Hillsborough

Introducing Hillsborough

Hillsborough is a name familiar to British ears as the official residence of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland – Hillsborough Castle is used to entertain visiting heads of state (US presidents George W Bush and Bill Clinton have both enjoyed its hospitality). It’s also the Queen’s official residence when she is in Northern Ireland.

The elegant little town of Hillsborough (Cromghlinn) was founded in the 1640s by Colonel Arthur Hill, who built a fort here to quell Irish insurgents. Fine Georgian architecture rings the square and lines Main St.

The tourist information centre (9268 9717; tic.hillsborough@lisburn.gov.uk; the Square; 9am-5.30pm Mon-Sat year-round, 2-6pm Sun Jul & Aug) is in the Georgian courthouse in the centre of the village.

Last updated: Jul 22, 2009