Bantry House

If you are visiting West Cork (sure why would you not — you may even bump into Graham Norton who has a house in the nearby Sheep’s Head area!!) make sure you pay a visit to the wonderful Bantry House, right in the heart of Bantry town overlooking the amazing Bantry Bay and Whiddy Island nearby. It is actually a private estate and and has been owned by the descendants of the Earls of Bantry — the White family — right up to the present day. The house itself is truly magificant, continues to be restored to it’s former glory and well worth a visit. However, I was really impressed with the gardens which, despite being neglected for many years have been almost restored to their former glory of the 1800’s. There are hedges and topiary, many variety of trees, shrubs and climbers (gorgeous wisteria and azalea varieties) rose gardens, fountains, sunken gardens, terraced gardens and even two woodland walks, one of which leads to the top of 100 steps, called the ‘old ladies’ walk! Other gardens which have been reclaimed are being used to grow vegetables and salads. Amazing variety of plants all around this historic house — I guess it must be the damp mild weather and the influence of the Gulf stream which flows by. There are also tea rooms for a cuppa and a bite to eat and of course, you can enjoy an overnight stay with breakfast the next morning. Entrance fee is € 11 but if you only want to visit the gardens it’s a very reasonable € 5.

Very impressive house with a beautiful garden! The price for the visit of the house is 10 € per adult but it is very interesting inside! There is also the possibility to sleep there and then you are allowed to see and use some of the private rooms!