Spring Days Out: Discover National Trust Treasures In and Around York

Promotional blog provided by National Trust

As spring edges its way back into North Yorkshire, the days get lighter, colours get brighter and new life starts to stir, you’re invited to be a part of it. 

Whether it’s a spontaneous day trip or a planned weekend adventure, spring is on the horizon and there’s no better way to embrace it than by visiting the region’s beautiful National Trust properties. Here are our top 3 reasons to visit North Yorkshires National Trust sites this spring:

New life, spring gardens and an opportunity to slow down

As spring bulbs push through the soil and new life begins to stir, the National Trust gardens across North Yorkshire start to splash their colours back into the landscape, putting on a show worth slowing down for.

See the seasons overlap at Nunnington Hall, Beningbrough and Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, as nodding snowdrops bow out for bold swathes of daffodils. Over at Goddards, early spring brings its own palette of crocus, hyacinth and tulips, adding bright pockets of colour to the historic setting. Wander at your own pace through Beningbrough’s gardens as fresh bedding displays brighten sheltered corners and spring cheer is spread in every direction.

As colours return to the landscape so does the sense of movement as riverbeds and ponds breathe new life. Follow the River Skell as it flows alongside the ruins of Fountains Abbey, catching the light as new leaves unfurl along its banks. Spend a little time by the River Rye at Nunnington Hall and be rewarded with glimpses of brown trout, otters, kingfishers and swans. As the ponds start to warm at Beningbrough, frogs gather in great numbers, rippling the water and creating a chorus of croaking.

Family adventures filled with Easter energy

Spring brings a burst of excitement to the National Trust places in and around York, making them the perfect spot for an Easter adventure. Treat the whole family to an Easter trail at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal, Beningbrough and Nunnington Hall. Wander through beautiful gardens, step inside historic buildings and dive into a day of fun, fresh air and discovery.

Join in with games, competitions and an egg hunt at Fountains Abbey, test your skills on the a‑maze‑ing memory meander at Beningbrough and guess the noisy neighbours hiding around the garden at Nunnington Hall.

These much‑loved spots are buzzing with things to do, and each one offers a chance to explore, play and make memories together.

Uncover stories, history and creativity

Over at Beningbrough, it’s the final chance to see the large‑scale willow sculptures breathing life into the hall. Whispers of the Wilderness brings art and nature together in a celebration of the Wilderness Garden, past and present. An atmospheric exhibition linking sound, sculpture and sketching.

As the clocks spring forward, much-loved guided tours return. From Monday 30 March, step inside Treasurer's House, a home preserved almost exactly as Frank Green left it, and take a glimpse into his world and the remarkable collection he gifted to the National Trust. Book onto a guided tour and hear about the lives and legends of the many people who, over centuries, shaped this tucked‑away corner of York. From the same date, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal brings back its array of daily tours, each offering a different way to see this World Heritage Site through fresh eyes.

Take the opportunity to experience these National Trust places like never before. Slow down, take a closer look and discover something new on every visit.

A day out at these North Yorkshire National Trust gems isn’t complete without enjoying something delicious to round it off, and each place has its own cosy café, tea-room or restaurant ready to welcome you in. From seasonal soups and hearty lunches to sweet treats, hot drinks and, of course, the National Trust scone, it’s the perfect way to warm up, refuel and savour a little extra spring cheer before heading home.

Whether you’re wandering through vibrant gardens, spotting wildlife along the water’s edge, joining in with family Easter fun or uncovering stories on a guided tour, each visit brings something different to discover. So, grab your walking boots and head out to discover the timeless charm of North Yorkshire’s National Trust treasures. And don’t worry if you can’t fit it all in one visit, we’ll be here another day! 

Don’t forget to check the website before you set off as opening days and times vary between each National Trust property.