A stunning location for a stately home

Bantry House is owned and lived in by the direct descendants of the 1st Earl of Bantry – Richard White. White was given this title after he helped repel a French invasion in 1796. The fleet had sailed from Brest through stormy seas with Wolfe Tone to support the uprising of the United Irishmen. When White noticed the fleet in Bantry Bay he rowed out to ships to sell produce. He talked excitedly about ‘the thousands of British forces stationed in Bantry Town’ (even though there were probably only 400). After hearing this news, the disheartened fleet canceled the invasion and returned to France. The 2nd Earl also called Richard, laid out the amazing Italian-styled terraces and gardens after his grand tour of Europe. He collected art treasures and commissioned the famous Hundred Steps at the rear of the house. At the top of this staircase set amidst azaleas and Rhododendron, you can see incredible views out to the bay. Bantry House opened to the public in 1946 making it the first private house in Ireland or Britain to do so. It now hosts a number of events including classical and traditional music festivals, product launches, and food festivals.