The Main Borders at RHS Garden Harlow Carr
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RHS Garden Harlow Carr

4.7
·7k reviews·Beckwithshaw, United Kingdom

A stunning Yorkshire landscape garden with diverse themed areas, a fun log maze, and the iconic Betty's Tea Rooms.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Gardens burst with color

CrowdLow
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The Main Borders at RHS Garden Harlow Carr

RHS Garden Harlow Carr

Best Time

Spring mornings

Gardens burst with color

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning Yorkshire landscape garden with diverse themed areas, a fun log maze, and the iconic Betty's Tea Rooms.

4.7
(7k reviews)

"This place is a gem! Judging by the car park a lot of people already know."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Discount for No Car

Get a discount on entry if you arrive by bus, bike, or foot! :bus: :bike:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lots of walking involved on tarmac and gravel paths, some hilly parts. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Subtropical Garden

Subtropical Garden

Near the centre

Escape to a lush, exotic paradise with towering palms and vibrant blooms, offering a unique sensory experience.

Log Maze

Log Maze

Woodland area

A fun, whimsical challenge for all ages, get lost and find your way through this charming natural labyrinth.

Streamside Walk

Streamside Walk

Along the water

Meander alongside tranquil waters, discovering diverse plant life and peaceful nooks perfect for quiet contemplation.

Betty's Tea Rooms

Betty's Tea Rooms

Entrance and within gardens

Indulge in classic Yorkshire hospitality with delicious cakes, sandwiches, and teas amidst beautiful garden views.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets Online for Savings

Pre-booking your tickets online can save you money, with prices significantly lower than on-the-day admission. Consider RHS membership for free entry and other perks if you plan to visit multiple RHS gardens.

Allocate Ample Time for Exploration

With extensive grounds and diverse garden areas, plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully explore. Many visitors recommend spending an entire day to truly soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the amenities.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Gardens burst with color
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Warm and vibrant blooms
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn weekends
Why
Spectacular fall foliage
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter evenings (Glow event)
Why
Magical light displays
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I had a trip to RHS garden Harlow carr on Friday, as I used to work there :)@The RHS #allotment #culture #pakistani #
@zahabiculture
993 likes • 20.1K views

🚗 Discount for No Car

Get a discount on entry if you arrive by bus, bike, or foot! :bus: :bike:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lots of walking involved on tarmac and gravel paths, some hilly parts. :athletic_shoe:

Berlioz once described the Trombone as the instrument of Death! Three of them in the band is more than enough, never mind 76! #brassband #rhs #rhsharlowcarr #trombone #concert
@theharrogateband
526 likes • 15.1K views
All prepared and ready for a busy three days at the beautiful RHS Harlow Carr gardens for the first flower show of the year. If you fancy coming along I will be sharing lots of floral inspiration at 11am & 1pm each day in my demonstration "Buds, blooms and blossoms" Hope to see you there? @the_rhs @rhsharlowcarr #harlowcarr #flowershow #spring #flowers #Garden #floristry #flowerarrangements #mak...
jonathanmoseley
159 likes • 0 views

🗺️ Grab a Free Map

The gardens are extensive; a free map is very helpful for navigation. :world_map:

☕ Betty's Treats

Enjoy a classic Betty's experience with great views and delicious cakes. :cake:

Always a joy to return to RHS garden Harlow Carr for day 1 of the Spring Gardening weekend. Although chilly the sun has shone down and everyone enjoyed a little Spring and Easter themed floral inspiration at one of my floristry demonstrations. The gardens are bursting with early spring colour so why not pop along & visit us this weekend? @rhsharlowcarr @the_rhs #spring #gardening #weekend #rhsha...
jonathanmoseley
155 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Discount for No Car

Get a discount on entry if you arrive by bus, bike, or foot! :bus: :bike:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lots of walking involved on tarmac and gravel paths, some hilly parts. :athletic_shoe:

🗺️ Grab a Free Map

The gardens are extensive; a free map is very helpful for navigation. :world_map:

☕ Betty's Treats

Enjoy a classic Betty's experience with great views and delicious cakes. :cake:

♿ Accessibility Options

Wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be hired at the entrance. :wheelchair:

📸 Photo Opportunities

Stunning seasonal displays and light trails offer amazing photo ops. :camerawithflash:

💡 Gardening Courses

Consider beginner gardening courses for a hands-on learning experience. :seedling:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise RHS Garden Harlow Carr as an 'absolute gem' and 'unforgettable experience,' highlighting the exceptionally well-maintained gardens designed for relaxation and nature immersion. The staff are frequently commended for their exceptional helpfulness and going above and beyond. While some find the entrance fee a little pricey, most agree the extensive beauty and amenities, including Betty's Tea Rooms, make it a worthwhile visit.

"I visited over the weekend for the first time and it is an absolute gem; it was an unforgettable experience. Every section in the resort is designed for relaxation and experiencing nature.

I particularly appreciate the exceptional staff on premise; I had an issue and they went beyond and above to look after me.

The experience left a lasting impression and added a sense of luxury throughout my stay. I look forward to returning soon and creating more memories."

J. A. Y.

"What a wonderful place to visit, within walking distance of the centre of Harrogate! I came here on a coach trip, and stayed about two and a half hours. A lady at the entrance greeted us and gave us all a free map, which I found very helpful. Adult admission is £16.80 (it's £12.50 if you pre-book online), 5-16's get in for £5, and under-5's and RHS members go free. Lots of free parking. The garden is extensive, with well maintained tarmac and gravel paths, and a few hilly parts and steps, but most of it is wheelchair accessible, and you can hire a wheelchair or scooter at the entrance. Harlow Carr is a delight to explore, with colourful flower borders, a streamside walk, sandstone rock garden, lily ponds, a small lake, wildflower meadows, an arboretum, and much more. It all looked beautifully kept, the plants clearly labelled. I particularly loved strolling through woodland filled with lovely rhododendrons, azaleas, and other flowering shrubs, and relaxing on a swing bench among palms and exotic plants in the subtropical garden. There are plenty of wooden benches and shelters, picnic areas, toilets at the entrance and dotted around the garden, and a children's adventure playground and tree house in the woods. Three cafes, a garden centre and two gift shops. Betty's Tea House is the ideal place to chill: great view of the garden, and a good selection of drinks, cakes and sandwiches. The coffee was very good. Did not get to see all the gardens (you need at least three hours), but I thoroughly enjoyed wandering around them and getting close to nature. Will definitely come again!"

Valerie Hinchliffe

"This place is a gem! Judging by the car park a lot of people already know. As to be expected, the gardens were beautiful and more plants than you can shake a stick at. There is a Betty's cafe right at the entrance and another inside, the food is homemade and very nice. Staff are very helpful and pleasant. You can hire a mobility scooter if required. It seems a little pricey for entrance fee.....but where isn't? However they have a number of exceptions which can reduce the cost. Not knowing what to expect prior to entry my wife and I were pleasantly surprised. I would highly recommend.....go early!"

Mike Hodgson

What People Like

Beautifully kept gardens
Exceptional staff
Relaxing atmosphere

What People Dislike

Entrance fee can be high

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

RHS Garden Harlow Carr is easily accessible by car with ample free parking. It's also conveniently located near a bus stop, making public transport a great option. Many visitors report taking the bus and receiving a discount on entry. Reddit

Yes, there is plenty of free parking available at RHS Garden Harlow Carr. Reddit

Absolutely! There's a bus stop right off the grounds, making it convenient to reach via public transport. Reddit

Yes, it's within walking distance of the centre of Harrogate, making it a pleasant stroll for many visitors. Reddit

RHS Garden Harlow Carr is located in Harrogate, North Yorkshire. Use HG3 1QB for your GPS. The gardens are well-signposted from the main roads.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Adult admission is £16.80, but it's £12.50 if you pre-book online. Children aged 5-16 pay £5, and under-5s and RHS members get in free. Reddit

Yes, you can get a discount on entry if you arrive by bus, walking, or biking. It's worth asking about this when you pay for admission. Reddit

Yes, you can purchase tickets at the gate, but pre-booking online is recommended for savings. Reddit

Yes, RHS members receive free admission to RHS Garden Harlow Carr. Reddit

Opening hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official RHS website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the Subtropical Garden for an exotic escape, the Log Maze for fun, the Streamside Walk for tranquility, and the beautiful woodland areas. Reddit

Most of the garden has well-maintained tarmac and gravel paths, and is wheelchair accessible. You can hire wheelchairs or scooters at the entrance. Reddit

Yes, there are three cafes, including the famous Betty's Tea House, offering a range of food and drinks. Reddit

Yes, there's a children's adventure playground and tree house located in the woods. Reddit

Yes, there are plenty of picnic areas available throughout the gardens. Reddit

Toilets are available at the entrance and dotted around the garden for your convenience. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Subtropical Garden, the vibrant flower borders, and the seasonal displays like the 'Glow' light trail offer fantastic photo opportunities. TikTok

Yes, personal photography is generally allowed. However, commercial photography may require prior permission.

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light. Spring and autumn offer stunning seasonal colours. Instagram

The 'Glow' event during winter features spectacular light trails, perfect for unique evening photography. TikTok

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is useful for capturing both wide landscapes and close-up details of plants. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Harlow Carr is a fantastic destination for families. The Log Maze is a guaranteed hit, offering a fun challenge for children to navigate. TikTok There's also a dedicated children's adventure playground and tree house nestled in the woods, providing ample space for kids to play and explore. Reddit The gardens are extensive, offering plenty of open space for little ones to roam, and the 'Glow' winter event is particularly family-friendly with its magical light trails and photo opportunities. TikTok+1

💰 Budget Travelers

To make your visit more budget-friendly, pre-book your tickets online as it's significantly cheaper than buying on the day. Reddit Even better, if you arrive by bus, bike, or on foot, you can often get a discount on your admission fee – a tip highly recommended by visitors. Reddit While Betty's Tea Rooms offer a delightful experience, consider bringing your own picnic to enjoy in the designated picnic areas to save on food costs. Reddit

♿ Visitors with Mobility Needs

RHS Garden Harlow Carr is well-equipped to accommodate visitors with mobility needs. The majority of the garden features well-maintained tarmac and gravel paths, making it largely wheelchair accessible. Reddit For those who require assistance, wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available for hire at the entrance, ensuring everyone can explore the beautiful grounds comfortably. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Seasonal Spectacles at Harlow Carr

RHS Garden Harlow Carr truly transforms throughout the year, offering unique experiences in every season. Spring brings a riot of colour with rhododendrons and azaleas in bloom, a sight that horticulturists highlight as particularly special. Instagram Summer is a time of lush greenery and vibrant flower borders, perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics. Instagram Autumn paints the gardens in warm hues, with spectacular foliage and autumnal displays, often accompanied by gardening events and floristry demonstrations. Instagram+1

During the festive season, Harlow Carr comes alive with 'Glow,' a magical light trail that illuminates the gardens with stunning visual displays, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere for families and couples alike. TikTok+1 These seasonal events, from flower shows to gardening weekends, provide excellent opportunities to witness the gardens at their peak and engage with horticultural experts. Instagram+1

Beyond the main seasons, the garden showcases its resilience and beauty year-round. Even in winter, plants like Mahonia offer unique attractions, with horticulturists explaining how they attract pollinators during colder months. TikTok This continuous cycle of bloom and display ensures that a visit to Harlow Carr is always rewarding, no matter when you choose to go.

Horticultural Haven and Learning

Harlow Carr is not just a beautiful garden; it's a hub for horticultural learning and inspiration. The gardens are meticulously maintained, with plants clearly labelled, allowing visitors to deepen their understanding of botany. Reddit Former apprentices and horticulturists share their experiences, highlighting the practical skills gained, such as potting strawberries in the kitchen garden. TikTok This dedication to horticulture is evident in every corner, from the diverse plant collections to the ongoing development of new garden features. Reddit

For those eager to cultivate their own green thumb, RHS Harlow Carr offers various gardening courses. The beginner gardening course, for instance, is praised for providing valuable knowledge and inspiring attendees to get back into their own gardens. TikTok These courses, often held in a friendly, like-minded group setting, are a testament to the RHS's commitment to promoting gardening for everyone. TikTok Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting, there are opportunities to learn and connect with nature and fellow enthusiasts.

Art and Nature Intertwined

RHS Garden Harlow Carr often serves as a beautiful backdrop for art exhibitions, seamlessly blending natural beauty with creative expression. The Bath House, for example, has hosted exhibitions curated by organizations like ByHandFairs, showcasing a variety of artwork. Instagram These exhibitions feature talented artists, with selections of their work displayed within the serene garden environment, creating a unique 'Where Art and Nature Unite' experience. Instagram

These art events provide an additional layer of cultural enrichment to a visit, offering visitors a chance to appreciate both the horticultural artistry of the gardens and the creative talents of artists. Instagram The integration of art into the garden setting enhances the overall visitor experience, making a trip to Harlow Carr a multi-faceted exploration of beauty and creativity. Instagram

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