World Inspiration Site

Welcome to the birthplace of the Guinness World Records, Castlebridge, Co. Wexford, Ireland

The Birthday

10 November 1951, the MD of Guinness, Sir Hugh Beaver had an argument in Castlebridge House. Unable to resolve the argument, it was decided that a book of facts was required. Four years later the McWhirter Brothers published what is now. known as the first Guinness Book of Records

The Arguments

It all started with a special argument, which has resulted in millions of people around the world being inspired.  The Castlebridge Argument is a special argument that leads to an inspiration.  Refer to the rules, which are only applicable in the township of Castlebridge. 

The next time that you have something on your mind pop into the Mill Coffee Shop or even the Porter House and following the rules of engagement. 

The Books

We are collecting all of the Guinness World Record Books, from 1955  to present day.  These books will form a display collection in the town which we plan to launch on this years birthday, 8-9 November 2025.

The Records

CastlebridgeInspire has been involved in the achievement of World Record Attempts. In 1986, the Castlebridge Community was successful with the Marathon Handball Record.  In August 2024, CastlebridgeInspire supported the Fleadh Cheoil with the Tin Whistle Ensemble record.  In September 2024, CastlebridgeInspire supported the New Zealand Haka World Record, in Eden Park, and also live (via Microsoft Teams) from Castlebridge Hall with “Haka @ Home”. 

The next record to look forward to is Ceili Band Record which is happening. Musicians – use this link to register for 7 August at Chadwick Wexford Park

The House

Castlebridge House, where the original argument took place is owned by Wexford County Council.  Apart from the beautiful adjoining Community garden the house is inaccessible.  The town team are considering the future of the house an its place as a global heritage site.

The Festival

In memory of the argument that has lead to the book that has inspired millions of people to attempt their best, the inaugural Argue2Inspire Festival will commence on 8-9 November, where world leading speakers will use the CastlebridgeInspire Argument Rules to debate to important and not so important topics, the point of inspiration. More details to follow.

Bringing it Home

The Guinness World Record for the longest debate was last achieved in 1996, when a group in Tasmania, Australia, in 1996 achieved the record of 29 days and 4 hours from Ireland, who had had achieved 28 days. Its time to bring this record back home to the birthplace. We need your help. Are you an orator, or would like to volunteer your time to help out? Email : CastlebridgeInspire@gmail.com

The Merch

Due to popular demand we are launching an online store for people to get their hands on the coveted Castlebridge Inspire Tee-shirt. Email castlebridgeinspire@gmail.com to pre-order.

The Tour

When you visit Castlebridge you want to experience the origin story, see the Guinness Books of Records display, visit the other historical town sites, and importantly meet the locals. Oh, and dont be offended if you end up having a Castlebridge Inspire argument, because when you apply the town rules that means you are on the journey to an inspiring outcome. For more details on town tours complete this link

The Record Holder Stories Vault

If you are an existing Guinness World Record Holder we want to hear your story and broadcast that story to the global community of Castlebridge Inspire followers. Share your stories of your favourite memories of Guinness World Records.

The Future Record Holders

Tell us the story about the record that you want to achieve.

Your Question