TO BOOK AN IRISH LANDMARK HOLIDAY :

It is possible to reserve dates online at www.irishlandmark.com but bookings are not confirmed until a confirmation email is received from the bookings desk.

BOOKING:

Your booking must be for holiday purposes only. Irish Landmark reserve the right to refuse hire for purposes other than holiday accommodation. When you make a booking, you accept full responsibility for all persons who will use or visit the property during the period booked. When you book, you agree to indemnify us against all loss and damage arising directly or indirectly to the property and its contents from any deliberate or negligent act or omission by yourself, or any person accompanying you.

CONTRACT OF HIRE:

The hiring contract shall be between the Hirer and Irish Landmark and made subject to these Booking Conditions . The Contract of Hire is not effective until Irish Landmark dispatches to the Hirer written confirmation of a booking.

PRICE OF YOUR HOLIDAY:

Irish Landmark reserves the right to increase or decrease the price of unsold holidays at any time. However, such amendments to price will not be applied to holidays already confirmed.

V.A.T.:

All prices quoted are based on current prices and rates of V.A.T. at the time of going to press. Irish Landmark is unable to absorb increases in Value Added Tax or any new forms of taxation which may be introduced. Any such increases will be charged as notified and will be payable.

DEPOSIT AND BALANCE PAYMENTS:

All bookings can be paid for in full at time of booking. All bookings made within 12 weeks of stay must be paid in full at time of booking. Bookings made more than 12 weeks in advance of stay require a 30% non-refundable deposit with the balance due 12 weeks before arrival. Irish Landmark shall be entitled to treat any failure to pay by the due date as a cancellation of the booking and will notify the Hirer by email. The maximum number of payments for a booking will be limited to two – the deposit and balance payment. A separate payment may be due where an amendment has been made to the original booking.

PAYMENT TYPES:

Payments can be made by credit/debit card (Visa or Mastercard ONLY).

Payments for properties in the Republic of Ireland are taken in Euros, payments for properties in Northern Ireland are taken in Great British Pounds.

VOUCHERS:

Please note that only one voucher can be used per booking. Vouchers have a strict expiry date.

CONFIRMATION OF BOOKING:

Upon receipt of payment by our bookings office, you will receive a confirmation of your reservation. All charges for the booking will be confirmed in this notification. Once confirmation has been issued, the Hirer is responsible for the total advertised price of the property and any extras notified.

AMENDMENTS TO BOOKINGS (excluding cancellations):

Irish Landmark does not offer a transfer of dates option. A complete change of dates is treated as a cancellation

CANCELLATION POLICY: We hope that you will not have to cancel your stay, or part of your reservation. If for any reason this is unavoidable, cancellations must be notified by email to bookings@irishlandmark.com. In the event of cancellation (this includes a reduction in number of nights) your deposit is non-refundable and the following cancellation charges will apply:

Date of Cancellation	Cancellation Charge
More than 12 weeks before start date	The deposit of 30%
84 – 28 days before start date	50% of total rental
Fewer than 28 days	100% of total rental

Irish Landmark does not operate a cancellation insurance scheme for any reason, including Covid-19, and strongly recommends that all guests take out full holiday insurance cover.

PARTY SIZE AND COMPOSITION: In no circumstances may more than the number of persons listed on the booking form occupy the property overnight. Irish Landmark reserves the right to refuse admission if this condition is not observed. Bookings can only be made by adults and cannot be accepted from anyone under the age of 21. Irish Landmark only allows guest stays where the lead guest is aged 21 years or over.

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE:

Upon receipt of final payment, you will receive Access Details and Important Information via email about your rental. This includes the contact information of the Local House Manager, directions to the property, arrival and departure time, etc. However, the specific arrival time must be agreed with the relevant local House Manager at least four days prior to holiday start date. It is the responsibility of the Hirer to arrive at the property at the time agreed with the House Manager. Irish Landmark reserves the right to levy an additional charge if the property is not vacated in accordance with these terms on the day of departure.

DAY VISITORS:

The number of day visitors will be limited to the capacity of the property – i.e., a 2-person property may have 2 day visitors, etc. Prior written consent must be obtained from Irish Landmark Trust for additional numbers of day visitors.

PERSONAL BELONGINGS: Baggage and personal belongings are always at the Hirers risk. No responsibility can be accepted for loss or damage to any car or its contents.

POLICY REGARDING DOGS:

Only certain Irish Landmark Trust properties accept a dog. ALWAYS check this before you book. Hirers who have made a reservation and are taking a dog will be required to read and agree to special terms, which details the conditions of bringing a dog to one of these properties. Failure to comply with these conditions could result in the guest being asked to leave a property. The rental cost is non-refundable in such cases.

ELECTRIC VEHICLES:

Irish Landmark respectfully request that you charge your electric vehicle at the nearest charging point and not at the property.

HIRER’S RESPONSIBILITY:

The Hirer is responsible for the property and is expected to take all reasonable care of it. Our House Managers work hard to maintain and clean the buildings and aim to ensure that the property is in a satisfactory condition for your enjoyment. We ask that you leave the property in a clean and tidy condition upon departure, including all equipment, utensils etc. If the property is left in an unsatisfactory condition and additional cleaning costs are incurred, Irish Landmark reserves the right to recover these costs from the Hirer. All breakages and damage must be reported to the House Manager immediately so that they can be rectified. All breakages and damage are the legal responsibility of the Hirer and the cost of repair or replacement must be paid to Irish Landmark upon demand. If there are problems relating to the functioning of the building, please let the House Manager know immediately. Please note that candles are NOT permitted at any Irish Landmark property. Smoking is not allowed inside any Irish Landmark property.

WEBSITE / LITERATURE:

While every effort has been made to ensure that the representations stated on our website, or any printed literature, are made in good faith, neither they nor any oral representations made by employees or representatives of Irish Landmark Trust will create liability on the part of Irish Landmark.

GENERAL:

There shall be no liability for any claim arising from the act, omission or neglect or default of Irish Landmark Trust, its employees or representatives unless proved to be done with intent to cause damage or recklessly and with knowledge that loss or danger would probably result. Irish Landmark’s agents, servants and employees or other representatives have no authority to waive or modify these Conditions other than in writing.

RIGHT OF ENTRY:

On rare occasions Irish Landmark may need access to the property for essential maintenance work, should it be necessary, Irish Landmark will give you as much notice as is possible. There is no need for you to stay in the property since our House Manager can accompany any such visits.

COMPLAINTS:

If you have any complaint during your holiday, please contact the House Manager. If the matter is not dealt with to your satisfaction, please email bookings@irishlandmark.com outlining details of your complaint.

IRISH LANDMARK’S RIGHTS:

Irish Landmark reserves the right to refuse any booking and cancel any booking already made, if in its absolute discretion it considers this to be necessary. Where a booking is cancelled by Irish Landmark, every effort will be made to offer an alternative holiday at no increase in cost. If the Hirer does not accept the alternative holiday offered, Irish Landmark will return to the Hirer the deposit paid and any other sum paid to Irish Landmark by the Hirer. Liability for all consequential loss, damage and disappointments is accordingly limited to such return.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS FOR SPECIFIC DOG – FRIENDLY PROPERTIES

It is the hirer’s responsibility to ensure they book a specific dog-friendly property if they are bringing a dog. There are specific terms and conditions that to which the hirer must adhere:

We allow a dog, but only when they have been booked in and paid for. The “Taking a Dog” option must be selected at time of booking. A charge will apply.

Our policy is strictly ONE DOG. If you arrive at the property with more than one dog the House Manger is entitled to deny you access to the property. If it becomes known during/after your stay that more than one dog is/was with you, you may be asked to vacate the property and a charge of €100/£100 per dog will apply.

You must bring your own crate/bed in which your dog can sleep. Please also bring bowls, towels, and waste bags for your dog.

Your dog must be house-trained and kept under proper control. Dogs are STRICTLY not permitted on beds, sofas, or any furniture. There is no exception to this rule.

Before departure, please thoroughly clean the property, paying particular attention to removing pet hair from rugs and soft furnishings. A vacuum cleaner is available to you.

If there is evidence that you have not cleaned up adequately after your stay, you will be charged a flat rate of €100/£100.

You must double-check that the outside area around the property is free of any foul. Dog fouling inside the property is completely unacceptable. Guests will be asked to vacate the premises immediately if this is discovered.

Your dog must not be left unsupervised in the property. We ask that you take your dog with you when you go out. Please be mindful of any livestock nearby.

By accepting a confirmation of a reservation from Irish Landmark the lead guest agrees:

I have read and agree to be bound by the Booking Conditions.

I agree to be held responsible for the balance of hire for the property due and payable in accordance with these terms.

I understand that most Irish Landmark properties have no television or internet access; that some have no washing machines or dishwashers; and that many have limited mobile phone coverage.

I understand that as the Lead Person, I am responsible, before their arrival, for informing all guests of Irish Landmark’s booking conditions, and for their observance of same.

If I am bringing a pet or having day visitors, I have particularly noted the special conditions that apply in these situations

Hirers making a reservation over the telephone are deemed to have read all Booking Conditions and agree to be bound by them.

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Important Notes

1-night stays are not permitted.

Bank Holidays & Special Dates have a set minimum number of nights.

Deposits are strictly non-refundable & non-transferable.

Cancellation Fees will apply if you cancel your reservation.

Terms and Conditions apply to all bookings.

Special Offers and Discounts are not valid against existing bookings.