Highlights of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
Discover a historic gem in Royal Hillsborough, County Down
Explore Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, a grand Georgian estate and royal residence in Northern Ireland, just 20 minutes outside Belfast. The Castle welcomes you to delve into the heart of British and Irish history where pivotal moments and diplomatic efforts have taken place. Set in 100 picturesque acres, the grounds are perfect for relaxed walks and family outings. Join a tour through the elegant State Rooms still in use today, and savour locally sourced food and drink in our cosy café.
Highlights
The Castle and State Rooms
Join a tour (during seasonal opening) 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 and things to see and do
Browse our latest events and things to see and do in the castle and gardens.
What's on
Royal Style in the Making - Exhibition
Opening 15 March 2025
Discover the intimate bond between royal clients and fashion designers in a captivating new exhibition at Hillsborough Castle.
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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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Christmas at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
Until 05 January 2025
Explore the gardens this Christmas transformed with beautiful decorations inspired by the 12 Days of Christmas.
Visit
Opening times
Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Castle closed except for groups of 15+ only
Thursday Castle closed except for groups of 15+ only
Friday Castle closed except for groups of 15+ only
Saturday 11:00-15:00
Sunday 11:00-15:00
Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday 10:00 - 16:00
Thursday 10:00 - 16:00
Friday 10:00 - 16:00
Saturday 10:00 - 16:00
Sunday 10:00 - 16:00
Tickets and prices
Visit Hillsborough Castle and over 100 acres of ornamental lawns, peaceful woodlands and picturesque glens throughout the seasons.
Dogs are not permitted within the gardens and café unless they are trained assistance dogs.
Castle and Gardens ticket prices from (excluding donation):
- Members: Free
- Adult: £20.20
- Child: £10.10
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.
The story of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
Hillsborough Castle and Gardens has a rich history to explore. It serves as the official home of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and as a residence for the Royal Family. The historic house built by Wills Hill has played an important role in Northern Ireland's history, including hosting talks that led to the formation of the Good Friday Agreement.
Art in the castle
Read more about the wide range of art in the rooms at the castle, selected to represent the history and contemporary use of the house as a royal and government residence.
Our gardener's guide to creating harmony among your plants
Hear from our experts on our blog
Daniel Coombes, Keeper of the Walled Garden at Hillsborough Castle, explores how companion planting has transformed the Walled Garden into a thriving ecosystem, and how you can replicate these benefits at home.
Support us
As an independent charity, there are several ways you can support us.
Join as a member
Enjoy a range of member benefits including unlimited adventures at our magnificent palaces, access to an exciting events programme and discounts in our shops and restaurants.
Shop 24/7 online
Discover beautiful Christmas gifts and home decor inspired by our palaces.
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.