Rosedale Manor
Bed &Breakfast Boutique
Season Closes September 30, 2023
Reopens June 1, 2024
“Come out here
where the roses have opened.
Let soul and world meet.” - Rumi
Select a Room for Details
ABOUT ROSEDALE MANOR
Rosedale Manor Bed & Breakfast is a beautiful newly preserved waterfront home in the historic coastal town of Placentia, Newfoundland and Labrador. Your hosts are locals Christopher and Lori who have recently taken ownership of this glorious building.
The gorgeous boutique-style setting in this 1893 waterfront heritage home far exceed what you'd expect. All the rooms are finely appointed with period decor, antique handcrafted furniture, and Christopher’s original artwork. Guests can relax in the dining room or linger in the library-sitting room. Why not take your morning coffee or tea in the flower garden while enjoying the soothing trickle of our water feature?
There are two rooms with full ensuites on the main floor. We are pleased to offer two fully equipped suites on the upper level. Our comfortable beds are dressed with 100% cotton sheets, cotton blankets and locally handcrafted quilts. Our guest soaps are hand crafted by local artisans. All rooms have separate heat controls, fans and code-lockable doors.
You’ll no doubt want to get outside and walk through the town of Placentia. Our narrow roadways twist and turn, resembling the old streets of Europe. Wander over to the Great Beach and stroll along the boardwalk or watch the eagles and osprey hunt over the Orcan River from our garden. You may choose to walk across the lift bridge and hike the trail up to Castle Hill National Historic Site. Here, you will visit the ruins of ancient 17th century fortifications. If you desire a day trip, we are just over an hour from St. John's and only 60 minutes from Cape St. Mary's Ecological Reserve.
CHRISTOPHER & LORI (Proprietors)
Christopher is a resident of Placentia and works for Parks Canada at nearby Castle Hill National Historic Site. He is a visual artist, photographer, and has a passion for landscape and nature. www.christophernewhook.studio
Lori grew up in Placentia and is a primary teacher at the nearby school. In her spare time she loves to hike and camp. She is an avid reader and is fascinated with old houses and decor. She feels a strong connection to the rocks and wildflowers of our beautiful province.
The use of Rosedale Manor B&B is for registered guests only.
We offer a pet free and smoke free environment .
THE HISTORY OF THE HOUSE
Rosedale Manor (originally named Verran House) was built in 1893 for Mr. Henry Verran who was employed by the Anglo-American Telegraph Company. He was the son of Harry Verran, the first mining engineer to work in Newfoundland. Harry Verran had come from Cornwall, England to the colony of Newfoundland in 1857. His first job assignment was in La Manche, an iron ore mine owned by American entrepreneur Cyrus Field. Field was also involved in laying the first telegraph cable from Ireland (across the Atlantic Ocean to Newfoundland). It was he who later hired Henry Verran to operate the telegraph machine in Placentia at the time that this house was constructed.
The home remained in the Verran family for 81 years until 1974 when Henry’s son Randell sold it. It operated as a rental property for the next fifteen years, changing hands several times, until it fell into disrepair. In 1987, it was condemned, boarded up and abandoned.
The residence was saved from demolition in 1989 by the Town of Placentia. It was then purchased and restored by Rita and Derm Power who officially opened it in 1990 as Rosedale Manor Bed and Breakfast. In 2005, Linda Grimm, who relocated to the area from British Columbia, decided to take over the business. The present owners, Christopher and Lori, acquired Rosedale in the spring of 2022 and continue to showcase this beautiful heritage building to visitors near and far.
The house is a good demonstration of how the Second Empire architectural style was being interpreted outside St. John’s in the late 1800’s to early 1900’s. The ongoing restorations and upgrades preserve the structural and aesthetic characteristics throughout. Christopher Newhook and Lori Pretty, who share a strong interest in heritage properties, are devoted to bringing Rosedale back to the standard and quality which she so deserves. At 130 years old, 40 Orcan Drive has never looked finer!
OUR SERVICES
Breakfast
A substantial breakfast is provided. Personalized baskets are delivered to the dining room
by 8:30 am.
Our coffee is locally sourced.
Decaf coffee and tea are available upon request.
Garden
We've taken a lot of care to create a beautiful English style garden with a fish pond. Sit with your morning coffee or evening glass of wine on our beautiful benches. Cushions and blankets are available for extra comfort.
Original Artwork
All of the fine art on the walls of Rosedale Manor has been created by Christopher Newhook and many pieces are for sale. Please inquire:
Website
Free Wi-Fi
While we encourage taking a break from technology, we offer free wi-fi. Smart televisions are also available upon request for each room.
Daily Housekeeping
We pride ourselves on providing a pristine environment for our guests. We will do our very best to ensure your comfort. If you have a particular need or request, please ask!
In-House Dining
The dining room is available to all of our guests. The upstairs suites have their own kitchenettes.
PHOTO GALLERY
THINGS TO DO
Castle Hill National Historic Site
(Parks Canada)
Explore a chapter of history that determined the fate of a continent. Wonderful trails, a fantastic exhibit and a heritage gift shop await!
See our Museum, Take In a Show or an Escape Room
Placentia has dinner theatre, walking tours, lecture series, live music and culture galore. We even have our very own escape room in the 1902 church next door!
Cape St. Mary's Ecological Reserve
A wonderland for birdwatchers and explorers alike. Its natural beauty makes it perfect for nature hikes and family adventures.
Visit our 550 Million-
Year-Old Beach
Placentia is surrounded by water. The ocean is just minutes away. Bike through the ancient winding streets or take a gentle walk along the boardwalk.
Take a Boat Trip Out the Bay
Explore this town the way it was meant - by water. We can connect you with a colleague who offers boat tours of the area.
Call (709) 687-8787 for details.
There are lots of hidden gems to be explored if you're interested in a day trip from Rosedale Manor.
Visit a salmon ladder, hike the coastal trails, paddle our waterways by kayak, or gather with friends for a beach fire or at one of our pubs or eateries. Ask us where and how!
Rosedale 360
Select an image, click and scroll to see the Rosedale Property in 360 degrees
Testimonials
“Staying here truly felt like we were in our home away from home...”
- Paul and Denise (British Columbia)
“The Lupine Suite - a mini apartment! Absolutely wonderful and we loved every second of it. Thankfully, we enjoyed it for 2 days based on your recommendation. ”
- Alexandra and Patrick (Montreal)
“We enjoyed staying 4 nights here and could have happily stayed longer. Your’s is the coziest and most comfortable (and fun!) of the very nice places we booked.”
- Shawna and Steve (Calgary)
“We had such a delightful stay at Rosedale - like spending time with friends. So warm and welcoming. We loved meeting you and wish you all the best in every endeavour.”
- Rob and Marilyn (Ontario)
“Chris...you are the quintessential storyteller! I enjoyed them so much! Thanks a lot. Lori...your place is GORGEOUS. It’s so homey!”
- René and Ginette (Ontario)
“Out of the several different places we stayed at in Newfoundland on our road trip, our stay at the Rosedale Manor was by far our favourite. The Bed and Breakfast itself is absolutely fantastic and is in an immaculate preserved historic home. But the real winner of our stay were the hosts themselves.”
- Jonathan and Alex
“What a beautiful place to stay. The only thing I’d change is to stay a few more days in this lovely spot”
- Karen and Bridget (Calgary)
“Everything from the view of the river from our Rose room (with otters!) to the decor and breakfast was wonderful. Best B&B in Newfoundland!”
- Jeff and Diane (Washington, DC)
“Our visit has been way too short! Your home gave us all the comforts of our home - and more! We felt spoiled.”
- Linda and Gary (Alberta)
“Wonderful hospitality from a couple who obviously love their community and its history. Thank you for your kindness from a couple of stranded travellers during the Fiona hurricane!
We stayed for 3 nights while waiting for our rescheduled ferry crossing from Argentia to North Sydney. The delay turned out to be one of the highlights of our 3 week trip to Newfoundland. Together Chris and Lori are wonderful ambassadors for this charming community. Rosedale Manor and the local area will not disappoint. One night is not enough!”
- Linda and Jim (New Brunswick)
“We loved your little establishment The breakfast was the best that we’ve had since arriving - the homemade jam was a nice touch! Our only regret we didn't have more time to chat with you both.”
- Ian Lee (Seattle, USA)
“Your little touches are greatly appreciated. It’s what makes the difference...”
- Ann et Serge (Québec)
“What a unique house (like a dream). Comfortable bed - like sleeping on a bed of feathers. One of the best we’ve slept on during our trip to Newfoundland.”
- Carole and Wolf (Ontario)
“The breakfast was a warm, loving start to the day. The garden...oh! The garden! The fragrant roses at the gate...so inviting! The bed embraced me and I slept sound.”
- Leah and Jean (Ontario)
“We do not feel like we’re “Come From Away”; we feel like we’ve come home...to stay! Sincere gratitude.”
- John and Maxine (Montreal)
“Thank you for having us as guests and treating us as friends. The room was lovely and the food was plentiful. We especially enjoyed your historical tour of the church and museum.”
- Margaret and Jim (Ontario)
“Perfect! 5+ stars. Everything was as promised and more!”
- Nella and Bob (Ontario)
“The breakfast was delicious and plentiful and we felt as though we were on a gourmet picnic!”
- Mary and Grant (British Columbia)
“It is like a fairytale, living and sleeping in a doll-house. We slept as roses on your princess bed.”
- Klass and Rika (The Netherlands)
“Nice location, nice room, nice stay, all thanks to nice people. You’ve added Placentia to my personal map of Newfoundland”
- Tom (Indiana, USA)
“The art, the quilts, the antique furniture are fabulous. Bravo!”
- Hélene and Raymond (Alberta)
“This place is by far the best place I have ever stayed...and I’ve stayed at some beautiful places.”
- Barb and Michael (Vermont USA)
“From the time we arrived, we were treated as friends. From the big breakfast, learning about what to see and do, hearing Chris and Lori’s enthusiasm for the area, our stop in Placentia and Rosedale B&B was relaxing, exciting, adventurous and perfect!”
- Marty and Christine (Alberta)
“Such a pleasant surprise! Beautiful scenery and comfortable beds, warm and friendly hosts. The house and garden are amazing. The breakfast was huge and yummy.”
- Brenda and Dan (Alberta)
“Rosedale is the perfect place to stay and take day trips to explore some of the amazing sites Newfoundland has to offer. We stayed for four nights. It was our sanctuary!
- Murdo and Charlene (Nova Scotia)
“We are leaving with good memories of your beautiful B&B. Wonderful breakfast!”
- Dave and Kay (Michigan, USA)
“What an absolutely beautiful place. Completely renovated, and great location. Honestly, great attention to detail, great hosts, spectacular B&B. Two minutes walk from the ocean with a boardwalk. We had booked one night but ended up cancelling elsewhere and staying a second night, just because...”
- Rosanna and Anthony (Québec)
“I could stay here for a week and feel the history this home resinates in the walls. The bed is next to sleeping on a cloud!”
- Gina and Jim (St. John’s)
“What a beautiful place you have, with the water swirling by and the peaceful garden. The breakfast basket was like opening a beautiful Christmas present.”
- Joanne and Victoria (Ontario)
“What a great way to end our two weeks in Newfoundland & Labrador! You made us feel at home in your home.”
- Amy and Jim (Montana USA)
“What a gem! Our original plans had to be altered due to hurricane Fiona but we were fortunate to find Rosedale! The small touches that really made it shine.”
- Gord and Mary (Ontario)
“Day 1: Two more days to go - the first was beyond fabulous. The most beautiful B&B we have ever been in. Beyond friendly, beyond clean, beyond beautiful. To eat a breakfast brought to our room is like heaven. Day 2: Rain but who cares. Reading and walking around town. Day 3: We have decided NOT to spread the news about this magnificent B&B to others. Our friends may want to come and use the Rose Room and they can’t, they simply can’t , in case we need it again. It’s a bit of heaven.”
- Diane and Derek (Ontario)
“We literally could’ve spent the whole time here enjoying some well deserved R&R. Thank you so much for your warmth and thoughtfulness.”
- Carol and John (Alberta)
“Loved all the touches you have around the house - especially the paintings and the all those books.”
- Sheila (England)
“The pictures of Rosedale and the phone contact with Chris were already a pleasure. But what we then were allowed to discover was dreamlike and unforgettable in every respect.”
- Barbara and Ferdinand (Switzerland)
“Dear Christopher, you are a fine artist, and, by the reflections and comments explaining your artwork, a gifted writer. We appreciated the opportunity to reside (albeit for too brief a time) in your lovely, inspirational house. We felt at ease and welcomed by you and Lori. Your abode is tastefully decorated. We hope to be back chez nous!”
- Lorenzo and Lorraine (Ontario)
“Ideal place to start or end the holidays and 10 minutes from the Argentia ferry. Sublime house with lots of character, a comfortable bed and a clean and quiet room. Take time to chat with your hosts.”
- Mélanie and Benoit (Québec)
“THE BEST OF THE BEST!! Incredible and personable hosts. Beautiful garden! Great art! Loved the breakfasts - homemade rhubarb jam! Perfection to detail!”
- Fred and Diane (Winnipeg)
“What a wonderful spot! I only wish we had planned to stay longer. We look forward to recommending it to our friends. Thank you!”
- Marian and Patrick (British Columbia)
“We had a three-week holiday in Newfoundland, and The Rosedale Manor was BAR NONE the BEST accommodation during that time! I could fill this whole review with superlatives about the fabulous bedrooms and delicious breakfasts, but best of all was the friendliness of the hosts, Chris & Lori. It would be impossible to find warmer or more helpful people to welcome a traveller looking for R&R.
We celebrated our anniversary there, and they even had a bottle of wine for us! Service above and beyond the call of duty. My only regret - we couldn’t stay longer!”
- Hazel and Jim (Alberta)
“We marvelled at Christopher's artwork and the written comments on the walls. Delightful and thought provoking...”
- Ron and Barb (British Columbia)
“I’m so happy our travel agent found this. Wish we stayed longer! Wat is het gezellig.”
- Gerard, Anita and Ruben (Netherlands)
“Thank you for your care. God bless you as you help people rest and be rejuvenated by nature.”
- Lisa and Allen (Detroit, USA)