Hillsborough Gardens

Historic Royal Palaces

Available until 30 November 2025

About Hillsborough Gardens in Lisburn, Belfast

  • Under 5's go FREE!
  • Age Restrictions: Suitable for all ages
  • Duration: Spend as long or as little onsite as you like. First admission is at 10am.
  • Location: Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, The Square, Hillsborough BT26 6AG
  • Tickets Include: Entry to 100 acres of historic gardens, Access to Lady Alice’s Temple, Granville Garden, Imaginary Menagerie play trail, 18th-Century Walled Garden, Free car parking, Full access to the castle shop, café, Wi-Fi, and visitor facilities
    This ticket does not include entry to Hillsborough Castle. Gardens-only tickets must be booked online in advance to guarantee entry.

Book Hillsborough Gardens tickets & explore 100 acres of royal tranquility in Northern Ireland

Step into a world of natural beauty at Hillsborough Gardens, part of the official royal residence in Northern Ireland. Managed by Historic Royal Palaces, these 100 acres of ornamental lawns, peaceful woodlands, and meandering waterways offer a serene escape near the city of Belfast. 

What can you see in Hillsborough Gardens?

  • Royal Gardens: Explore the grounds of Northern Ireland’s official royal residence
  • Lady Alice's Temple: Take a seat and soak up the tranquility in the temple, where former resident Secretary of State Mo Mowlam once found welcome respite from the pressures of politics
  • Yew Tree Walk: Discover the picturesque path that became the route of the original road to Moira, which passed in front of the house and into The Square
  • 18th-Century Walled Garden: Explore the 18th-century kitchen garden, fully-restored to it's former glory
  • Granville Garden: Created in the 1940's & 50's by Queen Elizabeth II's aunt, roam where Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret would play as children!
  • The Lake: Explore an expanse of picturesque waterways and magnificent giant sequoia trees in this secluded section of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. Look out for the flash of a blue kingfisher, goslings or even cute little cygnets in spring!
  • Garden Play Trail: A must-see if you're visiting with children! Explore the ultimate kids playground with the animal-inspired play trail throughout the Castle's gardens. 

Feeling peckish? Head to Hillsborough's award-winning cafe!

Feeling peckish after roaming the woodlands, lakes and gardens? Swing by Hillsborough Gardens' award-winning cafe for a rest.

Get comfortable and refuel yourself with a great range of hot and cold drinks and snacks - or if you've spotted the perfect picnic spot, bring a homemade lunch along with you and settle down for a munch on the royal residence. 

Whether you're strolling through rose-lined paths or discovering hidden woodland glades, Hillsborough Gardens offers a peaceful and picturesque escape. You can book your gardens-only ticket directly through Historic Royal Palaces.

Location

Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

The Square,
Hillsborough,
BT26 6AG
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How to find us

  • Car Park Postcode: BT26 6HR

To find Hillsborough Gardens, please copy the above postcode into your Sat Nav. This will direct you to the Car Park and Admissions.

Facilities
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Free parking
  • Toilets
  • Castle shop
  • Café/restaurant
  • Map
  • A limited number of wheelchairs available to borrow on a first come, first served basis
More Info
Are Hillsborough Gardens wheelchair accessible?

The estate is very large and spans over 1km from the Pineapple Yard to the State Entrance. Distance information has been included on the directional signs in the gardens.

  • Step-free routes:
  • Due to the natural terrain of the gardens, some paths are unsuitable for wheelchair users and those with restricted mobility. Some paths have steps and steep slopes that will become slippery in wet weather.
  • Step-free routes and ramps are available in both the Pineapple Yard and the Stable Yard. A step-free route between the Walled Garden and State Entrance is clearly marked on-site.
What age is Hillsborough Gardens suitable for?

Hillsborough Gardens are suitable for all ages! With a variety of areas to explore, there's something to see for all ages. 

What time can you enter Hillsborough Gardens?

You can enter the gardens at any time on the day of your visit, with first admission from 10am. 

Are Hillsborough Gardens dog-friendly?

Pets are not permitted within the castle, gardens, or café unless they are registered assistance pets.

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