Why secret gardens in Yorkshire Dales are a hidden gem

Parcevall Hall Gardens are hailed as a “special secret” by visitors, situated at the heart of Wharfedale.

They are a renowned historic plantsmans garden in the national park, said to be “such a tranquil landscape”.

“Comprising of 24 acres of formal and woodland gardens they rise up the hillside for 200 feet giving wonderful views in every direction,” shared the Yorkshire Dales National Park website.

The national park experts explained: “The gardens were laid out by the late Sir William Milner from 1927 onwards, and are planted with specimens from around the world, many collected from Western China and the Himalayas.”

At Parcevall Hall Gardens, next to the Grade II listed manor house, visitors will find “many facets of the garden” including woodland walks, formal areas, south-facing terraces, a limestone rock garden and a “beautiful” rose garden.

Those who have explored the peaceful haven said it’s “absolute perfection”, not to mention the drive to the gardens described as one of the “most stunning” some have experienced.

The historic serene gardens have a 4.5/5 rating on Tripadvisor from more than 200 reviews – 178 of which are “excellent”.

@yorkshirefi One of my favourite hidden gems in Yorkshire, have you been here?📍Parcevall Hall Gardens #hiddengem #yorkshire #yorkshiredales #thingstodo #parcevallhallgardens #gardens #nature #CapCut ♬ September – slowed + reverb – Wallerstedt

This person wrote: “A glorious hidden gem, we loved the views, the informal woodland planting and the beautiful formal gardens. Such a tranquil landscape, a step back in time. Friendly staff, happy to talk about the flora and fauna.”

Someone else shared: “The drive to Parcevall Hall was one of the most stunning of my life. The Yorkshire Dales are… I can’t even explain how beautiful.

“We arrived at Parcevall just as they were about to close, simply for lack of visitors. I don’t know how this place isn’t overrun; it’s absolute perfection. The tiered gardens are immaculate, the flowers just bursting, the house is a dream and the views are unmatched. I could have sat on a bench and just stared for hours.

“Right near by is the fantastic Craven Arms, a pub that will out-pub any pub in England. Really. I shouldn’t even write this. It should be a special secret.”

The gardens are made up of 24 acres (Image: Tripadvisor) Meanwhile, one tourist commented: “This was a very lucky ‘leaflet in the holiday cottage’ find. It turned out to be probably my favourite garden of the holiday.

“You go up a fairly steep woodland walk to the top, past a lovely waterfall & (at this time of year) spectacular rhododendrons and fields of bluebells. Once at the top you return via the more formal gardens of the hall.

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“Amazing views across the valley too.

“You must try the small cafe – excellent coffee & cake. And, do buy some of the brownies, they are superb. Highly recommended.”

Parcevall Hall Gardens are located at Skyreholme, Skipton (BD23 6DE) and are open daily from March 30 until October 31 between 10am and 6pm.