Both the house and garden at the Shelswell-White family’s 18th century mansion overlooking Bantry Bay are open to the public – and a visit to their Tearoom is highly recommended while you are there.
The Tearoom is set in three interconnected and highly atmospheric rooms in the west wing, including a partly enclosed portico with lovely views of gardens and bay. Despite the extra expense of an entrance fee to the gardens, this is a good stop for a light summer lunch: soup, salads, sandwiches, cakes, tea and coffee.
Breads and cakes are baked fresh every morning, and quality, locally-produced food is sourced within a 50 mile radius where possible: Bantry House itself supplies a variety of the leaf salads, vegetables and herbs, while meats are provided by local butchers. Once you have seen the mouthwatering food laid out for display you will be very glad you chose to come here - and the elegant surroundings and wooded walks are a bonus.
Afternoon Tea (prebooked) is also available, in The Library.
A carefully selected range of gifts is offered too, including some lovely local craftwork and some branded Bantry House.
The Tearoom also provides catering services, including catering for weddings at Bantry House
Definitely not your ‘common or garden’ B&B, the sheer scale of the house and gardens creates a sense of privileged access to a special legacy, preserved by generations, past and present. Inside, you discover the Billiards Room (complete with full size billiards table), the Pink Room, and the Grand Library.
There is really lovely accommodation in the East Wing, where spacious, elegant and serene rooms with beautiful bathrooms overlook the iconic Hundred Steps and Parterre. You’ll want to linger in the comfortable bedroom, but don’t skip breakfast in preference to a sleep-in.
It’s a delight - freshly squeezed orange juice, proper leaf tea, plunger coffee, two sideboard buffets, and a menu with more temptation: the full Irish, freshly cooked, or perhaps scrambled eggs with Frank Hederman’s smoked salmon, or Sally Barnes’ kippers.
Bespoke services can be arranged for guests, including excursions and a guided tour with a member of the Shelswell-White family.
