VISITOR ATTRACTION: what’s new and what’s cool at Offaly’s Birr Castle Demesne

Birr Castle Demesne, located in the heritage town of Birr, Co. Offaly, in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, is a 120-acre estate renowned for its blend of history, science, and natural beauty. Home to the Parsons family, the 7th Earl and Countess of Rosse, since 1620, this private residence and top-rated attraction (voted one of Ireland’s top 10 by Independent.ie) offers a rich experience for families, historians, scientists, and nature lovers.

Historic Science Centre: Housed in converted stables, Historic Science Centre showcases the Parsons family’s groundbreaking contributions to astronomy, engineering, and photography. Key exhibits include the Great Telescope (the “Leviathan of Parsonstown”), built in the 1840s by the 3rd Earl of Rosse, which remained the world’s largest telescope for over 70 years and discovered the spiral nature of galaxies. Visitors can explore Mary Countess of Rosse’s pioneering photography, including one of Europe’s oldest surviving darkrooms, and learn about Charles Parsons’ steam turbine invention. The centre features interactive galleries, a Lunar Heat Machine, and displays on botany, making it engaging for all ages.
Award-Winning Gardens: The 120-acre gardens boast over 5,000 species of rare trees and plants, including 40 champion trees of and the world’s tallest box hedges (Guinness World Record). Highlights include the formal gardens planted by Anne Countess of Rosse in 1936, the Victorian Fernery, a wildflower meadow, and the Red Tree Trail (5km, featuring 65 notable trees). Scenic walks along the River Camcor, Little Brosna River, a lake, and waterfalls offer tranquil views, with the 1820 suspension bridge (one of Ireland’s oldest) and Saint Brendan’s 6th-century well as historic landmarks. The gardens are a botanical paradise, vibrant in spring and summer with magnolias, cherry blossoms, bluebells, and wisteria.
Great Telescope and I-LOFAR: The Leviathan, reconstructed in the 1990s, is a centerpiece of the demesne, offering a glimpse into 19th-century astronomy. Nearby, the modern I-LOFAR radio telescope, operated by Trinity College Dublin, continues Birr’s astronomical legacy, making it a unique blend of historic and cutting-edge science. Visitors can explore both, with the Science Centre providing detailed explanations.
Family-Friendly Activities: The adventure playground, with swings, slides, climbing frames, a hobbit house, and a sandpit, is a hit with children, though the iconic treehouse (Ireland’s tallest) is closed until Spring 2026 for maintenance and inclusivity upgrades. The Family Quest, X-Trail Solar Trail (ages 9+), and Red Tree Trail offer educational fun. Picnic areas and 10km of well-maintained trails encourage exploration. The demesne is pram-friendly, with wheelchair-accessible paths and a certified lift to the Science Centre’s first floor, though castle tours involve stairs and are not suitable for under 12s or those with mobility issues.
Castle Tours: From May to September, guided tours (Monday–Saturday, 9:30 AM–12:30 PM, booking required) offer access to the castle’s interior, showcasing the grand library, Victorian dining room, and Drawing Room, led by Parsons family descendants. The castle, originally a 12th-century Norman motte-and-bailey, was rebuilt in the 19th century and remains a private residence.
Courtyard Café and Gift Shop: The wheelchair-accessible Courtyard Café (open 10:00 AM–5:00 PM) serves artisanal coffee, lunches, and treats, praised for its relaxing atmosphere but with occasional slow service noted in reviews. The gift shop offers Irish crafts, books, and souvenirs inspired by the demesne’s heritage.
Events and Atmosphere: The demesne hosts workshops, lectures, and seasonal events like Halloween pumpkin trails. Its serene setting, with wildlife like otters and birds, and minimal crowds (especially early mornings), creates a laid-back experience. Dogs are allowed on leads but not in the playground. Visitors receive a map for self-guided exploration, with guided Discovery and Garden Tours available.
Practicalities: Open 362 days a year (closed December 25–26, January 1), 9:00 AM–6:00 PM (last entry 5:00 PM), with seasonal variations. Admission is €10 for adults, €5 for children (under 4 free), with family tickets and memberships (3, 6, or 12 months) offering unlimited access. No on-site parking; use Marian Hall car park or street parking in Birr (R42 VO27). Accessible by Bus Éireann Route 72 or Local Link Route 823 from Tullamore or Portlaoise train stations.

What’s New:

UNESCO World Heritage Tentative Listing:, Birr Castle, alongside Dunsink and Armagh Observatories, was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List for its Irish Historic Astronomical Observatories, recognizing its global scientific significance, particularly the Leviathan. This may bring enhanced exhibits or events celebrating this milestone, such as astronomy-focused workshops or lectures.
Macro Photography Workshop: Acclaimed photographer Tina Claffey will lead a hands-on Macro Photography Workshop, leveraging the demesne’s rich flora for unique photo opportunities. Details and booking are available on birrcastle.com.
Seasonal Garden Highlights: The gardens will feature new bloom cycles, with 2025 showcasing early spring magnolias, bluebells, and camellias (March–April), followed by wild garlic, heathers, and wildflower meadows by mid-June. The demesne’s ongoing conservation efforts may introduce new rare plant species or enhanced trails.
Treehouse Closure Until Spring 2026: Ireland’s tallest treehouse is closed for essential maintenance and design upgrades to improve inclusivity and play value, but the rest of the playground remains open. Expect temporary family activities to compensate, such as expanded trail quests or pop-up events.
Improved Accessibility and Visitor Following feedback about ticketing issues (e.g., re-entry policies), the demesne is likely streamlining its entry process. Enhanced signage and digital booking options via birrcastle.com aim to improve visitor flow. The focus on accessibility continues, with well-maintained paths and accessible parking at Marian Hall.

Practical Information

Rosse Row, Birr, Co. Offaly, R42 VO27.
Contact: +353 (0)57 912 0336, www.birrcastle.com.
Tips: Book castle tours and workshops in advance. Visit the Science Centre first for context, then explore the gardens. Bring a rain jacket for Ireland’s changeable weather. Combine with nearby attractions like Clonmacnoise or Lough Boora Discovery Park for a full day in Offaly. Check birrcastle.com for event schedules and seasonal hours.

Birr Castle Demesne offers a mix of science, history, and natural beauty, with new photography workshops, UNESCO recognition, and vibrant seasonal blooms enhancing its appeal as a recommended visit destination. For the latest updates, visit www.birrcastle.com