Hillsborough Parish

The church at Hillsborough sits at the heart of this tidy county town, and it's genuinely worth stopping for if you're in the area. The building itself is a proper piece of work - dignified without being showy, with the kind of quiet presence that makes you want to sit inside for ten minutes even if you're not particularly religious.

What strikes you first is how it anchors the whole place. Hillsborough is a conservation town, and the church is very much the focal point. The interior has that particular quality of old Irish churches - whitewashed walls, good light through tall windows, and enough history embedded in the stones to keep church history enthusiasts occupied. You're looking at a solid hour here if you want to read the plaques and take it properly in, though you can dash through in twenty minutes if you're short on time.

Families will find it peaceful rather than thrilling - kids won't be scrambling up a castle or running around parkland, so it depends on their age and temperament. Walkers and history types will get more from it. The town itself rewards a wander, with shops and cafes worth exploring.

If you're based at Lakeside View Caravan Park just up the road, it's an easy detour before heading elsewhere in Lisburn and Castlereagh. Access and opening hours do vary, so ring ahead or check locally when you arrive. Free to enter, and the peace and quiet is worth more than the effort.