An “idyllic” National Trust garden in West Yorkshire once visited by Alan Titchmarsh has been crowned among the UK’s most glorious to visit right now.
During spring, the 300 acres of gardens and parkland at Nostell near Wakefield (just a 40-minute drive from Bradford) are at their “most beautiful”.
From tulip boarders and beds filled with scented hyacinths, to magnolia blooming into life, as well as wildflower meadows, it really is at its best.
The landscape which includes an adventure play area, also offers “rippling lakes and majestic woodland, from the winding paths of the menagerie garden to the regimented beds in the working kitchen garden that supplies the courtyard cafe,” according to the National Trust website.
The Times revealed about its latest best UK gardens guide: “From a Welsh castle surrounded by sweeping fields of yellow daffodils to a Norfolk orchard about to burst into blossom, we have rounded up 21 National Trust gardens which are at their best and most beautiful at this time of year.
“Whether you’re looking for a quick day out, a long leisurely weekend, or a grand destination for your next staycation – and no matter where you are in the country – there’s a landscape for every occasion.”
Why is Nostell among UK’s most glorious National Trust gardens?
The publisher shared: “Tulips and magenta cyclamen brighten the borders at Nostell, while long, straight beds filled with scented hyacinths create a deep purple haze that perfumes the air on breezy days.
“In the rose garden pond, you can spot frogspawn beneath the statue, while a walk towards the Menagerie Garden takes you through a sea of pink‑and‑white magnolia blooms.
“Follow paths around a tranquil lake, through the estate’s historic apple orchard, or explore 300 acres of parkland beyond, with ancient woodlands and wildflower meadows.”
Just one of Nostell’s claims to fame is appearing on the BBC’s Great British Village Show, hosted by none other than gardening legend Alan Titchmarsh, who is originally from Ilkley.
On the programme, which first aired in 2007, Alan was joined by TV chef James Martin and CBBC star Angellica Bell at the National Trust site.
Together, they searched to find Britain’s number one in 15 village show categories.
Elsewhere, Nostell has received a lot of praise by visitors over the years on Tripadvisor, particularly for its “beautiful” gardens.
A Brief History of the National Trust
It currently boasts a “very good” 4.3/5 rating based on 1,507 reviews – 769 of which are rated as “excellent”.
A recent explorer wrote: “Great National Trust property, gardens and expansive area to walk with plenty of car parking. Lots to see at Nostell.
“A lovely little shop, book shop and a couple of cafes.”
They added: “Awesome place to walk. Beautiful gardens and a large wooden play park for children.
“Loved the fairy doors and the open invitation to play and ignite your imagination.”
Another shared: “Gardens and lakes are idyllic.”
They continued: “Had a beautiful sunny day and sat and had a picnic on the menagerie gardens which are very peaceful.
A visitor said the lakeside walks at Nostell are ‘peaceful and beautiful’ (Image: Tripadvisor)
“The kitchen garden is very impressive, every vegetable imaginable grown there and an apple orchard.”
This person posted: “Very interesting house with knowledgeable room attendants.
“Well kept gardens including a fascinating kitchen garden and an amazing orchard.
“Once away from the house, the lakeside walks were peaceful and beautiful.”
Aside from the gardens and parkland, Nostell has a Georgian house that is home to a “huge collection”, including six of the ‘125 Treasures’ explored in the National Trust’s recent book.
The National Trust website details: “Discover the detail of our globally-renowned dolls’ house alongside a wealth of mastercrafts including decorative interiors by Robert Adam, one of the first long case clocks made by John Harrison and world-class collection of Chippendale furniture.”
Plus, if you fancy a bit of shopping, there’s the courtyard shop and second-hand bookshop.
Visitors can grab a bite to eat at the Courtyard café open daily from 9am, serving hot meals, drinks and snacks made with seasonal produce from the kitchen garden.
On weekends and during holidays, the cafe’s Grab & Go outlet offers drinks, light bites, snacks and ice cream.
The gardens at Nostell are currently open daily from 11am – 5pm, with last entry one hour before closing time.
See the National Trust website for all opening times (including for the house and parkland) and admission prices.
Will you be visiting Nostell this spring? If you have been before, let us know about your favourite part in the comments below.
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