Ireland's largest treehouse to open in Birr

Birr already has numerous attractions to be proud of, but this Sunday the list will be lengthened with the opening of Ireland’s largest treehouse on the grounds of Birr Castle.

The treehouse along with an adventure playground will be officially opened by Minister for Children Frances Fitzgerald to mark the beginning of National Recreation Week.

Minister Fitzgerald will be accompanied on the day by Lord and Lady Rosse of Birr Castle along with their grandchildren - seven year old Olivia and five year old William.

Robin Hood, woodland fairies, jugglers, stilt walkers and face painters are also expected at the event.

This Sunday’s proceedings will begin at noon and in addition to the treehouse and playground will include a picnic lunch and a tour of Birr Castle and Gardens.

Standing at 39 feet tall, the new treehouse is the centrepiece of an adventure playground at Birr Castle Demesne.

The treehouse and playground includes tree decks linked by rope bridges, secret tunnels, a giant bouncing pillow, hobbit houses, a sand play area, scramble nets, climbing rocks, swings, slides and a picnic area.

The project cost a total of €200,000, which was co-funded by Birr Castle and Offaly Local Development Company.