Christmas at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

Find 12 Days of Christmas magic in our 100-acre gardens

Make this festive season memorable for all the family, with a day out to Christmas at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. Explore gardens transformed with beautiful decorations inspired by the 12 Days of Christmas.

Wander at your own pace and discover all 12 festive displays. Keep your eyes peeled for a few surprises along the way, including a polar bear swimming in our pond and a giant Advent calendar! You may also discover a special garden play trail, a walled garden and a secret grotto – all with plenty of space to explore and play.

On special days in December, little ones can also meet Santa himself and share their Christmas wishes – the perfect end to an unforgettable family day out.

When

23 November 2024 - 05 January 2025

Ticketing information

Gardens open Wednesday - Sunday over the Christmas period. Check Opening Times before visiting.

Meet Santa or visit the Castle on 7 & 8, 14 & 15, 20-23 December 2024.

Tickets on sale soon.

Included in all admission tickets (Members go free)

Aerial (air view) of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens in the snow in March 2023, showing the South Terrace.

Hillsborough Castle, a long two storey building of beige, orange and grey stone with large windows and a portico entrance, covered in a thick layer of white snow. The Castle is surrounded by gardens, some of which are lain out in a formal style with a fountain and hedges, while others are more spacious and natural, populated with large trees. There are pathways through the snow where people have walked.

Step into Christmas in the Castle

Continue your festive journey inside the famous Castle, with the grand State Rooms dressed to impress. Discover the beauty of Christmas at this royal residence and see sparkling Christmas trees, twinkling lights and elegant garlands.

For those looking for an extra special Christmas treat, join a stunning one-off performance on Sunday 15 December by one of Northern Ireland’s most distinctive choirs.

Two grand and intricate gold and red Thrones (aka Chairs of State) stand on a wooden dais in the Throne Room at Hillsborough Castle. The Dais is decorated with a green Christmas wreath that surrounds the Thrones and is lit with warm white fairy lights. The walls of the Throne Room are adored in a rich green silk damask, and a banner behind the Throne features a coat of arms with the initials 'ER' with a lion and a unicorn.

Enjoy festive food in the café

After all that exploring, take a break in our café with a warming cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine. Pair it with a mince pie or filling lunch, before enjoying more winter adventures with your family.

Santa posing with child in wheelchair next to a Christmas Tree in the HCG Cafe Dec 2023.

Upgrade to membership today

Upgrade your ticket to membership for a whole year of family adventures. It’s the perfect Christmas gift for yourself, your family, or your friends! Discover exciting events across the year – including Easter hunts, stunning spring blooms, haunting Halloween fun and more.