Hillsborough Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food to try, and activities to do in Hillsborough, Northern Ireland. Plan your trip now with this comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Hillsborough

Nestled in the heart of County Down, Hillsborough is a charming town in Northern Ireland that boasts a rich history and breathtaking natural beauty. The town is home to stunning Georgian architecture, fascinating museums, excellent restaurants and pubs, and easy access to outdoor adventure activities. Hillsborough is also known for its great hospitality and warm welcome to visitors.

List of Places to Visit in Hillsborough

If you’re planning a trip to Hillsborough, these are the top places you wouldn’t want to miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hillsborough Castle - the official residence of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, the castle dates back as far as the 18th century;
  • Hillsborough Fort - an ancient fortification site that was used as a military base in the 17th century;
  • Hillsborough Courthouse - a historic courthouse that still operates to this day, visitors can take a guided tour to see the historic architecture of the building.

Natural Attractions of Hillsborough: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Down Royal Racecourse - one of the best racecourses in Ireland, where visitors can catch a race or enjoy local events;
  • Hillsborough Forest Park - a beautiful natural reserve that offers walking paths, scenic picnic areas, wildlife, and spectacular views of the countryside;
  • Hillsborough Lake - a charming lake located at the center of the town perfect for a leisurely walk or an afternoon picnic.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hillsborough

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Hillsborough offers plenty of hiking and biking trails, including:

  • Down Royal Circuit - A 6.7-mile back trail that features a lake and is perfect for all skill levels;
  • Hillsborough Forest Park Trail - A 2.1-mile loop trail that offers scenic views of the lake and the park;
  • Hillsborough Village Trail - A 2.3-mile loop trail that takes visitors through the charming village and its historic landmarks.

Best Things to Do in Hillsborough: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Hillsborough:

  • Take a historic tour around Hillsborough Castle and explore the scenic gardens;
  • Visit the stunning Down Cathedral, one of Ireland’s oldest buildings;
  • Watch live horse racing at the popular Down Royal Racecourse;
  • Relax and enjoy nature at the beautiful Hillsborough Forest Park.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hillsborough

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Hillsborough, this itinerary can guide you:

Day 1 Visit Hillsborough Castle, and then enjoy a relaxing stroll through the Hillsborough Walled Gardens
Day 2 Set off on a nature walk in the Hillsborough Forest Park or visit the popular Down Royal Racecourse
Day 3 Take a guided tour of the historic Hillsborough Courthouse, and then hike around Kilwarlin Moravian Church
Day 4 Have a cup of tea and enjoy the local atmosphere and street life at Lisburn’s artsy plaza
Day 5 Explore the scenic countryside with the Mourne Mountains Scenic Drive
Day 6 Visit Saint Patrick’s Grave and learn more about the rich Irish history in the surrounding countryside, then take a nice break at the local pubs
Day 7 Experience the Springhill House and take a tour at this beautiful and historic building.

Food and Drink Scene of Hillsborough

If you’re a foodie and looking for a unique culinary experience, Hillsborough won’t disappoint. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages you shouldn’t miss:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Irish Stew - a hearty and flavorful stew made with lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions;
  • Ulster Fry - a popular breakfast dish in Northern Ireland, which includes sausages, bacon, fried eggs, black pudding, and potato bread;
  • Champ - a creamy mashed potato dish that is flavored with scallions and butter.

Local Beverages

  • Guinness - an Irish classic, a creamy and delicious stout that is famous around the world;
  • Whiskey - Northern Ireland is home to some of the finest whiskey in the world with local distilleries such as Bushmills;
  • Traditional Apple Cider - locally produced, crisp and refreshing, a perfect drink to quench your thirst.

Where to Stay in Hillsborough: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some of the best accommodations in Hillsborough:

  • The Old Schoolhouse Inn - a charming inn in the center of the town, featuring beautiful decor and upscale dining experience;
  • Hillsborough Castle Guest House - a cozy and comfortable guesthouse that is just a few minutes walk from the Hillsborough Castle;
  • Down Royal House - a luxury bed and breakfast with modern facilities and a stunning rural setting.

What to Buy in Hillsborough: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Hillsborough offers plenty of unique shopping experiences, and some items you might want to consider bringing home include:

  • Local pottery and crafts, including hand-blown glass;
  • Traditional Irish linen and hand-embroidered pieces;
  • A bottle of local whiskey or Irish cider as a gift for friends and family.

Local Culture and Customs of Hillsborough

Hillsborough residents are known for their hospitality and warm welcome to visitors, and guests are encouraged to respect local customs, including:

  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites or attending formal events;
  • Be mindful of local wildlife when hiking in the countryside;
  • Always tip your servers when dining out.

Best Time to Visit Hillsborough

The best time to visit Hillsborough is during the summer months, between May and September. This is when the weather is warm and dry, and the town is bustling with activity.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hillsborough

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your trip to Hillsborough:

Do:

  • Take your time to explore the scenic countryside and the charming village;
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages;
  • Visit the historic castles, forts, and museums to learn more about the town’s rich history.

Don’t:

  • Ignore local customs or laws;
  • Leave litter in the parks or other public areas;
  • Forget your rain gear as the weather can be unpredictable, make sure you bring appropriate waterproof or wet weather clothing.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hillsborough

Hillsborough is a safe town with a low crime rate. Visitors are advised to take normal precautions, such as avoiding unlit streets at night and keeping valuables secure.

Health in Hillsborough

Medical care is available through the Hillsborough Ambulatory Care Centre, and visitors are strongly advised to have travel insurance for full coverage during their stay.

Getting to Hillsborough: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hillsborough

The closest airport to Hillsborough is Belfast International Airport, located approximately 15 miles away. From there, you can take a taxi, bus, or rent a car to get to the town.

Bus Stations Near Hillsborough

Hillsborough is well connected to the surrounding towns and cities by the local bus network. Translink Bus Company provides a range of services to and from Hillsborough.

Other Options

Visitors can also take advantage of the area’s excellent road network and hire a car to explore Hillsborough and the surrounding areas at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Hillsborough

Hillsborough is a compact town, and the best way to get around is on foot. There are also some affordable local taxis and rental cars available for hire.

Where to Go Next from Hillsborough: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore, then here are some nearby destinations you might consider visiting:

  • Belfast - the capital of Northern Ireland, and home to the Titanic Belfast Museum and many other historic and cultural attractions;
  • Giant’s Causeway - a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Ireland. It is also known for its breathtaking views and historic significance;
  • Dublin - the capital of the Republic of Ireland, just a few hours drive from Northern Ireland, offering visitors great experiences with its vibrant culture, world-famous landmarks, and a range of activities for all interests.

Conclusion

Hillsborough is truly a gem of Northern Ireland, with its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and great hospitality. If you’re looking for a unique and memorable travel experience, Hillsborough definitely has something special in store. Whether you’re into outdoor adventure, cultural landmarks, or food and drink, you’re sure to find plenty of things to do and see in Hillsborough. We hope this guide has been helpful, and we wish you a great adventure in Hillsborough!

Hillsborough Castle Hillsborough Castle St Malachy's Parish Church St Malachy's Parish Church