Birr Castle Demesne & Historic Science Centre is open all year, with guided tours of the castle interior available from May through August. Groups may arrange castle tours in advance at other times. Since 1620 it has been home to the pioneering Parsons family who still reside there.
The Historic Science Centre is famous for the Great Telescope, built by the 3rd Earl of Rosse in 1845. It remained the largest telescope in the world for over 70 years and is still in use. Additionally, you will find fascinating displays about the invention of the marine steam turbine and a machine to measure the heat of the moon. Explore galleries dedicated to the building and discoveries of the Great Telescope. Learn how the 3rd Countess of Rosse made an exceptional contribution to photography with her original darkroom that is believed to be the oldest intact darkroom in the world.
The parklands and gardens cover 120 acres and include over 5000 species of plants and trees collected from all over the world, along with the award winning formal gardens. The Treehouse Adventure Playground ensures that the youngsters can explore and play in a safe and exciting environment.
Birr Castle Demesne & Historic Science Centre is a convenient stop for groups enroute to the southwest or west of Ireland. It has received two Lonely Planet accolades, including one of the Top Eight Hidden Treasures of Ireland.
Enjoy the gift shop and café in the courtyard with a public car park nearby.
- See 'The Great Telescope' completed in 1845.
- Learn about the cutting edge LOFAR telescope and astrophysics projects of today.
- Stop off at the charming café.
- Admire the gardens and water features.
- Take a guided tour of the majestic castle.
The gardens at Birr Castle Demesne were the first in Ireland to receive specimens of Dawn Redwood after its discovery in China in 1945. The 3 storey fairy tale treehouse is a touch of magic for the younger visitors.
