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Hillsborough Castle Special Interest Tours

Delve into specialist themes at Northern Ireland's Royal Residence

Do you have a special interest or want to delve deeper into Hillsborough Castle's unique history? Join our specially themed guided castle tours, with dates throughout the year.

You may even be lucky enough to access behind-the-scenes areas in the castle not usually seen by visitors.

Our Special Interest tours last 60 minutes.

Book your tickets today to secure your exclusive slot.

When

Selected dates September - November

60 minutes

Ticketing information

Pre-booking is recommended. Members go free.


Separate ticket

Buy tickets
Wide shot of Lady Grey's Study featuring the Preparing the Peace art work install at Hillsborough Castle in 2023.

Art tour

08 November at 11:30

From Reubens to Ramsey and Lely to Lavery, Hillsborough Castle is a place to see great art. Our expert guide will lead you through Hillsborough’s treasures including unique works from the Royal Collection and other major lenders on display for the first time in Northern Ireland.

Politics tour

22 November at 11:30

Hillsborough Castle has a long history of playing host to political discussions, going all the way back to American Independence in the 1770s. Join our expert guides as we unpick the intimate and world-shaping discussions held here behind closed doors.

A young couple look at paintings in the Throne Room. The walls are lined with green silk damask and the paintings are hung in gold frames. Gold and grey details frame the walls and doors. A large rug covers the dark wooden floor.
State Drawing Room with carpeted 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.

American history tour

15 November at 11:30

Step into history at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, with over 250 years of shared stories between the USA, UK, and Ireland. Our guides open up the historic connection with the USA and follow in the footsteps of presidents and peacemakers who used Hillsborough Castle as a vital backdrop to their discussions.

Members go free

Join as a Historic Royal Palaces member today and visit Hillsborough Castle and Gardens time and again for free. Enjoy our season of unmissable events or simply return to see the seasons change.

Join as a member

Explore what's on

  • Families
  • Events
  • Christmas

Christmas at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

Explore the gardens this Christmas transformed with beautiful decorations inspired by the 12 Days of Christmas.

  • 23 November 2024 - 05 January 2025
  • In line with gardens opening hours.
  • Hillsborough Castle
  • Included in all admission tickets (Members go free)
Learn more

BOOKING NOW

  • Halloween
  • Families
  • Half term
  • Events

Halloween at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

Discover autumn magic for all the family with workshops, storytelling, artisan food and more.

  • Until 03 November 2024
  • In line with gardens opening hours
  • Hillsborough Castle
  • Included in all admission tickets (Members go free)
Learn more
  • Things to see

Gun Salute

See commemorative firings on the south terrace at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens.

  • Thursday 14 November 2024
  • 12:00
  • Hillsborough Castle
  • Included in all admission tickets (Members go free)
Learn more

Shop online

Shop Children's Toys

Delight in our fantastic range of children's toys, ensuring hours of fun and playtime.

From £4.00

Shop Homewares

Explore our collection of stylish home accessories and furnishings, including cushions, tapestries, glassware and much more.

From £3.50