Explore this intimate corner, full of colour and intriguing details
The Glen at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens is a typical Victorian garden feature, which comes to life in spring and summer.
See colourful magnolias, camelias and rhododendrons, deciduous azaleas and spectacular Embothrium from early March to late May.
Then in summer the luxuriant ferns create a shady area to sit and listen to the stream — an ideal stop on your wander through the gardens on a sunny day.
The Grotto
Look out for the statue of Ossian and accompanying bench and stones in the Grotto, which together tell the story of legendary Irish poet Ossian and the castle's links to the Romantic movement and the Gaelic Revival.
When
In line with gardens opening hours
Ticketing information
Included in all admission tickets (Members go free)
Buy Hillsborough Castle and Gardens ticketsExplore what's on
- Things to see
Walled Garden
Enter the castle grounds through this 18th-century walled garden, which has been expertly restored using traditional methods.
- In line with gardens opening hours
- Hillsborough Castle
- Included in all admission tickets (Members go free)
- Things to see
Granville Garden
Take a moment in this elegant rose garden created by Lady Granville, aunt to Queen Elizabeth II.
- In line with gardens opening hours
- Hillsborough Castle
- Included in all admission tickets (Members go free)
- Things to see
The Lake
Explore an expanse of picturesque waterways and magnificent giant sequoia trees in this secluded section of the castle grounds
- In line with gardens opening hours
- Hillsborough Castle
- Included in all admission tickets (Members go free)
Browse more history and stories
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’
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