The gardens at East Riddlesden Hall

Spring in the garden

During spring, the garden bursts into life. First come the snowdrops and daffodils, before colourful bluebells and herbaceous plants start to take over the show. Every day the garden gets more full and green, transforming with the season. Migrating birds return, filling the gardens with their song. 

The Formal Garden

Blossom is the star of the show in the Formal Garden, with various fruit trees bursting into bloom throughout the season. See the colourful petals floating in the breeze and wander along the path of fruit and pear trees, each one blossoming at a different time. Look for new life appearing in the herb garden, as this colourful space starts to take shape. See the shapes, feel the textures and soak up the smells of the different herbs as you discover what they could be used for. 

In the main borders, herbaceous perennials are returning, filling the space with colour. New buds are appearing on the roses, ready for their summer display. Look out for the towering alliums appearing towards the end of spring, their purple heads bobbing in the breeze. 

On sunny days, the deck chairs will be out across the lawns for you to enjoy. Grab a seat and soak up the sun, listening to the birds as you watch the world go by. 

The wild garden

In the wild garden, towering camassias fill this peaceful space with their colourful blue heads. On the ground, bluebells, snakes head fritillary and hellbores can be seen dotted amongst the grass. 

The birdsong is louder than ever during May and June, and you can often spot garden birds darting from branch to branch. When the gardeners are hard at work, robins can usually be found nearby. 

A secret tunnel will take you through the trees to the Discovery Garden, a wild play space which is the perfect place for the little ones to run off some steam.

The lower fields and meadow walk

The lower fields and meadow walk are the perfect place for stretching your legs and enjoying the colours of the season. 

Look for butterflies and bees darting amongst the wild flowers and enjoy this open, green space. 

We're planting thousands of trees on the fields, helping wildlife to thrive. Imagine how this landscape will look when they are grown, and how it'll provide a home for nature. 

Look for wildlife along the river's edge, you might be lucky enough to spot a colourful kingfisher darting amongst the foliage.