Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

Visit the charming Hillsborough Castle and Gardens located in Northern Ireland, just 20 minutes from Belfast. Built by Will Hills in the 1770s, Hillsborough Castle is in fact an Irish Big House rather than a castle. Open to the public, guests can enter inside and admire the beauty of the state rooms and gardens.

The Castle

Discover the rich history of Hillsborough as you step inside the state rooms that make up the elegant Georgian home. With your Hillsborough Castle ticket, you’ll have access to the Throne Room, State Drawing Room, Lady Grey’s Study, State Dining Room, Red Room, and Stair Hall. Throughout the self-guided tour, there will be expert hosts on hand to provide fascinating facts about each room.

Throughout the year, there are often Hillsborough Castle events and exhibitions that take place and are complimentary with your ticket. Providing guests with a deeper insight into the royal heritage of Hillsborough, this is always a great experience!

The Gardens

Wander the gorgeous gardens that surround the castle and discover the stunning woodlands, waterways, and meadows. With over 100 acres of land, the Hillsborough Gardens are home to vibrant flowers, rare plants, and fresh vegetables.

Take a seat at Lady Alice’s Temple for a quiet moment of reflection. The small temple was gifted to Lady Alice Hill as a wedding gift from her brother in 1867. Today, it has been restored and is open to the public. With beautiful views of the gardens and a pond in front of the temple, this space offers a moment of tranquillity.

Granville Garden is one of the most beautiful areas of Hillsborough and offers picturesque views and astonishing photo opportunities. Named after Lady Granville, the aunt of Queen Elizabeth II, Granville Garden is a Royal favourite. Lady Granville enjoyed gardening and spent years developing this garden during the 1940s and 1950s. Today, it is bursting with colour and was often visited by Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret as young princesses.