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Highlights of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

A grand historic house and gardens in Northern Ireland

Visit Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, a grand Georgian estate and the only royal residence in Northern Ireland, near Belfast. Join a guided expert tour through the elegant State Rooms still in use today, where pivotal moments and diplomatic efforts in British and Irish history have taken place. Set in 100 acres of picturesque gardens, take a relaxed walk, soaking up the stunning scenery to experience a grand day out as part of your Ireland vacation.

Discover the Castle

Explore magnificent gardens

Explore and relax in 100 acres of glorious gardens with meandering waterways, rare Irish plant varieties, peaceful woodlands and picturesque glens that surround Hillsborough Castle.

A high-angle view of Yew Tree Walk and Lady Alice's Pond looking east, 5 June 2018.

Yew Tree Walk

The Lake

The Walled Garden

The Pinetum

The Glen

Lady Alice's Temple

Jubilee Parterre and South Terrace

Discover rare and historic Irish plants

The gardens at Hillsborough Castle are home to a rich variety of rare and historic plants, and this diversity is reflected in the gardens. Expert gardens manager, Claire Woods, shares some of her favourites and what you can see on your visit. 

Read more

Plan a visit

Opening times

Monday Closed

Tuesday Closed

Wednesday 10:00 - 18:00

Thursday 10:00 - 18:00

Friday 10:00 - 18:00

Saturday 10:00 - 18:00

Sunday 10:00 - 18:00

Last entry to gardens 1 hour before closing.

Monday Closed

Tuesday Closed

Wednesday 11:00 - 15:30

Thursday 11:00 - 15:30

Friday 11:00 - 15:30

Saturday 11:00 - 15:30

Sunday 11:00 - 15:30

Café: Wednesday - Sunday 09:00 - 17:00.

Tickets and prices

Castle and Gardens ticket prices from (excluding donation): 

  • Members: Free
  • Adult: £20.20
  • Child: £10.10

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.

The history of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

The story of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

Hillsborough Castle has welcomed the world and witnessed pivotal moments in history for over three hundred years. The historic house built by Wills Hill, is the official Northern Ireland residence of the Royal Family and home to the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland. It has played a central role in the peace-building process for 40 years, including the Good Friday Agreement negotiations.

Read more about the history

Extend your stay in Royal Hillsborough

Once you have experienced the beauty and history of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, explore more history in the local town including Hillsborough Fort, the first home of the successful Hill family who gave their name to the town. Constructed in the 17th century, the iconic fort is now nestled in picturesque gardens.

With the Courthouse in The Square and the local parish church of St Malachy, there is lots to see. Stop off for a well deserved break and enjoy tasty food, drink and warm Irish hospitality at a local pub such as The Plough Inn, The Parson's Nose or The Hillside.

We'd love your support

We are an independent charity and we receive no ongoing government support. 

A donation helps us to conserve and look after Hillsborough Castle and Gardens and all the buildings and objects Historic Royal Palaces look after, ensuring they are here for future generations to enjoy.

Make a donation See our conservation work
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