Watch highlights of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
Discover a historic gem in Royal Hillsborough, County Down
Explore Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, a grand Georgian estate and royal residence in Northern Ireland, just 20 minutes outside Belfast. With 100 picturesque acres where pivotal moments in British and Irish history took place, explore ornamental grounds, peaceful woodland, meandering waterways and picturesque glens. Enjoy a relaxed walk, run free on the play trail, and savour locally sourced food and drink in our cosy café.
Highlights
NI Science Festival
14 - 21 February 2026
Immerse yourself in an interstellar world of scientific exploration at this year's NI Science Festival.
The Gardens
Explore and relax in 100 acres of glorious gardens and nature with meandering waterways, peaceful woodlands and picturesque glens that surround Hillsborough Castle.
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The Castle and State Rooms
Join a castle tour to discover the elegant State rooms still used by the Royal Family today.
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Food and drink
Enjoy delicious food and drink from our café using the best of local produce from Hillsborough Castle's historic Walled Garden. Indulge in garden-inspired afternoon tea in the Weston Pavilion Café.
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Easter Lindt GOLD BUNNY Hunt
Treat your family to an unmissable Easter adventure as you explore the beauty of the gardens.
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Bulbs and Blooms
An extravaganza of buds, bulbs and blooms in Hillsborough Castle's stunning gardens.
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Opening times
Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday 10:00 - 16:00
Thursday 10:00 - 16:00
Friday 10:00 - 16:00
Saturday 10:00 - 16:00
Sunday 10:00 - 16:00
Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday Closed
Friday Closed
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed
Café: Wednesday - Sunday 09:00 - 16:00.
Tickets and prices
Gardens only ticket prices from (excluding donation):
- Members: Free
- Adult: £10.30
- Child: £5.20
Getting here
By car: Search for 'Hillsborough Castle and Gardens Shop' Postcode BT26 6TY. Our car park can be found off the A1 dual carriageway by following the brown tourist signs.
For castle visits, you should aim to arrive on site up to 45 minutes prior to your booked time slot to allow time to make your way to the castle State Entrance.
By bus or on foot: There is a pedestrian entrance to the gardens from Hillsborough village. Take Translink 238 or 38 between Belfast and Newry.
Absolutely amazing spot. The House, gardens and cafe are stunning and spotless. This is one of the best sites I have visited in Ireland.
Cathy, Dublin.
‘We were so pleasantly surprised by what lay within. The understanding of the complexity of relations on this island in what’s on display, given that it is an official royal residence, is an eye opener. We will be visiting again.'
Cormac
8 Things to Do at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
Looking to make the most of your visit to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens? One of the best places to visit in Northern Ireland, discover 8 things to do at the Castle and Gardens.
Hillary Clinton and the 'Vital Voices' of Northern Ireland's women
Hillary Clinton's speech at Hillsborough Castle in 2023 marked a 30-year relationship with the women of Northern Ireland, which started over tea in South Belfast.
'Detained by a thousand civilities'
Benjamin Franklin's curious visit to Hillsborough Castle
In 1771, a reluctant Benjamin Franklin was ushered into Hillsborough Castle by his host (and political foe) Wills Hill. Here, Emma Lawthers explores this curious meeting that took place within the castle walls.
Support us
As an independent charity, there are several ways you can support us.
Join as a member
Enjoy a range of member benefits including unlimited adventures at our magnificent palaces, access to an exciting events programme and discounts in our shops and restaurants.
Be the first to hear more
Sign up for our Hillsborough Castle and Gardens e-newsletter for the latest news, events, offers and competitions.
Make a donation
We are an independent charity and a donation helps us to conserve these historic buildings, ensuring they are here for future generations to enjoy.
Become a patron
Step closer to history and join us for unique and amazing events as a patron of Historic Royal Palaces.
Our supporters
The restoration and re-presentation of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens was made possible by the National Lottery Heritage Fund,
Mark Pigott KBE KSTJ, Garfield Weston Foundation, the Clore Duffield Foundation, the Foyle Foundation, the Wolfson Foundation and other generous donors.