Birr: Attractions and more...
Birr Castle is the oldest inhabited home in the county and is occupied by the seventh Earl of Rosse, Brendan Parsons. Though the castle is open to the public only on special occasions, the surrounding demesne and the beautiful landscaped gardens, with over 1,000 species of trees and shrubs, along with waterfalls, lakes and a river, are open to visitors every day of the year. Also, on display is the Rosse Telescope which was built by the third Earl of Rosse and was once the world’s largest astronomical telescope with a 72-inch metal mirror.
There is also the local heritage centre on the refined John’s Mall, which provides all necessary information on the town’s architectural and social background.
The Annual Birr Vintage Week and Arts Festival in August has a host of theatre performances, art exhibitions, live bands, vintage markets and a Vintage Cars Parade. This festival which is in its 39th year now attracts local and foreign visitors alike.
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