STEP BACK IN TIME
Carefully Preserved Potting Shed and Restored Victorian Glasshouses – Still in Use Today
When we arrived at Rossie in 2005, we were delighted to discover the charm of the old potting shed—an unexpected find. Inside, we uncovered the gardener’s tunic still hanging on its hook, along with rows of terracotta pots, perfectly preserved and waiting to be rediscovered.
Of course, it wasn’t all smooth sailing—there was the hole in the roof, cracked lintels that needed replacing, and the invasive jasmine that had gotten completely out of control. We called in Sandy and Ally, the local joiners (who are really more like master builders), to fix the roof. They were given the special request to photograph all the hanging trugs and make sure they were replaced exactly as they were once the repairs were complete. Clark, the skilled stone mason, carefully replaced the lintels, matching the original tooling so that the repairs blended seamlessly with the existing structure. For the first time in many years, the door was finally able to open properly.
Once restored, the potting shed and Victorian glasshouses are a true delight, filled with a fascinating collection of old tools. From five different types of forks used for digging and lifting potatoes (with round-ended prongs) to peat spades, scythes, a charming water hose reel, and an original hand cart—the list goes on. Each item is carefully preserved in its authentic state, allowing you to step back in time and experience the history when you visit.
