Birr Castle Demesne and Clonmacnoise are two of Ireland’s most remarkable historic sites, offering a perfect blend of nature, science, and ancient heritage. Birr Castle Demesne, located in County Offaly, is renowned for its beautifully landscaped gardens, tranquil lakes, and the famous Great Telescope, which was once the largest in the world. The estate is also home to the Birr Castle Science Centre, where visitors can learn about groundbreaking astronomical discoveries made by the Parsons family. Strolling through the 120-acre parkland, you’ll find rare plants, scenic walking trails, and a rich history that dates back to the 17th century.
Clonmacnoise, a short drive away, is one of Ireland’s most important monastic sites, founded by St. Ciarán in the 6th century. Overlooking the River Shannon, this ancient settlement features impressive high crosses, round towers, and the remains of medieval churches. Once a thriving center of learning and religion, Clonmacnoise played a significant role in early Irish history. Visitors can explore the ruins, visit the interpretive center, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re fascinated by scientific achievements or Ireland’s spiritual past, a visit to Birr Castle Demesne and Clonmacnoise offers an unforgettable journey through time.
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Pick-up and drop-off in the Galway area
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16
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Minibus
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7 Hours
Birr Castle Demesne & Clonmacnoise Private Tour
Discover two of Ireland’s most fascinating historical sites on this private tour, combining the stunning Birr Castle Demesne with the ancient monastic site of Clonmacnoise. This tour offers a perfect blend of nature, science, and early Irish history, making it an unforgettable experience.
Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Galway to Birr Castle Demesne, home to one of Ireland’s most beautiful gardens and the world-famous Great Telescope. Stroll through the 120-acre parkland, explore the award-winning gardens, and visit the Birr Castle Science Centre, where you’ll learn about groundbreaking astronomical discoveries. Take in the beauty of the lakes, woodlands, and rare plant species before we continue to our next destination.
Next, we travel to Clonmacnoise, one of Ireland’s most significant monastic sites, founded by St. Ciarán in the 6th century. Overlooking the River Shannon, this historic site features high crosses, round towers, and medieval church ruins, offering a glimpse into Ireland’s rich spiritual and cultural past. Explore the visitor centre, where you can learn about Clonmacnoise’s role in early Irish history and see original high crosses up close.
After exploring Clonmacnoise, we will stop for lunch at Seán’s Bar in Athlone, the oldest pub in Ireland, where you can enjoy a traditional Irish meal in a warm and historic setting.
Following lunch, we’ll take a relaxing drive back to Galway, arriving in the late afternoon.
Tour Notes:
- Admission to Birr Castle and Clonmacnoise is not included in the tour price.
Tour Highlights
- Birr Castle Demesne - Explore the breathtaking 120-acre estate, home to beautifully landscaped gardens, tranquil lakes, and scenic walking trails. Learn about the rich history of the Parsons family and their contributions to science and engineering.
- The Great Telescope - Discover the world-famous 19th-century Great Telescope, once the largest in the world, and learn about its role in astronomical discoveries.
- Birr Castle Science Centre - Visit the interactive Science Centre to explore the groundbreaking innovations in astronomy, physics, and engineering that took place at Birr Castle.
- Clonmacnoise Monastic Site - Step back in time at Clonmacnoise, one of Ireland’s most important early Christian sites, founded in the 6th century by St. Ciarán. Marvel at the ancient high crosses, round towers, and medieval church ruins overlooking the River Shannon.
- Clonmacnoise Visitor Centre - Learn about the site’s history through exhibitions and original artifacts, including the famous high crosses preserved inside the centre.
- Lunch at Seán’s Bar, Athlone - Enjoy a delicious meal at Seán’s Bar, the oldest pub in Ireland, dating back to 900 AD. Experience its historic charm and welcoming atmosphere before heading back to Galway.
- Scenic Drive Through the Irish Countryside Relax and take in the picturesque landscapes of County Offaly and the River Shannon as we travel between destinations and back to Galway.