Fota House: A Gem of Heritage and Nature in County Cork
Discover the captivating Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens in County Cork—where history meets nature in a stunning Victorian landscape.
Nestled on Fota Island, Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens offers a captivating blend of history, nature, and stunning landscapes, making it a must-visit for tourists exploring County Cork. With its beautifully preserved Victorian mansion, expansive gardens, and diverse plant species, visitors can immerse themselves in the serenity and beauty of this unique destination.
A brief summary to Fota House
- Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens Fota Island, Carrigtwohill, Foaty, Co. Cork, T45 Y642, IE
- +353214815543
- Visit website
- Saturday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the spring or summer months for the best flower displays and pleasant weather.
- Check the schedule for guided tours to gain deeper insights into the history of Fota House.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the gardens, as there are lovely spots to relax and take in the scenery.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, as the gardens and arboretum cover a large area.
Getting There
-
Walking
From Kinsale town center, head southeast towards the main street, Market Street. Continue walking straight until you reach the junction with the R600 road. Turn left onto the R600 road and follow it for approximately 8 kilometers. As you walk, enjoy the beautiful views of the countryside. Once you reach the town of Carrigtwohill, look for signs directing you to Fota Island. You may have to walk a bit further to the entrance of Fota House, which is located on Fota Island.
-
Public Transport (Bus)
From Kinsale, walk to the nearest bus stop located on the main street. Look for the bus service #226 towards Cork City. Board the bus and enjoy the scenic ride for about 30 minutes. Get off at the Carrigtwohill stop. From there, walk towards the Fota Island entrance, which is approximately a 20-minute walk. You can ask locals for directions if needed, as they are usually very helpful.
-
Bicycle Rental
If you prefer cycling, rent a bike from one of the local shops in Kinsale. Start from the center of Kinsale and follow the R600 road towards Carrigtwohill. The distance is about 8 kilometers, and cycling will allow you to enjoy the beautiful landscape along the way. Once you reach Carrigtwohill, follow the signs to Fota Island, which will lead you directly to the entrance of Fota House.
Discover more about Fota House
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
1 Pearse Square
4.9 km
Explore the enchanting Pearse Square in Cobh, a serene spot filled with historical significance and stunning coastal views.
Dundanion House Bridge
8.0 km
Discover the historic charm of Dundanion House Bridge in Cork: scenic views, rich history, and architectural beauty await!
Kindred Spirits: Choctaw Native American Monument
9.0 km
Explore the Kindred Spirits Monument in Co. Cork, a breathtaking tribute to the enduring bond between the Irish and Choctaw Native American communities.
Eamon de Valera Bridge
11.0 km
Discover the Eamon de Valera Bridge in Cork, a stunning architectural landmark steeped in history, perfect for leisurely strolls and breathtaking views.
S Mall
11.4 km
Cork's elegant Georgian shopping street where historic architecture meets contemporary retail and culinary excellence.
Father Mathew Statue
11.5 km
Discover the Father Mathew Statue in Cork, a historic landmark symbolizing the city's rich heritage and vibrant community spirit.
National Monument - Cork
11.7 km
Discover the National Monument in Cork, a stunning historical landmark celebrating Ireland's rich heritage and independence.
Nano Nagle Bridge
11.7 km
Experience the beauty and history of Nano Nagle Bridge in Cork, an architectural marvel connecting communities and offering stunning riverside views.
Medieval City Wall (Balla Cathrach na Meánaoise)
11.8 km
Explore Cork's Medieval City Wall: A journey through history in the heart of the city, revealing ancient defenses and architectural ingenuity.
Shandon Clock Tower
11.9 km
Experience the charm of Cork at the historic Shandon Clock Tower, where breathtaking views and melodious chimes await every visitor.
Cathedral of St Mary & St Anne, Shandon
11.9 km
Explore Cork’s majestic Neo-Gothic Cathedral, the spiritual heart of the Diocese of Cork and Ross, blending centuries of history, art, and faith.
The Coal Quay
11.9 km
Explore The Coal Quay, Cork's historic market square, brimming with local culture, lively stalls, and rich history, perfect for every traveler.
The Butter Museum
11.9 km
Explore the rich heritage of butter production at The Butter Museum in Cork—an engaging journey into Ireland's dairy history and culinary traditions.
Elizabeth Fort
11.9 km
Explore Cork's rich history at Elizabeth Fort, a 17th-century star-shaped fortress with panoramic city views and centuries of stories to uncover.
Historic Buildings of Pope's Quay
12.0 km
Explore Cork's architectural heritage along the scenic River Lee at Pope's Quay, a historic landmark with stunning waterfront views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Old Church
3.5 km
Explore Cloyne’s ancient ecclesiastical heart where medieval architecture and spiritual history converge in tranquil Co. Cork.
Cuskinny Marsh
4.5 km
Discover Cuskinny Marsh: a tranquil nature reserve near Cobh, offering diverse habitats and rich birdlife for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
Cobh
4.6 km
Discover Cobh, County Cork’s vibrant harbor town where Titanic history meets colorful charm and stunning coastal views.
St. Colman's Cathedral
4.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of St. Colman's Cathedral in Cobh, a must-visit landmark in Ireland's scenic Co. Cork.
Harbour Row
4.9 km
Experience the picturesque beauty and rich maritime history of Harbour Row in Cobh, a must-visit destination for every traveler in Ireland.
RMS Lusitania Memorial
4.9 km
Discover the RMS Lusitania Memorial in Cobh, a tribute to maritime history and the lives lost in one of the greatest sea tragedies of the 20th century.
East Beach
4.9 km
Experience the captivating beauty of East Beach in Cobh, a serene escape with stunning views and rich local culture.
Irish Seafarers Memorial Anchor
4.9 km
A solemn steel anchor memorial in Cobh honoring Irish seafarers’ bravery and sacrifice across history’s turbulent seas.
Titanic Experience Cobh
4.9 km
Explore the Titanic Experience Cobh and delve into the rich maritime history of Ireland's last port of call for the Titanic, combining tragedy with heritage.
John F. Kennedy Park
4.9 km
A tranquil memorial park in Cobh, honoring John F. Kennedy with scenic harbor views, gardens, and a rich cultural history.
Spike Island Cork
4.9 km
Explore Spike Island, a historical gem near Cobh, Co. Cork, where rich heritage meets breathtaking scenery in a unique travel experience.
The Titanic Trail
5.0 km
Discover the poignant history of the Titanic in Cobh, Co. Cork, on the captivating Titanic Trail, where maritime heritage comes alive.
Sirius Arts Centre
5.0 km
Explore the vibrant art scene at Sirius Arts Centre in Cobh, where contemporary creativity meets breathtaking harbor views in a historic setting.
Cobh Heritage Centre. The Queenstown Story
5.0 km
Explore the Cobh Heritage Centre, where the past comes alive through captivating exhibits and the incredible stories of Irish emigration and maritime history.
Cobh Rebel Walking Tours
5.0 km
Explore the historical heart of Cobh with engaging walking tours that reveal the town's rich heritage and connection to Ireland's struggle for independence.
Essential places to dine
The Castle Cafe
6.8 km
Experience modern European cuisine amidst the historic charm of Blackrock Castle at The Castle Cafe in Cork.
Flemings Restaurant - Country House
7.4 km
Experience modern French cuisine at its finest in the heart of Tivoli, Cork's charming countryside at Flemings Restaurant - Country House.
The Barn Gastropub
8.3 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at The Barn Gastropub in Glanmire—where tradition meets modern dining.
The Gallery Restaurant
8.3 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine at The Gallery Restaurant in Tivoli, Cork - where every meal feels like home.
Silver Key Bar & Restaurant
8.9 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine at Silver Key Bar & Restaurant in Cork – where tradition meets taste in a cozy pub setting.
Golden Elephant
9.6 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors crafted with fresh ingredients in a warm, intimate setting in Douglas, Cork.
Salt Food & Wine
10.5 km
A vibrant fusion café and wine bar blending local Irish flavors with global tastes in the heart of Cork’s Ballintemple.
Sophie's Rooftop Cork
10.8 km
Elevate your dining with stunning panoramic views and modern European cuisine atop The Dean Cork’s rooftop.
Crawford & Co
11.1 km
Discover Crawford & Co in Cork – an inviting Irish pub offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and live music in a warm atmosphere.
Thompsons Bar & Restaurant
11.2 km
Historic charm meets craft brews and grill dining in Cork’s lively Victorian Quarter at Thompsons Bar & Restaurant.
The Glass Curtain
11.3 km
Experience contemporary Irish cuisine at The Glass Curtain in Cork's Victorian Quarter - where tradition meets innovation.
Bocelli Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar
11.3 km
Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Bocelli Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar in Cork - where every dish tells a story.
Elbow Lane Brew and Smoke House
11.3 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Elbow Lane Brew and Smoke House in Cork – where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
Market Lane
11.3 km
Award-winning Irish restaurant and bar in Cork city centre, famed for local ingredients, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Isaac's Restaurant
11.3 km
Discover Isaac's Restaurant in Cork's Victorian Quarter for an exquisite fine dining experience featuring locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Douglas Village Shopping Centre
9.3 km
Explore the Douglas Village Shopping Centre in Cork, a lively hub with diverse shops, eateries, and family-friendly amenities for a memorable visit.
Cork City FC Official Merchandise Store
9.4 km
Official Cork City FC merchandise in the heart of Douglas Village Shopping Centre, connecting fans with their club through authentic gear and community spirit.
Cork Craft & Design
9.7 km
Discover authentic handmade crafts by Cork’s finest artisans in a vibrant cooperative shop nestled in historic Douglas Village.
York St Clobber
11.2 km
A vibrant independent vintage clothing shop inside Mother Jones Market, perfect for unique retro finds and a relaxed Cork shopping experience.
Home Store + More
11.3 km
Your go-to homewares destination in Cork offering variety, value, and convenience in Turners Cross Retail Park.
Olori
11.3 km
Experience the charm of Olori, a boutique in Cork offering stylish women's clothing and unique fashion accessories in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Turners Cross Retail Park
11.4 km
A premier retail destination in Cork offering home improvement, furnishings, pet supplies, and casual coffee in a convenient, accessible setting.
Sheena's Boutique
11.4 km
Explore Sheena's Boutique in Cork for a unique selection of women's fashion and accessories, showcasing local designers and contemporary styles.
Miss Daisy Blue
11.4 km
Explore the charm of vintage fashion at Miss Daisy Blue, a unique clothing store in Cork's Victorian Quarter offering curated retro treasures.
Vibes & Scribes Crafts
11.4 km
Explore your creativity at Vibes & Scribes Crafts in Cork, your ultimate destination for all crafting supplies, yarn, fabric, and artistic inspiration.
Unbound
11.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Unbound, a charming gift shop in Cork's Victorian Quarter, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
Born Clothing
11.4 km
Trendy and affordable fashion for men and women in Cork’s vibrant Merchants Quay Shopping Centre.
Carrolls Irish Gifts
11.5 km
Explore Carrolls Irish Gifts in Cork for the best selection of authentic Irish souvenirs, showcasing the rich culture and craftsmanship of Ireland.
Penneys
11.5 km
Affordable fashion and homeware in the heart of Cork’s vibrant Saint Patrick’s Street shopping district.
Flying Tiger
11.6 km
Colorful Scandinavian design meets budget-friendly shopping in Cork's vibrant city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
O'Sullivans Bar & Restaurant, Douglas
9.5 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine and vibrant hospitality at O'Sullivans Bar & Restaurant in Douglas, Cork's culinary gem for tourists and locals alike.
South County
9.6 km
Discover the heart of Irish culture at South County, a traditional pub in Douglas offering hearty meals, local brews, and live music.
L'Atitude 51 Wine Bar
11.2 km
Discover the charm of L'Atitude 51 Wine Bar in Cork - a wine lover's paradise with an extensive selection and delicious small plates.
The Beer Garden
11.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Beer Garden in Cork, where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and live music blend seamlessly.
The Poor Relation
11.2 km
Experience authentic Irish culture at The Poor Relation, a beloved pub in Cork with a lively atmosphere and a vast selection of drinks.
Coughlans Bar
11.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Coughlans Bar, where live music, sports, and a cozy beer garden meet in the heart of Cork.
Cask
11.3 km
Experience Cork's vibrant cocktail scene at Cask, where unique drinks and delicious tapas meet in a stylish setting.
The Shelbourne Bar
11.3 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Shelbourne Bar in Cork's Victorian Quarter, offering traditional fare and a vibrant atmosphere.
Arthur Mayne's Pharmacy
11.4 km
Discover the charm of Arthur Mayne's Pharmacy, Cork's historic wine bar and pub, where flavor meets tradition in a vibrant atmosphere.
Old Oak
11.4 km
Experience the heart of Cork at Old Oak, where traditional Irish hospitality meets delicious food and a lively atmosphere.
No.76
11.4 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and live music venue blending modern style with historic charm in the heart of Cork City.
Paladar
11.4 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail culture of Cork at Paladar, where innovative drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
The Hi-B Bar
11.5 km
Step into The Hi-B Bar, a cozy 1920s Cork pub where tradition, live music, and heartfelt conversation create an unforgettable Irish experience.
Sin é
11.5 km
Discover the best of Irish culture and live music at Sin É, Cork's iconic pub in the heart of the Victorian Quarter.
Le Chateau
11.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails at Le Chateau, Cork's premier bar for relaxation and entertainment.
