Watch highlights of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
Discover a historic gem in Royal Hillsborough, County Down
The Benjamin Franklin Dining Room will be closed on 2-3 and 6-8 July. All other State Rooms on the Castle tour will remain open.
Explore Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, a grand Georgian estate and royal residence in Northern Ireland, just 20 minutes outside Belfast. Delve into the heart of British and Irish history with a tour through the elegant State Rooms. And explore 100 acres of picturesque gardens, perfect for relaxed walks and family outings - with kids visiting for free this summer holidays.
Highlights
Kids Go Free
27 June - 31 August 2026
Treat the kids this summer holidays with a free visit to the 100 acre gardens - including Beano Hijinks too!
The Castle and State Rooms
Join a castle tour to discover the elegant State rooms still used by the Royal Family today.
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The Gardens
Explore and relax in 100 acres of glorious gardens and nature with meandering waterways, peaceful woodlands and picturesque glens that surround Hillsborough Castle.
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What's On
Explore what's on at the Hillsborough Castle and Gardens today, including events, tours, workshops, exhibitions, and things to see.
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Beano Hijinks at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
27 June - 31 August 2026
100 acres of total time travel trouble with Beano Hijinks at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens.
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Food and drink
Enjoy delicious food and drink from our café using the best of local produce from Hillsborough Castle's historic Walled Garden. Indulge in garden-inspired afternoon tea in the Weston Pavilion Café.
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Opening times
Monday 29th 10:00 - 18:00
Tuesday 30th 10:00 - 18:00
Wednesday 1st 10:00 - 18:00
Thursday 2nd 10:00 - 18:00
Friday 3rd 10:00 - 18:00
Saturday 4th 10:00 - 18:00
Sunday 5th 10:00 - 18:00
Last entry to gardens 1 hour before closing.
Monday 29th 11:00 - 16:00
Tuesday 30th 11:00 - 16:00
Wednesday 1st 11:00 - 16:00
Thursday 2nd 11:00 - 16:00
Friday 3rd 11:00 - 16:00
Saturday 4th 11:00 - 16:00
Sunday 5th 11:00 - 16:00
Café: Monday - Sunday 09:00 - 17:00.
Tickets and prices
Gardens only ticket prices (excluding donation) from:
- Members: Free
- Adult: £11.00
- Child: £5.50
Getting here
By car: Search for 'Hillsborough Castle and Gardens Shop' Postcode BT26 6TY. Our car park can be found off the A1 dual carriageway by following the brown tourist signs.
For castle visits, you should aim to arrive on site up to 45 minutes prior to your booked time slot to allow time to make your way to the castle State Entrance.
By bus or on foot: There is a pedestrian entrance to the gardens from Hillsborough village. Take Translink 238 or 38 between Belfast and Newry.
Beanotastic Afternoon Tea
Enjoy a ‘Beanotastic’ Afternoon Tea in the Stable Yard and experience the playful world of all things Beano! Dive into a mischievous menu packed with fun-filled treats. From Minnie’s Mini Mischief scones to Roger the Dodger Jammy Splats and more cheeky surprises along the way.
Absolutely amazing spot. The House, gardens and cafe are stunning and spotless. This is one of the best sites I have visited in Ireland.
Cathy, Dublin.
‘We were so pleasantly surprised by what lay within. The understanding of the complexity of relations on this island in what’s on display, given that it is an official royal residence, is an eye opener. We will be visiting again.'
Cormac
'Detained by a thousand civilities'
Benjamin Franklin's curious visit to Hillsborough Castle
In 1771, a reluctant Benjamin Franklin was ushered into Hillsborough Castle by his host (and political foe) Wills Hill. Here, Emma Lawthers explores this curious meeting that took place within the castle walls.
Support us
As an independent charity, there are several ways you can support us.
Members go free
Enjoy unlimited, free entry to our magnificent palaces, discount in our shops and cafés, and exclusive events when you become a member of Historic Royal Palaces. From only £65 per year.
Be the first to hear more
Sign up for our Hillsborough Castle and Gardens e-newsletter for the latest news, events, offers and competitions.
Make a donation
We are an independent charity and a donation helps us to conserve these historic buildings, ensuring they are here for future generations to enjoy.
Become a patron
Step closer to history and join us for unique and amazing events as a patron of Historic Royal Palaces.
Our supporters
The restoration and re-presentation of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens was made possible by the National Lottery Heritage Fund,
Mark Pigott KBE KSTJ, Garfield Weston Foundation, the Clore Duffield Foundation, the Foyle Foundation, the Wolfson Foundation and other generous donors.