A magnificent Irish castle, recognised amongst the ‘Top 10 Attractions in Ireland’ in both 2022 and 2023, is being championed as an must-see destination – not just for its spectacular views and striking architecture, but for housing a globally significant scientific marvel.

Encompassing an impressive 120 acres and featuring beautiful gardens, sweeping parklands, hidden waterfalls and charming riverside walking routes, the castle’s grounds provide sanctuary to more than 5,000 species of flora and fauna.

In County Offaly in Ireland’s midlands, the castle additionally houses a Historic Science Centre, where visitors can discover comprehensive details about this scientifically important creation.

Birr Castle Demesne, positioned in the hidden gem heritage town of Birr, proves quite spectacular. The castle of the Parsons family since 1620, the 7th Earl of Rosse and his relatives presently inhabit the castle whilst maintaining close supervision over the estate’s care and preservation.

A living monument to Ireland’s scientific and cultural legacy, Birr Castle Demesne, its magnificent Science Centre and the splendid gardens encompassing it are thoroughly deserving of a visit should you venture into the frequently overlooked Faithful County.

Whether visitors arrive to delve into the castle’s intricate historical tapestry, gaze at celestial wonders through not one but two telescopes situated within the grounds, or meander through the tranquil gardens which flourish throughout the seasons – this exceptional Irish attraction caters to all tastes, reports the Irish Mirror.

The renowned Great Telescope, a Lunar Heat Machine, the Historic Science Centre, a recreational playground suitable for everyone, verdant gardens, stunning walking trails and the splendid castle itself – there’s an abundance of activities available at this estate.

One Tripadvisor review of Birr Castle says: “Take the time to truly explore this expansive and amazing place. The remains of the old telescope, the Sequoia grove, the extensive gardens and grounds as well as the out-of-the-way paths that can lead you to perfect picture spots are all worth your time. The castle itself is an occupied family dwelling providing great counterpoint to the grounds on which it sits.”

While another visitor writes: “What was a spontaneous excursion idea turned out to be a really absolutely worth seeing facility in surprising size. The terrain is really extensive, with lake, waterfalls, countless paths, gardens and the really impressive telescope.”

The magnificent castle

Birr Castle originated as a Norman fortification dating back to 1170. Subsequently, it has experienced substantial transformations, predominantly carried out by the O’Carroll family of Ely, who originally constructed the castle as part of a defensive fortress network.

Subsequently, when the Parsons family assumed ownership during the 1620s, they introduced their own considerable renovations and changes.

The imposing castle itself remains largely closed to visitors, as the Earl and his family continue to live there, though seasonal guided tours – conducted by descendants of the Earl and his wife – run annually from mid-May through August for those wishing to reserve a place.

These escort guests through the castle to view the magnificent interiors of its five principal reception rooms.

The vista from the castle proves breathtaking, particularly from its octagonal Gothic Saloon, where the River Camcor can be witnessed in its full splendour. The river holds significance in Birr’s heritage, as the noble couple’s son once utilised its flow to supply the town with electrical power.

Throughout the early 1840s, the Third Earl of Rosse conceived and built the world’s largest telescope, dubbed The Great Telescope or The Leviathan of Parsonstown, which he subsequently chose to house within the castle estate.

Using his extraordinary instrument, he identified the spiral structure of galaxies, and from 1845 until 1914, it maintained its status as the world’s largest telescope. During this era, Birr attracted visitors from across the globe, all keen to witness this celestial wonder.

Enthusiasts travelled from Europe and beyond in considerable numbers, either to study heavenly bodies alongside Lord Rosse or simply to marvel at the remarkable engineering achievement nestled within the Irish countryside.

Standing at an imposing 72 feet in length with a 6-foot diameter mirror, the Great Telescope transcended its role as merely a scientific instrument of its day – it embodied human innovation and served as a monument to mankind’s limitless curiosity and spirit of discovery, utilising the most advanced engineering techniques available at that time.

After undergoing reconstruction throughout the 1990s, the telescope now occupies pride of place within the castle grounds.

Birr Castle’s Historic Science Centre displays the wonders of early photography, engineering and astronomy, with special emphasis on the magnificent design and construction of the world-famous Great Telescope.

There is also an exhibition devoted to the groundbreaking photographic achievements of Mary Countess of Rosse. Her preserved darkroom at Birr Castle remains amongst Europe’s oldest surviving examples.

The gorgeous gardens

Hidden waterfalls, a tranquil lake, more than 5,000 species of flora and fauna, prize-winning gardens, a children’s play area and an overarching atmosphere of peaceful calm – that’s what awaits within the verdant grounds surrounding Birr Castle. Kingfishers, otters, and herons are amongst the garden’s regular visitors.

Established by Anne Countess of Rosse in 1936, Birr Castle’s magnificent formal gardens proudly boast the world’s tallest box hedges. The Moat Walk offers spectacularly picturesque vistas for walkers, whilst the River Camcor meanders past in all its splendour.

Things to note for visitors

The gardens, castle grounds, and Historic Science Centre welcome guests between 9am and 6pm daily, with final admission at 5pm.

Guests should be aware there’s no dedicated car park on site, though vehicles may be left in the nearby town of Birr.

The charming Courtyard Café operates from 10am until 5pm each day and provides wheelchair access, as do the castle grounds and Science Centre, although the castle building itself has limited accessibility owing to numerous staircases throughout the property.