Birr Castle

Stopped at Birr Castle on our way home, it had been some years since I had last visited... what a wonderful place to visit.  So historic.  It is the home of a reflecting telescope (main pic) which was the largest in the world for decades built in 1845.  there is a single span wire suspension bridge built in 1821 and is thought to be be the earliest surviving bridge of it's kind in Europe.  There is also a fully equipped darkroom and is the oldest intact darkroom in the world... they were a remarkable family.  (see extras).  The family still live in the house and continue to explore the world...