Hillsborough

Since 2021 Hillsborough has been officially called Royal Hillsborough, a nod to this beautiful town for being home of Hillsborough Castle, which is the British Royal Family’s official residence in Northern Ireland. The castle, and its gardens, is one of the primary local landmarks, but Hillsborough also has a lot of lovely Georgian architecture, plus graceful gardens, a forest park and lake, and a couple of very fine Gothic Revival churches. The best places to stay in Hillsborough tend to be charming Georgian conversions, or accommodations converted from farms on the outskirts of town.

Hillsborough is a great base for anyone who wants to see the local sights, as well as those of neighbouring Belfast, but who would prefer to stay somewhere peaceful. Hillsborough Castle, a two storey Georgian mansion built in 1770 for the 1st Earl of Hillsborough, is open to visitors for part of the year, and you can also explore the castle’s grounds.

The best places to stay in Hillsborough will also appeal to walkers. This part of County Down is spectacular, and Hillsborough’s friendly atmosphere and regular fresh produce market make it great place to stop and recharge from any great trail. Hillsborough’s arts centre, local distillery and Lisburn Museum provide some indoor alternatives if the weather turns unfavourable.

The Best Places to Stay in Hillsborough

For a Weekend Escape

• The Baytree Boutique B&B is a two bedroom B&B, charmingly converted from a stone farm building in a quiet spot. This is an ideal choice for a country escape; it's romantic and intimate, and yet close to all the sightseeing treasures of Belfast.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Hillsborough?

• Hillsborough’s closest airports are Belfast’s Belfast International Airport and George Best Belfast City Airport. Belfast International Airport is about 25 minutes away by taxi or car, or just shy of two hours by bus. Belfast City Airport is only about 20 minutes away by car, or an hour and a quarter by bus.
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• The Belfast region is a year round choice for visitors, but you can usually expect it to be busier during the school holidays, and the summer months. If you’re hoping for nice weather the best time to visit Hillsborough is probably between April and June, because the days are quite long, and the spring flowers are beautiful. St. Patrick’s Day is a big local celebration, and Easter is done well here too.

Still not sure where to stay?

• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in County Antrim or the best places to stay in County Down
• Consider the best places to stay in Belfast
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Hillsborough