Hillsborough Castle was built in the 1770s by Wills Hill, first Marquis of Downshire, and was later remodeled in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, it is a working royal palace functioning as the official residence of the Royal Family when they are in Northern Ireland.

Explore the Castle's gardens at your own pace. Four paths take you through a contrast of ornamental grounds, peaceful woodland, meandering waterways and trimmed lawns. Take a look at the statue of Ossian outside the main entrance, the Lady Alice Temple, the Quaker burial ground and the Ice House.

Stroll through the gardens at your leisure and explore the magical woodland
Enjoy the splendour of an official residence of the Royal Family
Discover hidden treasures and beautiful blooms

Due to the natural terrain of the gardens some of paths are unsuitable for wheelchair users and those with restricted mobility
The concession ticket is applicable for seniors aged 65 years old and over, students and visitors with a registered disability
As you enter the site you will pass through our security area where bags and individuals may be searched
The following items are strictly banned from the premises: weapons, including knives, fireworks and smoke bombs, pepper spray or any other articles intended to cause injury and any article which is illegal to possess under UK law
Entry to 100 acres of world-famous royal gardens including the Imaginary Menagerie play trail, the 18th-century Walled Garden, the Granville Garden, Lady Alice's Temple and the Lost Garden
Visitors are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy picnics in the gardens
Children up to 15 years old must be accompanied by an adult
Children 4 years old and under get free access and do not require a ticket
Visitors are entitled to bring an accompanying carer free of charge. These complimentary adult carer tickets can be obtained on the day of your visit upon presentation of proof of registered disability
Assistance dogs are allowed into the grounds. Please bring the dog's 'Assistance Dog's (UK)' identification book (or appropriate international equivalent) and ensure that dogs wear their designated jacket or lead slip
Pushchairs are welcome in the gardens. Free lockers will be available for bag and buggy storage