Just a short drive from York and easily accessed from the A19. Most National Trust members know about Beningbrough– it’s one of those places that once you’ve found it, it soon becomes a firm favourite with free entry to members and under-fives. It’s worth noting they are an RHS partner garden so accept RHS membership, along with Yorkshire’s Great Houses, Castles and Gardens cards and support holders of Max Cards.
Beningbrough is open every day through summer, 10am – 5pm and during the school holidays there’s a free trail and activities on selected days. This summer’s theme: who’s hiding in the trees? Discover the animals who live in and close to trees, under bark and in hollows around the roots.
Wednesday is the day to visit if you like led activities. Stories Alive are bringing ‘The Adventures of Apple Pip’ to life on walking outdoor story sessions. A tale created just for Beningbrough visitors and inspired by the gardens. If bugs are more your thing, find out about the rare, and beautiful tansy beetle that lives on the River Ouse and get to see why it’s known as the jewel of York!
Plan your day on the website as each week differs so you might want to pick the right one for you…or visit a few times to try it all.
A visit isn’t complete without a trip to the play area. Subtly set at the far end of the gardens, hidden among the trees, is the wilderness. A great option for all ages from a Wendy house and small wooden clambering frame to cantilever swings and taller clamber stack for the more adventurous. There’s an area dedicated to den building where imaginations can join with play until it’s time for ice creams from the nearby Brew House.
If you’ve visited before or spent time at other National Trust places you might have got involved with the ongoing ’50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾’ playlist. Tick off some of the suggested challenges as part of your visit then carry on at home, in your local park or on your next day out.
The historic rooms in the hall have reopened and the ground floor is a great place if you’re looking for shelter from the sun, or rain! Don’t miss the giant pineapple sculpture, spotting faces in the intricate carvings over the doors and maybe picking a new book from the library. The restaurant and shop are open to make the day super easy or bring a picnic and find a spot on one of the lawns. No need to leave your four-legged friend at home, dogs are welcome in most parts of the garden, check details ahead of visiting however as there are restrictions including the play area and restaurant.
Keep up to date on social media @NTBeningbrough or start planning your visit HERE
Images © National Trust Images
