The mild weather conditions and warm soil in East Cork make it one of the best know regions in Ireland for its collection of superb gardens. Fota Arboretum and Gardens (Fota means 'warm soil') is world renowned for its collection of rare specimens. Amongst our collection of Irish gardens in East Cork, the gardens at Ballymaloe have been painstakingly restored to their former glory, and nearby in Carrigtwohill, medieval gardens have been reconstructed at Barryscourt Castle.
Visit our Garden & Heritage Trail for locations of some of the best known Irish gardens in East Cork and North Cork
Barryscourt Castle
Barryscourt Castle is a fine example of an Irish Tower House. Both the Main Hall and the General Hall have been extensively restored. The Orchard has been restored to an original 16th century design and in the Castle Courtyard the Herb Garden has been reinstated.
Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens Experience life in an Irish great house and enjoy an array of unique activities specially organised for our Family Fun programme. Excitingly, this year, the Big House will see the return of its original art and effects.
Ballymaloe Cookery School Gardens The gardens at Kinoith date back to the early 1800's and have been beautifully restored. The garden is managed organically.
