Glasgow, Dunfermline, Edinburgh, Rosalyn Chapel, Stirling Castle… just a few of the many things my guest enjoyed during her Tour of Scotland this past May. Next up… Highlands and Islands #bywaysbackroadsofeire #scotland #TravelScotland
Fun Fact Fridays with Bit is having a slight issue… I sound like I have swallowed a Frog
Let me start off Fun Fact Fridays by introducing you to Birr Castle, which has been in the Parsons family since Sir Lawrence Parsons in 1620
There has been a Castle on the site since 1170. The O’Carroll family ruled over the area until Charles O’Carroll’s passing.
Lawrence Parsons was then deeded the Castle & the surrounding 1277 acres
To me, what makes Birr Castle special is the scientific aspects of its history
The 3rd Earle of Rosse, William Parsons, was responsible for constructing a giant Telescope. When completed in 1845, it was the largest Telescope in the world. It drew in
William’s son, Laurence Parsons, the 4th Earl of Rosse, was noted for measuring the heat of the moon. In 1879, Laurence also installed a turbine equipped water wheel on the River Camcor, which provided electricity to Birr Castle & the town. Birr became the first town, worldwide, to be lit by electricity
William’s youngest son, Charles Parsons, invented the steam turbine. He built the first turbine powered Battleship and passenger ship
On the grounds of Birr Castle, you can visit Ireland’s Historic Science Centre, which houses displays with a focus on Ireland’s historic scientists, astronomy, engineering, botany and photography among many other topics.
Laurence and his Mother were well known photographers of the day. Her darkroom is believed to be the oldest surviving example of such and is on display in the museum
On the grounds of the Castle, you can explore the Walled gardens with its old Roses & delphinium, the box hedges which make up the walls, are over 300 years old; see the great Telescope, enjoy a waterfall trail, enjoy a walk along the rivers, have a picnic and enjoy a day out.
The Treehouse would have been the playhouse of my dreams!
They offer Guided tours, as well
One of these tours take you into the Castle, which is a rare glimpse into the history of the Pars
