Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens welcomes all visitors and is committed to ensuring that the house, gardens, and events are as accessible as possible, enabling everyone to enjoy their visit.
Is the house tour accessible?
The principal rooms and servants’ wing at Fota House are fully accessible.
Owing to the historic character of the house and architectural features that cannot be altered, access to some rooms on the first-floor tour is restricted. Visitors can access the Nursery, Butler’s Bedroom and Maid’s Bedroom via the lift, which provides access from the ground floor to the servants’ wing on the first floor.
For those unable to visit the Shamrock Room and Titled Guest Suite, a video tour of these rooms is available on a tablet while awaiting the return of the rest of the tour group, ensuring that the stories and significance of these spaces can still be enjoyed.
Please speak to a member of staff at the Welcome Desk for further information on how we can assist you during your visit.
Garden Surfaces
An accessible entrance to the Arboretum is located just beyond the house along the Main Avenue and provides step-free access to the grounds. Path surfaces within the Arboretum are fine gravel.
Maps of the gardens and Arboretum are available to help visitors explore the full extent of the grounds and enjoy the many features of the landscape.
If you require directions or any assistance during your visit, please speak to a member of staff at the Welcome Desk, who will be happy to help.
Café and Catering
Visitors are invited to relax and enjoy refreshments in our fully accessible café during their visit. An adapted toilet is also available on the ground floor of the house for visitor convenience. Information on allergens is available from our café team, who will be pleased to assist with any dietary requirements.
Parking
We provide dedicated parking spaces for visitors with valid disabled parking permits in Bay 1 of the Fota House Car Park. The entrance to the house is approximately a 5-minute walk from the car park along a solid, level road surface. A wheelchair is available to borrow from the house; please book this in advance to ensure availability.
Events & Venue Hire
When planning events at Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens, we strive to make them as accessible as possible. Accessibility information is included in our event details wherever relevant, helping visitors to plan their visit with confidence.
If you are organising or attending an event at Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens, our team will be pleased to answer any questions and discuss any access requirements you may have.
We are committed to ensuring that all guests enjoy a comfortable and memorable experience during their time with us.