Plan and Book a school visit

School visits and on-site sessions

Our curriculum-based sessions are led by expert presenters who bring the history of the castle to life through lively, interactive learning opportunities.

We offer a wide selection of curriculum-based sessions linked to a range of subjects for key stages 1 to 5, including Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). 

Primary sessions cater for up to 32 students, while secondary and SEND capacities vary so, please check the session information.

Schools are also welcome to book a gardens’ self-led visit and explore the gardens independently. 

What's included?

• A facilitated, curriculum-linked session led by an expert presenter.
• Access to Hillsborough Castle’s gardens to explore at your leisure.
• Access to our two play trails; The Imaginary Menagerie.
• A booked lunch space (30 mins).
• Pre-visit email including two teacher planning passes and essential information.
• Space to store coats and bags throughout your visit.​

2025-2026 Garden Self-led School Visits

Available Wednesdays - Fridays

What's included?

• Access to Hillsborough Castle's 96 acres of gardens.
• Access to all garden areas open on the day of your visit, including The Imaginary Menagerie play trails and the 4-acre Walled Garden.
• Pre-visit email including two teacher planning passes.
• When available, normally from Easter – Halloween, use of the stretch tent in the gardens for lunch. This space is not available to pre-book and is available on a first come, first served basis, by all garden visitors. Please note there are no tables and chairs in this space. 
• Self-led activity trails for key stages 1-3

What's not included:

• Access to Hillsborough Castle's State Rooms. 
• A facilitated school session.
• An indoor lunch space.