Birr Castle to open to public next month

Almost €175,000 is being allocated to Birr Castle through Failte Ireland to help the Birr Scientific and Heritage Foundation refresh existing displays and develop the science centre. There will also be new walks and interpretative features in the gardens.

The science centre in the castle grounds is a treasure trove of astronomical instruments, cameras, photographs and photographic equipment dating from the middle to late 1800s. The castle gardens are home to some of the rarest tree species found anywhere, including the largest grey poplar in the world.

Birr Castle remains the private residence of the Parsons family, who have lived there since 1620. They inherited the Earldom of Rosse in 1800.

Castle tours will take place Monday to Saturday 9.30am to 12.30pm in May, July and August.