Name: Castle tours
Location: Hillsborough Castle

Discover stories of celebration, entertainment, diplomacy, and negotiation as our expert Explainers guide you through a 45-minute tour of Hillsborough Castle's fascinating history and stunning State Rooms.

A castle tour includes guided access to all the State Rooms that make up this elegant Georgian home; including the grand Throne Room, relaxing State Drawing Room, Lady Grey's Study, State Dining Room, Red Room and Stair Hall.

You can also explore 100 acres of beautiful gardens, which are also included in your ticket, to complete a relaxing day out for the whole family.

Northern Ireland's royal residence

From grand family home to charming royal residence, Hillsborough Castle has welcomed the world and witnessed pivotal moments in history for over three hundred years.

The castle is the official Northern Ireland residence of HM The Queen. Leading members of the Royal Family have regularly visited Northern Ireland since 1922, using Hillsborough as their ceremonial and personal base.

It's also been home to the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland since the 1970s and has played a central role in the peace-building process for 40 years.

State Drawing Room with wooden floor and a variety of persian rugs and furniture from the Royal Collection. A variety of Irish art hangs on the sunny yellow walls. Marble-like pillars frame the room.

View of Red Room - walls adorned with silk red damask. Walls covered with gold-framed paintings. A Waterford Crystal chandelier hangs above a small round mahogany table.

A WorldHost Recognised Destination

Historic Royal Palaces is dedicated to giving all our visitors the care and attention they deserve. We’re delighted that Hillsborough Castle and Gardens is a WorldHost Recognised Destination.