Birr Castle offers a fascinating mix of culture, heritage, beauty and science in a tranquil setting. See the stunning gardens with roses, wisteria, magnolias and towering box hedges. Take in spectacular views of the castle from the outdoor terraces. Find peaceful moments by the lake, waterfall and rivers dotted throughout the grounds.
Visit the Historic Science Centre and learn about the Great Telescope, built by the Third Earl of Rosse and still functioning today. When completed in 1845, the Birr Castle Great Telescope was the largest telescope on Earth, capable of seeing further into space than any telescope had done before. The I-LOFAR consortium have built a cutting-edge astrophysics observing facility in Birr Castle that connects to the International LOFAR Telescope and one of the most advanced astrophysics research projects in the World.
The Castle tour includes a one hour guided tour of the reception rooms of Birr Castle with access to the Science Centre, the Great Telescope and the gardens.
- 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 glorious 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.
