Local attractions in the Blackwater Valley area are numerous and within easy reach. Fermoy and Midleton are thriving market towns and Lismore with its Cathedral and Castle is an attractive heritage centre. Many fine country houses such as Fota house, Ballyvolane House, Tourin House, and Dromana House, with its unusual Hindu Gothic Gateway, are to be found within the area. At the Jameson Distillery at Midleton the old distillery is beautifully preserved and there are guided tours of this most striking and interesting tourist attraction throughout the year.

The River Blackwater is one of Ireland's premier fishing destinations and provides abundant opportunities for angling enthusiasts. Some of the beats on the river from Fermoy to Ballyduff and Lismore are only a short drive away. The valley of the Blackwater provides beautiful locations for walking and cycling to suit all. There are two golf courses close by: one at Fermoy (5 Km), and the other at Lismore (25 Km). Ballindenisk Equestrian Centre and  Cork Race Course at Mallow, which has a full calendar of events are the main equestrian attractions in the area.

Cork City with it famous English Market, Fota Wold life park, Cobh with its Titanic heritage center, and Spike Island which has been named as Europe’s leading tourist attraction at the prestigious World Travel Awards 2017 are all within 30 minutes drive from the Gate Lodge.

On the coast of East Cork from Youghal, where the Blackwater enters the sea, to Garryvoe, Ballycotton, and Cork Harbour there are many long beautiful beaches to enjoy.