Hillsborough Castle, Co Down, is to be opened to the public. The Northern Secretary, Dr Mo Mowlam, has decided the magnificent building, set in 100 acres, should be enjoyed by as many people as possible.
The castle, where the Anglo-Irish Agreement was signed in 1985 and where talks involving the Taoiseach and the British Prime Minister took place before Easter, is to open on Saturdays from this weekend until early September.
Dr Mowlam said: "It has for so long been an integral part of Northern Ireland's social, as well as its political history, and it is wonderful to be able to share some of its more beautiful and interesting features with the people of Northern Ireland."
A tour will include the official throne room, the impressive state dining room and the elegant state drawing room with its views over the gardens. Visitors will also be admitted to the gardens - dotted with trees planted by members of the British royal family and visiting dignitaries - and be able to inspect a massive rhododendron bush which features in the Guinness Book Of Records.
The castle, an official government building, is used by Dr Mowlam and her ministers. Voluntary organisations and charities also use it for special events.