Helmsley Walled Garden
Free RHS Member days
March–December, Wednesday; plus October, daily when open
About the garden
This historic walled garden, established in 1758, offers a diverse and enriching experience for horticultural enthusiasts. Spanning five acres, the garden features lawns, perennial borders, wildflower beds, a charming kitchen garden, thriving orchards and historic glasshouses. Notable highlights include the impressive laburnum arch and the vibrant central border. Additionally, the Plant Heritage national collection of Rosebud Pelargoniums and the heritage collection of Yorkshire apples are both significant attractions.
The garden, which opened as an alpine garden recently, earned a Silver-Gilt award at the 2024 Harrogate Spring Flower Show. Established initially as a kitchen garden for the Duncombe Park Estate, Helmsley Walled Garden now operates as a charitable organisation, maintained by a team of volunteers. In November 2024, they were honoured with The King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
For refreshments, The Vine House Café, located in one of the historic glasshouses, offers a seasonal menu. Additionally, the Garden Shop features gardening accessories, locally sourced gifts, books and plants for sale, many of which are propagated by volunteers, ensuring a wonderful experience for all.
Facilities
- Accessible garden
- Dogs welcome
- Parking
- Plant sales
- Refreshments
- Toilets
Key features
- Sculpture
- Glasshouse (open to public)
- Autumn colour
- Cottage planting
- National Plant Collections
- Wildlife planting and features
- Potager
Get involved
The RHS is the UK’s gardening charity, helping people and plants to grow - nurturing a healthier, happier world, one person and one plant at a time.