VISITOR ATTRACTION: what’s new and what’s cool at Fermanagh’s Florence Court

Florence Court, located 8 miles southwest of Enniskillen in County Fermanagh, is an 18th-century Georgian mansion and estate managed by the National Trust. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Benaughlin and Cuilcagh Mountains, this historic estate, once home to the Cole family (Earls of Enniskillen), offers a rich blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty.

Guided House Tours: Explore the elegant Georgian mansion, built in phases starting in the 1720s by John Cole and named after his wife, Florence. The house features exquisite Rococo plasterwork, a magnificent collection of period Irish furniture, and stories of the Cole family and their staff over 250 years. Guided tours, bookable at the Visitor Centre, provide insights into the estate’s history, including its survival of a devastating 1955 fire. Some upper-floor rooms remain closed due to ongoing restoration. Tours are available March to October, with booking recommended on weekends.
Gardens and Grounds: The estate spans 600 acres, including a four-acre walled garden with a rose garden, heirloom fruit orchards, and a vegetable garden being restored to its 1930s character, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The famous Florence Court Yew, the progenitor of nearly all Irish Yew trees worldwide, is a highlight in the historic garden. The thatched Heather House offers stunning views of Benaughlin Mountain. Visitors can also explore the Pleasure Grounds and a native Irish apple orchard.
Walking and Cycling Trails: Over 10 miles of trails wind through lush parkland and Florence Court Forest Park, offering scenic views of Fermanagh’s lakes and mountains. The Red Trail features a steep climb with panoramic vistas, while the Blue Trail is a gentler route passing historic features like the Lady’s Well. Bike hire is available at the Visitor Centre for half or full-day use (returned by 3:30 PM). Trails cater to various abilities, though some, like the Red Trail, have uneven terrain and steep slopes, unsuitable for wheelchairs or those with limited mobility.
Historic Features: Discover the estate’s self-sufficient past through its working demesne, including a water-powered sawmill, blacksmith’s forge, and carpenter’s workshop. These industrial heritage sites offer a glimpse into 18th-century estate life.
Family-Friendly Activities: Children can enjoy a natural play area, ‘I Spy’ house tours, and a children’s playground. The estate is dog-friendly (dogs must be on leads), with ample space for exploration. Picnic areas and benches enhance the family experience.
Stables Tea-Room and Bookshop: The Stables Tea-Room serves seasonal dishes made with local produce, including scones, sandwiches, and traybakes. The volunteer-run second-hand bookshop, named after a beloved Cole family pet, offers pre-loved books, with proceeds supporting conservation efforts.

New developments

The National Trust is improving accessibility across the estate, though some trails and areas of the house will be challenging for those with mobility issues. The Visitor Centre provides maps and accessibility information.
Pricing and Booking: Admission covers the gardens, forest park, and house tours (guided tours bookable on-site). As of 2023, standard prices were £11.50/adult, £5.75/child, and £28.75/family for the whole property; gardens and forest park only were £7/adult, £3.50/child, and £17.50/family. National Trust members enter free. Pre-booking is advised for weekends via the National Trust website, and visitors should check for updated pricing and opening times (typically 10:00 AM–4:00 PM, Sun–Sat).
Holiday Cottages: Stay overnight in Rose Cottage, a Victorian gardener’s cottage with views of the apple orchard, or other accommodations like the Butler’s Apartment, offering after-hours access to the gardens and grounds.
The ongoing restoration of the Kitchen Garden to its 1930s glory, supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, continues to progress., visitors can expect further developments, such as expanded planting and community engagement initiatives, augmenting the garden’s historical authenticity and visitor experience.
Volunteer Opportunities: Florence Court is actively recruiting volunteers to support conservation efforts, including roles in the house, gardens, and visitor services. This initiative aims to enhance the visitor experience while preserving the estate’s heritage.

Practical details:

Florence Court is easily accessible by car via the A4 Sligo road and A32 Swanlinbar road, with parking at Car Park 1 near the Visitor Centre. The estate is a two pawprint-rated dog-friendly location, but sturdy footwear is recommended for trails due to uneven terrain.
The estate’s serene setting, combined with its historical and natural attractions, makes it a recommended visit for those seeking a blend of culture and countryside. For the latest updates on 2025 events, openings, or new features, check www.nationaltrust.org.uk/florence-court or contact the estate directly.

Florence Court remains a destination, offering an immersive experience into Ireland’s aristocratic past and Fermanagh’s stunning landscapes, with ongoing efforts to enhance its offerings