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Explore the wonders of Birr Castle
Sprawling formal gardens, ancient woodland paths and a grand castle – the connections between science and nature are strong at Birr Castle.
After all, this is the home of the "Leviathan" – once the world's largest telescope. Back in the early 1840s, the third Earl of Rosse designed this incredible structure and attracted visitors from all over the world to marvel at it. It still works, and sits at the heart of the incredible demesne, along with a Science Centre and award-winning gardens.
Birr Castle, County Offaly
The Castle
Originally a Norman structure that can be traced back to 1170, Birr Castle has been transformed over its long history, mainly by the O’Carroll family and, from the 1620s, by the Parsons family who continues to live there to this day. That’s a long legacy of over 400 years spanning 14 generations!
From May to September, visitors can embark on a castle tour guided by descendants of the Earl and his wife, whose portraits still adorn the great Victorian dining room. The view from the spectacular, octagonal Gothic Saloon takes in the River Camcor, from where the couple’s son once harnessed the current to provide Birr with electricity.
The Great Telescope, Birr Castle Demesne, County Offaly
Science meets splendour
The spiral nature of certain galaxies was observed for the first time through the historic Great Telescope. This incredible feat attracted people from across the world who wished to marvel at the stars. Reconstructed in the 1990s, the telescope now lies at the heart of the grounds.
The Science Centre at Birr Castle reveals the wonders of early photography, engineering and astronomy with a special emphasis on the brilliant design and assembly of the world-famous Great Telescope. There’s also a gallery focussing on the pioneering photography of Mary Countess of Rosse. Her surviving darkroom in Birr Castle is one of the oldest in Europe.
Birr Castle, County Offaly
Gorgeous gardens
Birr Castle is home to a wonderland of award-winning gardens, where rare trees and plants have been carefully cultivated by generations of the Parsons family. Explore 120 acres of trees and over 5000 varieties of plants and tranquil walks along rivers, waterfalls and a peaceful lake. Wildlife enthusiasts should keep their eyes peeled for otters, herons and kingfishers.
The stunning formal gardens were planted by Anne Countess of Rosse in 1936 and are home to the world’s tallest box hedges, and the Moat Walk offers stunning views of the castle and the river Camcor, where the ancient well of St Brendan can be found. Like trees? Take a stroll along the Red Tree Trail, which takes in the 65 trees of distinction within Birr Castle Demesne on a 5km route.
Birr Castle Demesne, County Offaly
Birr Castle: need to know
Seasonal tours of the castle interiors take place from May to September and need to be booked in advance.
The castle grounds, gardens and Science Centre open from 9am-6pm daily, with last entry at 5pm. General admission can be booked and paid in advance online.
There is no parking on-site, but you'll find on-street parking in the nearby town of Birr.
Access for those with disabilities is restricted due to the many staircases throughout the castle. The grounds and Science Centre are wheelchair-friendly.
The Courtyard Café opens daily from 10am-5pm and is wheelchair accessible.
