Hillsborough Castle Festival Half Marathon 2026

The Hillsborough Castle Festival Half Marathon begins and ends within the magnificent grounds of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, the official royal residence in Northern Ireland. The closed-road course leads participants through scenic parkland and tree-lined avenues before heading out toward local landmarks such as the historic Hillsborough Fort and the tranquil Hillsborough Lake. Runners navigate a picturesque loop that extends onto the surrounding rural forest areas and the Ballynahinch Road, offering a variety of beautiful landscapes. The terrain is described as multi-terrain, consisting of a mix of well-maintained paths and public roads that are notably hilly. With a finish line located in the heart of the event village, this race provides a unique and inspiring challenge set against a backdrop of 18th-century elegance.