Tucked away in stunning Wharfedale, the colourful yet tranquil Parcevall Hall Gardens are an almost hidden gem, which we visited whilst camping at Howgill Lodge near Appletreewick. An easy walk from the campsite, through the fields into the hamlet of Skyreholme, brought us to signage for the gardens and tea room. Having heard that dogs are welcomed ( on lead) , we thought we would take a look. There is a £7 entry fee for this English Heritage registered delight. You can also buy a map of the gardens and grounds.
We decided to follow the suggested route on the map and one of the first places we came across, was a little tarn, which we let Hugo take a dip in. 🙂 There are twenty four acres of formal and woodland gardens to explore, which include many trees and shrubs, collected from West China and The Himalayas. The then derelict Hall was bought in the 1920s by Sir William Milner ( 1893-1960) , who used his horticulture skills to create the gardens.
There are plenty of tranquil resting places to admire your surroundings. One such place is the Rock Garden, where there is a little pond. Also look out for the scattering of turkeys, who peck skittishly round the grounds.
The Hall itself is not open to the public, and is used as a retreat by the Diocese of West Yorkshire. However the garden terraces in front of Parcevall welcome wanderers. 🙂 Parts of the building date back to the 1600s and the estate itself, once belonged to Bolton Priory.
From the terraces there are stunning views over Wharfedale and toward Simon’s Seat, a rocky outcrop on the surrounding fells.
Other areas in the grounds include a camelia walk, a herb garden, a rose garden, a chapel garden and an Orchard. There is also an additional 8 acre woodland, which is separate from the main gardens. Tibet Wood was originally planted in 1944 by Italian prisoners of war and includes a mixture of Conifers and Bird Cherries.
I was quite taken with the gardens as they really compliment the house and the marvelous Yorkshire views. Our only bugbear was the tea room closed early that day, and we would have really appreciated a brew, after our wander round. Not to worry, we walked to the Craven Arms in Appletreewick instead..
Have you ever visited Parcevall Hall Gardens?
sunshine and celandines 