New chapter at one of Cork's landmark visitor attractions following completion of expansive conservation works

Irish Independent

07-06-2025

Fota House & Gardens one of Ireland's most treasured historic estates now offers an even more memorable visitor experience for the summer and autumn seasons.
A major programme of conservation and restoration has just been completed, to the value of €2.2m funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage over a four year period.
The works included structural roof repairs, revitalisation of the house's Regency interiors, and the conservation of the McCarthy 19th-century landscape art collection.
This marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing enhancement of the estate as a landmark visitor attraction in East Cork.
The property's extensive gardens are now also in bloom and they have a newly enhanced historic house tour.
Fota House & Gardens also has a busy programme of events planned for the months ahead which include art exhibitions, courses, and outdoor movie screenings.
Set within a 200-year-old estate, Fota House continues to reveal its fascinating stories under the stewardship of the Irish Heritage Trust, an independent non-profit organisation which acquired the property in 2007.
Visitors are invited to explore the splendidly conserved 19th-century mansion, the finest example of Regency architecture in Ireland, complete with vibrant working gardens and a renowned arboretum, alongside an exciting calendar of seasonal events.
Guided tours bring the house's layered history to life, exploring the legacy of the Smith-Barry family who lived at Fota for over 175 years and the many staff who worked on the estate over generations.
Visitors journey through more than seventy rooms, from grand neoclassical reception halls to nurseries, kitchens, and below-stairs quarters that offer a rare insight into domestic life of the time.
Bryan Murphy, Irish Heritage Trust General Manager at Fota House & Gardens said: 'In recent years, we've completed major conservation works—from restoring the main roof and Regency interiors to conserving the McCarthy 19th-century landscape art collection. These projects protect Fota's rich heritage while enhancing the visitor experience.'
Beyond the house itself, visitors can relax with a coffee or lunch in 'The Food Club' café or browse the beautiful gift shop featuring works by local artists and craftspeople.
The surrounding gardens and nationally important arboretum provide the perfect backdrop to enjoy the changing seasons, with rare botanical species and historic gardening practices nurtured through the Irish Heritage Trust's thriving volunteering programme.
The restored Victorian Working Garden and glasshouses, once in decline, now flourish once again.
Fota House also holds Museum Accreditation by the Heritage Council's Museum Standards Programme for Ireland, recognising the exceptional collection care delivered by the Irish Heritage Trust.
From drawing rooms to servant corridors, every corner tells a story—including the celebrated landscape art collection by Ashford, Fisher and Roberts displayed in its original 19th-century setting.
Guided tours last approximately one hour and run daily at 12pm and 2pm from mid-March to the end of September, with an additional 3:30pm tour in July and August.
While pre-booking is not always essential, visitors are encouraged to book in advance to secure preferred times.
For more information on visiting hours, visit www.fotahouse.com