Condé Nast Traveller ‘Best Place To Go’ 2024 | Best place to stay in Ireland - Irish Independent Fab 50 | Dog-friendly A charming self-catering cottage in the Irish countryside -this unique place has a style all of its own. Located in the heart of the lush Waterford countryside, on the grounds of the historic 18th-century Mount Congreve estate and with direct access to Waterford Greenway this tastefully restored gate lodge is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a luxury stay in Ireland. The space Originally built in 1775, the newly renovated dog-friendly Gate Lodge at Mount Congreve is home to a fully fitted small galley kitchen with marble countertops, a living room with an 18th-century French day-bed accompanied by classic wing-back velvet armchairs, Smart TV, an antique bio-ethanol stove, two bedrooms with antique double beds (cannot be twinned) and a bathroom complete with a walk-in shower. Guest access Guests will have access to the entire dwelling (Gate Lodge) during their stay. The Gate Lodge includes complimentary access for all residents to Mount Congreve Gardens. Please note the Visitor Centre and Cafe is closed every Monday & Tuesday from October to December (excluding Halloween and Christmas) and from 5th January 2025 to 1st February 2025. Residents still have access to the gardens during this time. Other things to note The History The last house in Ireland to employ liveried servants, Mount Congreve House was built by the renowned Waterford architect, John Roberts in 1760. It is reported that this Gate Lodge – one of three, was built later in 1775. Typically Gate Lodges served as accommodation for the gatekeeper who besides being available to open the gates at any time, was also required to keep the gateway and the surrounding grounds in order. Designed to give an initial impression of the landowner’s wealth and taste, Gate Lodges were often small dwellings and sometimes consisted of only two rooms. This detached five-bay single-storey gate lodge still retains some original features such as cast-iron rainwater goods and square-headed window openings with cut-stone sills, and cut-limestone surrounds. * In order to serve its very purpose the Gate Lodge is located close to the main road, and as such we do not recommend to children under the age of 12 years.