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Books and Gifts exclusive to Birr Castle

Miscelanea Structura Curiosa
Written by Samuel Chearnley

The book is one of the most important contributions to Irish architectural studies in the last decade. However, its interdisciplinary approach will also make it of interest to historians of eighteenth-century Ireland, art, social and local historians. It contains essays by a distinguished team of scholars in which the drawings are explored from architectural, artistic and iconological viewpoints. The social and family backgrounds of Chearnley and Parsons, Chearnleys impact on the built environment of Birr and his relationship with contemporary Irish garden design are also discussed. An appendix assembles for the first time the topographical works of Samuels brother Anthony. Read full text ...

Price: €85.00
Postage and packing
Ireland  free
UK €12.50
Europe €15.00
USA and rest of the world €20.00




Reconstruction of the Rosse Six Foot Telescope
Written by Michael Tubridy

Michael Tubridy was the Structural Engineer with responsibility for the redesign and reconstruction of the "Great Telescope" over the period 1994 to the present day. This book gives an insiders perspective on the work involved in the reconstruction of the telescope, as well as a short history of the original design, construction and observations made using the telescope over the period 1845 to 1908.

Price €5.75
P&P €1.90 (Varies for International Deliveries)


The Astronomy of Birr Castle
Written by Patrick Moore

In this book, the famous astronomer, Patrick Moore, has given an excellent description of the development of the largest telescope in the world (from 1845 to 1917), and also Lord Rosse's earlier Three foot telescope. This book is currently on its fifth Edition and is essential reading for anybody wishing to learn more of the fascinating stories behind astronomical research at Birr Castle.

Presently Out of Stock




From Galaxies to Turbines
(Science, Technology and the Parsons Family)
Written by W. Garrett Scaife

This hard cover book looks at the way science and industry relate to one another and at the way social attitudes affect this relationship. This is a highly accessible and fascinating account for the reader interested in the application of scientific knowledge to industrial development and is lavishly illustrated throughout. The author is Fellow Emeritus of Trinity College at the University of Dublin and is a world expert on the Parsons family.

Price €60.00
P&P €6.35 (Varies for International Deliveries)


The Red Tree Trail
(Fifty Trees of Distinction)
Written by Prof. D.A. Webb and the Earl of Rosse

This book has been prepared to help visitors to Birr Castle (or those with an interest in the trees within the Demesne) and gives details of the fifty most noteworthy trees in one of Ireland's most famous Gardens. This book is now in its fourth Edition.

Price €3.20
P&P €1.27 (Varies for International Deliveries)


The Restoration of the Millennium Gardens

This video gives a fascinating account of the restoration of the Millennium Gardens (previously known as the Formal Gardens), with exclusive footage of the painstaking work involved in returning the gardens to their previous splendour. This professionally produced film highlights features of the Gardens, such as the Delphinium and Summer Borders, the Upper Terrace and the exquisitely reconstructed Victorian Glasshouse.

Price €16.00
P&P €4.06 (Varies for International Deliveries)


Impressions of an Irish Countess
(The Photography of Mary Rosse)
Written by David H. Davidson

This hard cover book, featuring a forward by Alison, Countess of Rosse, gives a unique insight into the life and photographic work of Mary, Countess of Rosse, one of Ireland's pioneer photographers. The book features over thirty original photographs taken by Mary Rosse, including some early stereo photographs.

Price €15.25
P&P €4.45 (Varies for International Deliveries)


Astronomical Umbrella

A large (golf-sized) umbrella featuring a guide to the night sky on the inside. These umbrellas are built to last and are fitted with solid wood handles.

Price €25.00
P&P €6.70 (Varies for International Deliveries)


Birr Castle Wild Flower Meadow
Seed Shaker

Mini Pack: €6.00 + P&P

Medium Pack: €20.00 + P&P




Birr Castle Gardens
Seed Shaker

Mini Pack: €6.00 + P&P

Medium Pack: €20.00 + P&P




Birr Castle Wild Flower Meadow
Seed Mat

Mini Pack: €12.00 + P&P

Medium Pack: €20.00 + P&P




Birr Castle Garden
Grow Kit - 1

Price: €20.00 + P&P




Birr Castle Garden
Grow Kit - 2

Price:  €20.00 + P&P




To order any of the above items, please contact Birr Castle either by e-mail with your credit card details, or by telephone or post at the address below.

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©The Birr Scientific and Heritage Foundation
Ireland's Historic Science Centre   Birr Co Offaly Ireland

Head Office/Administration
Phone: +353 5791 20336 • Fax: +353 5791 21583 • Email: mail@birrcastle.com
Reception  (7 day reply 9.00 - 18.00) • Phone: +353 5791 20340 • Fax: +353 5791 21583