Step into more than 300 years of history at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, a Georgian estate and official royal residence just 20 minutes from Belfast. This grand property has welcomed heads of state, hosted pivotal peace talks—including those surrounding the Good Friday Agreement—and remains an important ceremonial base in Northern Ireland. Guests can explore the beautifully furnished State Rooms, including the Throne Room, Red Room, and State Dining Room, all still in use for royal and government events today. Castle hosts share insights into the estate’s role in diplomacy, celebration, and politics.
Outside, the 100-acre gardens offer a peaceful retreat with formal landscaping, lush meadows, and winding woodland paths. Highlights include the Walled Garden, Moss Walk, Yew Tree Walk, and Lady Alice’s Temple. Keep an eye out for rare plants and heritage trees as you explore. Be sure to pick up a Garden Explorer map for a deeper look at the grounds. Locally sourced food and drink are available at the on-site café.

Duration:
Approximately 3 hours

Start Time:
To be confirmed at time of booking

Inclusions:
Entry to the stunning Castle State Rooms, with their fascinating royal and political history and spectacular art collections, All day entry to 100 acres of world-famous historic gardens, Free car parking and full access to the castle shop, café, wifi and onsite visitor facilities

Exclusions:
Transport to/from hotel, Gratuities

Meeting point:
Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, BT26 6TY

Ending point:
Same as a meeting location

Important Information:
For the castle visit, please aim to arrive on site up to 45 minutes prior to your booked time slot as the castle is a 20-30 minute walk from the car park.

The time slot provided is for entrance to the Castle. The gardens can be entered at anytime from opening with your ticket.

There are a limited number of wheelchairs available to borrow on a first come, first served basis.

Cafe and gift shop available on site.

Vouchers must be presented and exchanged at the ticket desk.

This tour operates January-June, September-December (from Wednesday to Sunday), July-August (from Monday to Sunday). CASTLE Time: April-September 11am-3:30pm and January-March, October-December: 11am-2:30pm. GARDENS Time: April-September 10am-6pm (Last entry to gardens 1 hour before closing) and January-March, October-December 10am-5pm (Last entry to gardens 1 hour before closing). Tour not operates on 24-26 December.