A major programme of conservation and restoration has just been completed at Fota House & Gardens, one of Ireland’s most treasured historic estates.
Works to the value of €2.2m funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage were carried out over a 4 year period.
These works included structural roof repairs, revitalisation of the house’s interiors, and the conservation of the 19th-century landscape art collection.
Extensive gardens at the property are now also in bloom and they have a newly enhanced historic house tour.
“Fota House & Gardens is an evolving story,” said Bryan Murphy, Irish Heritage Trust General Manager. “In recent years, we’ve completed major conservation works – from restoring the main roof and Regency interiors to conserving the McCarthy 19th-century landscape art collection. 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 Hallowe’en, the Magic of Santa and Wonderlights”.
WORTH A TOUR
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 – and 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.
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.
From drawing rooms to servant corridors, every corner tells a story – including the celebrated landscape art collection by Ashford, Fisher and Roberts displayed in its original 19th-century setting.
