Birr Castle Demesne: Discover your next Family Adventure

Looking for a family day out that’s a little bit different? Birr Castle Demesne is a place where curious minds, big imaginations and a love of adventure can run wild.

Set across 120 acres of gardens and parkland in the heart of Birr, County Offaly, there’s plenty of space for families to explore, discover and make memories together. From giant telescopes and fascinating science to waterfalls, woodland walks, beautiful gardens, Ireland’s Tallest Treehouse and an adventure-filled playground, there’s something to capture the imagination of every age.

For over 400 years, Birr Castle has been home to the Parsons family, whose passion for science, engineering, astronomy, photography and botany has left a remarkable legacy. Today, families can discover some of that story for themselves through hands-on exhibits, extraordinary inventions and some truly amazing sights.

What can families discover?
🌳 Climb Ireland’s Tallest Treehouse
Get ready for an adventure! Ireland’s Tallest Treehouse is a must-see for young explorers, offering an unforgettable experience among the trees. It’s the perfect place for children to let their imaginations take over and see the Demesne from a whole new perspective.

🛝 Let off steam in the Adventure Playground
With plenty of opportunities to climb, scramble, swing and play, the Adventure Playground is the perfect place for younger visitors to burn off some energy. Surrounded by beautiful parkland, it’s a fun-filled stop on your family adventure.

🗺️ Take on a Trail or Challenge
Make exploring even more exciting with Birr Castle Demesne’s range of self-guided trails and challenges. Follow the routes at your own pace, discover fascinating trees and plants, uncover stories of science and engineering, and see the Demesne from different perspectives. Whether your family is up for a nature-filled walk, a science-inspired adventure or a fun challenge, there’s plenty to keep curious explorers engaged as they make their way around the grounds.

🔭 Explore the Great Telescope
Come face-to-face with the 72-inch Leviathan of Parsonstown, once the largest telescope in the world. It’s an incredible piece of history — and a great way to get children thinking about the stars and the universe.

🚀 Get curious in the Science Centre
With seven galleries packed with fascinating stories, inventions and scientific discoveries, learning becomes part of the adventure. Discover astronomy, engineering and the amazing ideas that came from Birr.

🌿 Explore 120 acres of gardens & parkland
There’s plenty of room to roam, with beautiful formal gardens, woodland walks, rare trees and plants, tranquil water features and hidden corners waiting to be discovered. Keep an eye out for the world’s tallest box hedges!

🚂 Hop aboard the Birr Castle Discovery Train
See some of the Demesne’s most iconic sights from the comfort of the Discovery Train. A fun way for younger visitors to explore more of the estate — and a great addition to a family day out.

💦 Discover waterfalls, wildlife & nature
Follow the paths through the Demesne and discover the Victorian Fernery waterfall, peaceful lake and a wealth of wildlife and biodiversity. It’s a chance to slow down, get outdoors and enjoy nature together.

☕ Refuel at the Courtyard Café
After all that exploring, take a break at the Courtyard Café with locally sourced treats and refreshments — the perfect place to recharge before heading off on your next adventure.

🎁 Browse the Gift Shop
Finish your visit with a browse through the Gift Shop, with local-interest books, thoughtful gifts and plenty of ideas to take a little bit of Birr home with you.

A family day out full of discovery
Whether your children are fascinated by space and science, love getting outdoors, enjoy climbing and playing, or simply like having somewhere new to explore, Birr Castle Demesne offers a family day out where there’s always something else to discover.

Climb higher. Explore further. Get curious. Let imaginations run wild.

Come for the adventure, stay for the science, take on a challenge, explore the gardens and trails, and leave with a few new discoveries of your own.