Visit the Science Centre at Birr Castle in Offaly

The Award-Winning Gardens of Birr Castle Demesne in Ireland are both rich in amazing feats of science and engineering, as well as rare trees and flowers, wonderful wildlife, walks along peaceful rivers and the lake. Celebrating 400 years in 2021, this remarkable family have resided at the romantic and inspirational setting of Birr Castle Demesne, that is now home to the 7th Earl of Rosse. The Parsons family invite you to explore one of the most extraordinary places in Ireland. Created over generations it is an environmental and a scientific time capsule.

What are the opening hours?

You’re in luck! The castle is open ever single day; seven days a week. The opening times are from 9:00 to 18:00, last entry 17:00.

Visitors are welcome to one of Ireland’s most intriguing destinations, steeped in scientific achievements and home to the remarkable Parsons family for 400 years. This rare opportunity brings visitors inside the castle to explore the magnificent interiors of five main reception rooms with their exquisite craftsmanship.  Each tour is guided and lasts 75 minutes. The science centre reveals the wonders of early photography, engineering and astronomy with a special emphasis on the brilliant design and assembly of the world famous Great Telescope. Discover astronomical instruments, cameras, photographs and photographic equipment used by the Third and Fourth Earls and Mary, Countess of Rosse, in the middle and late 1800s. Also on display is electrical and engineering equipment originally belonging to Charles Parsons and used in his experiments as well as a large area devoted to the botanical work carried out in the Demesne.

  • Adult – €10.00
  • Family (2 Adult + 2 Child) – €26.00
  • Child (Age 4-17 yrs) – €5.00
  • Child (Age 0-3 yrs) – FREE!

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