[2] The early origins of the house are unclear, with some claiming that the building was first built as a convent,[3] perhaps dating as far back as the 16th century.

[4] In the 1840s the Dawson Borrer family refurbished and altered the house and gardens, adding the lake that was dug as relief work for the local population during the Irish famine.

[5] Watson's interest was primarily in rhododendrons, planting seedlings from around the world and exchanging specimens with Sir Frederick Moore of the National Botanic Gardens.

[10] The gardens also feature a Wellingtonia, the Sequoiadendron giganteum or Giant Redwood, which was planted to commemorate the Battle of Waterloo.

[4] Following the death of Corona North, ownership of the house and gardens was transferred to the Irish State, and is operated by the Office of Public Works.