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AFBI Hillsborough

AFBI Hillsborough, formerly the Agricultural Research Institute of Northern Ireland, was established in 1927 with the aim of undertaking research into crop and animal production. It is located at Large Park Hillsborough. About 200 ha of land provide resources for research.
AFBI Hillsborough building
The research objective is to underpin the agricultural and food industries so that they maximise their contribution to the Northern Ireland economy. Research also takes account of the needs of the wider community for high quality food, the conservation of the environment and the welfare of animals. Within this framework research programmes address the development of new opportunities for the agri-food industry. Current programmes include:
  • Beef Production, Milk Production, Sheep Production and Heifer Rearing, Pig Production and Ruminant Nutrition;
  • Crop Production, Grass & Silage Production, and Farm Mechanisation,
  • Animal Behaviour and Welfare.

Contact Information

AFBI Hillsborough,
Large park,
Hillsborough,
Co. Down,
BT26 6DR

Contact us


How to find us

From Belfast
  1. Take the M1 Motorway
  2. Leave at Junction 8 (Dublin)
  3. Head down A1 Carriageway towards Dublin
  4. First roundabout- Hillsborough Roundabout - take the second exit off the roundabout and continue on dual carriageway
  5. Take the first road on left off the carriageway
  6. Take the fourth road on right and proceed through pillars
  7. There will be a car park on either side of the avenue
  8. Proceed along the avenue until you arrive at the Checkpoint.
From Dublin/South
  1. Take the A1 north until the Hillsborough roundabout
  2. Take the 3rd exit off the roundabout (signposted- Hillsborough)
  3. Directions as from step 6 above.
From North/International Airport/Ferries
  1. Join M2 exiting at Junction 1B (city centre/docks)
  2. Join Westlink (A12) continue along and Join the M1.
  3. Directions as above from step 1
From City Airport/East
  1. Join A2 towards City Centre.
  2. Take M3 Bridge and take first exit (signs for Westlink/M1)
  3. Join Westlink, continuing along joining the M1
  4. Directions as above from step 1.