Are you planning your next stay? We have found the perfect destination.
If you want to experience award-winning cuisine and taste the best local produce, head to the beautiful rural surroundings of Royal Hillsborough and Historic Moira for a trip like no other. You might be surprised at what you find!
On the outskirts of Lisburn & Castlereagh are two rural villages steeped in history. There are tantalizing foodie destinations and laid-back fuel stops, as well as a host of local artisan producers and accommodation options to suit all budgets. Not to mention the unique experiences you can try. Explore historic trails, try your hand at making gin or enjoy a whiskey tasting session.
The village of Royal Hillsborough, located just 20km from Belfast City, and Moira, just 29km from the capital, are perfectly situated for fun family days. Find your friends, try new experiences or simply escape to a different place.
Whether it’s your first trip or you’ve visited Royal Hillsborough and Historic Moira many times before, treat yourself to a getaway and make new memories.
To stay
We are creatures of habit and often return to hotels or B&Bs that we know and have had a great experience. Now is your chance to try something new.
Accommodation offers at Royal Hillsborough & Moira range from peaceful countryside getaways, such as Dunhill Cottage, Bay Tree Cottage, Ralph’s Moirato award-winning self-contained cottages, Arthur Street Guest Cottage, in the heart of the village of Hillsborough. There are also charming country-style Airbnbs, like Comber Guest House.
You can stay in a quaint self-contained cottage or try a luxury county home perfect for indulgent getaways, hidden retreats, or a recharge stopover. All are within walking distance of local amenities.
Taste
Royal Hillsborough and Moira have many award-winning restaurants to explore. From Wine and brine, The Stillhouse, Fine, Pretty Mary in Moira for The Great Bear, The hilland Pastor’s Nose at Royal Hillsborough.
Taste the culinary brilliance of these local chefs. Alternatively, sample the sumptuous delights of rural cafes such as Owl and Pussycat Cafe, Yellow door at Hillsborough Castle and The weird bird.
There is real pride among the local cafes, bars and restaurants, as evidenced by the various industry awards they have won. Various restaurants focus on seasonal menus and sourcing local produce. While local bars and establishments have put their experience and knowledge into creating their own beers, from beers to gin and vodka.
To explore
For a chance to explore the regions or for keen hikers, there are lovely walks in the natural forest, as well as the beautiful grounds of the Hillsborough Castle Gardens and Moira Demesne.
Take a tour of Hinch Distillerylocated on the Killaney Estate estate or head to the Kilwarlin Moravian Church for a slower historical pace. You can also book a tour around the Ulster Aeronautical Societyto see his collection of planes firsthand.
Producers
Are you a food lover? Want to discover and taste some of the best local produce in Northern Ireland? Then Royal Hillsborough and Historic Moira have great treats for your palette.
Several makers and artisans have embraced their local environment and created wonderful food and beverage products. Specialty charcuterie by ISPINI Charcuterie Delito homemade shortbread bakers such as Iconic cookies and whiskey makers like Hinch Distillery.
Local restaurants also support local producers and incorporate many into their delicious menu options.
Plan
To spark ideas for your next getaway, Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council have created a range of bespoke itineraries.
The itineraries incorporate something for everyone, encompassing the four main areas, stay, taste, explore and growers.
Here are two great itineraries that might inspire you on your next trip:
- Historical day trip – Start your day with a home-cooked breakfast, pastry or coffee at one of Royal Hillsborough’s many cafes. Head up Royal Hillsborough Main Street to visit Hillsborough Castle. Break for lunch at one of the local restaurants within walking distance to end your afternoon. Or book an Ulster Aviation Society tour before heading home.
- Isolated romantic stay – Snuggle up in a cozy detached country cottage in Royal Hillsborough or Moira. Or stay in a luxury guest house; many accommodation options are available! Take a relaxing walk around Hillsborough Forest Park or Moira Demesne, followed by a fun afternoon or evening of cocktail making, gin tasting or a whiskey tour at a local distillery. Choose between Hinch Distillery or The Still House for an unforgettable experience.
Click on here for an easy-to-navigate webpage that will help you plan your next day’s trip, vacation, or adventure.
This brand new tourism program supported by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council aims to boost local tourism and hospitality with this new initiative. Funded by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) through its Collaborative Experience of Rural Tourism (RTCE).
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