Hillsborough Castle facts for kids
Hillsborough Castle is a very important building in Northern Ireland. It is a special home for government leaders. It is where the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland lives and works. This person is a top government official who helps manage Northern Ireland.
The castle is also a place where Queen Elizabeth II and other members of the Royal Family stay when they visit Northern Ireland. Important visitors from other countries also use Hillsborough Castle. For many years, from 1922 to 1972, it was the home of the Governor of Northern Ireland.
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What is Hillsborough Castle?
Hillsborough Castle is not a real castle in the old sense, with towers and defenses. It is actually a large country house. It was built in the late 1700s. Over the years, it has been changed and made bigger. It has beautiful gardens and grounds around it.
A Home for Important People
Today, Hillsborough Castle is one of the official homes for the British government. It is a place where important decisions are made. It also hosts many special events. These events help to build good relationships between different groups of people.
Who Lives and Visits Here?
Hillsborough Castle has a special role in Northern Ireland. It connects the past with the present. It also helps to show the importance of Northern Ireland within the United Kingdom.
The Secretary of State
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland is a government minister. This person works for the United Kingdom government. Their job is to look after Northern Ireland's interests. They also help to make sure laws are followed. Living at Hillsborough Castle helps them do their important work.
Royal and International Guests
When the Royal Family visits Northern Ireland, they often stay at Hillsborough Castle. This makes the castle a royal residence. It is also a place where leaders from around the world are welcomed. These visits are important for diplomacy. They help countries work together.
A Look Back in Time
Before 1972, Hillsborough Castle had a different main resident. It was the home of the Governor of Northern Ireland. This person was the King or Queen's representative in Northern Ireland. They had an important role in the government of the time.
Changes Over the Years
The role of the Governor changed as Northern Ireland developed. After 1972, the position was removed. This is when the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland took on a bigger role. Hillsborough Castle then became their official residence. It has continued to be a key location for important events.
Images for kids
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American President George W. Bush, British Prime Minister Tony Blair and Irish Taoiseach Bertie Ahern at Hillsborough Castle on 8 April 2003.
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Guests leaving Hillsborough Castle to walk through its grounds.
