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  • The Head Gardener’s House at Fota is now open for stays (and it’s dog-friendly)
Homes, News, Travel

The Head Gardener’s House at Fota is now open for stays (and it’s dog-friendly)

By Yay Cork June 30, 2026June 29, 2026

Do you like to maximise your downtime?

If so, a brand-new luxury stay just opened up in a lush and leafy secret garden just 20 minutes from town, and you can even bring a canine companion or two.

The Head Gardener’s House at Fota is now open for bookings, and the interior is just as dreamy as you’d expect.

Built in the mid-1800s as the residence of the estate’s Head Gardener, this two-storey property sits in the north-eastern corner of the Victorian Working Gardens of Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens – now carefully restored and once again thriving under the care of the Irish Heritage Trust.

Beautifully designed by Jessie Wilkinson, who spent months sourcing, planning, and auction hunting all over the country, searching for pieces with character and history for the property, the rooms are warm and inviting – ideal for relaxing in with a group of your favourite people.

The exterior has also been transformed with a wash of antique pink, creating major storybook vibes as you enter through the house’s private courtyard.

“Tucked beside the walled garden of the stunning Fota House, this five-person retreat has been lovingly restored and fitted out with beautiful antiques, heritage colours, and a private garden all of your own,” the Irish Landmark Trust announced.

“You can even arrive by train – Fota station is just a short walk away.⁠”
⁠
The house sleeps five in two double bedrooms and one single bedroom, and travel cots are available for infants, so it’s family-friendly and just a short stroll from Fota Wildlife Park. Check out the reservations here (from €458 for two nights) to be among the first to book.

Photos: Alicia Field

Tags: Fota, garden, romance, staycation
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