Explore 100 acres of royal tranquillity in Northern Ireland
Step into a world of natural beauty at Hillsborough Gardens, part of the official royal residence in Northern Ireland.
- 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.
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 tranquillity 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 café!
Feeling peckish after roaming the woodlands, lakes and gardens? Swing by Hillsborough Gardens' award-winning café 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.