| Description |
Originally built as a hunting lodge for the Smith Barrys in the 18th century and enlarged in the 1820s to the design of Sir Richard Morrison with further 19th century additions. Valued at £89 and held by James H.S. Barry in fee at the time of Griffith's Valuation. Occupied by Lord Barrymore in 1906 and valued at £160. Inherited by Major and the Honourable Mrs Bell. The Irish Tourist Association survey provides details of some of the paintings in the house and exotic plants in the gardens. Bence Jones writes that Fota was sold to University College, Cork in 1975 following the death of Mrs Bell. It is now in the care of the Irish Heritage Trust and after restoration was reopened to the public in 2009. http://www.fotahouse.com/display.php |
