Clonmacnoise and Birr Castle Tour

About This Tour

Delve into Ireland’s rich history with a private tour of the Clonmacnoise Monastic Site and Birr Castle. Begin at Clonmacnoise, an early Christian site founded in the 6th century, where stunning ruins and high crosses tell tales of medieval craftsmanship. Then, visit the elegant Birr Castle, home to the historic Birr Telescope, which was the largest in the world for over 70 years. This tour, perfect for history buffs and science enthusiasts, includes a luxury car ride and expert insights as you journey at your own pace. Enjoy a light lunch recommendation during your day of exploration in Ireland’s heartland.

• Duration: 10 hours, with hotel pick-up at 8 am and drop-off at 6 pm
• Private tour in a luxury vehicle with a fully-qualified guide
• Visit two significant cultural landmarks: Clonmacnoise and Birr Castle
• Admission tickets to sites available for an additional fee, with concierge service to skip queues

What’s Included

• Private transportation
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• English speaker tour guide

What’s Not Included

• Meals
• Admission Tickets to Clonmacnoise Monastic Site
• Admission Tickets to Birr Castle Demesne

Itinerary

1. Clonmacnoise, located in County Offaly, is one of Ireland’s most important early Christian monastic sites. Founded in the 6th century by St. Ciarán, it became a major centre of religion, learning, and craftsmanship. The site features impressive ruins, including several churches, high crosses, and round towers, showcasing stunning medieval stonework and intricate carvings. Clonmacnoise was a thriving spiritual hub for centuries and played a key role in preserving Irish culture during turbulent times. Today, it offers visitors a peaceful glimpse into Ireland’s rich monastic heritage amid beautiful riverside surroundings.

Travel time is included in the time spent on this attraction. (300 min) 2. Birr Castle, located in County Offaly, is a historic estate renowned for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Home to the Parsons family since the 17th century, the castle combines medieval and Victorian design elements. It is famous for the Birr Telescope, once the largest in the world, built in the 1840s by the Third Earl of Rosse, making the castle a significant site in the history of astronomy. The extensive grounds feature landscaped gardens, exotic plants, and a science centre. Birr Castle offers visitors a unique blend of history, science, and natural beauty in a tranquil Irish setting. (120 min) 3. The Birr Telescope, also known as the Leviathan of Parsonstown, is a remarkable 19th-century astronomical telescope located at Birr Castle. Built in the 1840s by the Third Earl of Rosse, it was the world’s largest telescope for over 70 years. Its massive 72-inch metal mirror allowed astronomers to observe distant galaxies and nebulae in unprecedented detail, significantly advancing the field of astronomy. The telescope’s innovative design and ground-breaking discoveries earned Birr Castle international scientific acclaim. Today, the restored telescope stands as a symbol of Irish scientific heritage and ingenuity, attracting visitors and astronomy enthusiasts alike.

Travel time back to your hotel is included in the time spent on this attraction. (180 min)

Good to Know

• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This is a private tour. Available in: en.