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A family day out at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

Enjoy a must-see day out

Looking for one of the best family days out in Northern Ireland? Discover adventure, play and exploration at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. Explore 100 acres of beautiful gardens, step inside Northern Ireland's only royal residence and enjoy family-friendly activities for children of all ages.

Whether you're visiting during the school holidays, at the weekend or on a weekday, there's something for everyone. Best of all, children under 5 and members enjoy free entry all year round.

A woman and her two children enjoy the gardens of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens on a bright sunny day.

Step into the castle with a family tour

Explore Northern Ireland’s only royal residence, still used by the royal family today. From the real thrones to a dining table fit for kings and officials, there’s so much to see on our family-friendly tour.

Family things to do in the gardens

Roam 100 acres of gardens, with plenty of space for little ones to safely run and play. Imagine and explore, and discover nature and wildlife together.

What's on at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

Discover seasonal events, offers and more for all the family at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens.

Why families love Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

1. A top family attraction in Northern Ireland

The spectacular castle has a variety of rooms to explore, as well as 100 acres of safe outdoor space surrounding it for your little ones to roam free.

2.  Family-friendly activities

There are plenty of family-friendly activities to keep children busy, including castle tours and activities, and interactive play areas throughout the gardens, wildlife and seasonal events.

Children playing at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens - Sensory trail 2026.

3. Members and under 5s visit free

Free year-round visits for children under 5 and members.

4. Family facilities 

Hillsborough Castle offers a number of facilities perfect for families, including toilets, baby change, café, free parking and Wi-Fi.

Children playing at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens - Sensory trail 2026.

Plan your family day

Plan your family day out at Hillborough Castle and Gardens with our suggested itinerary. 

Ease into your visit with breakfast or a morning coffee in the award-winning Weston Pavilion Café before setting off to explore. Choose from hearty breakfasts, lighter bites and freshly baked treats, with vegan, vegetarian and NGCI options available.

Enjoy indoor seating or dine al fresco on the patio overlooking the gardens where some of the food is grown.

Breakfast is served from 09:00-11:30.

Your adventure begins in the Walled Garden, where you'll receive your special Hillsborough Castle Beano comic-strip story.

Track down the six missing parts of a runaway time machine hidden throughout the gardens, solve clues, tackle mischievous Beano-inspired games and meet larger-than-life characters from Hillsborough's past.

Can you find the time machine before it's too late and strike a pose for a blamtastic photo finish?

After your Beano adventure, take a well-earned break. Bring a picnic to enjoy in the gardens or visit the Stable Yard café for a delicious lunch before continuing your day.

Children playing at the Beano Hijinks installations at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens.

Step into the shoes – or rather the hats – of fascinating figures from Hillsborough Castle's past.

Children can collect their own model castle and set off on a journey through the famous State Rooms, discovering hidden treasures and secret stories along the way. Hear tales of grand celebrations and remarkable people.

Treat yourselves to a playful Beano-inspired Afternoon Tea in the Stable Yard, packed with cheeky surprises including Minnie's Mini Mischief Scones, Roger the Dodger Jammy Splats and plenty more delicious treats.

If you're saving room for dinner, simply continue exploring the gardens at your own pace.

Round off your day by discovering some of the gardens' most peaceful corners.

Take a leisurely stroll around the lake together. Step into the bird hide or pick up some bird feed from the vending machine and feed the ducks. Wander through the tranquil Pinetum, where little ones can enjoy the swings, while grown-ups relax beneath the towering pine trees.

Before heading home, visit the Sensory Trail where children can listen, look, touch, balance and explore. Make music or play shop at Hillsborough Stores; the perfect way to finish a day of family adventure.

Children playing at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens - Sensory trail 2026.

Family things to do around Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

There are also a number of family things to do around the Castle and Gardens. From exploring the beautiful surrounding Royal Hillsborough village, to seeing the Hillsborough Fort up close.

1. Explore Royal Hillsborough Village

Take a stroll through the elegant Georgian streets surrounding the Castle. Discover local cafés, restaurants and independent shops. Visit St Malachy's Church, a beautiful historic landmark in the heart of the village. Visit the village playpark located next to the monument of the 4th Marquess (opposite St Malachy’s).

2. Visit Royal Hillsborough Fort

Discover the historic fort overlooking the village. Learn more about Hillsborough's story beyond the Castle walls. Combine with a visit to the forest and lake nearby.

The entrance to a fort with trees surrounding it

3. Explore Hillsborough Forest

Discover the sculpture trail. Enjoy the woodland-themed children's play area and feed the birds.

Planning your family visit

Discover our helpful advice on preparing for your family visit below and check our opening times ahead of the day for up-to-date information on palace hours and closures.

A buggy park is available in the Stable Yard.

Baby changing facilities are available in both the male and female toilets in the Pineapple Yard and in the Stable Yard.

Toilets are available in the following locations:

  • Pineapple Yard

  • Gardens

  • Weston Pavilion (Lower Visitor Centre)

  • Stable Yard

All have disabled access and baby change facilities.

On the day

Use our helpful itinerary to plan your visit to the palace and craft a memorable day out for all the family. We recommend leaving at least two hours for a visit.

Many parts of the Gardens are outdoors, without a cover. Please check the weather ahead of your visit and dress appropriately. 

  • Plenty of space for children to explore at their own pace

  • Family-friendly activities designed for younger visitors

  • Opportunities for imaginative play, wildlife spotting and hands-on discovery

  • Suitable for families with children of different ages

  • Pushchair-friendly routes available throughout the gardens

  • Take a break during your adventure at one of the cafes

  • Enjoy family-friendly refreshments, snacks and seasonal treats

  • Picnic areas are available on the West Lawn for families who prefer to bring their own food

  • Make your visit extra special with seasonal family dining experiences such as Beanotastic Afternoon Tea

Accessibility

For information on accessibility, please visit the Hillsborough Castle and Gardens accessibility page. 

The quietest time to visit Hillsborough Castle and Gardens is before 11:00. Your visit may take up to two to three hours, so we recommend visiting as early as possible for the best experience.