Things to do in Hillsborough

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

A church with a tall spire, surrounded by lush green trees and a well-maintained lawn.
A historic castle with two towers, arched windows, and a red door.
A tranquil garden with a pond, a white gazebo, lush greenery, and a weeping willow tree.
A large stone building with a central entrance, surrounded by well-manicured gardens and a fountain.

Hillsborough Attractions

They say that the best things come in small packages, and this intriguing city is no exception to the rule. From outstanding tourist attractions to exciting excursions, there's a wealth of things to do in Hillsborough.

Explore the sights of Hillsborough with some popular tours & day trips, or check out our list of {299 fun activities in Hillsborough fun activities in Hillsborough}. We have no booking fees as well as free cancellation, so you can rest easy and focus on planning the perfect vacation.

Things to do

From Belfast: Giant's Causeway Full-Day Guided Trip

From Belfast: Giant's Causeway Full-Day Guided Trip

$33
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
From Belfast: Giant's Causeway Full-Day Guided Trip
Game of Thrones and Giant's Causeway Day Tour from Belfast

Game of Thrones and Giant's Causeway Day Tour from Belfast

$33
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Game of Thrones and Giant's Causeway Day Tour from Belfast
Afternoon Giant’s Causeway Half Day Tour from Belfast

Afternoon Giant’s Causeway Half Day Tour from Belfast

$38
per adult
72% of travellers recommend
Afternoon Giant’s Causeway Half Day Tour from Belfast
Enjoy 90 minutes at leisure to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site

Afternoon Giant's Causeway Half Day Tour from Belfast

$39
per adult
84% of travellers recommend
Afternoon Giant's Causeway Half Day Tour from Belfast
Carrick-a-Rede Viewpoint

Giants Causeway and Castles from Belfast: Guided Tour

$33
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Giants Causeway and Castles from Belfast: Guided Tour
Guided Day Tour: Giant's Causeway from Belfast

Guided Day Tour of Giant's Causeway from Belfast by Comfortable Coach

$61
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Guided Day Tour of Giant's Causeway from Belfast by Comfortable Coach
Belfast Sightseeing Tour Hop on Hop Off

Belfast : Hop-on Hop-Off Belfast Open Top Bus Tour

$27
per adult
Belfast : Hop-on Hop-Off Belfast Open Top Bus Tour
From Belfast: Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour

From Belfast: Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour

$31
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
From Belfast: Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour
Game of Thrones Studio Tour Admission Ticket

Official Game of Thrones Studio Tour Admission Ticket

$34
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Official Game of Thrones Studio Tour Admission Ticket
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Hillsborough must see attractions

1. Titanic Belfast

The Titanic Belfast is a large complex, with the appearance of a gleaming iceberg rising above the skyline near the River Lagan. It tells the story of the RMS Titanic, which sank on its maiden voyage from Southampton to New York in 1912. Learn the true story of the ship that inspired a 1997 Oscar-winning movie.
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A modern building with geometric patterns and illuminated signage.

2. Belfast City Hall

The green domes of Belfast City Hall are proud symbols of the capital of Northern Ireland. The hall’s primary use is for the city council to gather and discuss policies, but its pleasant green areas and open courtyard attract students and vacationers. Learn about Belfast’s fascinating past at the site responsible for city government.
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A large historic building with a green dome and two towers.

3. Grand Opera House

Delight your senses with your choice of performances at the Grand Opera House in the heart of Belfast. The building was constructed in an Oriental style at the end of the 19th century. Select from musicals, dramas, operas, dance shows and comedies for an entertaining evening in the Northern Ireland capital.
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A grand, ornate theater with multiple balconies and red seating.

4. Victoria Square Shopping Centre

Whether you have expensive tastes or get your retail thrills from grabbing a bargain, Victoria Square Shopping Centre offers something to suit you. This bustling mall is at the heart of Belfast’s main shopping district. Head here to find everything you need to fill a whole day, from great shopping to entertainment and eating options. Make sure you bring a camera so you can capture the gorgeous views of Belfast that are visible through the building’s glass roof.
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A multi-level shopping mall with a glass ceiling, a tree with flowers, and various stores including a cinema and restaurants.

5. Waterfront Hall

Planning for the Waterfront Hall, on Lanyon Place on the riverfront, began in 1989 and construction finished in 1997, the same year it opened its doors.
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A circular building with a glass facade, a Hilton hotel, and a modern skyscraper in the background.

Recommended things to do in Hillsborough

Number of things to do
299
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Belfast: Line Dancing Class with Instructor (BYOB): $3
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Hillsborough

Free Things to Do in Hillsborough

A trip to Hillsborough need not cost a fortune. You can leave your wallet behind if you go to:

St Malachy's Parish Church - Do some soul searching or just take in the peaceful ambiance at this place of worship.

Things to Do in Hillsborough with Kids

There are loads of incredible experiences in Hillsborough that the entire gang will love. Here are some of the most popular family friendly experiences in the area.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Hillsborough? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Hillsborough attractions

Hillsborough Castle

9.2/10 (12 reviews)
Grand Hillsborough Castle is the official residence for the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, and is where members of the British Royal Family customarily reside when in the country. In 1920, this 18th century Georgian manor was sold by the sixth Marquess of Downshire to the British government (it is not actually a castle and the name Hillsborough derives from the Hill family that built it, and the surrounding village). Since then, it has played host to numerous British and foreign dignitaries, including former President George W Bush.
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Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Hillsborough

A marina with various boats docked, a clear blue sky, and a building in the background.

Craigavon

A detailed metal model of a historical building complex, including plaques with inscriptions.

Ballynahinch

A tall monument with inscriptions and a statue on top.

Dromore

A wooden boardwalk beside a cascading waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.

Lisburn

Frequently asked questions

Is Hillsborough worth visiting?
Renowned for its walking trails and festivals, finding awesome things to do in Hillsborough is a cinch. Be sure to add Hillsborough Castle to your itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Hillsborough?
Once you've checked off key attractions like Hillsborough Castle and Colin Glen Forest Park, spend some time enjoying Hillsborough's retail and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Hillsborough?
Hillsborough Castle is one of the top tourist attractions in Hillsborough and deserves a spot on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Hillsborough?
You can easily visit popular attractions like Hillsborough Castle, Lisburn Leisure Park and Temple Golf and Country Club with a three-day stay in Hillsborough. On average, most travelers book two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stay a little longer and venture to Belfast.
What are some activities to do in Hillsborough with kids?
Deciding what to do in Hillsborough with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're getting away with teenagers or little ones, there are lots of family-friendly sights and activities to keep them busy here.

What to do in Hillsborough for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Hillsborough, with experiences for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to The Club Spa or Irish Linen Centre and Museum.
Are there free things to do in Hillsborough?
From checking out parks to wandering around vibrant neighborhoods, it's a breeze to discover free things to do in Hillsborough. If you're in need of ideas, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. St Malachy's Parish Church is a great spot for anyone wanting to save on their sightseeing activities.

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