The 19th-century mansion is now open to explorers.

A four-year €2.2m programme of conservation and restoration is now complete at Fota House & Gardens—one of Ireland’s most treasured historic estates.

The work included structural roof repairs, the revitalisation of the house’s special Regency interiors, and the conservation of the McCarthy 19th-century landscape art collection.

Photo: Colin Shanahan

Guided tours bring a 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 this summer will 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.

“Fota House & Gardens is an evolving story.” said Bryan Murphy, Irish Heritage Trust General Manager at Fota House & Gardens.

“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.”

The property’s extensive gardens are now in bloom and they have a newly enhanced historic house tour as well as a busy programme of events planned for the months ahead, which include art exhibitions, courses, and outdoor movie screenings.

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.

Ticket prices for House Tours are priced at €13 for adults and €6.50 for children. 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.