Explore the history of this elegant and intriguing Georgian house
Discover stories of celebration, entertainment, diplomacy, and negotiation as you explore Hillsborough Castle's fascinating history and stunning State Rooms.
Access is to the State Rooms that make up this elegant Georgian home including the grand Throne Room, relaxing State Drawing Room, Lady Grey's Study, State Dining Room, Red Room and Stair Hall. Our expert castle hosts will also be on hand to share details of the historic rooms.
You can also explore 100 acres of beautiful gardens, which are also included in your ticket, to complete a relaxing day out for the whole family.
Northern Ireland's royal residence
From grand family home to charming royal residence, Hillsborough Castle has welcomed the world and witnessed pivotal moments in history for over three hundred years.
The castle is the official Northern Ireland residence of HM The King. Leading members of the Royal Family have regularly visited Northern Ireland since 1922, using Hillsborough as their ceremonial and personal base.
It's also been home to the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland since the 1970s and has played a central role in the peace-building process for 40 years, including the Good Friday Agreement negotiations.
When
Group bookings only
Ticketing information
- Please check our opening times before your visit.
- Members can book their preferred entry slot by logging into the Membership portal.
- Please be at the State Entrance at the time stated on the ticket. It is advisable that you arrive at Hillsborough Castle at least 30 minutes before your timeslot starts, to allow sufficient time to make your way from the Lower Visitor Centre, through the gardens to the Castle State Entrance. The time slot you select will be your entry time for the castle, however you can enter the gardens at any time on the day of your visit from first admission.
Included in combined castle tour and gardens tickets (members go free)
Buy Hillsborough Castle and Gardens tickets Member loginA WorldHost Recognised Destination
Historic Royal Palaces is dedicated to giving all our visitors the care and attention they deserve. We’re delighted that Hillsborough Castle and Gardens is a WorldHost Recognised Destination.
EXPLORE WHAT'S ON
- Things to see
The Throne Room
Explore the ceremonial heart of the castle, where Queen Elizabeth II received guests at a coronation ball in 1953.
- Group bookings only
- Hillsborough Castle
- Included in combined castle tour and gardens tickets (members go free)
- Things to see
Red Room
Political history meets royal life and a spectacular collection of art, deep in the heart of Hillsborough Castle.
- Group bookings only
- Hillsborough Castle
- Included in combined castle tour and gardens tickets (members go free)
- Things to see
State Drawing Room
Discover contemporary Irish art from the collection of His Majesty The King in this elegant family space.
- Group bookings only
- Hillsborough Castle
- Included in combined castle tour and gardens tickets (members go free)
BROWSE MORE HISTORY AND STORIES
Art at Hillsborough Castle
Hillsborough Castle has become a place in which to see amazing art
The story of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
‘The Grandest House in County Down’
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