Fota House is one of Ireland’s finest examples of Regency period architecture with superb neoclassical interiors. The main house dating from 1820, remained in the sole ownership of the Smith-Barry family for 155 years and today it shares the compelling life story of this family and their household staff. Now an Irish Heritage Trust Property, a visit to Fota House set amongst 115 acres, within the original 780-acre estate promises endless opportunities for adventure. It features a globally renowned arboretum with a collection of rare and exotic plantings from the southern hemisphere, formal and working gardens that evolve with colour, scent & texture through each passing season. Further highlights of this must-do experience include: Life Stories | from the aristocratic Smith-Barry family to the servants who supported their lifestyle Gentry | stories the pre-eminence of the gentry class and their gradual decline Downstairs |grand décor of the principal rooms & service wing with the beautifully preserved kitchens Upstairs | superb neo-classical interiors, boudoir & charming nursery Art | one of the finest collections of landscape painting outside the National Gallery of Ireland spanning the 17th to 20th century with works from artists including William Ashford PRHA, Robert Carver, Jonathan Fisher and Thomas Roberts Conservation | the programme that has restored the house to its former elegance Arboretum | hundreds of early 19th-century tree specimens Gardens |finest collections of rare outdoor plantings in Ireland and Britain Victorian Working Gardens | beautifully restored space with beautiful Victorian glasshouses & bothy buildings.
