It was a privilege to stay at Fortwilliam country house in Hillsborough with an extraordinarily welcoming family, Terry and Mavis Dunlop, and their daughter, home from college. Terry Dunlop raises horses on the farm, and his cows had 3 sets of calves this year. Mavis fills the house with antiques, the warm smell of fresh-baked bread, and her friendly conversation.

Breakfast in Mavis kitchen with her antique stove is an experience you will savor if you like old-fashioned charm. We enjoyed home-made brown bread, eggs, good bacon, fresh fruit, and cereal. On our day of arrival Mavis treated us to tea and a home-made sweet bread.

You won't find Fortwilliam in a lot of guidebooks, but return guests happily find their way back! We met one during our stay. Fortwilliam has 3 rooms and Mavis keeps them very very clean and comfty. I found Fortwilliam in Alastair Sawday's Special Places To Stay in Ireland (guidebook).

Hillsborough is a charming town which is off the beaten path, but not too far off. You can drive into Belfast or to the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum in Cultra in less than 30 minutes.

Hubby and I found the Victorian room (Double Bedroom #2 on their web-site) very charming with a pleasant garden view. The queen bed was comfortable with a nice firm mattress, and we had our own private bathroom right across the hall, plus a bathrobe was provided for our use. The shower is small but there was plenty of hot water. Our room was very quiet and peaceful at night.

Our 2 daughters were in the Primrose room with 2 twin Irish carved beds and ensuite bathroom. The twin beds with soft mattresses are best for young folks who don't need firm beds.

Bathrooms for both the Victorian room and the Primrose room had 2 wooden steps down into the bathroom and Mavis will remind you to watch your step.

Mavis has thoughtfully provided nice touches such as a complimentary bottle of sparkling water and tea service in the bedroom; a toothbrush and shower cap in the bathroom. Breakfast is included for the total room price of 65 pounds per room per night (2 people sharing). Price is lower for a single person in one room. Rooms are non-smoking.

I was telling Terry at breakfast that I wanted to visit the Carmel Street area in Belfast where my grandmother grew up. He promptly called the police to get detailed directions for me!

We appreciate the thoughtfulness and hospitality of Terry and Mavis and we highly recommend Fortwilliam Country House. You'll find their web-site under the name Fortwilliamcountryhouse. It is at 210 Ballynahinch Road, Hillsborough, County Down. They have a framed award in their house designating it as the 1996 Ulster Guesthouse of the Year (Northern Ireland Tourist board.)

At Fortwilliam country house you will find out why the Irish are known for their welcoming friendliness.