Eucryphia growing above a hedge at Parcevall Hall North Yorkshire. The grounds contain several acid loving plants and the under planting included several Hydrangeas. Whilst the gardens are nearly 1000 feet above sea level the shelter of the dales hills and damp conditions suit the Eucryphia down to the ground (Oops)
Parcevall Hall gardens lie on a steep hillside with steps and uneven paths throughout. The topography and aspect add to the beauty of the gardens. ‘Within the grounds, visitors will find many facets of the garden, including, woodland walks, formal, south facing terraces, a bedrock limestone rock garden and a beautiful rose garden where it is a pleasure to sit and relax. All set against the stunning back-drop of the Yorkshire Dales.’ Parcevall Hall Tea Rooms
Newby Hall & Garden
“Newby Hall and Garden is well known in the gardening fraternity as an impressive example of well designed and extensive range of garden features, expertly decorated with a diverse range of plants. The truly magnificent herbaceous borders are the central feature of the gardens but are by no means the only feature of quality. Garden rooms and themed planting provide a range of style’s that can easily be incorporated into most gardens large or small. Of particular value is the work on plant conservation and Newby boasts the best collection of the genus Cornus in the Country.” I would also add the acid lovers Azaleas, Camellias, Rhododendrons and Magnolias so recommend visiting in April or May.
Enjoyable cafe looking towards the river but can be busy at weekends.
Burnby Hall Garden
Two magnificent lakes hold a national collection of Water Lilies. Watch the numerous fish, walk through the Secret garden and rockeries or follow the woodland walk. Open march- 9th October 2011.
OK for a bun fight and coffee.
York Gate Garden
This is the garden near Leeds that is owned by the gardeners charity ‘Perennial’. Although small it contains many interesting features including a white garden, dwarf conifers and 14 smaller garden rooms. Standing only for a weak tea or plastic cup of coffee.
Thorp Perrow Arboretum
All the fun of the trees with no little bonsai to worry about. National collections are held of Ash, Lime, Laburnum, Walnut and Cotinus plus there seems to be an infinite number of Hydrangea. Good bacon butties and view.
Ripley Castle & Gardens
Walking along from the castle terrace you get fantastic views over the lakes and deer park beyond. There is a woodland trail and an extended walk for the energetic. The large herbaceous borders create such a riot of colour between June and October each year but for me the old hot houses containing a highly impressive collection of tropical plants, ferns and cacti is the key feature. Ancient wisteria thrive on the high south-facing walls opposite the walled kitchen garden. This is maintained in neat order with the Henry Doubleday Research Association and contains an extensive herb bed and collection of rare vegetables.
I can’t remember the cafe which says a lot
RHS Garden Harlow Carr
Two cafes both concessions from Bettys. Down in the garden there is a stall with tables but the main facility near the entrance has everything a gourmet could want for a price.
Wentworth Castle’s 50 acres of Grade 1 listed gardens are, historically, some of the most important gardens in the country. There is a fine Fernery and some great Holly behind the castle pictured above. Local authority catering services.
Harewood House
Known for the imposing House and sweeping terrace there is much to satisfy the gardener or cafe visitor. The Himalayan garden is a feature I most appreciate. Designed by Capability Brown there are 1000 acres of parkland and even a bird garden with many species. Where is the Tea?