Renovated East Cork home full of botanical rarities and charm

The passion invested in the garden was replicated in the house

Inside the 2,400 sq ft Blake House are some lovely period features, such as the impressive entrance hall.

AROUND about now, the botanical oasis that is Fota Arboretum is gearing up for its most prolific season and, as soon as travel restrictions ease, we can savour its delights.

Less than 10km away, at Blake House, Ballinbrittig, a household need only stroll around its own 1.3 acres of gardens for a taste of what’s on offer at Fota, thanks to the homeowner’s passion for collecting rare and beautiful plants.