Hillsborough Castle, Hillsborough, Co. Down

During the Second World War, Hillsborough Castle or Government House was the residence of the Duke and Duchess of Abercorn who hosted many important visitors.

Visit of the Princess Royal

Between 13th October 1942 and 17th October 1942, Her Royal Highness, the Princess Royal stayed at Hillsborough Castle during a short official visit to Northern Ireland.

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal in wartime Northern Ireland

13th October 1942

In October 1942, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal spent several days in Northern Ireland inspecting troops and visiting hospitals across the country.

A future Queen in Hillsborough

In July 1945, King George VI, the Queen, and the 18-year-old Princess Elizabeth stayed briefly at Hillsborough Castle in Co. Down during their Victory Tour.

Princess Elizabeth: The future Queen’s first visit to Northern Ireland

8th September 2022

Remembering Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. In July 1945, 18-year-old Princess Elizabeth Windsor first visited Northern Ireland landing at Long Kesh Airfield.

Hillsborough Castle in 2019

On 10th November 2019, WartimeNI took a tour of the historic Hillsborough Castle. Now a royal residence, during the Second World War it was home to the Duke of Abercorn (Governor of Northern Ireland).