The tranquil gardens at Fota House are a haven for garden lovers, walkers, and young explorers alike!
Thanks to the gentle climate offered by Cork Harbour, rare plants flourish here. Fota’s renowned gardens attract plant lovers and specialists from around the world to see our arboretum, gardens, and plant collections and learn about their history.
There are wonderful places to relax in nature, learn, and explore for visitors of all ages, so plan your visit to enjoy their rich history and natural beauty throughout the changing seasons.
Visit Fota Arboretum & Gardens
- Explore varied, well-stocked gardens laid out by James Hugh Smith-Barry in the first half of the 19th century.
- Take time to appreciate Fota’s Italianate sunken garden and orangery, as well as its exquisite rose collection.
- Or join us for one of our garden events, which explore different aspects of Fota’s garden history before treating yourself in the Café.
What Is an Arboretum?
An arboretum is a botanical collection that focuses mostly on trees. In an arboretum, specimens of trees, shrubs, and sometimes herbaceous plants are specifically planted for scientific and educational purposes.
You could say that the creation of the 11-acre arboretum in the 19th century began Fota’s focus on education and biodiversity – issues we continue to champion to this day!
Fun for All the Family
Pick up our garden guides, which help younger visitors to learn and have fun as they explore.
- Our Little Explorer’s Tree Trail is perfect for those under 6. Help their interest in nature flourish!
- Fota’s Junior Plant Hunter Trail encourages those aged 7 or over to hunt for trees in the arboretum, mark them on the map and find their country of origin
A Sustainable Approach
Our Irish Heritage Trust gardening team and dedicated volunteers take a sustainable approach to maintaining and developing Fota House’s outdoor spaces. We practise sustainability through activities such as composting and sustainable food production, and we support learning about biodiversity and sustainability too
Volunteer To Help Our Gardens Bloom!
Would you like to help Fota’s gardens and arboretum flourish? Or would you love to share their stories with visitors?
Our innovative and award-winning volunteer programme at Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens involves our local community in helping our gardens thrive.
Guided Garden Tours
We’re proud to welcome visitors to our gardens. Whether garden tour specialists or cruise tour operators, or just an interested groups, we’re delighted to offer a range of options, tailored to your needs and interests.
We’re also proud to be part of the West Cork Garden Trail, and can advise on ways to build a whole itinerary around your visit to Fota
