Yorkshire Arboretum looking down towards the lake
If you enjoy walking amongst beautiful and interesting trees you will love the Yorkshire Arboretum. Consisting of around 120 acres of beautiful parkland, the arboretum apparently contains more than 6000 trees.
Early autumn colours
The collection consists of trees from temperate countries around the world, and is around 40 years old. There are many unusual specimens, and all are labelled with a tag attached to a branch – great if, like, me you like to know what you are looking at.
There are gentle paths around the site, and plenty of benches to sit and enjoy the glorious surroundings.
Path through the Arboretum on a beautiful autumn day
The Arboretum is a lovely place to visit at any time of the year (it is open from the beginning of February to the end of November). In spring and summer there are vivid greens and wild flowers.
Old horse chestnut tree and distant bluebells in spring
Path through the trees in late spring
Wooden bench surrounded by summer foliage
Autumn is, of course, the most colourful season. If you are lucky enough to visit on a sunny autumn day with a clear blue sky, the Arboretum is a truly beautiful place to be.
Acer rubrum ‘October Glory’ maple trees at their most colourful
Golden foliage in autumn light
Vivid red maple leaves
Stunning autumn foliage
As well as the trees, the Arboretum is also a great place for spotting wildlife. There are birds singing in the trees, butterflies on the flowers, and water birds and dragonflies near the lake.
Autumn colours around the lake
Last time we visited we spotted this impressive pale tussock moth caterpillar on a fallen oak leaf.
Pale tussock moth caterpillar
A few hours spent here is a great way to unwind and enjoy being surrounded by beautiful nature.
Shadowy trees in autumn light
Practicalities
The Yorkshire Arboretum is situated just opposite the entrance to Castle Howard, easily reached from the A64 York to Scarborough road.
There is ample parking, an excellent cafe, gift and plant sales, and regular events. For full details of opening times, events and prices see the Yorkshire Arboretum website.
The Arboretum is a partner garden of the Royal Horticultural Society, and RHS members are entitled to free access on all days until the end of August. Follow the link for information about RHS membership.
If you would like to stay in North Yorkshire, you can search available accommodation on this page at booking.com.
For more great places to visit in Yorkshire we recommend the Rough Guide to Yorkshire.
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