

Explore 120 acres of stunning parkland with over 7,000 trees from around the world, peaceful glades, lakes and abundant wildlife in North Yorkshire.
Venue Type
Outdoor
Typical visit duration
All day
Booking
Walk-in
On-site café offering refreshments
Hours: Daily 10am - 4pm (last orders at 4pm)
Visit websiteI visited here on my way back from RSPB Bempton Cliffs. It's been on my places to go to list for a while, mainly to see the red squirrels. I stopped of in the cafe first. Tea for one along with sweet potato, chilli and coconut soup and a roll, which was delicious 😋 However, I didn't realise the 'squirrel', yes, singular was in an enclosure, albeit a large enclosure, so the chances of seeing 'Dave', yes, that is his name are quite unlikely. Yet, I was lucky enough to see him at around 4.45 in the afternoon, which was great. I have to say that I feel it is expensive for basically what is a large piece of land with trees and if I'm honest, I'm glad I didn't make a special journey from Leicestershire.
Magnificent! This beautiful arboretum is a wonderful place to spend a day. The Arboretum was initially developed between 1975-1992, this was when the core of the arboretum was planted involving a colaboration between Lord Howard Henderskelfe & celebrated plants man, James Russell. Originally parkland for the Castle Howard estate, which of course the land still belongs to, it now has a collection of 7000 trees of many species, interspersed with many areas of wild meadow flowers where you'll find several species of wild orchids. The Arboretum has become a natural haven for many bird & insect species, there is also a new enclosure for Red Squirrel, although I believe there is only one male that occupies this space, being allowed to establish itself before females are introduced, there are regular tours & talks concerning the enclosure. (Please check website to access all events within the arboretum) The visitor centre, also houses a gift shop & an excellent cafe/tearoom with indoor & outdoor seating. I thoroughly recommend a visit to this beautiful arboretum. A membership is available, not just for the arboretum, but for the whole Castle Howard estate, including the house.
First visit with my wife. Nice clean cafe, dogs allowed Service good ,no wait Lots of parking We had two scones and chutney £5.95 each a tea and latte £20.15 Grounds were great to walk round. Red squirrel encloser , we were unlucky and didn't see any. The ground well kept. I think it's about £12 for an adult. You could take a picnic. And really enjoy the day
Amazing - this was one of the first places that we visited when we lived in the UK and WOW ... the house is a reflection of "mind-blowing" wealth. The sheer scale of the estate .... We would say that it is better described as a 'palace' than a country house. We had a great time exploring the house and surrounding gardens. Lovely. There are helpful and friendly staff to assist if required.
Lovely and very intetesting place, great place to learn how to ID trees! The snow made it absolutely beautiful. Cafe was fantastic as well, would recommend a visit
Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026
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This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026
