Bantry is a commercial fishing port and market town, as well as a tourist resort. It also has engineering and building industries. Bantry House (built in 1740), open to the public, contains an eclectic collection of art and furniture. Bantry bay is 40 km/25 mi long and 6–10 km/4–6 mi broad, and allows for good anchorage. In 1689 a French fleet entered Bantry Bay to engage with the forces of William III; and in 1796 the bay was the scene of an unsuccessful French invasion to aid Republican troops.