For garden lovers

Relax in the walled garden or stroll among glorious borders with over 8 acres to explore, a beautiful garden cared for by the National Trust. 

As spring bulbs and new buds mark the start of the year, this is quickly followed by blossom by the abundance of fruit trees and stunning tulips among the borders. The garden is undergoing a renaissance by award winning garden designer Andy Sturgeon, with a Pergola, ha-ha walk and now open, a new Mediterranean Garden.

Come high summer, the borders are bursting with colour right into autumn with dahlias looking striking through to the first frosts. Harvest time is worth returning for to see how the produce has grown, we don't like to boast but are pretty sure we grow some of York's biggest pumpkins. Wintertime lets the structure shine through with mature trees including Yorkshire champions, formally trained fruit long the brick walls and pops of colour from berries...equally welcomed by visitors and wildlife.

For history lovers

Step inside and uncover the architecture of this grand hall. Created after John Bourchier’s Grand Tour and especially time spent in Italy. The detailing and craftsmanship is even more evident since the installation of a new lighting scheme as part of recent work.

The ground floor historic rooms tell the story of a country house. Through the people of the estate and key collection items, find out about different periods of time and pockets of history and their influence on what you see today. Don’t miss the second-hand book room in the library, take time out and browse the shelves or head to the Victorian laundry and potting shed for views of a time gone by.

For art lovers

The Reddihough Galleries on the first floor host changing exhibitions from international artists and national institutions. Whispers of the Wilderness: Exploring Wilderness Gardens is the latest exhibition, until 12 April 2026, on open days. The exhibition celebrates the interplay between nature, history, and creativity. Featuring large-scale willow sculptures by acclaimed artist Laura Ellen Bacon, nine historic pieces from the National Trust collection, a Drawing Studio designed by artist Tanya Raabe-Webber, and offers a multi-sensory experience with a soundscape, poetry, literature, and even scent enhancing the immersive atmosphere.

For families

The wilderness play area and den zone are popular with families. In the school holidays there are always family trails and led activity days for something new to have a go at. The gardens are perfect for your own adventure and if you're looking for inspiration you can tick off many of the '50 things to do before you're 11 3/4' play list. Otherwise take your ball or kites to the large south lawn and literally kick back with a picnic and enjoy time together.

Eating and shopping

The walled garden restaurant and brew house (open on our busiest days) offer a range of hot, home-cooked meals, light lunches, snacks and refreshments. The shop in the stables has a large selection of local items from regionally suppliers and craftspeople. Many other lines are unique to the National Trust and their designs are inspired by some of the places the charity looks after. The restaurant has outdoor and some dog-friendly indoor seating so everyone can make the most of their day out.

Stretch your legs in the parkland

If you want a longer walk, the gardens are surrounded by 380 acres of parkland where the tenant farmer's cattle graze. There are three walks available from 20 minutes to two hours taking in secluded woodlands, carpeted with bluebells in late spring, and along the riverside with the chance of spotting a kingfisher darting past.

Good to know

Dogs welcome in most areas of the garden and parkland. Free entry for National Trust and RHS members, under-fives and valid Visit York Pass holders. Plan your visit.

Group leaders find out about discounted entry and how to book your coach here.

Visiting, volunteering and spending supports the charitable work of the National Trust - thank you!

See where else to explore with the National Trust in York and North Yorkshire. 

Images (c) National Trust.