Join our community access scheme
What is the Community Access Scheme?
The Community Access Scheme (CAS) offers local community groups the chance to explore and engage with us.
Who is it for?
CAS membership is open to community groups with a formal constitution or charitable status who are based locally to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. We are particularly keen to hear from groups who would not normally visit the castle or see it as a place of interest for them.
How can I get involved?
Interested group leaders should register for a place on an upcoming group leader training morning to learn more about the scheme and how it works.
For details on the next available session, or if you have any queries about the scheme, please email Louise Smith, Learning Producer for Communities.
When
Two to three times per year as required
10.30 – 14.00Where
Group leader training sessions are held in our Clore Learning Centre.
Ticketing information
Please contact [email protected] for details of the next available training date and to register for a place.
Email to book a place
What does the scheme offer?
To enjoy the benefits of CAS membership your group leader must first attend a compulsory CAS group leader training morning. These take place 2-3 times per year and are designed to equip group leaders with the skills and knowledge to confidently bring their members on site.
Following attendance at training, and confirmation of membership, your group will then be able to enjoy the following:
- Free year-round group access to our gardens for groups of up to 15 people accompanied by a CAS trained leader;
- The chance to take a tour of the castle with your group (subject to availability);
- Occasional opportunities to participate in creative workshop programmes and seasonal hands-on activities.
The CAS membership is for groups interested in engaging with us regularly over an extended period of time and in a variety of ways. The scheme is not appropriate for groups wishing to make a one-off visit to the site.
Working with communities
Our core programmes and projects create opportunities for people to meaningfully engage with our spaces and stories, inspiring everyone to feel a sense of belonging at our six wonderful palaces.
Explore how we work with communitiesExplore what's on
- Things to see
Jubilee Parterre
Discover a charming formal garden and find out why the castle's 19th-century summer house is so unusual.
- In line with gardens opening hours
- Hillsborough Castle
- Included in all admission tickets (Members go free)
- Things to see
- Tours and talks
The Castle
Discover elegant State Rooms still used by the royal family inside Hillsborough Castle.
- In line with castle opening times
- Hillsborough Castle
- Included in combined castle tour and gardens tickets (Members go free)
- Things to see
Granville Garden
Take a moment in this elegant rose garden created by Lady Granville, aunt to Queen Elizabeth II.
- In line with gardens opening hours
- Hillsborough Castle
- Included in all admission tickets (Members go free)
Browse more history and stories
The story of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
‘The Grandest House in County Down’
Art at Hillsborough Castle
Hillsborough Castle has become a place in which to see amazing art
Shop online
Shop Food & Drink
Indulge in our scrumptious collection of chocolates, preserves, jams, biscuits, tea and the finest liqueurs.
From £4.50
Shop Homewares
Explore our collection of stylish home accessories and furnishings, including cushions, tapestries, glassware and much more.
From £3.50
Royal Palace Fine Bone China Collection
Exclusive to Historic Royal Palaces, this exquisite fine bone china collection is inspired by the beautiful palaces in our care.
From £28