Plan a school visit

Q: Term dates

2023-2024 academic year Sessions available Tuesdays - Thursdays during term time Autumn term 1 September - 27 October Winter term 1 November - 21 December 3 January - 14 February Spring term 19 February - 27 March Summer term 8 April - 28 June

plan your visit

Bookings are not yet open for the 2024/25 academic year, we anticipate they will open in May 2024.

School visits and sessions

Our curriculum-based sessions are led by expert presenters who bring the history of the palace to life through lively, interactive learning opportunities.

We offer a wide selection of curriculum-based sessions linked to a range of subjects for key stages 1 to 5, including Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Primary sessions cater for up to 32 students, while secondary and SEND capacities vary so please check the session information.

What's included?

A facilitated, curriculum-linked session led by an expert presenter.
Access to Hillsborough Castle’s gardens to explore at your leisure.
Access to our two new play trails; The Imaginary Menagerie.
A booked lunch space (30 mins).
Pre-visit email including two teacher planning passes and essential information.
Space to store coats and bags throughout your visit.

choose a session

Visiting safely

Please read our current safety procedures for keeping you safe on your visit.

In order to best support you and your group we will also provide:

Essential information packs for your group leader, including the most up-to-date health and safety information.
Timed entry slot for your school to help manage numbers on-site.
Key stages 1-3: Dedicated meeting point and booked lunchroom.
Teacher planning passes, included in your booking confirmation, to allow two teachers to visit and plan your day.

safety procedures

Important information for your booking

Prices

All school sessions are free from September 2023.

Teachers and adults
Up to agreed ratios: Free
Adults for 1:1 assistance: Free
Additional adults: £14.00

All school group visits must be booked in advance. Dates book up quickly so we advise booking at least two months in advance.

To avail of a free session, schools must be based within the UK or ROI only, and book directly with Historic Royal Palaces, and not through a third party.

Term dates

2023-2024 academic year
Sessions available Tuesdays - Thursdays during term time

Autumn term
1 September - 27 October

Winter term
1 November - 21 December
3 January - 14 February

Spring term
19 February - 27 March

Summer term
8 April - 28 June

Adult to student ratios

The following ratios apply to all school groups visiting the castle and gardens.

Key stage 1 (age 4-7) = 1:5
Key stages 2, 3 and 4 (age 7-15) = 1:10
Key stage 5 and up (age 16+) = 1:15

SEND groups can determine their own ratios.

Groups with an inadequate number of accompanying adults may not be admitted.

Questions

If you have any questions, wish to check availability or amend a booking request form you have already submitted please contact the schools team via email at [email protected].

Terms and conditions