History of Island

Fota Island, nestled in Cork Harbour is a unique place with its sheltered climate and fascinating history. It was originally the property of the Smith-Barry Family.

Since the death in 1975 of Mrs. Bell, the last of the Smith-Barrys, Fota Estate has passed through various phases of ownership, including UCC and the Fota Trust. The estate now comprises 47 hectares of land including parkland, gardens and arboretum. In December 2007, the Irish Heritage Trust took over responsibility for Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens.

Fota Island has developed over the years, with many attractions including the Fota Wildlife Park, Fota Golf Club and Sheraton Fota Hotel. The Trust is closely working with these parties and the Office of Public Works (OPW) to provide a more integrated visitor experience on the island. We hope that this will lead to initiatives that will benefit the environment, including a network of paths for walking and cycling throughout the island and also to make greater use of Fota Railway Station as a way to easily visit the island.