Guided tours of Birr Castle to be offered from early May

People who have spent time at Birr Castle Demesne gazing at the castle itself and wishing they could go inside don't have long to wait until their wishes are realised. It was revealed yesterday (Thursday) that the castle will open to the public for a summer season beginning in early May. Speaking to the Offaly Independent a spokesperson for Birr Castle Demesne confirmed the castle will open for guided tours from May to August. The tourist attraction that is Birr Castle Demesne already boasts the great telescope and science centre as well as magnificent gardens. Adding castle access can but increase the spot's popularity. Admission to the science centre and gardens currently costs visitors €9. A new ticket costing €18 is to be added in May, which will include a guided tour of Birr Castle as well as full admission to all other attractions on the site. The new guided tour of Birr Castle is still being finalised. However it's already known that the tour of the grand house, which is the home of Lord and Lady Rosse, will last for one hour and will cover the main reception areas, the drawing room, the music room and the castle's secret passages. Whether or not the castle will open for summer seasons in future years will be considered after the summer. For more information on Birr Castle Demesne see www.birrcastle.com or call 057 9120336.