Birr Castle Demesne

Birr Castle Demesne is a brilliant location for a fun family day out, with something for all ages to enjoy, from beautiful parkland, to a Historic Science Centre, plus a tree house for the kids to play in!

The Science Centre will take you back in time to when Birr Castle was a hub of innovation and scientific discovery with interactive exhibits about early engineering, photography, and astronomy! You will also learn about the design of the Great Telescope, which can be found in the centre of the Demesne.
This reflecting telescope is one of the largest historic scientific instruments still working today, and was the largest in the world for over 70 years!

The 50 acres of parkland are a great place for a walk (and a picnic), with a number of different gardens to enjoy, plus rivers, lakes and waterfalls to discover. There is an abundance of wildlife to look out for, including kingfishers, herons, red squirrels, and if you are quiet, you may be lucky enough to see an otter! There are also plenty of ducks and swans to meet. You will also find a host of insects and small animals in the woodlands and wildflower meadows.

The play area has plenty to keep the kids amused, including sandpits and the largest tree house in Ireland! There is free admission for kids aged 4 years and under.

Gardens and Science Centre: 16th March – 31st October 9:00am – 6:00pm 1st November – 15th March 10:00am – 4:00pm

Adult: €9.00 Senior/Student: €7.50 Children: €5.00 (Children 4 and under are free) Family: €25.00