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Conferences and meetings

Our history, your story

Our history, your story

Regal splendour just 20 minutes from Belfast

Hillsborough Castle has been the official residence of the Royal Family in Northern Ireland since 1922, although its origins stretch right back to the 18th century. During that time, the castle has borne witness to momentous historical change and played host to monarchs, ministers and heads of state.

Today, Hillsborough Castle and Gardens' pedigree makes it an inspiring venue for events of all sizes.

Each of our spaces have their own unique character, but all are guaranteed to add a sense of occasion and ceremony to meetings, conferences and away-days.

Enquire about events at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

Marquee sites

For daytime or evening events, the castle's immaculate gardens can accommodate marquees for up to 350 people, which are ideal for conferences and award ceremonies. Why not make the most of this majestic setting by incorporating the beautiful formal gardens and terraces?

For daytime events, you and your guests can also enjoy complimentary access to the 100 acres of stunning gardens, woodland and glens should you wish to incorporate time for this into your event schedule.

Capacity

  • Up to 350 guests for conferences and award ceremonies

Availability

  • Available for daytime or evening hire
A marquee for 300 people set on the South Lawn Marquee Site. The marquee features a pagoda entrance and access is over the stone-flagged South Lawn Terrace.
The Privy Council Chamber.

The Privy Council Chamber

A handsome and welcoming room, which is ideal for small meetings and presentations for up to 18 people.

Lord Downshire originally built this room in the 1840s for his billiards table, but prior to 1972 this is where the governors of Northern Ireland would meet the Privy Council, their appointed council of senior advisers and politicians.

The room comes ready prepared with a large screen for presentations, jugs of water and glasses for your table, and fresh flowers from the castle's gardens. A variety of delicious lunch and catering options are also available. Please contact us for further details.

Capacity

  • Up to 18 people for small meetings and presentations

Availability

  • Available for daytime hire

The State Rooms

Throne Room

The Throne Room is every bit as majestic as the name suggests. Tastefully decorated in white, gold and green, the room is dominated by an elaborate silk coat of arms and two chairs of state, which represent Her Majesty The Queen when she's not in residence. It is the largest and most versatile space in Hillsborough Castle.

When it's not being used by the Royal Family for official functions, the Throne Room can be hired in the evenings for receptions and conferences that require a little extra something.

Capacity

  • Up to 120 guests for receptions and conferences

Availability

  • Available for daytime and evening hire
Throne Room with silk green damask walls, wooden floor and large rug. Two red and gold Chairs of State, or 'thrones' are situated at the far end of the room. Gold-framed paintings of landscapes adorn the walls and three large chandeliers hang above.

The Red Room

The Red Room, so-called for its deep crimson damask wallpaper, is the most intimate of the castle's State Rooms, making it ideal for small meetings and presentations.

With a solid oak floor and several impressive portraits from the Royal Collection, the cosy yet luxurious atmosphere is completed by a grand chandelier and an impressive fireplace designed by the architect William Kent.

Capacity

  • Up to 30 guests, theatre style

Availability

  • Available for daytime and evening hire

State Dining Room

You'll be in good company in the State Dining Room, which has played host to such luminaries as Eleanor Roosevelt, Dwight Eisenhower and innumerable ambassadors and international delegates.

With its impressive history and elegant décor, the State Dining Room is perfect for corporate entertaining. You and your guests can take a private tour of the castle before enjoying dinner in the company of George III and Queen Charlotte, whose portraits grace the walls.

Capacity

  • Up to 40 guests, theatre style

Availability

  • Available for daytime and evening hire

Approved suppliers

Whatever the nature of your event our preferred suppliers can help you deliver an unforgettable experience for your guests.

Find out more about our approved suppliers

Contact us

If you would like to hire Hillsborough Castle and Gardens for your event, please call our team on +44 (0)28 9268 1342 to discuss your requirements. Alternatively, you can fill out an enquiry form and we’ll get back to you as quickly as possible.

Enquire about a venue

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