Just off the A64 between Malton and Scarborough, Scampston Hall walled Garden and parkland are well worth a visit.
Fountain and flower beds in the walled garden
The Walled Garden
The beautifully maintained walled garden was originally designed by Piet Oudolf in 1999. It is divided into several distinct areas which combine colourful, relaxing flower beds with bold, contemporary designs.
There are also water features and ample seats and benches scattered around so you can enjoy the peacefulness of the place. We enjoyed watching the numerous bees at work. It was a pleasure to hear the humming sound which was so common when we were younger, but rarely heard these days.
Colourful flower beds
Yew hedges in the Serpentine Garden
Yew columns in the Silent Garden
Colourful Astrantia major flowers
The Conservatory
A previously derelict glasshouse has been beautifully restored, with the help of National Lottery funding. It now contains an interesting exhibition about the history of the gardens and parkland and the people who worked there.
The restored glasshouse
Potted plants in the conservatory
The Parkland
The parkland, designed by Capability Brown, contains open views, some beautiful mature trees, grazing sheep and upper and lower lakes joined by a small cascade. Several trails allow you to explore, but some of the paths are a little rough so do wear appropriate footwear.
Trees in the park
Sheep grazing in the park
The ‘Old Aviaries Trail’ through beautiful trees
Old horse shelter, now used by bats and barn owls
The Lakes
Wandering around the park you have a good chance of spotting wildlife. The lakes, one of which is covered with water lilies, are home to many water birds, damselflies and dragonflies. We also saw buzzards and red kites as we walked around the park. Barn owls and kingfishers live here too.
The lower lake
Cascade between the upper and lower lakes
Bridge over the upper lake
Canada geese families amongst the water lilies
Blue tailed damselfly on a wooden post
Practicalities
Scampston Hall is located just off the A64 between Malton and Scarborough. There is ample parking with a picnic area.
Picnic tables at the carpark
There is also an excellent Garden Cafe with indoor and outdoor seating. Good coffee, homemade cakes and quality light meals are served. I can vouch for the homemade scones! Other facilities include plant and gift sales.
View of the Garden Cafe from the garden
The walled gardens and parkland are open from the end of March until the end of October (closed on Mondays except for Bank Holidays).
Guided tours of the Hall are also available on some days. For full details of opening times and admission prices see the Scampston website.
Scampston Walled Garden is a partner garden of the Royal Horticultural Society. Members are entitled to free entry on Fridays and throughout October. For membership see Royal Horticultural Society.
We loved visiting this peaceful little gem – don’t miss it!
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