Beanotown chaos arrives at Hillsborough Castle as Beano summer trail launches with free garden entry for kids

Families across Northern Ireland are set for a summer of comic chaos as a major new interactive trail brings Dennis the Menace and the Beanotown gang to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens — with children granted free entry to the gardens throughout the holidays.

Running from 27 June to 31 August 2026, the large-scale attraction, Beano Hijinks at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, transforms the historic 100-acre estate into a time-twisting adventure trail, blending comic mischief with real-world heritage in one of Northern Ireland’s most high-profile visitor destinations.

Time-travelling trail takes over historic estate

The event centres on a fictional mishap involving Dennis, Minnie, Harsha, Rubi and Gnasher, whose chaotic go-kart time machine malfunctions — scattering its parts across the Castle’s extensive gardens after crash-landing them in Hillsborough.

Visitors are drawn into the storyline, tasked with helping the characters recover six essential components hidden throughout the grounds to repair the timeline and prevent the gang from being stranded in history.

Each family is equipped with a specially created Beano comic strip story, guiding them through the trail as they explore the estate’s landscaped gardens and historical features.

Blending comic chaos with real history

The trail is designed to merge Beano’s trademark humour with the deep historical significance of Hillsborough Castle, introducing visitors to figures connected to the site’s past.

Along the route, participants will encounter larger-than-life interpretations of historical characters, including a young Lord Hillsborough and Benjamin Franklin, who famously visited the estate in 1771.

The approach aims to create an engaging, family-friendly experience that encourages exploration of the Castle grounds while weaving in educational elements through storytelling and character encounters.

A full-day family experience beyond the trail

Beyond the main trail, the attraction expands into a wider day-out experience across the estate.

Families can explore the outdoor Imaginary Menagerie, an interactive play area designed to extend the sense of adventure beyond the storyline, while those opting for upgraded tickets can enter the Castle itself — a venue that has hosted world leaders and significant political gatherings.

Onsite facilities will also play a central role, with visitors able to purchase Beano-themed treats, café meals, and exclusive merchandise from the Castle shop.

Free garden access for children over summer

A key feature of the event is the free garden entry for children throughout the summer period, a move expected to significantly increase family footfall at the historic site during peak holiday months.

The trail itself is included within general admission, with tickets due to go on sale shortly.

Part of a wider UK summer programme

The Hillsborough event forms part of a broader Beano-themed summer programme organised by Historic Royal Palaces, with a second experience — Beano Havoc at Hampton Court Palace — scheduled to run in London from 25 July to 23 August 2026.

Beano’s enduring legacy meets modern family tourism

The event also highlights the continuing influence of the Beano brand, first published in July 1938 and still produced weekly from its original Dundee headquarters.

Now developed through Beano Studios, the franchise has expanded into a multi-platform entertainment business spanning television, digital media, live experiences and licensed products — with the Hillsborough trail marking its latest move into immersive, location-based attractions.

With a mix of heritage, storytelling and high-energy family entertainment, the summer-long event is expected to draw visitors from across Northern Ireland and beyond, positioning Hillsborough Castle and Gardens as a major seasonal destination.

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At a glance

* Beano Hijinks trail runs at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens from 27 June – 31 August 2026

* Children receive free entry to the gardens all summer

* Visitors must find six hidden time machine parts across the estate

* Trail features Beano characters including Dennis, Minnie, Harsha, Rubi and Gnasher

* Historical figures such as Benjamin Franklin (visited in 1771) appear in the experience

* Event is included in general admission, with tickets on sale soon

* Additional attractions include the Imaginary Menagerie play area

* Beano-themed food, merchandise and café options available onsite

* Companion event launches at Hampton Court Palace from 25 July – 23 August 2026

* Beano comic first published in 1938 and continues weekly today