Fota House is looking gorgeous after €2.2m investment

We thought it wasn’t possible, but the Fota House and Gardens visitor experience has been made even better!

Following the recent completion of an extensive phase of conservation works to the value of €2.2m, visitors now have more reason than ever to come and explore one of Ireland’s most treasured historic estates.

Funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage over a 4 year period, the conservation works included structural roof repairs, revitalisation of the house’s Regency interiors, and the conservation of the McCarthy 19th century landscape art collection.

The property's extensive gardens are now also in bloom, and they have a newly enhanced historic house tour, so it’s the perfect time to rediscover this East Cork gem which offers a unique snapshot of Irish social history.

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.

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 along with 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.

Commenting on the completed conservation projects, Bryan Murphy, Irish Heritage Trust General Manager at Fota House & Gardens described the estate as “an evolving story”.

He said: “These projects protect Fota’s rich heritage while enhancing the visitor experience. Now, with this latest phase complete, we’re excited to welcome visitors back to explore the house, enjoy the gardens and arboretum, and take part in our seasonal events, including Halloween, the Magic of Santa, and Wonderlights.”

Beyond the house itself, visitors can relax with a coffee or lunch in The Food Club café or browse the gift shop featuring works by local artists and craftspeople.

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. The collection includes 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. Weekend-only tours operate from mid-February to mid-March and again in October.

Group visits from community, education, and special interest groups are warmly welcomed at Fota and can be arranged outside of scheduled tour times by contacting info@fotahouse.com.

While pre-booking is not always essential, visitors are encouraged to book in advance to secure preferred times.

For more information on visiting hours, upcoming events, and the full range of seasonal offerings, visit fotahouse.com, call +353 21 481 5543 or email info@fotahouse.com.

Ticket prices for House Tours are priced at €13 for adults, €6.50 for children and a family entry for two adults and three children at €35.

Victorian Garden tours take place Wednesday and Friday at 1.30pm and are priced at €10 for adults, €8 for seniors and students, and €5 for children.