Birr Castle & Demesne

Originally built in Anglo Norman Times, Birr Castle - by then ruined - was granted to the Parsons family by James I in 1620. Between then and 1628, Sir Laurence Parsons completed much building including the two flanking towers. Two sieges in the 17th century left the family impoverished so little more was done but between then and the beginning of the 19th century the house was given a new gothic facade facing the park. The towers and walls were removed and in 1820 or so, the octagonal Gothic Saloon was added. Just a five-minute drive or a twenty-minute walk from the County Arms, Birr Castle is a must-see for all visiting our heritage town, easily accessible for all ages and abilities and with a programme of exciting events throughout the year.

Award-Winning Exotic Gardens

At Birr Castle Demesne, step into an extraordinary world of rare trees and flowers, incredible wildlife, and gorgeous walks along the river and around the lake. Collected over the last 150 years by three generations of the Earls of Rosse as they traveled the world, the rare plant species at Birr Castle number over 5000. It was the first garden in Ireland to feature the Dawn Redwood tree after its discovery in China in 1945 and more recent plant acquisitions have come from countries including Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Iran, South Africa, New Zealand, China, and Bhutan. 

Giant’s Grove at Birr Castle

Recently, the Castle and Crann Trees, a charity with the mission of enhancing the environment of Ireland through planting, promoting, protecting, and increasing awareness about trees and woodlands, have begun a collaboration to develop the Giant’s Grove project. Giant’s Grove will be the largest grove of giant Redwoods outside of California. The grove will also contain about 25% of coastal redwoods – giants in height. These redwoods were native to Ireland before the Ice Age began about 3 million years ago. The Grove is a symbol of Ireland’s global concern for conservation.

Science at the Castle

In the Science Centre at Birr Castle, explore the electrical and engineering equipment that originally belonged to Charles Parsons, cutting edge technology of its time. There are displays of astronomical instruments, cameras, photographs and photographic equipment and a special section devoted to the brilliant design and assembly of The Leviathan, the world-famous Great Telescope. Marvel too at a detailed exhibition of the extensive botanical work that has taken place in the demesne over many years and the origin stories of many of the rare exotics which thrive there today.

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