Set on the southern shores of Bantry Bay, Bantry House is one of Ireland’s most enchanting heritage properties. With a rich history, spectacular gardens and panoramic views of the bay, this stately home invites you to step back in time while exploring the breathtaking beauty of West Cork.
Whether you love history, have an interest in architecture or just appreciate beautiful gardens, you’ll enjoy a visit to Bantry House. Gain a unique glimpse into Ireland’s aristocratic past and take pleasure in exploring the extensive gardens and grounds.
A Brief History of Bantry House
The origins of Bantry House can be traced back to the early 18th century when it was constructed by the Hutchinson family. It was originally known as Blackrock House, and later renamed to Seafield by Councillor Richard White, who purchased the estate in 1765. In 1816, White was elevate to the peerage, becoming the 1st Earl of Bantry and the residence was renamed Bantry House.
The White family, originally merchants from Limerick, had settled on nearby Whiddy Island in the late 17th century before acquiring the mainland estate. Throughout the 19th century, the estate underwent significant expansion under the 2nd Earl of Bantry. This included the addition of the east and west wings and the stable yards.
In the aftermath of the Irish Civil War, Bantry House served as a hospital for five years. During World War II, it was occupied by the Second Cyclist Squadron of the Irish Army.
Today, the estate is still privately owned and managed by the Shelswell-White family, descendants of the original White family.
Exploring the House and Gardens
Bantry House is renowned for its architectural elegance, featuring Queen Anne style with Georgian and Victorian additions. The interior boasts and extensive collection of tapestries, furniture and artefacts collected by the 2nd Earl of Bantry during his travels in the 1820s and 30s.
The gardens are equally impressive. Developed by the 2nd Earl and his wife Mary White, they encompass seven terraces. A notable feature is the ‘Hundred Steps’, a grand staircase leading up to a woodland area and stunning views of Bantry Bay.
Originally, the Bantry Demesne consisted of almost 350 acres of woodland, farm and gardens. As of 2024, it measures around 100 acres, including 35 acres of woodland and 40 acres of fields.
Guided Tours
There is a daily guided tour of the house at 2pm each day. Though we arrived around 11am, we decided to wait for the tour and I was so glad we did. The time was easily filled exploring the gardens and having lunch in the tea rooms.
The guided tour goes ahead whether there is one person or twenty and you don’t need to book. Just be at the reception in the house at 2pm. We almost had a private tour, till another couple arrived just a little later! As there is no photography allowed in the house, I’m afraid I don’t have any interior shots to share.
House Interiors
If you are unable to make the guided tour, you can still see the interior of the house. Visitors are free to wander through some of the grand rooms and there is some information provided in each room. The home retains much of its original charm, offering a personal and intimate look into the life of Irish nobility.
We were actually quite surprised by how relaxed the family are about letting people roam around. Naturally there are parts of the house that are off limits, as the family live there. However, other than their living quarters you can wander through the rooms and get up close to some pretty priceless paintings and artefacts.
When a woman on the guided tour with us picked up some of the china plates on the dining table to inspect them closer, I did hold my breath and gave our guide a sideways glance! I think I may have seen his eyes widen ever so slightly but he said nothing. Thankfully the china was replaced safely but personally, I wouldn’t be taking any chances. You might find out there’s a “you break it, you pay for it” policy!
The Italian Inspired Garden
As mentioned previously, the gardens surrounding the house were developed by the 2nd Earl of Bantry. His original plan to have the garden leading right down to the sea was hampered by the construction of a new road into Bantry. Undeterred, he redesigned the garden so he did not have to view the road.
The impressive gardens were inspired by drawings completed by the Earl and his wife on their travels. They span seven terraces, with the house located on the third terrace, perfectly positioned for views over Bantry Bay.
Though neglected from the 1930s through to the 1970s, thankfully the gardens are being returned to their former glory. Restoration of the gardens began in 1997 and are ongoing.
The Terraces
On the first terrace there are four naval guns overlooking the bay. There is also a 19th century copy of the Warwick Vase, an ancient Roman marble vase discovered in Tivoli in the 1770s. The second terrace contains seven round beds bound by box hedging.
The third terrace, where the house is located, features a sunken garden as well as the impressive Italian Parterre. At the centre of the Parterre there’s a fountain surrounded by a wisteria circle. Unfortunately we were visited about a month too early for the wisteria but I have seen photos and it is just gorgeous when in full bloom.
The remaining terraces are bisected by the Hundred Steps, a grand staircase which leads to a woodland area and breathtaking views of the estate and Bantry Bay.
Woodland Walks and Walled Garden
There are two walks within the woodland surrounding the house. ‘Old Ladies Walk’ is a zig-zag pathway leading from the west stables to the top of the Hundred Steps. It offers an alternative and perhaps less strenuous route than taking the steps up and down again.
The Stream Walk starts beyond the west stable (closest to the car park) and is a lovely trail which leads to the walled garden. Though the walled garden is yet to be restored is is still lovely to visit and contains an orchard and some beautiful trees.
B&B stays at Bantry House
At one point the family considered demolishing the east and west wings, which had been added to the house. Thankfully this did not happen, though the extensions fell into disrepair over the years. Later restoration work included the addition of guest accommodation in the east wing and there are six ensuite rooms available for bed and breakfast.
All of the rooms overlook the Italian garden and Hundred Steps, while two also have views over Bantry Bay. B&B stays are usually available from April to September and you can book online.
Weddings at Bantry House
If you’re on the lookout for a ridiculously romantic wedding destination in Ireland, then Bantry House could fit the bill. This would be an incredible venue for a wedding and the family do host a number of weddings each season. Exclusive rental gives you private access to the house and gardens. If the weather allowed, you could even get married outdoors in the amazing gardens. Either way, you’d definitely have incredible photos and memories from such a unique venue.
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