The break from the church lasted from 1826 to around 1840 and was led by Fr. Michael Crotty and his cousin Fr. William Crotty. The two-storey building is important as a piece of architectural heritage with its pointed arched windows, Tudor arched door and fine ashlar façade. But it is especially important also as a reminder of the social and religious history of Birr. It is no longer in use as a church and it may not be possible to enter the interior.
Nearby is an interesting building called The Maltings, which has a clock tower on its roof. This could be confused with Crotty Church, but The Maltings is a four-storey stone building that was a former malt house for the Guinness company, built c.1800. This well-preserved historic building, situated along the river, has been used as a B&B and restaurant in recent years.
Both buildings are next to the Castle St. Car Park, with Crotty Church on the corner facing Castle Street.
- Important in the religious history of Ireland.
- Has interesting architectural features like a Tudor arched door and pointed arched windows.
- A visit to the heritage town of Birr is like traveling back in time, with many lovely places to explore.
