Hillsborough Castle shows off £20m refurb with Christmas events
Hillsborough Castle moved a step closer to fully re-opening to the public as it launched it's Christmas schedule.
Last updated 2nd Dec 2018
Since 2014, the historic building, which serves as the residence for the NI Secretary of State, has been undergoing restoration work to the tune of £20m.
The charity Historic Royal Palaces has carried out that work, with the aim of reflecting the 18th century castle's history as well as adding a modern twist.
Among the festivities on offer is the chance to 'meet' Lord and Lady Arthur Hill, the eccentric former occupants of the luxurious residence.
They will guide visitors through the restored building as part of a 'Victorian Christmas' theme, along with costumed characters every weekend through to the 23rd of December.
The castle will also host a different type of royalty, acting royalty, when Game of Thrones and Derry Girls star Ian McElhinney spooks listeners with Victorian ghost stories on December 28.
Lucky visitors will also get the chance to see Tower of London 'Beefeater' guards as they visit on December 29 and 30, taking part in the celebrations as they did in 1895.
Musical performances will be carried out over the festive period, along with the provision of treats like Twelfth Cake and Wassail Cup.
Of course, no Christmas schedule would be complete without a visit from Father Christmas himself, who will appear at the castle on December 15-16 and 22-23.
The work is expected to be completed in April 2019, with a new visitor centre installed to welcome the public, along with extensive parking facilities and a rotating collection of art contemporary and classic to view.