
Harewood House
A magnificent 18th-century Georgian mansion with stunning art, interiors, and expansive landscaped gardens.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Harewood House
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent 18th-century Georgian mansion with stunning art, interiors, and expansive landscaped gardens.
"Absolutely stunning grounds and a very interesting house with beautiful interiors."

🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the extensive grounds and gardens! :athletic_shoe:
☕ Cafe & Refreshments
Cafes offer drinks and cake, but food options are limited. Consider packing a picnic.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand House
Main House
Explore opulent Georgian interiors, admire priceless art collections, and step back in time.

Landscaped Gardens & Grounds
Gardens and Estate
Wander through stunning gardens, a serene lake, and picturesque woodlands.

Penguin & Bird Encounters
Bird Garden
Meet Humboldt penguins and other fascinating bird species in a dedicated garden.

Festive Experiences
Various locations
Discover magical Christmas installations and themed events during the holiday season.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Ticket Value & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the extensive grounds and gardens! :athletic_shoe:
☕ Cafe & Refreshments
Cafes offer drinks and cake, but food options are limited. Consider packing a picnic.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Parking is available at the Muddy Boots Cafe, a convenient starting point.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The house and gardens offer stunning photo opportunities, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the extensive grounds and gardens! :athletic_shoe:
☕ Cafe & Refreshments
Cafes offer drinks and cake, but food options are limited. Consider packing a picnic.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Parking is available at the Muddy Boots Cafe, a convenient starting point.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The house and gardens offer stunning photo opportunities, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You could easily spend 3-4 hours exploring everything. Don't rush your visit!
♿ Accessible Options
Harewood House is noted for its accessibility, including lifts within the house. :wheelchair:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the stunning beauty of Harewood House's gardens and grounds, often describing them as breathtaking and perfect for leisurely strolls. The house itself is noted for its interesting interiors and art. However, some guests find the entry fees to be quite high, and the cafe facilities have received criticism for being overpriced and lacking in food variety, with some also noting issues with cleanliness and wasps.
"We didn't get too much time to explore everywhere, but what I did see I liked very much. Breathtaking views from the garden of the house. Had a lovely cream tea with sandwiches, cakes and scones. Very substantial and part of an organised coach holiday. Not sure how much it would have been had we gone there on our own.
The house was interesting and we were lucky to visit on a day where the weather was great."
Jackie Fleming
"Absolutely stunning! The entry fee may seem a bit much but it's 50% off if you're traveling by bus. The large grounds and the walk is gorgeous and the inside of the house is very beautiful."
Siri Urlam
"Absolutely stunning grounds. The house is very interesting, quite a lot to see. It will take you approximately 30 minutes to an hour to go through the house. At the exit there is a little cafe where you can have a drink and cake. They don't serve much food, so don't be thinking to have lunch there.
The gardens and lake are stunning. You could spend half a day easily strolling and enjoying the grounds.
Negatives: toilets. Too few, old and dirty. Get them refurbished. The cafe was poor. Food was bland, overpriced. Tables dirty. Wasps everywhere - you need to control and get some bug zappers.
Ticket prices are extortionate. £50+ for a couple. It's a bit ridiculous. Come on. It's definitely worth a visit, however, at this price I very very much doubt we will be back. The price is very off putting."
toomuchtime private
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Harewood House is located about 20 minutes north of Leeds. You can drive and park for free at the Muddy Boots Cafe. Public transport options include buses, with some offering discounts on entry fees.
Yes, there is free parking available, particularly at the Muddy Boots Cafe, which is a convenient starting point for exploring the estate.
While not a direct walk from Leeds city center, the Harewood House Estate offers beautiful walking routes, including a 7.5km circular walk. The surrounding woodlands are also great for walks.
Yes, public transport is an option, and some bus routes offer a discount on admission tickets, making it a more budget-friendly way to visit.
Many visitors enjoy the 7.5km circular walk that takes around 2 hours to complete. The grounds are extensive, so comfortable shoes are a must.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees can be perceived as high, with prices around £26.50 per person mentioned. However, discounts may be available, such as 50% off for bus travelers. Annual passes are also an option for frequent visitors.
Yes, a 50% discount on entry fees is available if you travel by bus, making it a more affordable option.
Tickets typically include access to the house, gardens, and grounds. Some special events or experiences might require separate booking or an additional fee.
Tickets can usually be purchased on the day of your visit, but booking in advance is often recommended, especially during peak times or for special events.
Information on specific family ticket options isn't readily available in the provided content, but it's worth checking their official website or inquiring upon arrival.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Harewood House offers a variety of attractions including the historic house with its art collections, stunning gardens, a bird garden with penguins, and extensive grounds for walking. Special events and workshops are also frequently held.
To fully appreciate the house and grounds, plan for at least 3-4 hours. Exploring just the house might take 30 minutes to an hour.
Yes, Harewood House often features family-friendly activities, including penguin encounters and farm fun. Festive events are also great for kids.
Harewood House is noted for its accessibility, with features like lifts available within the house, making it a good option for those with mobility challenges.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and for special events. It's best to check the official Harewood House website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The cafes at Harewood House primarily offer drinks and cakes. While some visitors have enjoyed afternoon tea, it's not ideal for a full lunch, and packing a picnic is often recommended.
The cafes typically serve drinks, cakes, and sometimes light snacks. Some reviews mention bland food and overpriced options.
Specific dietary options are not detailed in the provided content. It's advisable to check with the cafe directly or bring your own food if you have specific dietary needs.
Alcohol is available, but some visitors have noted that it can be expensive.
Harewood House has hosted special themed afternoon teas, which have been described as lovely and a great treat for occasions like birthdays.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can vary. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted in many areas, but it's always best to check for specific signage within the house.
The gardens, the lake, and the exterior of the house itself offer beautiful photographic opportunities. The interiors, with their art and architecture, are also very photogenic.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historic estates to protect the property and ensure visitor safety. It's advisable to check Harewood House's official policy on drones before flying.
Many visitors capture an 'old money' or 'old money aesthetic' with its grand architecture and manicured gardens.
While not explicitly mentioned as regular tours, workshops like candle making are held on-site, suggesting potential for other creative workshops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Walkers and Nature Enthusiasts
📚 Book Lovers and History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architecture and Art of Harewood House
Visitors often find the house interiors fascinating, though some have expressed a desire for more in-depth historical information about each room's original use. The blend of architectural brilliance and curated art collections makes exploring the house a highlight for many. The 'old money aesthetic' is frequently captured by visitors, drawn to the house's timeless elegance.
Exploring the Extensive Grounds and Gardens
Beyond the formal gardens, the estate is home to the Bird Garden, where you can encounter Humboldt penguins and other avian species. The grounds are well-maintained and offer plenty of benches for resting and enjoying the stunning scenery. The variety of plants and shrubs adds to the visual appeal, making it a delightful place for a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous walk. The lake crossing by boat is also a unique experience offered to visitors.
Seasonal Events and Special Experiences
Other unique experiences have included projection and sound installations, afternoon teas with special themes, and even candle making workshops. These events add another layer of appeal to visiting Harewood House, offering something beyond the permanent collections and grounds. It's worth checking their schedule for upcoming events to enhance your visit.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit