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 HILLSBOROUGH CASTLE
The Square
HILLSBOROUGH
Co Down
BT26 6AG
Contact name: Mr George Harkness
Title: General Manager
Phone: 028 9268 1308
Fax: 028 9268 3368
Email: george.harkness@nio.x.gsi.gov.uk
Group Bookings:
Phone: 028 9268 1309
Email: hillsborough.castle@nio.x.gsi.gov.uk
Hillsborough Castle is a late 18th Century mansion house situated in the heart of Hillsborough village. The Castle was the seat of the Hill family, who held the title of Marquis of Downshire. In 1922 the government bought the Castle from the Hills and it became the home of the Governor of Northern Ireland. From 1972 until today it has been the official residence of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.
The Castle can be viewed from The Square in Hillsborough through the splendid wrought iron gates that originaly adorned Richill Castle and were made by two brothers named Thornberry. The gates were brought to Hillsborought for preservation and are an excellent example of iron craftsmanship
Visitors taking a guided tour of the Castle will learn some of the history of the Hill family and the Governors, and hear about the Castle's role in more recent events in Northern Ireland, for example the Good Friday agreement was signed here. You will be able to view many interesting items of furniture, and works of art, including an exhibition of paintings by local artist Carol Graham.
The Castle is Government owned and is used on state occasions and is home to the Royal family on their visits to Northern Ireland. It has also played host to Presidents Clinton and Bush for meetings with Tony Blair.
Visitors are also encouraged to view the gardens, which contain many interesting plants and trees, including the largest rhododendron bush in Europe.
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