Witness half a million bulbs in bloom
See the gardens of Northern Ireland’s royal residence erupt in spectacular colour as Spring Spectacular returns for 2024. Be dazzled by over half a million bulbs in bloom.
Spring will erupt in a riot of colour in the 100 acre royal gardens. Following 2023’s stunning inaugural event, this year will see even more diversity. 76 different varieties will spring to life, of which 32 are new to the gardens. Daffodils and crocuses will mark the emergence of the gardens from winter, handing over to tulips and camassia later in the spring. Don’t miss admiring the large selection of rare Northern Irish daffodils.
A gentle springtime walk amongst the blooms is the perfect way to relax with friends and families. Stroll through the varied blooms and savour the tranquillity, then treat yourself to a delicious drink or morsel from the café.
When
Until 06 May 2024
In line with gardens opening hoursTicket Information
Members and under 5s go free.
Please note, blooms are subject to the lottery of the weather and can’t be guaranteed.
Included in all admission tickets (Members go free)
Buy Hillsborough Castle and Gardens ticketsThere are also plenty of events on offer throughout the spring, whether you are a gardening guru or just interested in learning something new. Take part in a series of garden workshops and create your own seasonal bouquet or plant flowers and vegetables under expert guidance from our gardens team. Want to know more about the gardens? Join a walk led by our talented gardeners, with each tour exploring a different area of the gardens.
Celebrate the May Day bank holiday weekend in style with music, crafts and a special gun salute.
Become a member today
Return to see the gardens evolve throughout the spring as different bulbs bloom. Save with membership and enjoy unlimited visits to the magnificent palace and gardens all year round. Become a member today.
Spring Spectacular Trail
Download a guide to our trail
EXPLORE WHAT'S ON
- Tours and talks
- Events
Garden Workshops
Join our expert gardeners in workshops and explore Hillsborough Castle's historic gardens.
- Until 14 September 2024
- 10.30 - 12.30
- Hillsborough Castle
- Separate ticket (advance booking required)
- For members
- Tours and talks
- Events
Members-Only Gardens Tours at Hillsborough Castle
Explore the gardens surrounding Northern Ireland's only royal residence with an expert guide on these members-only tours.
- 21 September 2024
- 11:00
- Hillsborough Castle
- Free (advance booking required)
- Things to see
Summer House
Spark their imaginations with fun garden trails and activities in the Summer House, created especially for children at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens.
- Closed
- 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’