Primary school sessions

Key stage 2 students visit Hillsborough Castle and Gardens.

A Victorian wedding party

Explore how rich and poor in Victorian Ireland would have celebrated important events.

Key stage 1
Areas of Learning: The World Around Us, Numeracy
Topic: Victorians
Session Type: Route-based

From November - December there will be a series of festive events and activities at Hillsborough, including live music, food, family workshops, choral concerts and Christmas ghost stories this November and December at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. Meet the Victorian household of Lord & Lady Arthur Hill, the Tower of London's famous Yeoman Warders, Lucy Worsley and, of course, Father Christmas as you explore Northern Ireland's royal residence.

A Victorian Christmas at the Castle

The Hillsborough Castle staff are readying the house for the Christmas celebrations, including the grand Twelfth Night ball and the Earl of Hillsborough's fifth birthday! 

Key stage 1 and 2
Subject: The World Around Us, The Arts, Language & Literacy
Topic: Christmas, Victorian, Celebration
Session type: Route-based

Schoolchildren during a history session at Hillsborough Castle.

Power and politics

Explore the State Rooms and investigate the idea of power and how best to overcome problems with others. 

Key stage 2 
Subject: The World Around Us, Personal Development & Mutual Understanding 
Topic: Conflict & Resolution, Georgians 
Session Type: Route-based 

Key stage 2 students on a visit to Hillsborough Castle and gardens

Apply within: Victorian servants

Explore the State Rooms and uncover the different roles of servants in a Victorian 'big house'. Do you have what it takes to secure a position at Hillsborough Castle?

Key stage 2
Subject: The World Around Us, Numeracy, Language & Literacy
Topic: Victorians
Session Type: Route-based