The rose has a medium (9-16 petals) semi-double bloom form with 2–3 in (3-5 cm) flowers, typically borne in clusters.

'Frensham' has a mild fragrance with a bloom color of dark red.

The foliage is dark green and shiny, and the plant has many thorns and prickles.

[1] 'Frensham' was developed by amateur rose breeder, Albert Norman, in 1942.

The family nursery, which continues to sell roses today, was established in 1879 in Bedale, Yorkshire by brothers, John Harkness (1857-1933) and (Robert Harkness (1851-1920).