Explore for free with your Community Group

What is the Community Access Scheme?

The Community Access Scheme (CAS) offers local community groups the chance to explore and engage with us.

Who is it for?

CAS membership is open to community groups with a formal constitution or charitable status who are based locally to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. We are particularly keen to hear from groups who would not normally visit the castle or see it as a place of interest for them.

What does the scheme offer participating groups?

To enjoy the benefits of CAS membership your group leader must first attend a compulsory CAS group leader training morning. These take place 2-3 times per year and are designed to equip group leaders with the skills and knowledge to confidently bring their members on site. Following attendance at training, and confirmation of membership, your group will then be able to enjoy the following:

• Free year-round group access to our gardens for groups of up to 15 people accompanied by a CAS trained leader;
• The chance to take a tour of the castle with your group (subject to availability);
• Occasional opportunities to participate in creative workshop programmes and seasonal hands-on activities.

Please note that CAS membership is for groups interested in engaging with us regularly over an extended period of time and in a variety of ways. The scheme is not appropriate for groups wishing to make a one-off visit to the site.

How can I get involved?

Interested group leaders should register for a place on an upcoming group leader training morning to learn more about the scheme and how it works.

For details on the next available session, or if you have any queries about the scheme, please email Louise Smith, Learning Producer for Communities.