Gardens spring with activity at Hillsborough Castle

Capture a kaleidoscope of colour this springtime at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens as Historic Royal Palaces welcomes visitors back to savour the sights and sounds of the season as the gardens spring with activity. From Bulbs and Blooms, the Lindt GOLD BUNNY Hunt, workshops celebrating Easter and St. Patrick’s Day, a Good Journey promotion offering a 20% entry discount to those arriving by bus and a new display to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, the Castle will blossom with new things to do across its 100-acre estate. 

Bulbs and Blooms – 14 March to 4 May

Stroll into a sea of springtime activity as the gardens of Hillsborough Castle burst into colour, with bright blankets of bluebells, sunny swatches of daffodils, and technicolour tubs of tulips. Throughout the grounds, witness the beauty of narcissuses, hyacinths, camellias, apple blossom and rhododendrons, and view a stunning selection of Northern Irish daffodils. Equipped with a Bulb and Blooms guide, visitors can hunt for the different planted varieties across the Castle’s gardens.  

St. Patrick’s Day and Mother’s Day Weekend – 14 March to 15 March

Join Keeper of the Walled Garden, Daniel Coombes, on 14 March as he introduces a range of fruit and vegetables being grown this year, with demonstrations on how to plant potatoes, prune roses and sow early seed. All tools and equipment are supplied; visitors are advised to wear sturdy footwear and outdoor clothing. 

On 15 March, listen to traditional storytelling and music as renowned storyteller Eamonn Keenan and musician Aodan MacSeafriadh bring Irish folklore to life. Both events are suitable for families with children aged 3+ and are free with a garden ticket. Meanwhile, this Mother’s Day weekend (14 – 15 March), mums will get free entry to the gardens and a discounted Castle tour ticket (valid only for 15th March).

Royal Style In The Making – 15 March 2026 to 3 January 2027

In March, a popular royal fashion exhibition will return to Hillsborough Castle for a second year running, exploring the world of the royal couturier and the working relationship between fashion designer and royal client. Royal Style In The Making reveals the creative process and craftsmanship behind clothing destined for the world stage while exploring how fashion shaped the style and image of the monarchy throughout the twentieth century. Visitors will have the rare opportunity to see original sketches, fabric swatches and embroidery samples from the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection, as well as three spectacular garments created for the late Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Margaret and Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother.

America 250 at Hillsborough Castle – From 15 March

In 2026, the United States marks 250 years since the Declaration of Independence. Hillsborough Castle and Gardens has long played a role in US–Northern Ireland relations, hosting distinguished visitors from Presidents to Princes, and serving as the backdrop for conversations that have supported peace and partnership. Less known is its link to America’s independence story: in 1771, US founding father Benjamin Franklin met with Secretary of State for the Colonies, Wills Hill— the man who built the castle —to discuss American affairs. Their cordial dialogue over five days later soured when Hill blamed Franklin for his political downfall. To mark America 250, Hillsborough Castle and Gardens will present a curated display of related letters, portraits, and artefacts, along with the return of the popular American History tour.

Lindt GOLD BUNNY Hunt – 28 March to 12 April

This Easter, embark on an enchanting seasonal adventure with the Lindt GOLD BUNNY Hunt, returning for a third year due to popular demand. Visitors can challenge themselves to the Easter Championships, a series of nature-inspired games set across 100 acres. Along the way, search for elusive Lindt GOLD BUNNY statues peeking out from colourful blooms as each stop features a playful game. Completion of the trail includes a delicious miniature Lindt GOLD BUNNY 10g chocolate treat. On Easter Monday (6 April) and Tuesday (7 April), families can also take part in a kite-making workshop, where children can create and fly their own kites. This is a ticketed event, suitable for children aged 3+ with parental supervision. 

Spring Flower Show – 4 April

Garden aficionados can revisit the annual Spring Flower Show returning to Hillsborough Castle on Saturday 4 April. In partnership with the Northern Ireland Daffodil Group, visitors can peruse hundreds of varieties of daffodils and spring flowers across 6 sections with 100 classes on the theme of sustainability. The Castle’s gardening team will lead free flower arranging demonstrations included in all admission tickets throughout the afternoon, from 13:00 – 17:00. 

Claire Woods, Head Gardener at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, said: “We’re thrilled to offer a vibrant programme of activity at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens this spring. Bulbs and Blooms will showcase hundreds of varieties of stunning plants and flowers, all carefully handplanted and curated by our expert gardening team across 100-acres. Visitors can embark on a trail through the grounds with the Lindt GOLD BUNNY Hunt and enjoy our Easter and St Patrick’s Day workshops, learning new gardening skills and techniques.”