Howick Hall Gardens & Arboretum: A Historic Botanical Haven on the Northumberland Coast
Explore centuries of history, stunning gardens, and a vast arboretum at Howick Hall Gardens & Arboretum, a botanical treasure on the Northumberland coast.
Howick Hall Gardens & Arboretum, located near Alnwick in Northumberland, is a historic estate featuring 65 acres of diverse gardens and a vast arboretum with over 11,000 trees and shrubs. The gardens include a sensory garden, bog garden, rockery, and woodland garden, alongside marked walking trails leading to the scenic nearby coast. Visitors can enjoy the Earl Grey Tea House and explore the rich heritage of the Grey family, custodians of the estate since 1319.
A brief summary to Howick Hall Gardens & Arboretum
- Howick Estate Office, Alnwick, NE66 3LB, GB
- +441665577285
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-6 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Purchase a ‘Tourist return ticket’ if planning to visit for more than one day to save on admission.
- Visit the Earl Grey Tea House for authentic Earl Grey tea and light lunches, available only to garden visitors.
- Use the physical disability map for accessible routes, as some arboretum trails are uneven and less wheelchair-friendly.
- Allow time to explore the marked trails leading to the scenic nearby coast for a peaceful woodland and coastal walk.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Alnwick town center to Howick Hall Gardens takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes via the A1 and B1340. Parking is available on-site but can be limited during peak season. Admission fees apply for garden entry.
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Bus
Local bus services run from Alnwick to Howick village, with a journey time of around 30 to 40 minutes. Service frequency varies, so check current timetables in advance. From the village, a walk of about 1.5 km on country roads leads to the gardens.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, walking to the gardens involves rural paths and minor roads, taking approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Terrain is mostly flat but includes gravel and grass paths, which may be uneven in places.
Howick Hall Gardens & Arboretum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Howick Hall Gardens & Arboretum
A Storied Estate Rooted in British History
Howick Hall Gardens & Arboretum has been the ancestral seat of the Earls Grey since 1319, linking the estate deeply to British history and culture. The 2nd Earl Grey, famed for the tea that bears his name, left a lasting legacy that visitors can explore through the estate’s heritage displays. The visitor centre provides insights into the hall’s history, the Grey family’s contributions, and the evolution of the gardens and arboretum over centuries.Diverse Gardens and Expansive Arboretum
The gardens are a vibrant tapestry of horticultural delights, including a sensory garden designed to engage all senses, a tranquil bog garden thriving around a pond, and a rockery specializing in summer plants. The Silverwood Woodland Garden offers a peaceful retreat amid native trees and shrubs. The arboretum spans 65 acres and is home to over 11,000 trees and shrubs from around the world, with two-thirds of the plants labeled for easy identification. Marked trails of varying lengths invite visitors to explore these natural collections and lead down to the nearby dramatic Northumberland coastline.The Earl Grey Tea House Experience
Nestled within the gardens, the Earl Grey Tea House offers a refined spot to rest and refresh. Exclusively for garden visitors, it serves a variety of teas, including the famous Earl Grey, alongside cakes, scones, and light lunches. The tea house’s elegant setting complements the historic ambiance of the estate, making it a perfect place to unwind after exploring the grounds.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
Most garden paths are accessible to visitors with physical disabilities, though some arboretum areas are less wheelchair-friendly. A physical disability map is available to assist planning. The estate provides facilities including restrooms, seating areas, picnic spots, and information boards. Assistance dogs are welcome, but other pets are not permitted. The gardens open daily from 10:30 am to 6 pm during the main season, with earlier closing times in the early season.Natural Beauty and Nearby Coastal Walks
Beyond the cultivated gardens, visitors can enjoy peaceful woodland walks and a beautiful coastal path nearby, offering stunning sea views and fresh air. The estate’s location near the Northumberland coast enhances its appeal as a nature escape, combining botanical interest with scenic landscapes.Seasonal Highlights and Visiting Tips
The gardens showcase seasonal blooms, with spring bulbs and summer borders providing ever-changing displays. The estate encourages visitors to plan visits according to seasonal highlights and offers guided tours and group visit options. The Earl Grey Tea House and picnic areas provide refreshment options year-round, though the tea house is only accessible with garden admission.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Beadnell Harbour
11.1 km
Historic 18th-century harbour with unique west-facing entrance, scenic sandy bay, and preserved lime kilns on Northumberland’s coast.
Warkworth Hermitage
11.6 km
A medieval chapel carved into riverside cliffs, accessible only by boat—where history and legend intertwine.
Villages in Time Guided Walks no longer functions
16.6 km
Explore the enchanting history of local villages with Villages in Time Guided Walks, where every step uncovers stories from the past.
Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker
17.3 km
Explore the unique WWII Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker in Bamburgh, a striking hexagonal pillbox guarding Northumberland’s historic coastline.
Search Northumberland, Things to do in Northumberland
29.4 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes, rich heritage, and vibrant culture of Northumberland, the perfect destination for adventure and relaxation.
Hunkleton stone
30.5 km
A majestic glacial erratic on Newbiggin Beach, symbolizing natural history and community spirit in Northumberland’s coastal town.
Morpeth Clock Tower
31.9 km
Historic 17th-century clock tower in Morpeth, crafted from medieval stone, featuring a storied belfry and iconic bells with deep local roots.
Lady's Well
32.8 km
Discover Lady's Well, a tranquil ancient spring steeped in Roman history and early Christian legend, nestled within Northumberland’s wild beauty.
The Drake Stone
35.1 km
Discover the enchanting Drake Stone in Northumberland National Park, a historical landmark with breathtaking views and rich folklore.
Ford & Etal Estates
36.0 km
Explore the scenic beauty and rich heritage of Ford & Etal Estates, a perfect escape in Northumberland's countryside.
Lady Waterford Hall
36.1 km
Discover the artistic heritage of Ford at Lady Waterford Hall, a unique museum showcasing the legacy of Lady Catherine Waterford.
Whalton Manor Gardens Northumberland
37.8 km
Discover the enchanting Whalton Manor Gardens in Northumberland, a botanical retreat filled with diverse plant life and serene landscapes perfect for relaxation.
Hole in The Wall
38.0 km
Historic coastal landmark in Blyth featuring a unique hole framing stunning beach views and easy beach access.
Etal Castle
38.8 km
Explore Etal Castle, a stunning historical landmark in Northumberland, where medieval history comes to life amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Winter's Gibbet
39.0 km
Explore the haunting site of Winter's Gibbet, a stark relic of 18th-century justice and local legend in Northumberland's moorlands.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sugar Sands
1.9 km
Discover Sugar Sands, a tranquil Northumberland beach with Mediterranean charm, perfect for peaceful walks and nature lovers.
Northumberland Coast Path
2.2 km
Explore the wild beauty and historic castles of England’s breathtaking Northumberland Coast on this iconic hiking trail.
Dunstanburgh Castle
4.4 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, a majestic 14th-century fortress set against Northumberland’s stunning coastal landscape.
Lilidorei at The Alnwick Garden
6.8 km
Discover the magical Christmas-themed play village of Lilidorei nestled within the enchanting Alnwick Garden in Northumberland.
Beaches
7.0 km
A serene sandy beach and charming coastal village in Northumberland, perfect for tranquil walks, wildlife, and rich maritime heritage.
The Alnwick Garden
7.1 km
Discover a visionary garden where water dances, poisonous plants tell stories, and nature blooms in Northumberland’s contemporary oasis.
Alnwick Castle
7.2 km
Experience the enchanting history and stunning architecture of Alnwick Castle, a must-visit destination in Northumberland for every traveler.
Barter Books
7.2 km
Discover a treasure trove of secondhand books and literary charm in a historic Victorian station at Barter Books, Alnwick.
Hotspur Tower
7.3 km
Explore the captivating history of Hotspur Tower, a stunning medieval landmark in Alnwick, rich with stories and breathtaking views.
Bailiffgate Museum
7.4 km
Discover 10,000 years of Alnwick’s rich history in an award-winning museum housed in a charming historic church near Alnwick Castle.
Alnwick Market
7.4 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Alnwick with its historic market offering local crafts, fresh produce, and a lively community atmosphere.
Hulne Priory
8.6 km
Explore Hulne Priory, England’s earliest Carmelite friary nestled in scenic Hulne Park, rich with medieval ruins, history, and cinematic charm.
Northumberland Coast National Landscape
9.6 km
Explore the wild beauty and rich heritage of England’s dramatic Northumberland Coast National Landscape.
Northumberland coastal path
10.0 km
Explore 100 kilometers of stunning coastline, historic castles, and vibrant wildlife on the iconic Northumberland Coast Path.
Preston Tower | Historic Garden Wedding & Events Venue in Northumberland
10.2 km
Discover Preston Tower, a medieval pele tower set in scenic Northumberland gardens, perfect for history lovers and unforgettable weddings.
Essential places to dine
The Jolly Fisherman Inn
2.6 km
A charming coastal inn in Craster serving fresh, traditional seafood with stunning harbour views and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Treehouse Restaurant
6.9 km
Dine enchanted in the treetops of The Alnwick Garden, where local British flavors meet magical woodland charm and handcrafted rustic elegance.
The Hope & Anchor Hotel
6.9 km
Cozy coastal retreat with modern rooms, Italian dining, and warm hospitality in the heart of Alnmouth village.
Restaurant Italia
6.9 km
Authentic Italian dining in the heart of Alnmouth’s charming seaside village, nestled within the welcoming Hope & Anchor Hotel.
The Whittling House
6.9 km
A cosy boutique hotel and acclaimed seafood restaurant in Alnmouth, blending rustic charm with coastal elegance and warm hospitality.
Bistro 23
6.9 km
Intimate family-run bistro in scenic Alnmouth serving fresh, local seafood and Northumberland specialties with warm hospitality.
The Ship Inn
7.1 km
Historic seaside gastropub with home-brewed ales and fresh seafood, offering rustic charm and stunning Northumberland coast views.
Sonnet Restaurant
7.3 km
Experience a poetic 14-course tasting menu inspired by Shakespearean sonnets, blending local Northumberland flavors with refined culinary artistry.
The Dirty Bottles
7.4 km
A charming historic pub, cocktail bar, and boutique hotel in Alnwick blending local character with cozy comfort and hearty fare.
The Market Tavern, Steakhouse and Lodge
7.5 km
A beloved steakhouse and lodge in Alnwick’s heart, offering hearty local fare and warm hospitality near historic landmarks.
Adam and Eve
7.5 km
A stylish gastropub in Alnwick blending local seasonal produce with creative cocktails in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
The Landing, Beadnell Bay
11.4 km
Fresh seafood and coastal charm combine at The Landing, Beadnell Bay’s welcoming spot for classic fish and chips and more.
The Craster Arms
11.9 km
Historic gastropub and hotel blending medieval heritage with vibrant coastal charm in the heart of Beadnell village.
The Fish Shack
12.8 km
Rustic seafood dining on Amble’s harbour, serving fresh local catch with stunning views and cozy charm.
The Old Boathouse
12.9 km
Fresh Northumberland seafood served with stunning coastal views in a charming maritime setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Jane & Harry
6.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Jane & Harry, Alnmouth’s welcoming treasure trove on Northumberland Street.
Aln Gift Shop
7.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Aln Gift Shop, a cozy boutique nestled in the scenic village of Alnmouth, Northumberland.
Notes of Northumberland
7.3 km
Experience the enchanting world of handcrafted candles at Notes of Northumberland in Alnwick, where every scent tells a story.
Robinson's
7.4 km
A charming department and gift shop in Alnwick’s historic center offering quality apparel, home furnishings, and friendly service.
Ruby Tuesday Alnwick
7.4 km
Discover unique, high-quality gifts from small businesses at Ruby Tuesday Alnwick, a charming boutique in the heart of historic Alnwick.
Marilyn & Melrose
7.4 km
Discover unique gifts, restored furniture, and creative workshops at Alnwick’s charming Marilyn & Melrose boutique.
A World Of Difference
7.4 km
Discover fair trade gifts and organic health foods in Alnwick’s welcoming shop committed to sustainability and ethical shopping.
The Original Factory Shop (Alnwick)
7.6 km
Affordable brand-name fashion, footwear, and homeware bargains in the heart of Alnwick’s shopping district.
Willowburn Retail Park
7.6 km
A convenient and diverse retail hub in Alnwick offering national brands and local specialties with ample parking and easy A1 access.
Gray's Northumberland Ltd
11.5 km
A charming fashion accessories shop in the historic Northumberland village of Warkworth, perfect for scarves, jewellery, bags and thoughtful gifts.
A Touch of Love
12.9 km
Discover unique gifts and heartfelt souvenirs at 'A Touch of Love' in Amble, a charming gift shop celebrating local craftsmanship.
Glamble Gifts & Accessories
12.9 km
Discover exquisite cosmetics and charming accessories in the scenic setting of Amble Harbour Village’s boutique gem.
Raggy Dolls Limited
13.1 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion and personalized service at Raggy Dolls Limited, a beloved boutique in the heart of Amble.
North Shore Gifts
14.8 km
Discover handmade jewellery and unique coastal gifts at North Shore Gifts, a welcoming boutique celebrating Northumberland’s artisanal spirit.
Raggy Dolls
14.8 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion in a friendly boutique at the heart of charming Seahouses village.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Sun Inn
6.9 km
A cozy 3-star inn and lively pub in Alnmouth offering local charm, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere by the Northumberland coast.
The Red Lion Inn
6.9 km
Charming coastal pub and cozy B&B in Alnmouth, famed for wood-fired pizzas, local ales, and warm hospitality just steps from the beach.
Tanners Arms Alnwick
7.4 km
A cozy, historic pub in Alnwick offering well-kept local ales, friendly vibes, and a true taste of Northumberland hospitality.
Harry's Bar
7.4 km
A cozy micropub in Alnwick’s historic Narrowgate, offering craft ales, whiskies, and a friendly, quirky atmosphere with a nod to local history.
Black Swan Alnwick
7.4 km
Historic charm meets cozy comfort at The Black Swan Alnwick, a welcoming pub and bed & breakfast in the heart of town.
The Queens Head
7.4 km
A welcoming historic pub and hotel in Alnwick, blending traditional charm with modern comfort near Alnwick Castle.
The Joiners Arms
7.8 km
A stylish 5-star boutique inn and gastropub by Northumberland’s stunning coast, blending local flavors, cozy charm, and seaside serenity.
The Lounge Bar
13.1 km
A quirky and lively cocktail and wine bar in Amble, offering great drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Schooner Inn
14.8 km
A charming nautical-themed pub in Seahouses offering cozy ambiance, local ales, and a welcoming stop in this vibrant fishing village.
Coast & Country
16.6 km
A tranquil bar and shop nestled in Northumberland’s Percy Wood Golf and Country Club, perfect for relaxing with a drink after outdoor adventures.
The Foxes Den
18.2 km
A cozy, dog-friendly micro pub in Felton’s riverside basement, famed for real ales and friendly local charm.
The Northumberland Arms
18.4 km
Charming country pub and boutique hotel in Felton offering fresh local cuisine, luxury rooms, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Granby Inn
20.1 km
A welcoming historic village inn in Northumberland offering cozy rooms, hearty food, and classic pub charm in a tranquil countryside setting.
Crazy Horse Saloon n Grill
21.2 km
A lively Wild West-themed bar and grill in Morpeth offering casual dining, sports entertainment, and a pet-friendly atmosphere within Felmoor Holiday Park.
Anglers Arms
21.9 km
A charming four-star country inn in Northumberland offering cozy rooms, hearty cuisine, and warm hospitality in a tranquil rural setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Brick Club, Red Row Working Mens Club
18.4 km
A welcoming traditional working men's club in Morpeth offering authentic local atmosphere, classic ales, and a strong community spirit.
Dance Delicious
29.8 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and modern vibes at Dance Delicious, Ashington’s premier spot for dancing and social fun.
Knightrider Discos
33.6 km
Experience Morpeth’s vibrant nightlife at Knightrider Discos, where dynamic beats and lively crowds create unforgettable nights.
BedRocks
43.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Berwick-upon-Tweed at BedRocks, a lively nightclub and bar known for its energetic atmosphere and affordable drinks.
GREEN HOUSE | Berwick Upon Tweed
43.4 km
Berwick-upon-Tweed’s vibrant late-night hotspot offering lively music and dancing in the heart of the historic town.
World HQ
53.1 km
A multi‑level warehouse club and arts hub in Curtis Mayfield House with a heavy sound, creative studios above and a grassroots nightlife spirit.
Cosmic Ballroom
53.1 km
Newcastle's longest-running underground club: two floors of electronic beats, guest DJs, and non-stop dancing till dawn in an intimate Stowell Street hideaway.
Sinners
53.2 km
Dive into sinfully themed nights at this affordable Newcastle nightclub, where red lights, bold art, and cheap drinks fuel the city's unbeatable party spirit.
Popworld - Newcastle
53.3 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
Greys Club
53.3 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
53.4 km
Four floors of late‑night music and cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s city‑centre party district, favoured by students and night owls.
Flares - Newcastle
53.4 km
Newcastle's ultimate retro disco den: neon grooves, cheesy anthems, and non-stop dancing from 70s to 00s in the heart of the nightlife scene.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
53.4 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
53.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Bohemia Newcastle
53.4 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly