Birr is centrally located in Ireland and sits where the Camcor and Little Brosna rivers meet. Visitors staying in one of the budget hotels in Birr often take advantage of the fly fishing or fresh water fishing opportunities. The Slieve Bloom mountains are near to Birr also for those who prefer hiking. Birr is a Heritage Town recognized for its Georgian roots and evidenced to this day in the elegant Georgian period buildings and charming atmosphere.

The main attraction in Birr is the Gothic Castle Demesne. Built around 1620, it is still a private home for the Rosse family, but the outside gardens in the park are open to the public. The gardens are elaborate and colorful, and it's possible to spend an entire day strolling the garden areas. The park surrounding the castle is where visitors will find the Science Centre and the 72 inch Great Telescope. The Science Centre houses a variety of photography equipment once used by earlier members of the Rosse family and exhibits on the botanical work related to the castle gardens. The Leviathan telescope was built in the 1840s and was the world's largest telescope for 70 years.