Just a short journey from Leeds city centre, Harewood House is one of the UK’s most spectacular historic estates. Home to a magnificent 18th century Georgian house, this celebrated treasure house is surrounded by 120 acres of gardens, sweeping ‘Capability’ Brown landscapes, woodland walks and beautiful Yorkshire countryside. With a packed year-round programme of events, exhibitions, family-friendly attractions and wellness experiences, it’s a must-visit destination while visiting Leeds.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to discover something new, here’s how to make the most of a day at Harewood.
Start Your Morning Exploring the House
Begin your visit at the heart of the estate: Harewood House itself. Home to an impressive collection of art, furniture and decorative treasures, the house offers a fascinating glimpse into over 250 years of history. Wander through grand State Rooms (recognisable from many film and TV series like Downton Abbey and ITV’s Victoria) admire works by renowned artists, including masters El Greco and Titian, and learn more about the stories, people and heritage that have shaped Harewood over the centuries.
There’s plenty to discover, including changing exhibitions that regularly bring new perspectives and experiences to the house.
Step Outside into the Gardens and Grounds
Once you’ve experienced indoors, enjoy Harewood’s stunning outdoor spaces. With more than 140 acres of gardens, woodland and parkland, there’s no shortage of places to explore no matter the weather.
Take in the beautiful landscapes, enjoy views across the estate and look out for wildlife along the way. Depending on the season, you’ll find colourful floral displays, peaceful lakeside scenery and plenty of picture-perfect spots for photographs. The Himalayan Garden is an unmissable feature with stepping stones, plants from East Asia, and even a Buddhist Stupa – Alan Titchmarsh himself described it as a ‘hidden gem and second to none in the UK’.
Family Adventures
For families, Harewood’s outdoor spaces offer lots of opportunities for children to run, play and connect with nature. Wind through willow mazes at the Woodland Wonderland, explore a one-of-a-kind Sylvascope treehouse and experience the Adventure Playscape, an inclusive and sustainably made playground with a specially curated physical and sensory environment. The team at Harewood House also have a variety of family friendly activities during school holidays.
Walk the Estate Circuit
For a further exploration of the grounds, set aside time for a longer walk around the estate. A circular route taking in woodland paths, open countryside and some of Harewood’s lesser-known corners and offers a wonderful way to experience the landscape beyond the main visitor areas. The estate’s network of footpaths rewards walkers with sweeping Yorkshire views, historic features and the chance to spot red kites, deer and Highland cows.
Insider Tip: Don’t forget comfortable footwear, especially if you’ve been inspired by Yorkshire’s great outdoors and fancy earning those refreshments later
Visit All Saints’ Church
A short stroll from Harewood House, the beautiful All Saints’ Church is well worth a visit. This medieval church, with roots to Norman times, offers a tranquil place for reflection. Inside you’ll find stunning architecture, impressive stained glass and fascinating effigies which are considered some of the greatest surviving examples of alabaster carving in England (offering a fascinating glimpse into the armour, jewellery and headdresses of the late medieval period). The church was restored in the Victorian era by Sir George Gilbert Scott, the architect who designed St Pancras Station in London.
It is a quieter corner of Harewood that many visitors miss, making it a rewarding addition to your day.
Refuel: Food & Drink at Harewood
A day exploring Harewood House works up an appetite, and the estate’s food and drink spaces make the most of fresh local Yorkshire products, which includes seasonal options grown directly in Harewood’s own Walled Garden.
- The Courtyard Café: The central dining hub of the estate, serving hearty seasonal hot dishes, fresh deli sandwiches, salads, homemade cakes, and locally roasted artisan coffee. It is the ideal base for a relaxed lunch or a mid-morning coffee stop before hitting the trails. Don’t forget to check out the shops also located in The Courtyard including the Secondhand Bookshop with rare and vintage books and collectables.
- The Bothy Teahouse (Seasonal): Tucked away near the Walled Garden, this tranquil spot is open during the warmer months for cold drinks, artisan pastries, Yorkshire dairy ice cream, and grab-and-go refreshments during a stroll around the lake.
- Seasonal Kiosks & Picnics: Pop-up takeaway points across the grounds ensure a quick coffee or ice cream is never far away. If you prefer al fresco dining of your own making, there are also designated scenic picnic areas throughout the gardens and lakeside paths.
- Indulge in Afternoon Tea: For a truly special experience, book Harewood’s seasonal Afternoon Tea. Served at The Terrace Cafe in the house itself, it’s a wonderful way to slow down and enjoy a classic British treat in exquisite surroundings. Visitors can enjoy artisan teas, freshly prepared sandwiches, homemade cakes and scones, with menus inspired by the changing seasons.
- Harewood Food & Drink Project: For seasonal foodie experiences, Harewood Food & Drink Project puts on regular events from foraging adventures to festive dinners using produce from the Harewood Estate, in venues like The Hovels, Muddy Boots Café and Harewood House’s Gallery.
- Muddy Boots Café: A cool spot located just near the entrance gates to Harewood, serving up homemade and locally sourced food… and dog friendly!
Experience Wellness at Harewood
Set in the heart of the Harewood Estate is Harewood Holistics, the home of wellness where you can experience yoga, pilates, massage treatments, sound baths and more. These are held inside the Arch Barn, with some yoga classes on the Harewood House’s Terrace overlooking the rolling countryside.
Explore What’s On
No two visits to Harewood are exactly the same. Throughout the year, the estate hosts a varied programme of exhibitions, family activities, workshops, seasonal celebrations and special events.
Throughout the year, Harewood also hosts a variety of wellbeing, creative and nature-inspired events, workshops and activities that encourage visitors to relax, learn new skills and spend time outdoors.
Before your visit, it’s always worth checking our What’s On pages.
Top Tips for Your Visit
- Book tickets online in advance for the best prices.
- Allow a full day to experience both the house and grounds.
- Wear comfortable shoes if planning longer walks.
- Check the events calendar before travelling.
- Bring a camera as the scenery is spectacular year-round.
- Consider visiting in different seasons, as gardens, exhibitions and events change throughout the year.
- If you’re a fan, the Emmerdale Village Tour is near Harewood and sets off from the Estate so why not start your visit with a 90 minute tour of this real working set.
From grand interiors and historic treasures to woodland walks, great food and unforgettable events, Harewood House is one of Yorkshire’s most rewarding days out.
Getting to Harewood House
Harewood House is located just north of Leeds, making it an easy day trip from the city centre and across Yorkshire.
By Car
Harewood House is situated on the A61 between Leeds and Harrogate and is well signposted. Ample visitor parking is available on site, making it a convenient option for those travelling by car.
By Bus
Regular bus services connect Leeds city centre with Harewood, offering a straightforward and sustainable way to visit. Journey times are typically around 30 minutes, depending on traffic and your departure point.
By Train
For visitors travelling from further afield, Leeds Station provides excellent rail connections to destinations across Yorkshire and the UK. From Leeds, Harewood House can be reached by bus, taxi or car, making it an ideal addition to a Leeds city break.
Make a Day of It
Harewood combines the best of Yorkshire’s heritage, culture, nature and wellbeing experiences in a single destination. Located just minutes from the vibrant city of Leeds and within easy reach of Harrogate and Yorkshire’s wider countryside, it’s the perfect place to slow down, explore and spend quality time with family and friends.
Top Tip: Check Harewood’s website before travelling for the latest visitor information, seasonal events, opening times and travel guidance.