Discover the Gardens of North Yorkshire
Mount Grace Priory, Northallerton – The reconstructed herb plot at Mount Grace Priory offers a glimpse into the lives of its former medieval residents the Carthusian Monks; recreating the atmosphere and heady scents of those far off days. Using species of plant available in the early 16th Century a garden has been created to stimulate the senses of both the visitor and the local wildlife. Along with the sensory herb plot, the uniqueness of the priory’s setting has allowed the site to flourish as a wildlife haven and is home to the famous priory stoats.
Wynyard Hall, Tees Valley – A showcase of delicate artistry, The Gardens are the epitome of beauty, with vivid flowerbeds, over 3,000 stunning roses, from floribundas and climbing roses to the statement English rose, and a careful selection of shrubs and trees, highlighted with graceful water features and meandering paths. The Gardens have been intricately designed and created by multi RHS award-winning landscape architect Alistair Baldwin, along with rose expert Michael Marriott from David Austin Roses and Wynyard Hall’s own dedicated team of gardeners.
Richmond Castle, Richmond – With commanding views over the River Swale and the Yorkshire Dales, Richmond Castle’s Cockpit Garden is a true hidden gem. This inviting and tranquil garden has modern borders that burst into colour during the summer and autumn months. The grass lawn enclosed by magnificent Yew hedges is the ideal spot for a picnic. The cockpit garden reflects 900 years of Richmond Castle’s history including the poignant story of the WW1 conscientious objectors which is woven into 16 topiary forms in the upper terrace.
Beningbrough Hall Gardens, York – Beningbrough’s series of interlocking gardens each offer their own distinct seasonal interest – from wildlife havens to colourful herbaceous borders – and are inspirational all year. There are walks through park and woodlands and beside the river with stunning views of the hall, as well as outdoor activities and natural play opportunities for families.
Scampston and Walled Garden, Malton – A stunning contemporary garden and a 21st century plantsman’s paradise. Created by internationally acclaimed designer, Piet Oudolf, and set within the walls of the kitchen garden of Scampston Hall. Described in The Times as “a gem”, every aspect of this garden speaks of quality. Striking perennial meadow planting works well with more traditional parts of the garden and is complemented by excellent catering and plant sales areas. Children’s activity sheets are available for the peaceful self-guided Cascade Circuit Walk. Scampston Hall is open for a shorter season for guided tours only.
The Himalayan Garden & Sculpture Park – Located in the heart of the tranquil North Yorkshire countryside, the Himalayan Garden & Sculpture Park covers 30 acres of stunning woodland gardens. 2017 welcomes a new Tea Room, Children’s Playground, Information Centre and Arboretum, together with additional sculptures and paths for visitors to explore.
Peasholm Park, Scarborough – Peasholm Park is an oriental themed park that has more to offer than beautiful gardens, tranquil lake and an abundance of wildlife. During the summer months rowing boats, canoes and dragon head pedaloes can be hired on the lake and other activities include mini golf and putting. The entertainment programme includes Naval Warfare Battles featuring miniature ships while the bandstand set out in the middle of the lake hosts electric organ, brass/silver band and orchestra concerts. Peasholm Glen Tree Trail has wooden bridges crossing a trickling stream, mini waterfalls and ponds and a unique collection of trees. The Park is a perfect location with so much to do and see for all the family.
The Yorkshire Arboretum, Kew & Castle Howard, nr York – The Yorkshire Arboretum is a glorious 120 acre garden of trees on the Castle Howard Estate near York offering woodland walks, tours, family activities, a café with a delicious menu of home-cooked, seasonal produce, interactive displays, events, lakeside trails and outdoor education. We welcome visitors wanting nothing more than just to enjoy the serenity and beauty of this sheltered valley tucked away in the Howardian Hills, as well as those with an academic interest in our collection of over 6,000 trees and shrubs. Wander off by yourself to explore, follow a tree trail or book a tour. Walk for 10 minutes or lose yourself for hours…
Stillingfleet Lodge Garden and Nurseries, nr York – We look forward to welcoming you to our charming country garden which combines cottage garden planting with traditional 60ft double herbaceous borders. Diverse elements include a series of cottage gardens, a wildflower meadow, orchard, a pond, a woodland walk and a contemporary rill garden which is a tranquil delight. The garden is alive with birds and butterflies, while poultry roams freely and endearingly. Stillingfleet Lodge’s nurseries specialise in unusual perennial plants. These are available to buy, but the gardening advice offered by the team comes free. Homemade cakes are a popular feature of the café.
Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, Ripon – Immerse yourself in Georgian elegance in Studley Royal Water Garden, where cascades and canals gracefully flow into mirror-like ponds. Classical statues, follies and views were all designed to impress an 18th century visitor with the fashionably romantic abbey ruins a jewel in the garden’s crown. Follow the high ride path to surprise view, discover dramatic vistas from Octagon Tower, and call into Studley tearoom for an afternoon tea or light lunch. Incredibly this garden, with its grand green amphitheatres, shaded walks and gentle cascades are little changed today and is in fact what makes Fountains a World Heritage Site.
RHS Garden Harlow Carr, Harrogate – Winner of Yorkshire’s Large Visitor Attraction of the Year Award 2010. One of Yorkshire’s most relaxing and surprising gardens at the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales. Wander through tranquil surroundings and find inspiration from the innovative and dramatic planting. Stroll along the streamside garden and woodland, explore the gardens through time; linger in the scented garden and take practical ideas from the kitchen garden. Year-round events include workshops, guided walks, family events and practical gardening demonstrations. Visit the extensive shop and plant centre; get advice for your garden and why not enjoy some delicious treats from the on-site Bettys Café & Tearooms.
The Forbidden Corner, Coverham – The Forbidden Corner is a unique labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, follies and surprises created in a four acre garden in the heart of Tupgill Park and the Yorkshire Dales. The temple of the underworld, the eye of the needle, a huge pyramid made of translucent glass, paths and passages that lead nowhere, extraordinary statues – at every turn there are decisions to make and tricks to avoid. This is a day out with a difference which will challenge and delight adults and children of all ages. Pre-booked tickets only, please phone before your visit.
Newby Hall and Gardens, Ripon – Newby Hall’s award-winning gardens provide a haven for both specialist and amateur gardeners alike. Designed astride one of Europe’s longest double herbaceous borders which slopes gently down to the River Ure, are numerous compartmented gardens, including Sylvia’s Garden, the Rose Garden, Autumn Garden and the Water Garden. Newby also holds the national collection of CORNUS (dogwoods). The Garden Restaurant serves delicious meals to suit all appetites, while the Plant Centre sells many of the rare and beautiful species found in the garden.
Kiplin Hall and Gardens, Richmond – Following years of neglect, the ‘lost’ gardens at Kiplin Hall are gradually being restored to life by the Head Gardener and a team of dedicated volunteers. A visit includes woodland and lakeside walks, the 18th century Walled Garden, the Rose and Sensory gardens and newly planted Hot Border and Perennial and White Gardens. Each year brings new projects and the gardens are an unfolding source of beauty, tranquillity and discovery. Fruit and vegetables from the Walled Garden are for sale from the Produce Cart, situated in front of the Hall, and are used in season in the Tea Room, which is open at the same times as the gardens. Kiplin Hall, 2012 Winner of Hudsons Heritage Awards Hidden Gem and Best New Discovery.
Castle Howard Gardens, York – Castle Howard commands breathtaking views across sweeping parkland, studded with statues, temples, lakes and fountains. The grounds and gardens can be enjoyed in all weathers, in any number of ways – from a tranquil lakeside stroll, to a walk through enchanting woodland, or simply relaxing in the 18th century walled garden. There is so much to see whatever the season: from daffodils and rhododendrons in the spring, roses in summer, to bountiful vegetables in the potager and spectacular autumn colour. Visitors can discover more by joining a free guided tour. Woodland Garden Trails: Discover the colourful splendour of Ray Wood with a new self-guided trail booklet which leads you around the flowering plant collection during spring, summer and autumn.
Thorp Perrow Arboretum, Bedale – Open all year – 100 acres of woodland to explore with trees from around the world, 5 National Collections and 66 Champion Trees. Spring brings beautiful displays of daffodils, cherry blossom, lilac and bluebells – followed by wildflowers, bring a picnic or try our new tearoom menu. Visit later in the year for the spectacular autumn colours. See website for a list of Events (from Children’s Days and Fungus Forays to outdoor theatre and concerts). Entrance to the Wildlife Park is included.
St Nicholas Gardens, Richmond – The gardens belonging to St Nicholas, the oldest dwelling in Richmond, are a series of compartments laid out and planted from 1905 by the Hon. Robert ‘Bobbie’ James. Today the gardens are being sensitively resurrected and replanted. About 7 acres, the Garden Rooms include a Formal Garden bounded by topiary hedges, a Cottage Garden, Rock Garden, Potager and Herb Garden and splendid Long Borders. The gardens are open to the public on selected Sundays throughout the year. We welcome groups at any time by prior arrangement. Please visit our website for more information.