Insights and behind the scenes from our palaces
Protecting wildlife and their habitat at Home Park
22 November 2024
Park Ranger Eleanor Evetts explores the importance of nature conservation efforts at Home Park at Hampton Court Palace.
Composting at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
27 September 2024
Gardens manager Claire Woods explores how compost is used in the gardens at Hillsborough Castle and shares some expert advice for your own garden at home.
Companion Planting: A Gardener's Guide to Creating Harmony Among Your Plants
26 July 2024
Keeper of the Walled Garden Daniel Coombes explores how companion planting has transformed the Walled Garden into a thriving ecosystem, and how you can replicate these benefits at home.
Rare and Historic Northern Irish Plant Varieties at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
28 June 2024
Northern Ireland is home to a rich variety of rare and historic plants, many of which can be found at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. Gardens Manager Claire Woods explores the history behind growing these plants and the importance of conserving them for future generations.
Mary, Marchioness of Downshire: A Life in Miniature
07 June 2024
Research and Interpretation Producer Emma Lawthers takes a brief glimpse into the lives of the Mary and the Hill family of Hillsborough Castle, as seen through the lens of a very unique object.
Royal Trees at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
31 May 2023
Claire Woods, Gardens Manager at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, reflects on some of the trees planted by members of the Royal Family, which are still available to view in the castle grounds today, and the newest addition for 2023.
Preparing the Peace
10 April 2023
Reflecting on Hillsborough Castle’s political role, 25 years on from the Good Friday Agreement.
What to see at Spring Spectacular 2023
01 March 2023
How our gardens team created a planting scheme for over half a million bulbs, and how to create a mini Spring Spectacular in your own outdoor space.
Celebrating Hillsborough Castle's Moss Walk
09 March 2020
Although moss gardens are a relatively common sight in Japan there are very few in the UK and Ireland. So it's special for us that one of the best examples in Northern Ireland is at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens! Gardens Manager Claire Woods introduces Hillsborough's Moss Walk.
New life for the glasshouse at Hillsborough Castle
20 December 2019
It's been an exceptionally busy year for the gardens team at Hillsborough Castle, with the doors to the extensive estate thrown open to the public every day for the first time. Time has also been found to transform the glasshouse, a modest but attractive corner of the gardens that had long been overlooked.