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Hillsborough Fort

The Square, Royal Hillsborough, County Down, BT26 6AG
Hillsborough Fort

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About

This is an artillery fort built in 1650 by Colonel Arthur Hill, part of the Hill family that built the village of Hillsborough, and they started with this fort. It was remodelled in the 18th Century for feasts and entertainment, and is an iconic landmark nestled in picturesque parkland.

Built to protect the road leading from Carrickfergus to Dublin, the fort has been a place of power, play and pleasure for more than 400 years. In 1837, the Fort was used to celebrate the marriage of Lord Hillsborough, eldest son of the third Marquess, Arthur Hill.

Although the fort is inaccesible to the public, the grounds are open and make for a lovely space for picnics, and lead onto the forest and lake.

There is limited wheelchair access on this site. 

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Facilities

Accessibility

  • Guide dogs permitted

Provider Preferences

  • Free (parking charges may apply)

Guide Prices

Ticket TypeTicket Tariff
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Free admission

Events

Friday, 13th December 2024 - Friday, 13th December 2024

Royal Hillsborough Christmas Market on The Dark Walk in the villageRoyal Hillsborough Christmas MarketCelebrate the season with festive fun, artisan food and discover the perfect gift from our local makers at the Royal Hillsborough Christmas Market. The market is set in the treelined historic Dark Walk and Hillsborough Fort from 3pm-9pm.
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Tel+44 (0) 28 9082 3207

Map & Directions

Opening Times

* Grounds Only open to the public

Monday - Saturday: 10:00 - 16:00
Sunday: 11:00 - 16:00
Closing of gates commences 15 mins before site closure time

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Map & Directions

Road Directions

Directions from Town: From Lisburn, take the M1 countrywise to next exit for Sprucefield. Take the A1 Belfast to Dublin Road and approaching the Hillsborough Roundabout take the slip road to Hillsborough. Drive through to the far end of Hillsborough to The Square. The black pedestrian gates of Hillsborough Fort are on the left hand side, opposite Hillsborough Courthouse/VIC.

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