Plan and book a school visit

Booking information, admission rates, what's included, term dates and useful resources

Booking information, admission rates, what's included, term dates and useful resources

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.

Sessions information and prices

What's included?

  • A facilitated, curriculum-linked session led by an expert presenter.
  • Access to Hillsborough Castle’s gardens to explore at your leisure.
  • 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.

Prices

Primary sessions (60 minutes)
£100

Secondary sessions (90 minutes)
£130

SEND sessions (60 minutes)
£70 

Teachers and adults
Up to agreed ratios: Free
Adults for 1:1 assistance: Free
Additional adults: £11.40

All school group visits must be booked in advance. Dates sell out quickly so we advise booking at least two months in advance. Payment is due six weeks prior to visiting. 

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.

Safeguarding

Term dates

2021-2022 academic year

Sessions available Tuesday – Thursday during term time.

Autumn term
1 September - 28 October
1 November - 21 December

Winter term
3 January - 17 February
21 February - 31 March

Spring term
11 April - 30 June

 

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:

  • Updated group leader information packs four weeks prior to your visit, including the most up to date health and safety information.
  • Timed entry slot for your school to help you stay in your school 'bubble'.
  • Flexible booking terms, allowing you to move your visit within the academic year if needed.
  • Teacher planning passes included in your booking confirmation, to allow two teachers to visit and plan your day.

Make a booking

Email your booking request form to the schools team at: [email protected] Further enquiries? Please ring 020 3166 6646 for more information.

Booking request form

School booking request form School booking form guidelines

Useful resources

Key information and guides to support your school visit.

Essential visit information Short history guide Possible risks and hazards Security information On the day information

SEND visit resources

A visual story guide to support a visit to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens.

Visual story (PDF) Visual story (doc)

Payment and terms of booking

After receiving your booking request we will email you with a confirmation invoice which must be paid in advance of your visit and according to our payment terms.

  • Your invoice will be attached to your confirmation email. Payment details can be found on your invoice.
  • Our preferred method of payment is by BACS.When making payment please ensure you quote your account number and your school/company name. If possible, send us remittance advice.
  • Payment is due six weeks prior to visiting. Extra tickets must be purchased on the day at standard group rates.
  • Bookings with less than six weeks' notice require immediate payment. The cancellation and amendment deadline is 5pm on the day after the booking is confirmed.
  • We regret that no refunds can be given for cancellations or amendments made less than six weeks in advance of your visit. This includes non-arrivals on the day.
  • Coronavirus (COVID-19): We are able to reschedule visits to allow for local lockdowns and other challenges arising from Coronavirus (COVID-19). Please see our full terms and conditions for more information.
Read full terms and conditions