A Choral Christmas at Hillsborough Castle

Experience the enchanting sounds of Cappella Caeciliana

Few experiences capture the magic of Christmas quite like choral singing in a grand castle. This year, we’re thrilled to welcome back the extraordinary Cappella Caeciliana for an evening of festive performances within the castle's opulent Throne Room.

Join one of Northern Ireland’s most distinctive choirs for a specially curated programme of festive readings, poetry, and choral music, sure to immerse you in the warmth and wonder of the season. 

Experience the Stunning State Rooms

During the interval, enjoy a glass of prosecco or a sparkling non-alcoholic alternative in the castle’s exquisite state rooms. Our knowledgeable hosts will be on hand to share the rich, inspiring, and often surprising history of this working Royal residence.

See access information below.

When

15 December 2024

19:45 - 21:45 (doors open at 19:15)

Booking Information

Doors open 19:15 for a 19:45 performance start

30 minute interval at 20:30

Concert ends 21:45

Tickets on sale soon.

Separate ticket

About Cappella Caeciliana

Cappella Caeciliana was founded on the feast of St Cecilia in 1995. They have performed at religious services and concerts all over Northern Ireland and performed in England, Scotland, Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Austria and the USA.

Since 2022, the choir has been directed by Matthew Quinn, who shares his Cappella role with a recent appointment as Chorus Director of English National Opera.  

The choir has performed on BBC and ITV and has worked with many famous names, including singing with Andrea Bocelli in the SSE Arena on his most recent visit to Belfast.

They pride themselves on innovative performances, such as singing Bach's St John Passion in Belfast's Crumlin Road Gaol, and presenting concerts in June 2024 on the theme of emigration and exploration across various very distinctive spaces in Titanic Belfast.

Cappella Caeciliana’s 2024/25 season is supported by the National Lottery through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.

Access Information

Disabled Badge Holders

The castle is disabled access friendly. If you are a disabled badge holder, please call our events team no later than 48 hours prior to the event to reserve onsite parking at the venue. Vehicle registration must be provided. Our events team can be contacted Monday-Friday, 09:00 to 17:00 on 028 9268 1342. 

On-site Parking

On-site parking for all ticket holders is available on a first-come-first-served basis in the Forecourt off Main Street in Royal Hillsborough (just opposite the Plough Inn pub).

Alternatively, please find local parking in Royal Hillsborough. Nearby options include Ballynahinch Street Car Park, which is free of charge from 18:00 and only a short, uphill walk from the castle’s entrance off Main Street. 