With the generous support of the U.S. Embassy London Grants Program, the American History Tour will take visitors through the castle, retracing the steps of many American presidents, politicians, and peacemakers who have visited its historic rooms.

Hillsborough Castle, which hosted Benjamin Franklin over 250 years ago, has since welcomed notable figures such as President Eisenhower, Eleanor Roosevelt, President George W. Bush, President and Secretary Clinton, and Senator George Mitchell.

The historic meeting between Benjamin Franklin and Wills Hill, 1st Marquess of Downshire, and Secretary of State for the Colonies, marked the first US-UK political summit at the castle, known as the ‘Hillsborough Conference.’ This encounter, though seemingly cordial, was their final meeting and set the stage for Hillsborough’s continued role in quiet diplomacy.

To inaugurate the new American History Tour, US Consul General James Applegate, accompanied by representatives from Historic Royal Palaces, Tourism Ireland, and Tourism Northern Ireland, visited Hillsborough Castle. Pic credit: Historic Royal Palaces.

In celebration of the tour’s launch, U.S. Consul General James Applegate met with Laura McCorry, Head of Hillsborough Castle & Gardens, Ellvena Graham, Chair of Tourism Northern Ireland, and Aubrey Irwin from Tourism Ireland.

Credits: Facebook; Author: @HRPalaces;

Laura McCorry remarked, “Hillsborough Castle is a place where history has been made and where the future continues to be shaped. The meetings, conversations, and decisions within our walls have significantly influenced the destinies and identities of both the US and Ireland for centuries. This American History Tour begins to uncover our deep connections with the USA as we look ahead to the 250th anniversary of American Independence in 2026.”

US Consul General James Applegate added, “Hillsborough Castle and Gardens is steeped in history, having played a pivotal role in some of the region’s most important chapters. This exciting project will allow local and international visitors to experience one of the most majestic stately homes on these islands and better understand our deep, shared history. I am grateful to the staff of Historic Royal Palaces for bringing this important story to life.”