Essential information for visiting Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
Visit essentials
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.
If you are visiting the castle 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.
Opening times
Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Castle closed except for groups of 15+ only
Thursday Castle closed except for groups of 15+ only
Friday Castle closed except for groups of 15+ only
Saturday Castle closed except for groups of 15+ only
Sunday Castle closed except for groups of 15+ only
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
Tickets and prices
Visit Hillsborough Castle and over 100 acres of ornamental lawns, peaceful woodlands and picturesque glens throughout the seasons.
Dogs are not permitted within the gardens and café unless they are trained assistance dogs.
Castle and Gardens ticket prices from (excluding donation):
- Members: Free
- Adult: £20.20
- Child: £10.10
We offer all the essential facilities to ensure your visit is safe and enjoyable.
- Map
- Toilets open - with disabled access and baby change facilities
- Hand washing and hand sanitiser facilities
- Only trained assistance dogs are permitted
- A limited number of wheelchairs available to borrow on a first come, first served basis, sanitised between each use.
Breastfeeding is welcome throughout the Castle and Gardens and our team are always on hand should you need any further assistance
Disabled visitors are entitled to bring an accompanying adult/carer free of charge.
We support the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme, a discreet way to indicate to people that you need additional support, help or a little more time. We have Sunflower lanyards available to borrow from the Visitors Centre next to the A1 car park.
Explore the gardens and then enjoy delicious food and drink from our café.
Hillsborough Castle Café:
Located in the Weston Pavilion, Pineapple Yard.
Shop for gifts and souvenirs inspired by this famous royal residence.
Our shops offer everything from souvenirs and gifts, to fine jewellery. You can also shop online and non-EU residents can buy tax-free.
We offer reduced admission for groups of 15 people or more.
Enjoy a castle tour and all-day entry to 100 acres of world-famous historic gardens.
Bookings are now open for the 2023-24 academic year.
Interactive and enquiry-based sessions are available for all key stages and SEND students.
What to see on your visit
For your visit to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, we recommend at least three hours to discover the spectacular gardens and State rooms.
Things to see and doTaste of the gardens afternoon tea
Enjoy a garden-inspired afternoon tea in the Weston Pavilion Café and experience the wonderful gardens. (Gardens entry not included but can be purchased on arrival).
Discounted for members.
The Imaginary Menagerie
Explore our animal-inspired play trail throughout the Castle's gardens, taking you on adventures celebrating the animals and wildlife that have made, and continue to make, Hillsborough their home.
The Imaginary MenagerieHillsborough Castle and Gardens map
Hillsborough Castle and Gardens map
Food and drink
Enjoy delicious food and drink from our café using the best of local produce and seasonal fruit and veg from Hillsborough Castle's historic Walled Garden.
Food and drinkGot a question?
Browse our frequently asked questions to help plan your visit.
Frequently asked questions Visit safelyExplore what's on
- Things to see
The Gardens
Discover the ornamental lawns, meandering waterways, peaceful woodlands and picturesque glens that surround Hillsborough Castle.
- In line with gardens opening hours
- Last entry one hour before closing.
- Hillsborough Castle
- Included in all admission tickets (Members go free)
- Families
- Events
- Christmas
Christmas at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
Explore the gardens this Christmas transformed with beautiful decorations inspired by the 12 Days of Christmas.
- Until 05 January 2025
- In line with gardens opening hours.
- Hillsborough Castle
- Included in all admission tickets (Members go free)
- Things to see
- Families
The Imaginary Menagerie
Enjoy a day out discovering our interactive play trail - the Imaginary Menagerie.
- In line with gardens opening hours
- Hillsborough Castle
- Included in all admission tickets (Members go free)