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Lady Alice's Temple

Take a seat and relish the tranquillity as you enjoy stunning views of the surrounding gardens

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When

In line with gardens opening hours

Ticketing information

Included in all admission tickets (Members go free)

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Nestled in the landscaped grounds of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, Lady Alice's Temple has provided a quiet space for contemplation for many residents of the castle. Secretary of State Mo Mowlam came here for peace and quiet, away from the pressures of politics, during her time at Hillsborough.

The small temple was originally given as a wedding gift to Lady Alice Hill by her brother the 5th Marquess of Downshire in 1867.

Today, it is open to the public and has been restored to its former glory. Framed by Yew Tree Walk, Lime Tree Walk and Moss Walk, it offers three very different views of the gardens.

Yew Tree Walk leads up to the castle, Moss Walk is a dramatic entrance towards the Pinetum and Lake, and, come springtime, Lime Tree Walk is a carpet of bluebells.

Take a seat and pause for a moment, listening to the sounds of Lady Alice's pond just in front of you, before continuing your journey through our world-famous gardens.

Hillsborough Castle Gardens, looking across a pond towards Lady Alice's Temple.
Lady Alice's Temple, looking east from inside the temple towards Yew Tree Walk. The stone floor of the temple and four of the columns are in the foreground. The pond and Yew Tree Walk are seen in the background. The domed temple was given as a wedding gift to Lady Alice Hill by her brother, the 5th Marquess of Downshire in 1867. A circular seat inside the temple sits behind a screen of Ionic columns.
Young male and female couple stroll up Yew Tree Walk towards the castle from Lady Alice's Temple; talking and smiling as they walk. The path is flanked with Yew Trees and the white, columned temple stands elevated in a central position behind them.
Modern Royals Gardens 20th Century

Explore what's on

  • Things to see

The Gardens

Discover the ornamental lawns, meandering waterways, peaceful woodlands and picturesque glens that surround Hillsborough Castle.

  • In line with gardens opening hours
  • Last entry one hour before closing.
  • Hillsborough Castle
  • Included in all admission tickets (Members go free)
Learn more
  • Things to see

The Lake

Explore an expanse of picturesque waterways and magnificent giant sequoia trees in this secluded section of the castle grounds

  • In line with gardens opening hours
  • Hillsborough Castle
  • Included in all admission tickets (Members go free)
Learn more
  • 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)
Learn more

Browse more history and stories

Good Friday Agreement

Hillsborough Castle was the scene for key meetings that led to this historic moment in Northern Ireland’s history

Mo Mowlam

A unique Northern Ireland Secretary and Hillsborough Castle resident

The story of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

‘The Grandest House in County Down’

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