Bantry House and Garden

Bantry House and Garden is an 18th century stately home located on the West Atlantic Way, County Cork, overlooking Bantry Bay. Once of Ireland’s most celebrated historic houses, it has been in the White Family since 1739 and was opened to the public in 1946.

The garden’s journey began when it was first created and developed by Richard White, 2nd Early of Bantry. Inspired by continental European gardens—especially those in Italy and France— his travels greatly influenced the layout and planting styles, which incorporate classical elements, terraces, and exotic specimens. The 1930s through to the 1970s saw a period of neglect. Over the years, vegetation grew, obscuring the house and totally changing the layout and initial plan of the garden. Restoration works began from 1997.

The gardens span seven terraces, with the most famous being the central garden that stretches directly in front of the house down to Bantry Bay. The fountain within the parterre surrounded by Wisteria sineis and Wisteria floribunda, dominating the southern aspect of the house, is a key feature.  Whereas a dramatic 100-step staircase flanked by rhododendrons, azaleas, and mature trees, offers panoramic views of both the house and the bay.

Each terrace is distinct, blending formal elements with romantic and wild features. The north terraces, with their 14 round beds, are flanked by statues and pots Richard White brought from his travels.

The gardens are particularly beautiful in spring and early summer when the rhododendrons and camellias are in bloom.

https://bantryhouse.com/the-garden.html