Essential information for visiting Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
Visit essentials
Getting here
Hillsborough Castle and Gardens,
Car park postcode: BT26 6TY. Please note, this postcode is not yet live on all search engines. Alternatively follow the brown tourist signs on the A1.
For free on-site parking, please follow the brown tourist signs on the A1 south to our sign-posted car park entrance. Entrance is via the Weston Pavilion. If you are visiting the castle, you should aim to arrive on site up to 45 minutes prior to your booked time slot to allow time to make your way to the castle State Entrance. There is a pedestrian entrance to the gardens from Hillsborough village.
Opening times
Gardens
26 May - 29 September 2024
Wednesday - Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00. Last entry one hour before closing.
Castle
26 May - 29 September 2024
Wednesday - Sunday: From 11:00. Last timeslot: 15:00.
Tickets and prices
Visit Hillsborough Castle and over 100 acres of ornamental lawns, peaceful woodlands and picturesque glens throughout the seasons.
Dogs are not permitted within the gardens and café unless they are trained assistance dogs.
Castle and Gardens ticket prices from (excluding donation):
- Members: Free
- Adult: £20.20
- Child: £10.10
We offer all the essential facilities to ensure your visit is safe and enjoyable.
- Map
- Toilets open - with disabled access and baby change facilities
- Hand washing and hand sanitiser facilities
- Only trained assistance dogs are permitted
- A limited number of wheelchairs available to borrow on a first come, first served basis, sanitised between each use.
Breastfeeding is welcome throughout the Castle and Gardens and our team are always on hand should you need any further assistance
Disabled visitors are entitled to bring an accompanying adult/carer free of charge.
We support the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme, a discreet way to indicate to people that you need additional support, help or a little more time. We have Sunflower lanyards available to borrow from the Visitors Centre next to the A1 car park.
Explore the gardens and then enjoy delicious food and drink from our café.
Hillsborough Castle Café:
Located in the Weston Pavilion, Pineapple Yard.
Shop for gifts and souvenirs inspired by this famous royal residence.
Our shops offer everything from souvenirs and gifts, to fine jewellery. You can also shop online and non-EU residents can buy tax-free.
We offer reduced admission for groups of 15 people or more.
Enjoy a castle tour and all-day entry to 100 acres of world-famous historic gardens.
Bookings are now open for the 2023-24 academic year.
Interactive and enquiry-based sessions are available for all key stages and SEND students.
What to see on your visit
For your visit to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, we recommend at least three hours to discover the spectacular gardens and State rooms.
Things to see and doTaste of the gardens afternoon tea
Enjoy a garden-inspired afternoon tea in the Weston Pavilion Café and experience the wonderful gardens. (Gardens entry not included but can be purchased on arrival).
Discounted for members.
The Imaginary Menagerie
Explore our animal-inspired play trail throughout the Castle's gardens, taking you on adventures celebrating the animals and wildlife that have made, and continue to make, Hillsborough their home.
The Imaginary MenagerieHillsborough Castle and Gardens map
Hillsborough Castle and Gardens map
Food and drink
Enjoy delicious food and drink from our café using the best of local produce and seasonal fruit and veg from Hillsborough Castle's historic Walled Garden.
Food and drinkGot a question?
Browse our frequently asked questions to help plan your visit.
Frequently asked questions Visit safelyEXPLORE WHAT'S ON
- Families
Summer Music In The Gardens
Spend a summer afternoon relaxing in the gardens and listening to music.
- Until 17 August
- 14:00 - 16:00
- Hillsborough Castle
- Included in all admission tickets (members go free)
- Events
- Families
Hillsborough Castle Summer Fair
Celebrate the bank holiday weekend at this three-day event with fun, music, and artisanal delights.
- 24 - 26 August 2024
- In line with gardens opening hours
- Hillsborough Castle
- Event and admission combined ticket (members go free)
- Tours and talks
- Events
Garden Workshops
Join our expert gardeners in workshops and explore Hillsborough Castle's historic gardens.
- Until 14 September 2024
- 10.30 - 12.30
- Hillsborough Castle
- Separate ticket (advance booking required)