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. The Castle welcomes you to delve into the heart of British and Irish history where pivotal moments and diplomatic efforts have taken place. Set in 100 picturesque acres, the grounds are perfect for relaxed walks and family outings. Join a tour through the elegant State Rooms still in use today, and savour locally sourced food and drink in our cosy café.
Highlights
Beano Hijinks at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
27 June - 31 August 2026
100 acres of total time travel trouble with Beano Hijinks at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens.
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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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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What's On
Explore what's on at the Hillsborough Castle and Gardens today, including events, tours, workshops, exhibitions, and things to see.
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- Things to see
The Benjamin Franklin Dining Room
Discover the State Dining room and a special display exploring Hillsborough's historic American connections.
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Royal Style in the Making
Step into the world of regal elegance with Royal Style in the Making. See this captivating exhibition at Hillsborough Castle, now extended for an exciting second year due to popular demand.
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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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Opening times
Monday 25th 10:00 - 18:00
Tuesday 26th Closed
Wednesday 27th 10:00 - 18:00
Thursday 28th 10:00 - 18:00
Friday 29th 10:00 - 18:00
Saturday 30th 10:00 - 18:00
Sunday 31st 10:00 - 18:00
Monday 25th Closed
Tuesday 26th Closed
Wednesday 27th 11:00 - 16:00
Thursday 28th 11:00 - 16:00
Friday 29th 11:00 - 16:00
Saturday 30th Closed
Sunday 31st 11:00 - 16:00
25 May 2026: The Castle is closed but the gardens will be open.
Café: Wednesday - Sunday 09:00 - 16:00 (Closed Wednesday 20 May and Thursday 21 May 2026)
Tickets and prices
Gardens only ticket prices (excluding donation):
- Members: Free
- Adult: £11.00
- Child: £5.50
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.
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.
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
Taste of the gardens afternoon tea
Enjoy a gardens-inspired afternoon tea in the Weston Pavilion Café.
Discounted for members.
'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.
Members go free
Enjoy unlimited, free entry to our magnificent palaces, discount in our shops and cafés, and exclusive events when you become a member of Historic Royal Palaces. From only £65 per year.
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.