Almost 300 years ago in 1726, the summer residence of the Bishop of Cork and Ross was completed, 5 miles to the west of Cork. It covered 118 acres of landscaped vistas, containing ornamental ponds, walled garden, bridges, chapel and a mansion. It was an outstanding estate, sitting on meadow lands, raised grounds, wetlands, rivers and springs. Bishop Peter Browne, who commissioned the project, only survived 9 more years to appreciate living there. The original estate then rapidly deteriorated through neglect and much of it being converted to farming, including demolition of the mansion. Much later, the Ecclesiastical Commission was set up to dispose of church land, and by 1878 it had been sold. It then became the property of one farmer after another until, in the early 1970's, it was purchased by the Cork Corporation. Today it is known as Murphy's farm (the last farmer), yet there is still much to be seen of the splendour from three centuries ago.
This Heritage Walk will begin and end at the Murphy's Farm car park, adjacent to the original mansion courtyard. During the walk, we shall see both the nature and the history of the location while appreciating the role Murphy's Farm plays in the Bishopstown community 300 years later.
There are several walks around Murphy's Farm to continue exploring.
A coffee van is often there.

Address
Bishopstown House, Co. Cork City