Uncover the origins of the Hill family
Uncover the origins of the Hill family
Hillsborough Fort lies outside the grounds of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens.
A Hillsborough Castle and Gardens admission ticket includes access to 100 acres of beautiful gardens. Re-entry to the grounds is permitted for ticket holders.
Free
Stroll through the town to discover Hillsborough Fort, the first home of the successful Hill family who gave their name to the town.
Constructed in the 17th century, the iconic fort is now nestled in picturesque parkland.
Built to protect the road leading from Carrickfergus to Dublin, the fort has been a place of power, play and pleasure for more than 400 years.
In 1837, the Fort was used to celebrate the marriage of Lord Hillsborough, eldest son of the third Marquess, Arthur Hill. Over 4,000 guests attended this astonishing event, which was reported in the Ulster Times as a ‘fête…almost without parallel in the kingdom'.
Discover elegant State Rooms still used by the royal family on a guided tour of Hillsborough Castle.
Open daily
Hillsborough Castle
Included in combined castle tour and gardens tickets (members go free)
Uncover the stories behind guests of Hillsborough Castle, on this fun tour designed with families in mind.
Weekends only
Hillsborough Castle
11:30 or 14:30
Included in combined castle tour and gardens tickets (members go free)
Discover the ornamental lawns, meandering waterways, peaceful woodlands and picturesque glens that surround Hillsborough Castle.
Open daily
Hillsborough Castle
09:30-16:00 (last admission is 15:00)
Included in all admission tickets (members go free)
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