Belfast Highlights & Hillsborough Castle
Moderate Activity
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
What you will visit:
Belfast (driving tour)
Originally named 'Beal Feirste'-Gaelic for 'mouth of the sandy fjord'-Belfast was founded in the 17th century and prospered in the industrial age, becoming famous for its shipyards and linens. The city has seen decades of political strife but has rebounded and now boasts a vibrant waterfront district and lively pub scene. Your narrated drive takes you past a host of popular sights and historic landmarks showcasing Belfast's industry and elegance, a rich and varied past, and 19th-century buildings that are a reminder of prosperous former days.
Hillsborough Castle
Nestled in the historic village of Hillsborough, you'll find the distinguished Hillsborough Castle. Built in the 1770s by the first Marquis of Downshire, the mansion has been remodeled in the last 200 years to its present state and is the official residence of the British royal family when they're visiting Northern Ireland. Set on 96 acres, the grounds boast woodlands, waterways, and gardens that feature rare plants. A guided tour through this lovely two-story late Georgian manor adorned with beautiful furniture and masterpieces of art includes views of the State Room, where all visiting dignitaries are formally welcomed; Candlestick Hall; the castle's two dining rooms; the Throne Room, where citizenship ceremonies are held; the State Drawing Room, which overlooks the Jubilee Garden; and Lady Grey's Sitting Room.
What you will see along the way:
Gaze out the window as the top attractions of Belfast go by on your comprehensive driving tour. See the stately Grand Opera House, a host of Victorian and Edwardian buildings with elaborate sculptures, the Albert Memorial Clock Tower, the Queen's University, City Hall, and the Titanic Memorial. Your drive will take you to conflicting neighborhoods separated by a Peace Wall, where a series of brightly painted political murals are located.
Points of interest
City Hall & Titanic Memorial
Schedule
Special Notes
Hillsborough Castle may be closed to visitors at short notice if required for state visit of Government use.
Exceptional Value
Book shore excursions with confidence! We offer competitive pricing, friendly service and unmatched destination expertise.
Moderate Activity
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
What you will visit:
Belfast (driving tour)
Originally named 'Beal Feirste'-Gaelic for 'mouth of the sandy fjord'-Belfast was founded in the 17th century and prospered in the industrial age, becoming famous for its shipyards and linens. The city has seen decades of political strife but has rebounded and now boasts a vibrant waterfront district and lively pub scene. Your narrated drive takes you past a host of popular sights and historic landmarks showcasing Belfast's industry and elegance, a rich and varied past, and 19th-century buildings that are a reminder of prosperous former days.
Hillsborough Castle
Nestled in the historic village of Hillsborough, you'll find the distinguished Hillsborough Castle. Built in the 1770s by the first Marquis of Downshire, the mansion has been remodeled in the last 200 years to its present state and is the official residence of the British royal family when they're visiting Northern Ireland. Set on 96 acres, the grounds boast woodlands, waterways, and gardens that feature rare plants. A guided tour through this lovely two-story late Georgian manor adorned with beautiful furniture and masterpieces of art includes views of the State Room, where all visiting dignitaries are formally welcomed; Candlestick Hall; the castle's two dining rooms; the Throne Room, where citizenship ceremonies are held; the State Drawing Room, which overlooks the Jubilee Garden; and Lady Grey's Sitting Room.
What you will see along the way:
Gaze out the window as the top attractions of Belfast go by on your comprehensive driving tour. See the stately Grand Opera House, a host of Victorian and Edwardian buildings with elaborate sculptures, the Albert Memorial Clock Tower, the Queen's University, City Hall, and the Titanic Memorial. Your drive will take you to conflicting neighborhoods separated by a Peace Wall, where a series of brightly painted political murals are located.
Points of interest
City Hall & Titanic Memorial
Schedule
Special Notes
Hillsborough Castle may be closed to visitors at short notice if required for state visit of Government use.