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Royal Hillsborough Christmas Market

The Dark Walk at Hillsborough Fort, Main Street, Royal Hillsborough, County Down, BT26 6AG
Royal Hillsborough Christmas Market on The Dark Walk in the village

About

Royal Hillsborough Christmas Market Returns for Two Enchanting Days!

The beloved Royal Hillsborough Christmas Market is back, ready to transform The Dark Walk at Hillsborough Fort into a stunning festive avenue of stalls, entertainment and street food.

This year's event is running over two magical evenings: Friday 12th December from 3pm-9pm and Saturday 13th December from 12pm-6pm.

Get ready for an incredible weekend of local crafts, gourmet food, live music, and family fun, all set against the historic backdrop of Hillsborough Fort.

Festive Artisan Food & Drink

This year’s lineup has fantastic traders from across Lisburn & Castlereagh and beyond. You will be spoilt for choice with the number of stalls selling Christmas gifts, foodie treats and festive staples. 

You can stock up your pantry and bar as you explore the wide range of food and drink stalls. Find artisan spirits like gin, rum and whiskey from local distilleries, speciality tea and Coffee, cheese and deli products (including charcuterie and smoked salmon), sweet treats, farm produce and preserves and lots of delicious festive bakes. 

Street Food

There will be a delicious selection of hot drinks and delicious food to choose from to enjoy at the market set against the beautiful backdrop of Hillsborough Fort.

Unique gifts from local artists and crafters

You'll find unique treasures including ceramics & pottery (with lots of special Christmas ornaments), art and prints (including cards and cushions), jewellery and accessories, home fragrance & gifts, gifts for pets, and much more. Lots of locally made products that will be perfect for stocking fillers and beautiful Christmas presents.

Live Music

We’re delighted to have live music from local voices - the festive sounds of Downshire Primary School, local acoustic musicians, ukulele and adult choirs.  

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Facilities

Accessibility

  • All areas accessible to disabled visitors
  • Guide dogs permitted
  • Toilets for disabled visitors

Establishment Features

  • Pets accepted - Well-behaved dogs welcome

Guide Prices

Ticket TypeTicket Tariff
TicketFree

Note: Prices are a guide only and may change on a daily basis.

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Hillsborough Fort, Royal HillsboroughOwned by Historic Royal Palaces, Hillsborough Fort was constructed in the 17th Century, and sits nestled in picturesque parkland in the heart of the town. 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.

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Tel+44 (0)28 9244 7622

Map & Directions

Opening Times

Season (12 Dec 2025 - 13 Dec 2025)
DayTimes
Friday15:00 - 21:00
Saturday12:00 - 18:00

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Explore More

Hillsborough Fort, Royal HillsboroughOwned by Historic Royal Palaces, Hillsborough Fort was constructed in the 17th Century, and sits nestled in picturesque parkland in the heart of the town. 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.

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