William and Kate pay first visit to Hillsborough

In the third engagement of a one day visit to Northenr Ireland, the Royal couple had a private meeting with the Secretary of State Owen Paterson.

The Prince and Miss Middleton also had the opportunity to enjoy a private lunch in the late Georgian mansion that was built in the 18th Century for the Hill family, Marquis of Downshire.

The Castle is the residence of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and the official residence of the Queen and members of the Royal Family when they visit Northern Ireland.

The Royal visitors had some time to stroll in the ornate grounds of the Castle that was residence to the Governor of Northern Ireland for 50 years until 1972.

The couple, who will be married next month, added their names to the historical Hillsborough Castle Visitors’ book as they departed for their next engagement.