Birr Castle Demesne
Review
Voted one of the Top 10 Attractions in Ireland at the Irish Independent Reader Travel Awards in both 2022 and 2023, Birr Castle Demesne earns its place on any itinerary, for me. This family-owned estate has been home to the Parsons family for over 400 years and still today remains the seat of the 7th Earl and Countess of Rosse. From the moment you arrive, you sense the pride of generations of custodians who have proudly opened up their world for all to enjoy. The demesne is a feast for the senses: sweeping parklands, tranquil pathways, and gardens that feel alive in every season. It’s no surprise Birr Castle Demesne has claimed nearly all of our Hidden Gems accolades, because every corner delivers a fresh “wow” moment. The award-winning gardens are renowned for rare and unique plant species, drawing visitors from all over the world. Birr Castle Demesne is truly a standout today.
Historic Science Centre
Tucked away within the beautiful grounds of Birr Castle Demesne is one of Ireland’s most fascinating hidden gems – the Historic Science Centre. It was here in 1845 that the visionary 3rd Earl of Rosse built the largest telescope in the world, an accolade Birr proudly held for around 75 years. The legendary Leviathan of Parsonstown still stands today in the heart of the park, and seeing it in person is genuinely awe-inspiring. With its colossal 52-foot tube and a massive 6-foot diameter, it’s impossible not to stop and stare. This is where Birr Castle’s incredible scientific story begins, and the science centre brings that heritage to life brilliantly, showcasing how this estate became a true bastion of discovery. What surprised me most is how many visitors overlook this side of Birr’s history and didn’t know it was here. If you’re exploring Co. Offaly or the Midlands, this is absolutely unmissable.
Contact Us
Rosse Row
, Townparks,
Birr, Co. Offaly
, R42 V027
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Location
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Nearby Eating Out
Townsend House Guesthouse & Tapas Restaurant
The Townsend House Guesthouse sits right in the heart of Birr, a historic town that genuinely deserves the spotlight. With Birr Castle on your doorstep, excellent restaurants close by, and a wealth of Offaly’s standout attractions within easy reach, it’s an ideal base for exploring the Midlands.
The Thatch Crinkill
The Thatch Bar & Restaurant in Crinkill, Co. Offaly is the kind of place that reminds you why Irish pubs are famous the world over. As one of the county’s oldest watering holes, this timeless 300-year-old classic has gathered a multitude of well earned awards,
The Ferry Inn
The Ferry Inn, Bar & Restaurant, perched on the scenic banks of the River Shannon, is a true hidden gem that straddles the Tipperary/Galway border. Hosts Barry and Theresa, along with their welcoming team, work hard to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes you feel instantly at home.
Nearby Accommodation
Townsend House Guesthouse & Tapas Restaurant
The Townsend House Guesthouse sits right in the heart of Birr, a historic town that genuinely deserves the spotlight. With Birr Castle on your doorstep, excellent restaurants close by, and a wealth of Offaly’s standout attractions within easy reach, it’s an ideal base for exploring the Midlands.
The Harbour Masters House B&B
Harbour Masters House B&B in Shannon Harbour is one of those rare finds that keeps getting better. Now under new ownership, it’s the third time I’ve endorsed it in my Top 100 Attractions on the Island of Ireland book, and today’s visit for me, suggests a fourth and fifth are almost inevitable.
River Run House & Cottages
As bright and welcoming as a fresh bowl of strawberries, the gorgeous River Run Cottages are situated right in the heart of the picturesque village,
Nearby Iconic
The Thatch Crinkill
The Thatch Bar & Restaurant in Crinkill, Co. Offaly is the kind of place that reminds you why Irish pubs are famous the world over. As one of the county’s oldest watering holes, this timeless 300-year-old classic has gathered a multitude of well earned awards,
JJ Killeen’s
On the banks of the River Shannon in the ever-popular village of Shannonbridge, JJ Killeen’s has roared back to life. After a few years closed, it’s now under the stewardship of Liam Fallon, who has spared no expense renovating this gem into one of Ireland’s most iconic Irish pubs.
Treacy’s Bar & Restaurant
Just a short hop off the M7 between Dublin and Limerick, Treacy’s Bar & Restaurant is the kind of stop that proves the best places are still family-run. Nearly 250 years in the same family is no small feat, and you feel that heritage the moment you walk in