The stunning gardens at Birr Castle are home to unending botanical marvels with an abundance of exotic flora to be found throughout, along with feats of scientific and engineering wonder for all to view and enjoy.

Explore the gardens which are home to the Great Telescope, once the largest in the world, created by the 3rd Earl of Rosse in the 1840’s. Don’t miss Ireland’s tallest treehouse in the Treehouse Adventure Playground, alongside sandpits and so much more.

The award-winning formal gardens, surrounded by the hornbeam cloister walk, proudly boasts the world’s tallest box hedges along with plants exclusive to Birr Castle Gardens. The 120 acres of gardens house an impressive worldwide plant collection of rare species from around the world, including over 40 champion trees of the British Isles.

The historic Science Centre transports visitors back to a time when Birr Castle was a hub of scientific discovery and innovation. The interactive galleries reveal the wonders of early photography, engineering and astronomy.

The castle, which has been a family home since 1620, opens its doors during the summer months for guided tours, offering visitors the chance to visit this private residence.
Their 400th Anniversary programme includes a fascinating mix of events from special castle tours, to family quests and challenges, educational programmes including science and nature detective camps, to walking tours, astronomy events, art exhibitions, garden parties and the world champion ballooning competition.

New for 2021
Two new outdoor trails as well as the introduction to “Forest Bathing” site. A wonderful day out for all to enjoy.