Bantry House

TL;DR: Bantry House is a magnificent 300+ year-old stately home overlooking Bantry Bay since 1710, featuring seven terraced gardens with the famous Hundred Steps, original art and furnishings from grand European tours, and rooms that once housed Marie Antoinette’s tapestries. Open April-October, it’s perfect for history buffs, garden lovers, and anyone seeking that quintessential Irish aristocratic experience with breathtaking Atlantic views.

Why Bantry House Should Be Your Next Irish Adventure

Picture this: You’re standing on an Italian-inspired terrace, gazing out over the shimmering waters of Bantry Bay, while the wind carries the scent of rhododendrons and the whispers of centuries-old stories. Welcome to Bantry House, where every corner tells a tale that’ll make your Instagram followers seriously jealous.

This isn’t just another tourist attraction – it’s a living, breathing family home that’s been welcoming curious visitors since 1946, making it one of the first stately homes in Ireland (possibly even the British Isles) to open its doors to the public.

The Fascinating Story Behind the Grandeur

From Merchants to Earls: The White Family Legacy

The story begins in 1710 when the original house, known as “Blackrock,” was built overlooking Bantry Bay. In 1750, Councillor Richard White bought the estate and renamed it “Seafield.” But here’s where it gets really interesting – the Whites were former merchants from Limerick who had settled on nearby Whiddy Island and quickly climbed the social ladder. By the 1780s, they owned around 80,000 acres of land.

Their defining moment came in 1796 when Richard White rallied local forces against a looming French invasion, earning him the title of 1st Earl of Bantry. Talk about earning your stripes!

The Grand Tour Collection That’ll Blow Your Mind

The second Earl of Bantry had expensive taste. Inspired by travels through Italy and France, he and his wife Mary designed the formal gardens still seen today, including the seven terraces, the Hundred Steps, and panoramic views over Bantry Bay. But they didn’t stop at landscaping – the striking Aubusson tapestries in the house were made for Marie Antoinette and acquired during the turbulent days of the French Revolution.

What You’ll Actually See (And Why You’ll Love It)

The House: A Treasure Trove of European Elegance

Step inside one of Ireland’s most storied stately homes and explore rooms filled with art and furniture collected by the second Earl of Bantry during his grand tours. The interior has important period details like Italian plasterwork and Venetian glass, giving insight into the taste and wealth of the Earls of Bantry.

Pro tip: There are guided house tours at 11am and 2pm Tuesday-Sunday – don’t miss these! The current family members sometimes lead tours themselves, offering insider stories you won’t find in any guidebook.

The Gardens: Seven Levels of Pure Magic

Here’s where Bantry House really shines. Seven terraces rise above the bay with formal gardens, fountains and the famous Hundred Steps. The gardens unfold across seven terraces overlooking Bantry Bay, designed by the 2nd Earl of Bantry and his wife Mary.

The Hundred Steps Experience: Make your way up the iconic stone staircase behind the house. The climb is a bit of a leg-burner, but the views out over Bantry Bay from the top are spectacular. Trust us, your calves will thank you later (maybe).

Garden Walks for Every Energy Level: There are two looped trails: one climbs to the top of the steps (Old Ladies Walk), while the other follows a stream to the long-abandoned Walled Garden.

Practical Info: Everything You Need to Know

Opening Times & Admission

The estate is open Wednesday-Sunday inclusive 10am-5pm during its open season (April-October). Bantry House and Garden is open only from the end of March to the end of October on Tuesdays to Sundays and Monday bank holidays.

Admission Prices: Adult tickets cost €14 per person, with options to visit just the gardens for less if you’re on a budget. Family tickets are available, and you can buy a house and garden ticket, or just visit the garden and pay less.

Getting There

Coordinates: 51.677°N 9.465°W

By Car: Bantry House is located just 1km west of Bantry on the N71. The estate is a 90-minute drive from Cork or Kerry. Plenty of free parking available.

By Public Transport: From Cork City take the Bus Éireann Route 236, alighting at Bantry Town Centre (The Square). This service runs daily, with some changes Saturday-Sunday.

Location Bonus: It’s conveniently opposite the Whiddy Island ferry pier – perfect for island-hopping adventures!

Accessibility

The grounds have gravel paths and occasional steep stone steps, there are also steps inside the house. Overall the gardens are partially accessible for wheelchairs, but it’s worth contacting the house prior to your visit to check suitability for your specific needs.

The Tearoom Experience: More Than Just a Cuppa

Drop into The Tearoom for tea, cake or a light snack in a plush setting. Or go full Bridgerton and pre-book a picnic basket to enjoy among the lawns and flowers. Book in advance for the popular afternoon tea service.

Insider Secret: Private tea in the library can be arranged – imagine sipping Earl Grey surrounded by centuries of family history!

Stay the Night: B&B in a Stately Home

Want to live like aristocracy? Treat yourself to a stay at Bantry House where you’ll find six elegant B&B rooms in the East Wing, overlooking the 19th-century gardens.

The 6 rooms in the East Wing are all overlooking the glorious 19th century Italianate garden with the fountain and 100 steps. Rooms are furnished with silk curtains, Irish woolens and some period furniture. All rooms are ensuite with heated floors and towel rails.

Special Perks for Overnight Guests: Guests have exclusive use of a billiard room and can pour themselves a drink from the honesty bar and relax with a book in the library beside the fire. How’s that for feeling like landed gentry?

What to Do Around Bantry House

Whiddy Island: A 10-Minute Escape

Just a 10-minute ferry ride from Bantry Pier, Whiddy Island feels a world apart. This quiet spot in Bantry Bay has only around 20 permanent residents but a surprisingly rich past. Easy walk (maybe 10k in total?) around the island and it is very well signposted and has stiles for access.

Garnish Island: Ireland’s Subtropical Paradise

Hop on the ferry from Glengarriff (20-minute drive from Bantry) to Garnish Island (also known as Ilnacullin) a subtropical oasis that owes its rare plant life to the warm currents of the Gulf Stream.

The Sheep’s Head Peninsula

One of the best ways to see the area is on the Sheep’s Head and Mizen road trip – perfect for those Instagram-worthy coastal shots.

Wildlife Adventures

Running from July to December, exhilarating RIB tours departing from either Castletownbere or Glengarriff take you out into the rich feeding grounds of Bantry Bay where you can encounter pods of dolphins, harbour porpoises, and giant basking sharks.

Special Events & Festivals

The estate hosts the Masters of Tradition Music Festival from 20th-24th August 2025 and the Shostakovich Quartet Cycle on 24th, 25th and 26th October 2025. These West Cork Music events transform the estate into Ireland’s most elegant concert venue.

Why Bantry House Beats Other Irish Attractions

It’s Still a Family Home: Bantry House is still lived in and managed by descendants of the White family. Sophie Shelswell-White now leads the charge, balancing wedding bookings, garden restoration, and curious visitors, many of whom don’t realize they’re wandering through a living, breathing family home.

Incredible Value: Unlike many stately homes that charge premium prices, Bantry House offers exceptional value with its €14 admission including both house and gardens.

Unique Location: Whether you come for the tearoom, the gardens or the history, it’s one of the most striking stops on the Wild Atlantic Way.

Best Time to Visit

Peak Season: April to October when the gardens are in full bloom and the weather’s most cooperative.

Shoulder Season Gems: Early April and late October offer fewer crowds and dramatic skies perfect for photography.

Weather Reality Check: This is Ireland – pack layers and maybe a rain jacket, but don’t let a bit of drizzle stop you. The gardens look magical in any weather, and there’s nothing quite like experiencing the dramatic Irish coast during a passing shower.

Planning Your Visit: Insider Tips

Allow 2-3 Hours Minimum: A lovely way to lose 2-3 hours in Bantry – you’ll want time for both the house tour and garden exploration.

Photography: Photography inside the house isn’t allowed, but the gardens and exteriors offer endless Instagram opportunities.

Groups: Groups of 8 or more are advised to book for efficiency of service.

Dogs: Dogs are not permitted on the estate – sorry, furry friends!

Getting the Most Bang for Your Buck

Combine with Other West Cork Attractions: Make it part of a larger West Cork adventure including Mizen Head, the Ring of Beara, or a visit to Skibbereen and its famous Friday market.

Stay for Events: Yearly events of interest held at Bantry House include the West Cork Chamber Music Festival and also the West Cork Literary Festival.

Book Direct: Check the official website for any special offers or package deals that might not be available through third parties.

Final Thoughts: Why Bantry House Deserves Your Time

In a world of Instagram-perfect but soulless attractions, Bantry House offers something increasingly rare: authenticity. This isn’t just another tourist trap – it’s a genuine glimpse into Ireland’s aristocratic past, still lovingly maintained by the family who’ve called it home for over 280 years.

Whether you’re drawn by the history, the gardens, or simply the promise of spectacular views over Bantry Bay, this Cork gem delivers an experience that’s both educational and utterly enchanting. In an age where many historic houses feel like museums, Bantry House feels like stepping into a living storybook.

So pack your camera, comfortable walking shoes, and maybe a appetite for afternoon tea – Bantry House is waiting to share its secrets with you.

Have you visited Bantry House or planning a trip to West Cork? Share your experiences and questions in the comments below – we’d love to help you plan the perfect Irish adventure!