The best gardens to visit in North Yorkshire
Harlow Carr, Bolton Abbey, and more
In this article:
RHS Garden Harlow Carr
RHS Garden Harlow Carr, located in Harrogate, is a stunning 58-acre garden that offers a delightful experience for visitors of all ages. With its beautiful landscapes, woodland, and tranquil atmosphere, this garden is a must-visit destination. The garden is maintained by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and showcases an extensive collection of plants, including rare varieties and vibrant flower displays.
One of the notable features of RHS Garden Harlow Carr is its unique Kitchen Garden, which provides inspiration for those interested in growing their own produce. The garden also features delightful walking trails, stunning wildflower meadows, and a charming streamside garden. The RHS Flower Show takes place here annually, attracting horticulture enthusiasts from all over.
Famous people related to RHS Garden Harlow Carr include famous flower arranger, Constance Spry, who served as an RHS council member.
Address: Crag Ln, Harrogate HG3 1QB
Opening Times: Daily, 9:30am-4pm
Yorkshire Lavender
Situated in Terrington, Yorkshire Lavender is a picturesque lavender garden that sprawls across 60 acres of rolling countryside. The garden's fragrant lavender fields, vibrant with color during the summer months, make it a delightful place to visit. Visitors can stroll through the enchanting gardens, breathe in the soothing lavender scent, and enjoy the surrounding views.
In addition to its stunning lavender displays, Yorkshire Lavender also boasts a nature trail, herb garden, and a sculpture park filled with unique creations. The garden's tearoom offers a variety of lavender-themed treats, such as lavender scones and lavender ice cream, providing a truly delightful experience for the senses.
Famous people related to Yorkshire Lavender include the Duchess of Cornwall, Camilla Parker Bowles, who visited the garden in 2003.
Address: Yorkshire Lavender, Terrington, York YO60 6PB
Opening Times: Daily, 10am-5pm
Bolton Abbey
Bolton Abbey, situated within the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, is not only known for its historical ruins but also its stunning gardens. Set alongside the River Wharfe, the gardens provide a perfect place for peaceful walks and picnics amidst beautiful surroundings. The Formal Gardens, with their neatly manicured lawns and vibrant flower beds, offer a remarkable sight.
The grounds of Bolton Abbey also encompass picturesque woodland areas, ancient trees, and a charming riverside walk. Visitors can explore the remains of the 12th-century priory, discover the stepping stones across the river, and enjoy the tranquility of this remarkable setting.
Address: Skipton BD23 6AL
Opening Times: Daily, 9am-6pm
Newby Hall
Newby Hall, located near Ripon, is an elegant country house with exceptional gardens. The gardens at Newby Hall are celebrated for their stunning design, encompassing a variety of formal and informal styles. Visitors can admire the intricate geometric patterns of the Rose Garden, explore the delightful woodland walks, and relax in the tranquil tranquil atmosphere.
Newby Hall's gardens also feature a stunning double herbaceous border, a tranquil water garden, and a fantastic children's adventure garden complete with a miniature railway and giant slides. The historic house itself offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the families who have resided there since the 17th century, with beautiful period interiors and a collection of fine art.
Address: Ripon HG4 5AE
Opening Times: Daily, 10:30am-5:30pm
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden is a captivating historical site nestled in picturesque surroundings near Ripon. The gardens, designed in the 18th century, are known for their stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. Visitors can explore the beautifully landscaped water gardens, which include lakes, canals, cascades, and the famous Moon Pond.
The ruins of the 12th-century Fountains Abbey provide a dramatic backdrop to the gardens, creating a unique blend of natural and man-made splendor. With its vast expanses of greenery and charming follies, this garden offers endless opportunities for peaceful walks and contemplation.
Address: Ripon HG4 3DY
Opening Times: Daily, 10am-6pm
The Himalayan Garden & Sculpture Park, located near Ripon, offers an enchanting experience inspired by the beauty of the Himalayas. This 45-acre garden showcases a stunning collection of rare and exotic plants, unique sculptures, and breathtaking views. Visitors can meander through the woodland garden, discover tranquil water features, and marvel at the vibrant rhododendrons and azaleas.
The garden's sculpture trail adds an artistic touch to the surroundings, with a variety of contemporary and traditional sculptures scattered throughout the landscape. The peaceful setting and serene atmosphere make this garden an ideal place for relaxation and contemplation.
Address: Grewelthorpe, Ripon HG4 3DA
Opening Times: Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-4pm
Parcevall Hall Gardens
Parcevall Hall Gardens, nestled in the heart of Yorkshire Dales National Park, are renowned for their charm and tranquility. The gardens surround a historic country house and offer spectacular views of Simons Seat and Wharfedale. With their extensive collection of plants, including rare species, the gardens provide a peaceful escape for nature lovers.
Visitors can explore a series of terraces, herbaceous borders, a rock garden, and a tranquil orchard. The gardens also host a variety of events throughout the year, such as live music performances and open-air theater productions, adding to the enchanting ambiance.
Address: Skyreholme, Appletreewick, Skipton BD23 6DE
Opening Times: Monday-Saturday, 2pm-5pm
Burnby Hall Gardens
Burnby Hall Gardens, located in Pocklington, are a hidden gem renowned for their magnificent displays of water lilies, making them one of the most impressive gardens in the region. The Upper and Lower Lakes are adorned with beautiful water lilies and Japanese Koi carp, providing a unique and tranquil experience.
The gardens also feature a range of themed sections, including a rock garden, a secret garden, and a Victorian garden. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks through the vibrant flower borders, relax by the lakes, and explore the informative displays about the history and significance of the gardens.
Address: Pocklington YO42 2QF
Opening Times: Daily, 10am-5:30pm
Castle Howard
Castle Howard, situated near York, is a magnificent stately home surrounded by extensive landscaped gardens. The breathtaking gardens at Castle Howard showcase a blend of formal and informal designs, with features such as ornate fountains, terraced lawns, and beautiful flower displays.
Visitors can explore the walled garden filled with exotic plants, wander through woodland areas, and take in the views from the Temple of the Four Winds. The impressive scale of the gardens, with over 1,000 acres to discover, offers a truly immersive experience for garden enthusiasts.
Address: York YO60 7DA
Opening Times: Daily, 10am-6pm
Thornton Hall Gardens
Thornton Hall Gardens, located near Skipton, is a 17th-century manor house with pristine Georgian gardens. These beautiful gardens have been lovingly restored and offer a serene retreat for visitors. The formal gardens feature elegant flower beds, a delightful walled rose garden, and perfectly manicured lawns.
The gardens also boast a stunning topiary as well as a tranquil woodland walk where visitors can enjoy the sounds of nature. The peaceful setting and historic ambiance make this garden a true hidden gem, providing a moment of tranquility away from the bustling world.
Address: Embsay, Skipton BD23 6LA
Opening Times: Monday-Saturday, 10am-5pm