Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens offers a range of options and facilities for group tours and venue hire.
We regularly welcome private groups, school tours, and tour parties who enjoy the atmosphere and stories to be found here at one of Ireland’s foremost heritage properties.
Tailored to Your Needs
We can tailor our group tours to your interests, so that your party can focus on what interests them most about Fota House, whether that’s a specific period of Ireland’s past, what life was like ‘below stairs’ in this amazing place, or the magnificent works to be found in its historic fine art collection.
You can also arrange room hire and garden use for meetings, special events, and group visits.
Our competitive group tour and room hire rates, as well as excellent amenities, including our lovely Bakestone Café, mean that it’s easy to plan a great group day out or event at Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens!
Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens Tour Options
Arrange a tour to experience the atmosphere and learn the stories of one of Ireland’s most prestigious Big Houses from our wonderful guides.
- Fota House Tour (guided only, 60 mins)
- Victorian Working Garden Tour (guided or self-guided, 60 mins+)
- Fota House Art Tour (60 mins)
Active Retirement Outings
Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens is the perfect location for Active Retirement group outings. Allow us to put together an all-inclusive package tailored to your needs.
Stunning Venues for Hire
From Fota House’s Great Hall to its glittering glasshouses and gorgeous gardens, there are wonderful spaces available for you to stage events and celebrations. Our Events Team will be able to advise you every step of the way.
Catering for Groups at Fota House
The Bakestone Café at Fota House offers a variety of catering options for your group or event, including morning coffee, lunch, and afternoon tea. We feature fresh local produce whenever possible, some of which is produced here on the Fota Estate. A selection of gifts and cards are also available for purchase, in our Gift Shop.
Coach Parking for Group Tours
There is ample coach parking available in the Fota House car park. We are located 20 minutes’ drive from Cork city and Cork Airport. Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens also has a dedicated train station, which can be accessed via Irish Rail’s Cork to Cobh line.
Arrange Group Visits
Book in Advance
Book your group visit in advance to ensure that we can accommodate your group on a date and at a time that works for you. Pre-booking also saves time on arrival.
Talk to Us About Your Group’s Needs
When you are working with a group, it makes sense to check in advance that everyone can access the experience safely and comfortably. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have about things like accessibility and dietary requirements, so that all group members can make the most of their visit.
Group Discounts
Free admission for tour guides and drivers is included in our group tour packages, as are complimentary refreshments and guidebooks.
To make a booking and discuss the competitive group tour rates and packages at Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens, please contact Catherine Murphy on 021 242 0131 or email c.murphy@irishheritagetrust.ie
