Castle Howard Arboretum - Image 1

Castle Howard Arboretum

Castle Howard, United Kingdom•4.6(963)•Botanical Garden, Country Park, Nature Reserve

Explore 120 acres of stunning parkland with over 7,000 trees from around the world, peaceful glades, lakes and abundant wildlife in North Yorkshire.

Castle Howard Arboretum is a 120-acre landscape of peace and tranquility in the heart of North Yorkshire, offering families a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a world-class tree collection and natural environment. The arboretum features over 7,000 trees from around the globe, set within beautiful parkland complete with lakes, ponds, wildflower meadows and hidden glades that invite exploration and discovery. Visitors can wander through diverse woodland habitats, observe native wildlife including red squirrels, and enjoy the natural beauty of this carefully maintained landscape. The venue is particularly welcoming to families with children, offering space to explore freely and connect with nature. Dog-friendly facilities and pushchair accessibility ensure comfort for all visitors, while the on-site Arboretum Café provides refreshment during visits. Beyond casual visits, Castle Howard Arboretum offers educational experiences including school visits and children's parties, allowing younger visitors to learn about conservation and biodiversity. The arboretum is home to The Tree Health Centre, a teaching space with panoramic views, and hosts various events throughout the year. Managed by the Castle Howard Arboretum Trust, a registered charity, the venue combines recreation, education and conservation in one inspiring destination.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 10:00 – 16:00
Tuesday: 10:00 – 16:00
Wednesday: 10:00 – 16:00
Thursday: 10:00 – 16:00
Friday: 10:00 – 16:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 16:00
Sunday: 10:00 – 16:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

Arboretum Café

On-site café offering refreshments

Hours: Daily 10am - 4pm (last orders at 4pm)

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Google Reviews

4.6(963 reviews)
K
Kate Morris

Kate Morris

a month ago

I 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.

J
Jim Stringer

Jim Stringer

a month ago

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.

N
Nick Nick

Nick Nick

2 months ago

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

N
Norm P.

Norm P.

3 months ago

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.

J
Jimbob 736

Jimbob 736

8 months ago

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

Events at Castle Howard Arboretum

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about Castle Howard Arboretum

Is Castle Howard Arboretum free to visit?

Castle Howard Arboretum is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

Is Castle Howard Arboretum dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Castle Howard Arboretum.

Is there parking at Castle Howard Arboretum?

Yes — Castle Howard Arboretum has on-site parking, plus additional parking nearby.

Is there food at Castle Howard Arboretum?

Yes — Arboretum Café is on site at Castle Howard Arboretum. On-site café offering refreshments

Is Castle Howard Arboretum pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Castle Howard Arboretum is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Castle Howard Arboretum?

Castle Howard Arboretum is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Castle Howard Arboretum by public transport?

Castle Howard Arboretum isn't on a major public transport route — driving is recommended.

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