Rosedale Manor
Bed &Breakfast
“Come out here
where the roses
have opened.
Let soul and world meet.” - Rumi
Select a room below
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 .
Unfortunately, we are not equipped to accommodate babies and small children.
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.
(See Rosedale 360 images below.)
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.
ROSEDALE ORIGINAL FINE ART GALLERY
Entire collection by artist and owner Christopher Newhook
Sales and Commissions welcome
(Artwork prices listed below are unframed)
PHOTO GALLERY
Collection of images of Rosedale and area
THINGS TO DO
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 an evening meal at our pubs or eateries.
Our staff can provide lots of information about the area.
Please ask!
Castle Hill National Historic Site
Step back in time to the 17th century and imagine cannons and muskets blazing as British and French forces battled on the shores of Newfoundland, vying for control of a lucrative fishery. Discover the remnants of a stone fort and explore a chapter of history that determined the fate of a continent. Visit the site, ask for their audio guide and explore the history that was the beginning of Canada. Grab a souvenir on the way out from the beautiful gift shop.
ROSEDALE 360
Select an image, click and scroll to see the Rosedale Property in 360 degrees
TESTIMONIALS
“First guest of the season. Leaving with a heart overflowing with gratitude. The kindness and caring of Lori and Chris has been healing on the deepest of levels. Transforming energy!! Blessings on this beautiful house which becomes your home. 5+ stars!!!"”
- Margie (St. John's)
“We cannot praise highly enough this delightful B&B. There are just too many superlatives to list. The accommodation is first rate with every detail and need thought out and catered for; all is of the highest standard and it is evident that Lori and Chris have put their heart and soul into updating the property. They are the most kind, generous and helpful hosts you would wish to meet. We were so impressed that we stayed there again on our way back to St John's airport. Very special people and a very special little place to stay. Just wish we could return one day.”
- Maurice and Sandra (England)
“YOU GOTTA STAY HERE! Truly a great experience. from the superb upper floor suites, hospitality from Lori's "breakfasts in a basket", was truly memorable. Special recognition to Chris, not only a great story teller, but excellent guide through the area's highlights. Well done Chris and Lori and happy to recommend.”
- Dave and Carolyn (Ontario)
“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)
“THE BEST B&B IN MY LIFE! We've been to many B&Bs over the years. Some have been great, some have been cold and miserable. Rosedale Manor in Placentia is the best B&B I've ever stayed at. The building is old yet lovingly restored and with high-quality materials and curated period furniture. We booked the Rose suite: large sitting room, large bedroom, a shower room, a clever kitchenette, and an ensuite bathroom. The windows were all functional (unlike many old building B&Bs) and we got a great cross-breeze. The bed was comfortable with excellent linens and nice and heavy cotton blankets and home-made exceptional level quilts. The breakfast was amazing! This kind of attention to detail is unparalleled in my experience. Lori and Chris were incredible hosts: super-friendly yet not intrusive the way some B&B hosts can be. Chris even led us and the other guests on a 90 minute walking history tour of Placentia townsite. TripAdvisor: it is time to get your owl out and give one of those awards to Rosedale Manor. It has set the standard against which all B&Bs should now be measured. My only regret: that we had only a single night there. Rest assured, I will be back. :)”
- David and Jeremy (Ontario)
“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)
“Thank you both for a most enjoyable stay! You've set a high bar as we embark on our travels - you will be tough to beat! Our friends recommended Rosedale. We are so happy they did. We will be doing the same!”
- Catherine & Peter (Ontario)
“THE BEST OF THE BEST!! Incredible and personable hosts. Beautiful garden! Great art (some even for sale...)! Loved the breakfasts - homemade rhubarb jam! Perfection to detail!”
- Fred and Diane (Winnipeg)
“This has been a feast for the eyes, a rest for the soul and a perfect spot for family bonding. I think our teens will from now on vote for B&B over AirB&B! Merci!”
- Francie et Julien (Montreal, QC)
“It's like a fairytale, living and sleeping in a doll house. We slept as roses on your princess bed.”
- Klaas and Rika (Netherlands)
“Staying here truly felt like we were in our home away from home...”
- Paul and Denise (British Columbia)
“Great B&B for exploring the Placentia area and the Cape Shore! Excellent accommodations. Very comfortable and well appointed rooms. The breakfast was huge! The coffee - delicious! Attention to detail is evident everywhere from their homemade jams, the hand written welcome notes, delicious snacks, beautiful original artwork by Chris and the gorgeous quilts and placemats. The front yard with beautiful pond and fountain is so peaceful to just sit and relax. Love, love, love Rosedale! Cheers to Lori & Chris for this outstanding B&B and for hosting our family.”
- Debbie (St. John's)
“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, 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 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)
“Fabulous experience! Chris & Lori are amazing hosts! They’ve thought of everything with so many nice touches. Breakfast basket was a delightful surprise! Unique and clever presentation with delicious and healthy contents. Chris’ ad hoc church & museum tour added a lot to our visit! Don’t miss Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve!”
- Mary-Ann and Peter (Ontario)
“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 & 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)
“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)
“Dear Chris and Lori. We can't tell you how much we enjoyed resting at this beautiful place and garden. We enjoyed our tea in your glorious flower tea cups by the little pond. We loved the beautiful artwork.”
- Sukman and Suchyet (Ontario)
“Thank you so much! A wonderful surprise. Gracious hosts with every possible requirement provided. Loved our stay!”
- Charles & Dee (Australia)
“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)
“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)
“Our stay at Rosedale Manor was a pure delight. Our Room, The Rose, was bright and spotless. Every corner is a perfect vignette. The artwork by owner Chris and the creative, peaceful decor by Lori were a delight. Breakfast was beautiful and delicious. And different all three mornings of our stay. Every detail so thoughtful. Kind helpful and informative hosts. The view stunning, the local history and sights overwhelming. Very comfortable bed. Perfect. Highly recommended.. ”
- Kathy & Randy (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.”
- Diana 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)
“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 & Patrick (British Columbia)
“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 (France)
“All the usual accolades apply: beautiful, clean, interesting, comfortable! But this lovely home goes above and beyond! Yes! It's beautiful. Yes! It's spotlessly clean. Yes! It's interesting and totally comfortable. But your hospitality and attention to detail goes beyond anything we anticipated. Thank you for the snacks and delicious breakfast and thank you for the stories. This place will stay in our hearts forever ”
- Jill (Alberta)
“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)
Rosedale Manor was spectacular! The living and dining rooms as well as our individual suite was tastefully decorated with attention to every detail and it was so comfortable! The breakfast was incredible and the outside garden and outdoor sitting areas were gorgeous to sit and read with a coffee! But maybe the best of all were our wonderful hosts Chris and Lori who did everything they could to make our stay so special. If I am ever in this area again we will definitely stay there and it will feel like coming home!
- Barbara (Vermont, USA)
“I do not normally write a review but my stay at Rosedale really was worth a 5 star review from me. This is the first time ever I stayed in a B&B and I am so glad that this is my first B&B experience. The room is clean and tidy with a great view (my room is Lupine) and I feel like I am home and this is the kind of experience you won’t be able to get if you just stay in a hotel. The location is just perfect so I can drive or walk to my destination easily. I highly recommend this place.”
- Richard (British Columbia)