Fota House and Gardens - Guided House Tour
Discover one of Ireland's most elegant estates with a guided tour of Fota House. Explore the grand rooms, servants quarters and get a glimpse at how the Smith-Barry family once lived in splendour.
Discover one of Ireland's most elegant estates with a guided tour of Fota House. Explore the grand rooms, servants quarters and get a glimpse at how the Smith-Barry family once lived in splendour.
What to Expect
- Enjoy a guided tour of one of Ireland's finest Regency houses with expert local guides.
- Explore beautifully restored rooms featuring period furnishings, fine art and original architectural details.
- Discover the fascinating history of the Smith-Barry family and life above and below stairs.
- Complete your visit with a stroll through the Arboretum & Gardens or unwind in the café.
Full Description
Discover the timeless elegance of Fota House, one of Ireland's finest Regency mansions, located on the beautiful Fota Island in County Cork. Home to the Smith-Barry family for generations, this beautifully restored heritage house offers visitors a fascinating journey through Irish history, architecture and aristocratic life. Explore over 70 magnificent rooms featuring stunning neoclassical interiors, period furnishings, fine art collections and original architectural details that showcase the grandeur of 19th-century Ireland. Expert led guided tours reveal the stories of the family, their guests and the dedicated staff who lived and worked both above and below stairs.
Wander through the elegant reception rooms, Victorian nursery and extensive servants' wing to discover how life differed between the gentry and the household staff. Surrounded by the world-renowned Fota Arboretum & Gardens, visitors can enjoy scenic walks, rare plant collections and beautifully restored Victorian gardens, making Fota House one of the top visitor attractions in Cork and an ideal destination for history lovers, families, garden enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.
Location
Additional Information
Please arrive at least 10 minutes before your tour to allow time to check in. Children must be accompanied by adults at all times.
Itinerary
- 70 grand rooms
- Servants' Quarters
- Gardens and Arboretum
Inclusions & Exclusions
- Expert led guided tour
- Food/drink
- Parking
Accessibility Information
This tour is partially wheelchair accessible however, a video tour of inaccesible rooms is available.
Service dogs are permitted.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets are non-refundable but can be amended up to 48 hours before your scheduled tour.
Airport Transfer 
