At Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
Skip the event ticket details and go to event summary.
When
28 March - 12 April 2026
In line with gardens opening hoursTicket information
Included in all admission tickets (Members go free, no pre-booking required)
Buy Hillsborough Castle and Gardens tickets Buy Gardens-only ticketsThe Kitemaking Workshop on 06-07 April requires an additional ticket, which can be added to your Castle and Gardens or Gardens-only ticket at checkout.
Pre-booking is recommended.
Don’t miss the enchanting Lindt GOLD BUNNY Hunt this Easter season, back by popular demand. Treat your family to the ultimate Easter hunt.
See the stunning gardens
Challenge yourself to the Easter Championships, a series of nature-inspired games set across 100 acres of springtime colour. As you roam the 100 acres, be on the lookout for elusive Lindt GOLD BUNNY statues peeking out from colourful blooms.
Each stop features a playful game, inviting you to notice the sights, sounds and signs of spring along the way.
Complete the trail and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious miniature Lindt GOLD BUNNY 10g chocolate* treat.
On Easter Monday 06 April and Tuesday 07 April, you can also make your very own kite, then enjoy watching it soar.
*Non-chocolate alternatives available on request.
Upgrade your visit
Upgrade your tickets to join a fun tour through the State Rooms still used by the Royal Family today. See the magic of Northern Ireland's royal residence and hear stories on intriguing guests. Don’t miss stepping foot in the famous Throne Room.
After all that exploring, take a well-earned break in our delicious café, where you can relax and refuel with a drink, indulgent cake or nutritious lunch.
Make a magnificent kite
On Easter Monday 06 and Tuesday 07 April, delight in decorating your own traditional kite.
Select your pre-made kite and spend 20-30 minutes personalising it, to become the envy of your friends. Enjoy watching it soar high on the West Lawn (weather conditions permitting), and take it home to enjoy more flying fun.
Drop in to the Stretch Tent on the West Lawn 10:30 – 16:00, and show your special kitemaking ticket to participate.
Suitable for children aged 3+ with parental supervision.
Buy workshop ticketsThis content is hosted on YouTube
This content may be using cookies and other technologies for which we need your consent before loading. To view the content, you need to enable cookies for "Targeting Cookies & Other Technologies".
Manage CookiesBecome a member
With Easter kicking off a season of unmissable family events, now is the perfect time to become a member. Join now for a full year of family adventures, from summertime adventure trails to tranquil walks in stunning gardens.
In England on 21 March – 12 April? Your membership will get you free entry to the Lindt GOLD BUNNY Hunt at the famous Tudor home, Hampton Court Palace.
Become a memberExplore what's on
- 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)
- Families
- Events
Beano Hijinks at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
100 acres of total time travel trouble with Beano Hijinks at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
-
27 June - 31 August 2026
- In line with gardens opening hours
- Hillsborough Castle
- Included in all admission tickets (Members go free, no pre-booking required)
- Events
- Families
Nest Quest: Nature’s Master Builders
Join us for a winter wildlife adventure at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens with a nature-themed workshop for young explorers.
-
14 and 21 February 2026
- 10:30, 12:15 and 14:00
- Hillsborough Castle
- Included in gardens admission (Members go free)
Browse more history and stories
Good Friday Agreement
Hillsborough Castle was the scene for key meetings that led to this historic moment in Northern Ireland’s history
Art at Hillsborough Castle
Hillsborough Castle has become a place in which to see amazing art
The story of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
‘The Grandest House in County Down’
Shop online
Official Hillsborough Castle & Gardens Guidebook
Descriptive, informative, authoritative - this superb guidebook is the best way to learn all there is about Hillsborough Castle and Gardens.
£4.99