Annes Grove Gatelodge is a stunning miniature medieval castle built in 1853 at one of the entrances to Annesgrove House and Gardens. It was designed by Benjamin Woodward who was also the architect responsible for the museum at Trinity College, Dublin and the Oxford University Museum of Natural History in Oxford. Annesgrove Gardens are no longer open to the public however visitors to the gatelodge are permitted entrance. The property is under the care of the Irish Landmark Trust who have painstakingly restored this beautiful building and it can now be rented for a truly special getaway. The gatelodge is surrounded by mature beech trees and is a short drive from Castletownroche. Inside the house is heated with a wood-burning stove, a spiral granite stone staircase leads to a dramatic bedroom with an ornate timber ceiling. The doorways throughout the house are capped with exquisite stone arches and the slender, elegant windows add to the majesty of this place. It should also be noted that it is possible to access the rooftop for scenic views of the surrounding countryside. I thoroughly recommend Annes Grove Gatelodge as an ideal romantic getaway. Visit irishlandmark.com for further details.

GPS: 52.20023, -8.47587