On the appropriately named Chapel Street, Picton, no less than three churches have stood. The foundation stone for the current structure was laid in1898. Architecturally, it is an example of the early English Gothic Revival style, and has the capacity to accommodate eleven hundred people. Adjacent, the manse dating from 1906 would have made a rather grand home for the incumbent minister.
The church endured but history was not so kind to the manse, and by the early 2000s the property had fallen into disrepair. New owners, Sian and Dave Fitzpatrick, took up the challenge of restoration, providing both the drive and inspiration for an extensive multi-year renovation. Now completely transformed, the building’s renaissance has successfully fused historic architectural bones with contemporary interior design and amenities to create an elegant and sophisticated boutique inn.
Day to day operations in this family owned business are entrusted to the combined talents of husband and wife team Max Dallamore and Megan Fitzpatrick, Max being the Executive Chef and Megan, the General Manager. With Megan taking care of the front of house and Max, a Red Seal Chef and mixologist, together they bring a unique skill set to the bed and breakfast experience. Only recently have the pair relocated from Kelowna, BC. to take up the reins of The Manse. “Location, service, and amenities, are the three key components of the guest experience here at The Manse,” cites Megan who is the driving force behind the redevelopment of this upscale adventure.
Max has taken the typical hotel breakfast and kicked it up a notch or two, inspired by local seasonally available ingredients and his natural kitchen creativity. In conjunction with breakfast, an all day snackable menu is offered, however if you really want to experience Max’s cuisine at its best, then attending one of his private dining experiences is a must. Naturally priority bookings are offered to guests staying at The Manse, but occasionally, this special treat is open to non residents, but must be reserved well in advance.
First class accommodations offer an atmosphere of restrained elegance: guests may take their pick from a selection of exquisitely appointed suites complete with cozy fireplaces and luxurious spa showers. Offering attractive church or garden views, the suites are spacious and inviting. The most recent addition to the accommodation, the Limestone Suite, is suitable for four guests. A swimming pool and a hot tub are accommodated in the tranquility of a secret garden oasis, whose serenity is only interrupted by the gentle cascade of the waterfall feeding the pond.
In choosing to spend time in Picton, you most likely would be interested in staying a few nights somewhere elegant and. comfortable as a base from which to visit some of the amazing restaurants, or explore art galleries and discover the extraordinary variety of decidedly individual retailers.
Following busy days of exploring Picton and The County’s many treasures, you might well appreciate the value of having chosen to stay in a quiet backwater oasis of calm and tranquility, that is in fact only about a hundred meters or so from downtown Picton and its hustle and bustle. The Manse is perfectly positioned for very convenient access to all of Picton’s many attractions, but also provides its guests with their own private sanctuary for when they want to simply relax and get away from it all. Quite simply the best of both worlds. Why not treat yourself to a Manse romance? Contact Megan to book your stay by phone 613 476 1006 or email relax@themanse.ca and explore the website themanse.ca
