Gothic Irish castle housing 'scientific wonder of the world'
“Take the time to truly explore this expansive and amazing place."A stunning Irish castle that was voted as one of the ‘Top 10 Attractions in Ireland’ in 2022 and 2023 is being hailed as a must-see attraction, not just for its scenic views and breathtaking architecture, but also for the scientific wonder of the world that it houses.Spanning across a staggering 120 acres and boasting lovely gardens, scenic parklands, hidden waterfalls and picturesque riverside walking trails, the castle’s surroundings are home to over 5,000 species of plants, trees, and wildlife.In Ireland’s County Offaly in the midlands, the castle also features a Historic Science Centre to boot, which is where detailed information about the scientifically significant creation can be found by visitors.Birr Castle Demesne, located in the criminally underrated heritage town of Birr, is a sight to behold. Home to the Parsons family since 1620, the 7th Earl of Rosse and his family currently reside within the castle and closely oversee the estate’s maintenance and upkeep.Best UK holiday cottage dealsThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn moreSykes Cottages offers a wide range of handpicked holiday homes across the UK and Ireland, from cosy countryside retreats to stunning coastal escapes. Prices start from £27 per nightA living testament to Ireland’s scientific and cultural heritage, Birr Castle Demesne, its glorious Science Centre and the stunning gardens that surround it are well worth a visit if you find yourself in and around the often overlooked Faithful County.Whether you are there to explore the castle’s rich and layered history, marvel at the wonders of our universe from not one but two telescopes within the castle grounds, or simply ramble along the serene gardens in their year-round glory — there’s something for everyone at this stellar Irish attraction.The famous Great Telescope, a Lunar Heat Machine, the Historic Science Centre, a playground for all to enjoy, lush gardens, one stunning walking trails and the magnificent castle itself — there’s no dearth of things to do at this demesne.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 castleBirr Castle was originally a Norman structure dating back to 1170. Since then, it has undergone dramatic changes, mostly executed by the O'Carroll family of Ely, who initially built the castle as a part of a chain of fortresses.After that, when the Parsons family took over ownership in the 1620s, they brought with them a fair share of transformations too.The towering castle itself is generally not open to the public, since the Earl and his family actively reside there, however, seasonal guided castle tours — led by none other than descendants of the Earl and his wife — are available every year from mid-May to August for visitors to book.These take visitors inside the castle to explore the resplendent interiors of its five main reception rooms.The view from the castle is a sight to behold, especially from its octagonal Gothic Saloon, as the River Camcor can be observed in all its mighty glory. The river is important to Birr’s history, as the noble couple’s son once harnessed its current to provide the town with electricity.The Great Telescope — a historic scientific wonderDuring the early 1840s, the Third Earl of Rosse designed and constructed the world's largest telescope, known as The Great Telescope or The Leviathan of Parsonstown, which he then decided to home within the castle grounds.Through his remarkable instrument, he discovered the spiral nature of galaxies, and between 1845 and 1914, it held the title of the world's largest telescope.Throughout this period, Birr became a destination for those eager to witness this astronomical marvel. People came in from Europe and further afield in droves, either to observe celestial bodies alongside Lord Rosse or simply to admire the extraordinary engineering marvel in the heart of the Irish countryside.Measuring an impressive 72 feet in length with a 6-foot diameter mirror, the Great Telescope was much more than a mere scientific tool of the time – it was the very personification of human ingenuity and stood proud as a testament to man's boundless curiosity and exploration with the help of the cutting-edge engineering methods of that time.Following its reconstruction during the 1990s, the telescope now sits at the heart of the castle estate.Birr Castle's Historic Science Centre showcases the marvels of early-age photography, engineering and astronomy, with particular focus on the spectacular design and construction of the world-renowned Great Telescope.Additionally, there's a gallery dedicated to the pioneering photographic work of Mary Countess of Rosse. Her preserved darkroom at Birr Castle still stands as one of the oldest surviving ones in Europe.The stunning gardensHidden waterfalls, a peaceful lake, over 5,000 varieties of plants and animals, award-winning gardens, a playground and a general sense of serene tranquility — that’s what can be found in the lush green area encircling Birr Castle.Kingfishers, otters, and herons are among some of the garden’s frequent guests.Planted by Anne Countess of Rosse in 1936, Birr Castle’s stunning formal gardens proudly home the world’s tallest box hedges. The Moat Walk serves up breathtakingly beautiful views for ramblers, while the River Camcor flows by in all its glory.Things to note for visitorsThe gardens, castle grounds, and Historic Science Centre are open to visitors between 9am to 6pm everyday, with the last entry at 5pm.Visitors should also note that there’s no on-site car park, but vehicles can be parked in the town of Birr nearby.The lovely Courtyard Café trades between 10am to 5pm daily and is wheelchair accessible, as are the castle grounds and Science Centre, however the castle itself has restricted access due to the number of staircases throughout the building.
