Title: A gardener's cottage tucked away in the corner of an old country house estate. Reviews, Deals & Photos 2026 - Expedia.co.uk [See all properties](http://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?regionId=&selected=41994234&adults=2&children=&sort=RECOMMENDED&useRewards=false&semdtl=&userIntent=&vip=false) Entire home # A gardener's cottage tucked away in the corner of an old country house estate. Holiday home in Mountrath with kitchenette ## Photo gallery for A gardener's cottage tucked away in the corner of an old country house estate. ![Property grounds - A gardener's cottage tucked away in the corner of an old country house estate. (Mountrath)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/42000000/42000000/41994300/41994234/4c35aee7.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=598&ra=fit) ![Exterior - A gardener's cottage tucked away in the corner of an old country house estate. (Mountrath)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/42000000/42000000/41994300/41994234/7ebf54c6.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Exterior - A gardener's cottage tucked away in the corner of an old country house estate. (Mountrath)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/42000000/42000000/41994300/41994234/7497acbc.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Interior - A gardener's cottage tucked away in the corner of an old country house estate. (Mountrath)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/42000000/42000000/41994300/41994234/e5e629b1.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Interior - A gardener's cottage tucked away in the corner of an old country house estate. (Mountrath)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/42000000/42000000/41994300/41994234/64b1c6ee.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) - Overview - Location - Amenities - Policies Escape to The Writer's Cottage, a charming stone retreat nestled under an ancient oak tree within Roundwood House's 18-acre estate. Book dinner and breakfast in the Main House or relax with a book from the impressive Library of Civilization, all while enjoying WiFi access upon request. ## Reviews 10 Exceptional ### Entire home 1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 2 ## Popular amenities - Kitchen - Outdoor space - Parking available ## Add dates for prices Check-in Check-out Travellers ## About this property ### Entire place You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party. ### A gardener's cottage tucked away in the corner of an old country house estate. The Writer's Cottage is a tiny old stone cottage for two, tucked away in the corner of the Kitchen Garden on the early Georgian estate of Roundwood House. It sits under a giant oak tree and provides a complete escape from the the hustle and bustle of modern living. Travel writer, Pol O’Conghaile, lists it in the Irish Independent as one of the “ten best Irish hidey-holes guaranteed to erase memories of the nine to five”. If room to swing a cat is a priority, then the Writer's Cottage is probably not for you. However, if romantic, secluded, quaint and a breath of fresh air is what you’re looking for, you’ll love it! Guests staying in the Writer's Cottage not only have access to 18 acres of park and woodland but also to the Main House, an 18th century Palladian Villa, where dinner and breakfast can be booked. There is also an impressive Library of Civilization in the Old Coach House with a collection of over 2000 books for guests' enjoyment. The Writer's Cottage has a small kitchenette with a 2 ring hob, mini convection oven, microwave, kettle, toaster and fridge. There is no washing machine or dryer, but there are laundry services available in Roundwood House if required. WiFi is available in the Writer's Cottage upon request. Guests that require high speed internet access are always welcome to make themselves comfortable in the Library where we have fibre-optic broadband. The only exception to this is when the Library has been pre-booked on an exclusive basis. ## Property amenities ### Internet - Available in the house: Free WiFi ### Parking and transport - Car required - Parking on site ### Kitchenette - Cookware, dishware, and utensils - Electric kettle - Microwave - Oven - Paper towels - Refrigerator ### Dining - Breakfast available for a fee ### Bedrooms - Bedroom - Bedsheets provided ### Bathroom - 1 bathroom - Bathtub or shower - Hair dryer - Shampoo - Soap - Toilet paper - Towels provided ### Living spaces - Wood stove ### Entertainment - Books ### Outdoor areas - Garden ### Laundry - Laundromat nearby ### Comfort - Heating ### Pets - No pets allowed ### Suitability/Accessibility - If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking. - Hardwood flooring in public areas - Visual alarms in hallways - Well-lit path to entrance - Smoke-free property ### Location highlights - In a rural location - Near a hospital - Near an outlet shopping centre ### Things to do - Birdwatching nearby - Ecotours nearby - Fishing nearby - Golfing nearby - Hiking/biking trails nearby - Horseback riding nearby - Mountain biking nearby ### Safety features - Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property) - Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property) - Fire extinguisher ### General - Garden - Living plant wall - Property does not allow children - Vegetarian breakfast available - Vegetarian dining options ## Similar properties ![House | Outdoor dining](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/110000000/109630000/109622500/109622469/1c4c8532.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Tranquil Countryside Farmhouse Stay Grangecastle - Kitchen - Washing machine - Dryer - Parking included 10 Exceptional 5 reviews £144 includes taxes & fees 26 Jan - 27 Jan [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-26&endDate=2026-01-27&selected=109622469&PinnedHotelID=109622469&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Exterior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/1000000/910000/908800/908789/a6805762.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Kinnitty Castle Hotel Kinnitty - Free Wi-Fi - Restaurant - Tennis court - Business services 9.0 Wonderful 312 reviews [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-02-08&endDate=2026-02-09&selected=908789&PinnedHotelID=908789&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Restaurant](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/23000000/22500000/22497300/22497217/21c12af5.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### The Horse & Hound Delgany - Parking included - Free Wi-Fi - Restaurant - Bar 9.2 Wonderful 296 reviews £82 includes taxes & fees 29 Jan - 30 Jan [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-29&endDate=2026-01-30&selected=22497217&PinnedHotelID=22497217&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Exterior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/9000000/8200000/8195300/8195245/dc913e1d.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Bellinter House Navan - Hot tub - Spa - Pet-friendly - Parking included 9.0 Wonderful 336 reviews £96 includes taxes & fees 27 Jan - 28 Jan [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-27&endDate=2026-01-28&selected=8195245&PinnedHotelID=8195245&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [Compare similar properties](/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-02-08&endDate=2026-02-09&selected=41994234&PinnedHotelID=41994234&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2&comparePropertyIds=41994234,109622469,908789,22497217,8195245) ## Policies ### Check-in Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM ### Check-out Check-out before 11:00 AM ### Special check-in instructions You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools ### Pets Pets not allowed ### Children and extra beds This property does not allow children ### Events No events allowed ### Smoking Smoking is not permitted ## Important information ### You need to know This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession. Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal. ### We should mention A car is required for transport to and from this property ### Property is also known as Vrbo Property ## About the area Located in Mountrath, this holiday home is in a rural area. Ballaghmore Castle and Rock of Dunamase are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Slieve Bloom and Lough Boora Parklands. Lloyd Town Park and Ballintubbert Gardens are also worth visiting. Fishing offers a great chance to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with mountain biking, cycling and horse riding nearby. [Visit our Mountrath travel guide](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Mountrath.dx3000029125) [View more Holiday homes in Mountrath](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Mountrath-Private-Holiday-Homes.d3000029125-aaPrivateHolidayHomes.Travel-Guide-Accommodation) ![Map](https://maps.googleapis.com/maps/api/staticmap?&size=660x330&map_id=3b266eb50d2997c6&zoom=13&markers=icon:https%3A%2F%2Fa.travel-assets.com%2Ftravel-assets-manager%2Feg-maps%2Fproperty.png%7C53.02747%2C-7.52481&channel=expedia-HotelInformation&maptype=roadmap&scale=1&key=AIzaSyCYjQus5kCufOpSj932jFoR_AJiL9yiwOw&signature=MyisQR6KY--LY3_b1a1vc_bW6ws=) Mountrath, Laois ### What's nearby - ![Rock of Dunamase](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6177530/d4c61a91-22d9-412b-9ce4-0d7320d51fdd.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=115.61&rh=65.03&ra=fit&q=high) Rock of Dunamase 18 min drive \- 18.2 miles - Irish High Cross Kinnitty 15 min drive \- 12.3 miles - Portlaoise Golf Club 15 min drive \- 13.6 miles - O'Moore Park 16 min drive \- 13.8 miles - Slieve Bloom Display Centre 19 min drive \- 14.7 miles ### Getting around - Portlaoise Station 17 min drive ### Restaurants - Mariana’s Diner 6 min drive - Woody's Bar 6 min drive - Brilliant Royal Asian Restaurant and Takeaway 6 min drive - Gabriel's Kitchen 6 min drive - The Fountain House 6 min drive ## Frequently asked questions ### Is A gardener's cottage tucked away in the corner of an old country house estate. pet-friendly? ### How much is parking at A gardener's cottage tucked away in the corner of an old country house estate.? ### What time is check-in at A gardener's cottage tucked away in the corner of an old country house estate.? ### What time is check-out at A gardener's cottage tucked away in the corner of an old country house estate.? ### Where is A gardener's cottage tucked away in the corner of an old country house estate. located? ## Have a question? Beta Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews. Ask a question ## A gardener's cottage tucked away in the corner of an old country house estate. Reviews ## Reviews ### Exceptional All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative. [More information](https://www.expedia.co.uk/lp/b/content-guidelines) 10 - Excellent 11 8 - Good 0 6 - Okay 0 4 - Poor 0 2 - Terrible 0 ### 9.8 Cleanliness ### 10 Location ## Reviews ### 10/10 Excellent #### Amy R. 7 Mar 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### A beautiful, cozy, and quiet cottage on the grounds of Roundwood House. The writers cottage was very comfortable and quaint. Hannah and Paddy were wonderful hosts with lots of good suggestions on things to see during our stay. If you’re looking for a quiet place to get away, but central on the island to be able to do day trips from, I highly suggest this beautiful place! ##### Amy R. Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Jacqueline B. 8 Aug 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### The cottage retreat I arrived at the quaint little cottage and the fire was burning. The fire created a cosy ambiance and I felt welcome coming in from the rain. It’s such a beautiful space. ##### Jacqueline B. Stayed 1 night in Jul 2023 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Caitlin R. 16 Apr 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Absolutely perfect Stayed here for my last night in Ireland after a week long trip. It was honestly the perfect way to end my vacation. Had the writers cottage all to myself and the fire was already going when I arrived. It was exactly the cozy quiet night I was looking for! ##### Caitlin R. Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Kevin R. 17 May 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### A lovely property and wonderful hosts I have to preface this with an \*. I had booked the gardener's cottage but there was some sort of booking mishap and the cottage was double booked. To their credit they gave me a room in the main house which was very nice. It was technically an up-grade and there was no charge. I would have like the solitude of the cottage, but I am not upset as I had a lovely time. You should most definitely get dinner. The food was exceptional. I enjoyed interacting with the other guests and the host over conversation in the drawing room. I was also able to find a bit of the solitude I was looking for with a walk around the grounds and a few hours spent in the very nicely appointed library. I think the library was my favorite space on the property. I would definitely come back again and perhaps stay an extra day or ten. ##### Kevin R. Stayed 1 night in May 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Larry L. 5 Jun 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Perfect little getaway! Private cottage loaded with historical flavor. Hosts helpful and friendly. Would definitely stay here again if we are ever back in the area . ##### Larry L. Stayed 1 night in May 2023 ### 10/10 Excellent #### david c. 19 Jul 2021 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### lovely quaint cottage in a very tranquil area lovely relaxing place to chill out. cottage has a wood burning fire and the surroundings are beautiful. you'll get the best sleep of your life as it's so quiet and secluded and our host hannah was lovely to deal with and very hospitable ##### david c. Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Jacqueline B. 15 Jul 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Writers Cottage The little cottage is so quaint and cosy. I arrived to the fireplace burning which added to the atmosphere of the beautiful little cottage. ##### Jacqueline B. Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Dulcie E. 2 Apr 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Lovely Laois Co. We couldn't have picked a better spot for home base during our stay in Ireland. We adventured in all directions by day and snuggled into the cottage each night. ##### Dulcie E. Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2023 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Verified traveller 17 May 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Cozy cottage on beautiful property It was such a delight to drive up to the idyllic manor house, be greeted by some very friendly puppies and farm animals, and wind our way back to the cottage. We loved that a fire was already burning in the stove when we arrived, and were pleasantly surprised by the excellent wifi connection. We would definitely recommend this lovely property! ##### Verified traveller Stayed 1 night in May 2023 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Franziska A. 17 Oct 2022 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Wundervolle Auszeit Mitten in der Natur; wunderbar ##### Franziska A. Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022 ### 10/10 Excellent #### edward a. 21 Sept 2022 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Destination Serenity A magical walk past the estate and thru the forest leads you to a quiet, peaceful adode. A safehouse against the modern world. Combined with an over the top breakfast - produces an amazing start to a day. ##### edward a. 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