About Hillsborough Castle Gardens
Royal residence gardens offering captivating heritage trails through beautiful grounds, with full wheelchair and pushchair access, complimentary wheelchair hire, baby facilities and refreshments available.
What's nearby
- Hillsborough Castle Cafe next door
- Hillsborough Castle and Gardens Shop 400m away
- Hillsborough Play Park 500m away
Distances as the crow flies, via Google
Good to know
Parking
- ✓Free car park
- ✓Paid car park
- ✓Free street
Accessibility
- ✓Accessible parking
- ✓Accessible entrance
- ✓Accessible seating
Details via Google — worth confirming with the attraction before you travel, especially for access needs.
Photos
Photos via Google
Facilities
Opening hours
- Monday
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What visitors say
Access to the House is by guided tour only so book a slot on arrival at the ticket desk and explore the grounds or have lunch till your allotted time. This is a working government building and royal residence and occasionally it closes for private events. We arrived on the Queen's birthday and the house was closed till noon but we got to see the 21 gun royal salute on the south lawn! Only a few rooms are included in the tour but the guide gave a first class insight in to its history and the many political events and characters associated with it. The formal gardens are extensive and beautifully planted and maintained. There was also a special exhibition on "Royal Style" showcasing the designers who made outfits for the royal family which was very informative.
· via Google
Place of historical significance, lovely gardens and amazing staff members! James at the ticket desk was the jewel of the castle - he speaks Japanese! Perfect for tourists from Japan! And the tour guide was really knowledgeable! Cafe in the garden had tasty hot food and fresh cakes that will melt on your tongue! We had an amazing weekend there and 5* experience!
· via Google
It's not allowed to take pictures or videos inside of the castle. The staff was very knowledgeable and shared quite bit of political tidbit. The garden is very beautiful, it's quite enjoyable experience to follow the trail.
· via Google
Fabulous place. Walled gardens, children's areas, woods, green spaces, stream. House tour is excellent. This visit I was in a wheelchair pushed by my daughter and had my grandman who is on the spectrum. The staff were incredible. Mobility bus was used for going up. Food in the cafe is delicious with plenty of options. Also if on UC it's a £1, with money off food purchases. A full day out.
· via Google
Visitors say this historic site features stunning, expansive gardens with well-maintained pathways and a variety of plants, offering a serene escape. They also highlight the informative and engaging guided castle tours, which provide fascinating insights into its rich history. Guests mention the delicious food and ample choices in the cafe, along with the friendly and helpful staff.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- 301-303 Hillsborough Road, Hillsborough, BT26 6TH Get directions
- Category
- Castles & Palaces
- Guest rating
- 4.7 / 5 (2,226 reviews)
- Suitable for
- All Ages
- Suggested visit
- 2-3 hours
- Setting
- Indoor & outdoor
- Good for children
- Yes
- Destination
- Belfast