Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens

Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens

Review

Don’t confuse it with the neighbouring wildlife park: Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens is its own destination, and a superb one. Under the care of the Irish Heritage Trust, this elegant estate showcases Ireland’s finest example of Regency architecture. Inside, engaging guides bring to life the world of the Smith-Barry family, who called Fota home for more than two centuries, threading social history with domestic detail in a way that feels intimate and vivid. Step outside to wander formal lawns, woodland paths and a remarkable arboretum where rare and exotic species have thrived in Fota’s mild microclimate for over 200 years. It’s a place to slow down: linger over blossom and birdsong, then finish with fresh baking, a pot of tea or a relaxed lunch in the café. Warm, typically Irish hospitality runs through the operation; staff are knowledgeable, welcoming, and happy to field every curious question, through and through.