Harewood grounds to stay open

Harewood House Trust has confirmed that the historic grounds, gardens and adventure playground are able to remain open for all members and visitors to enjoy and explore during the current lockdown.

Following Government legislation and guidance, the following areas and facilities will continue to safely open from 10am-4pm daily (last admission 3.15pm), with pre-booked tickets essential: Adventure playground (face masks advisory); Gardens: Italianate Terrace, Archery Border, Walled Garden, Himalayan Garden; Grounds and Lakeside Walk; takeaway food and drink from the Bothy Teahouse and Horsebox; Courtyard shop click and collect service; WCs.

The Christmas programme of events will start from December 3.

Harewood’s own in-house team of creatives will transform the house and gardens into a heart-warming display of Christmas wonder laced with decadent trees, magical lighting and the introduction of a new Festive Hideaway adorned with firepits and all the treats to toast.

Father Christmas will return to welcome families for exclusive out-of-hours access to the house, to ensure a safe environment can be provided with all the necessary precautions in place, whilst still creating a magical experience.

A tailor made programme of festive workshops will be back, as well as festive afternoon teas, artisan and local maker shopping weekends.

Lord Whitney’s Upon a Christmas Wish has been postponed to next year but the Trust says there will be plenty for families.

Edward Appleyard, Director of Engagement for Harewood House Trust said: “At a time of such uncertainty, we’re delighted Harewood’s grounds and gardens can remain open and offer a safe sanctuary to those wishing to visit in the coming weeks.

“We’re full of hope and our whole team is now focused on delivering a compelling and magical Christmas programme with the same Harewood spirit and vigour we’ve become respected for and look forward to welcoming everyone to share safely in the celebrations with us from Thursday December 3.”

The revised Christmas programme at Harewood has been designed with social distancing in mind.

General admission tickets must be booked online in advance. Visit www.harewood.org for more information and up to date booking terms.