The countdown is on until we launch our brand NEW food festival in the stunning grounds of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. 

Join us this summer for a majestic day out exploring 100 acres of beautiful gardens and enjoy a unique festival on the South Lawn filled with delicious artisan producers, street food, cookery demos, local experts, live entertainment and more. 

Read our top 10 reasons not to miss this years first ever Hillsborough Castle and Gardens Food Festival! 

1. The Kitchen...

   Live cookery demos!

   Take a seat in The Kitchen to watch top chefs and experts cooking LIVE! Soak up the flavours of summer as our experts recreate seasonal dishes you can cook at home. 

   Pick up new tips, tricks and culinary secrets to get you cooking like a pro! 

   We'll be joined by Nadiya Hussain, Chris Bavin, Dr. Rupy Aujla, Barney Desmazery and more!
   
   See the timetable, click here.

   

2. Discover Northern Ireland Tasting Theatre...

   Taste the greatness!

   Did you know that Northern Ireland has recently been named best foodie destination? Join Paula McIntyre MBE in the Discover Northern Ireland Tasting Theatre and discover the flavours of this wonderful region and get up close and personal with local producers and sample the very best of Northern Ireland. 

   Meet the producers and learn their story as you take away new tastes, flavours and insights! We'll be joined by Burren Balsamics, Erin Grove Preserves, Rooney Fish, Deli Muru and Baronscourt Brewery. 

   Plus - all sessions are free! See the timetable, click here. 

   

3. Seasonal shopping...

   Shop 'til you drop!

   Discover new products and tastes as you sample your way around our selection of handpicked artisan producers. From tea and coffee specialists to cheese, biltong, knives and ale, we promise you won't go home empty handed! 

   See the full exhibtor list here.

   

4. VIP Experience...

   Join us in style...

   Why not join us as a VIP and enjoy the day with star treatment. Enjoy exclusive perks including: all day access to our VIP Hospitality area, goody bag, cookery book and a reserved VIP Theatre seat in The Kitchen, where you can see top chefs and experts cooking live.

   Plus, as a little extra treat, we're giving you 30% off* Sunday VIP Tickets, so you can join us with a fabulous saving! Simply quote VIP30

   T&C's apply.

   

5. Eating & drinking...

   See what's on the menu!

   There'll be plenty to eat and drink at the festival, we guarantee you won't go home hungry! 

   From crepes to cakes, woodfired pizza and even Oysters, there's something everyone can enjoy. 

   Plus, don't miss the Pop-Up Bar from Yellow Door, serving up chilled wines, refreshing beers and ales with fabulous cocktails and soft drinks. 

   See what's on the menu, click here. 

   

6. Explore the castle...

   Your own guided tour!

   Dive into the history of the newly refurbished Hillsborough Castle in your very own guided tour. Discover the secrets of the past and walk in the footsteps of royalty, presidents and peacemakers and gaze at the stunning art and decor which adorns the castle. 

   Book a Festival + Castle Tour Ticket 

   

7. Discover 100 acres...

   Wander through the castle gardens!

   As well as unlocking the secrets of Hillsborough Castle, step outside explore 100 acres of beautiful gardens. Wander along the Yew Tree Walk which offers those picture perfect views, discover the newly restored Walled Garden and the previously unseen Lost Garden. 

   

8. Book signings...

   Meet your favourites!

   Stop by the Pop-up Book Shop by Easons, and pick up the latest cookbooks ready to have them signed in free daily book signing sessions at the Festival. 
   
   Meet Nadiya Hussain, Chris Bavin and more and get ready to snap a selfie! See the timetable, click here.

   

9. Family fun...

   Free activities all weekend!

   Bring the whole family along to enjoy free activities taking place over the whole weekend. 

   Discover the Garden Explorers' Cart and choose from a selection of pick and mix resources to borrow, to help them explore Hillsborough Castle’s gardens. Choose from bug pots and ID guides, magnifying glasses and binoculars, not to mention trails and resources to keep the whole family entertained.

   Pick up a free family trail,  Lady Alice’s Garden Adventure, in order to explore some of her favourite parts of the garden! Maybe you’ll find the largest rhododendron in Europe or discover how the Georgians kept food cold before modern freezers; there’s lots to discover! 

   Plus, the little ones can stop by the face painting tent to add a pop of colour to their day! 

   

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