One Day – Hillsborough and Lisburn

Hillsborough Castle is one of the most beautiful and interesting historic properties in Northern Ireland. It’s the official residence of HM The King and members of royal family when they’re in Northern Ireland and has also been home to the Secretary of State since the 1970s. The Castle is set in 100 acres of breath-taking gardens.

Explore the rich history of Irish linen through friendly guides, interactive displays, and live spinning and weaving demonstrations. The linen industry played an important role in the industrial heritage of Ulster and here, guests can experience traditional methods of harvesting and spinning flax, learn how flax was grown and prepared, and watch expert spinners turn coarse flax into fine yarn. With daily craft demonstrations and the opportunity to have a go on the spinning wheel, guests will be given the opportunity to understand this important industry through a range of activities.

Reach new heights of fun at High Rise – an exciting indoor adventure centre offering lots to do for all ages. The stunning Clip ‘n Climb indoor climbing arena is perfect to get the heart racing and the body moving (from ages 4+ including adults) while soft play provides hours of adventure for younger guests (up to age 8).

Experience the thrills and spills on the longest and fastest water slides around! Race down accelerating water slides, relax on the lazy river or swim under waterfalls for an unforgettable day out! Slides include The Space Bowl, The Master Blaster and Falling Rapids. Plus there is Aqualand interactive play area with its own slides, see-saw, water shooting bicycles and lots more!

Treat yourself to the finest entertainment and arts events, whether it’s live theatre at its very best, live music up close and personal or cutting edge dance. Island also offers an assortment of sociable and inspiring courses and craft workshops throughout the year for your enjoyment. The Arts Centre is well known for a connection with local Northern Irish artists and boasts two excellent galleries.

Everything at Hinch Distillery has been designed not only to produce world class whiskey and gin, but also to provide visitors an up-close view of the whole process.  Upon arrival you will be met by one of Hinch’s professionally trained tour guides.  Your guide will take you on a fun, informative and hands-on journey starting in the beautiful Ingredients Room, then to the impressive Mash House, Still House and Spectrum Room.

Hillsborough Forest offers visitors 150 acres of mixed woodland in which they can walk and relax with nature. Within Hillsborough Forest, the 17th century Hillsborough Fort can be seen, built on the sight of an old stronghold, founded by Peter Hill in 1630. The square fort features a parapet wall and a Royal Charter was granted to the Fort by Charles II. A short walk away is the picturesque village of  Royal Hillsborough with a range of bars and restaurants serving authentic local cuisine.

This 26-acre park was given to the town of Lisburn by its landlord, Sir Richard Wallace in 1884 as ‘a public park and recreation ground’. The park provides a green oasis in an otherwise urban landscape and is often busy with visiting dog walkers, families, cyclists and workers on a lunchtime stroll. Wallace Park is ideal for families, with an excellent children’s play area and a variety of gentle walks.

Moira Demesne is a parkland offering beautiful walks, picnic sites and a children’s play area. Moira Demesne is a popular landmark. Sir Arthur Rawdon, MP (1662-1695) laid out Moira Demesne with trees and exotic plants from Jamaica, thus making it one of the foremost botanical gardens in 17th Century Europe.