Beningbrough Hall, Gallery and Gardens
A Georgian mansion with formal gardens, art exhibitions, and family-friendly grounds just north of York.
Set in the rolling countryside just north of York, Beningbrough Hall is a striking Georgian mansion with 8 acres of formal gardens, a working walled garden, and a wilderness play area. The house tells the story of a country estate through period rooms and collections, while the first-floor Reddihough Galleries host changing art exhibitions. Dogs are welcome in most outdoor areas, and there’s a restaurant, shop, and picnic spots to make a full day of it.
A brief summary to National Trust - Beningbrough Hall, Gallery and Gardens
- Beningbrough Hall, Gallery and Gardens, York, YO30 1DD, GB
- +441904472027
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Friday 10 am-3:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-3:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-3:30 pm
Local tips
- Check the National Trust website before visiting to confirm opening times for the hall, gallery, and gardens, as they vary by season and day of the week.
- Visit on a weekday if possible to avoid the busiest crowds, especially during school holidays and weekends.
- Bring sturdy shoes for exploring the woodland walks and parkland, which can be muddy after rain.
- Allow at least 2–3 hours to properly explore the house, gallery, gardens, and play area, plus time for lunch or a snack.
- National Trust members and children under five enter for free; others should expect moderate admission prices for house and garden access.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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By car from York
From central York, follow signs north towards the A19. Beningbrough Hall is clearly signed from the A19, about 5 miles north of the city centre. The drive takes around 15–20 minutes, and there is free on-site parking for visitors.
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By bus from York
Regular bus services run from York city centre to nearby villages; from there, a 15–20 minute walk along country lanes leads to the estate. Check local timetables for the most convenient route and allow extra time for the walk, especially in poor weather.
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By bicycle
A pleasant cycle route from York follows quiet country roads and lanes to Beningbrough. There are cycle racks on site, and the flat to gently rolling terrain makes it suitable for most riders, though the final approach is on narrow lanes.
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On foot from nearby villages
From villages like Long Marston or Hessay, a 30–45 minute walk along footpaths and country lanes leads to the estate. Paths can be muddy in wet weather, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
National Trust - Beningbrough Hall, Gallery and Gardens 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
Discover more about National Trust - Beningbrough Hall, Gallery and Gardens
A Grand Georgian Presence
Beningbrough Hall rises from the North Yorkshire landscape like an Italian palace transplanted to England. Built in the early 18th century for John Bourchier after his Grand Tour, the house blends Palladian elegance with practical country living. Its symmetrical façade, grand entrance hall, and high-ceilinged rooms speak of Georgian ambition and taste. Inside, the ground floor historic rooms reveal the lives of the families and servants who shaped the estate, with period furnishings, porcelain, and personal objects that bring the past to life. A new lighting scheme highlights the architecture and collections, making details of woodwork, plasterwork, and decorative arts especially vivid.Art and Stories in the Reddihough Galleries
The first floor is home to the Reddihough Galleries, where changing exhibitions of contemporary and traditional art are displayed in a historic setting. Recent shows have explored themes like wilderness gardens, fashion, and nature, often combining sculpture, sound, and historic pieces in immersive ways. These exhibitions give the house a dynamic, modern edge while respecting its heritage. Alongside the galleries, the library offers a quiet corner with second-hand books, and the Victorian laundry and potting shed provide a glimpse into the hard work that once kept a large country house running. The house is not fully open to the public, but the selected rooms and exhibitions are thoughtfully curated to tell a coherent story.Eight Acres of Formal and Wild Gardens
The 8-acre formal garden is a year-round delight, with spring bulbs, herbaceous borders, historic trees, and a productive walled garden that supplies the on-site restaurant. Award-winning garden designer Andy Sturgeon has been working with the team to reinvigorate the space, introducing a Mediterranean Garden and a striking pergola that add new textures and planting styles. Beyond the formal areas, there are woodland walks across 380 acres of parkland, where visitors can spot birds, deer, and other wildlife. The river Ouse flows nearby, adding a sense of tranquillity and framing lovely views across the estate.Family-Friendly Grounds and Play
Beningbrough is particularly welcoming for families. A large wilderness play area includes swings, slides, climbing frames, and den zones, giving children space to run and explore. The wide lawns, orchard, and woodland paths are perfect for picnics, kite-flying, and informal games. Dogs on leads are welcome in most of the gardens and parkland, and there are designated dog-friendly tables in the restaurant. The combination of structured play, open space, and natural beauty makes it an ideal destination for a relaxed day out with children of all ages.Eating, Shopping and Practicalities
The walled garden restaurant serves seasonal, home-cooked lunches, afternoon tea, and light snacks, with indoor and outdoor seating and a dog-friendly section. On busy days, the Brew House offers hot and cold drinks, cakes, and ice creams near the play area. The shop, housed in the stables, stocks a wide range of gifts, homeware, local produce, and National Trust–inspired designs. There are accessible toilets, baby-changing facilities, and picnic areas, and wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be pre-booked. Free parking is available on site, and the estate is well signed from York and surrounding towns.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
REMAINS OF FORMER KIRBY HALL
6.3 km
Explore the evocative remains of Kirby Hall and the iconic Thompson Mausoleum, treasures of North Yorkshire’s 18th-century aristocratic heritage.
Anglian Tower
10.6 km
Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
Bootham Bar
10.6 km
Explore Bootham Bar, York’s medieval gateway with Roman roots, historic portcullis, and stunning views of the city’s ancient walls and Minster.
Medieval Walls
10.6 km
Walk England’s longest medieval walls, tracing 2,000 years of York’s history with stunning city views and iconic fortified gateways.
St. Leonard's Hospital
10.6 km
Explore the evocative ruins of York’s largest medieval hospital, where healing met faith in a grand historic sanctuary.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
10.6 km
Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
10.7 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
Historic England - York Office
10.7 km
Explore the Historic England - York Office, a hub for heritage preservation in the heart of York, where history meets contemporary conservation efforts.
The Norman House
10.8 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
10.8 km
A soaring Gothic masterpiece in the heart of York, where 1,400 years of faith, history, and light-filled architecture converge in one of England’s greatest cathedrals.
Roman Column
10.8 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
City Wall Walk
10.8 km
Explore the historic City Wall Walk in York for breathtaking views and a rich tapestry of history in one of England's most delightful cities.
Barley Hall
10.8 km
Discover the rich history of York at Barley Hall, a beautifully restored medieval townhouse showcasing life in the 15th century.
The Bloody Tour of York
10.9 km
Discover the haunted tales of York on The Bloody Tour, where history and ghostly legends intertwine for an unforgettable experience.
The Deathly Dark Tours
10.9 km
Unearth the chilling tales of York's past with The Deathly Dark Tours, where ghostly legends and history intertwine for an unforgettable adventure.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rawcliffe Country Park
7.3 km
Explore York’s Rawcliffe Country Park, a 24/7 natural retreat with climbing, biking, trails, and community events for all ages.
Flip Out York (Previously Point Zero Trampoline Park York)
7.5 km
Energetic indoor trampoline and adventure park in York, perfect for family fun, active play, and all-age excitement.
Tockwith Showfield
8.4 km
Experience Yorkshire’s vibrant rural traditions and lively agricultural celebrations at Tockwith Showfield near York.
Sutton Park
9.0 km
Historic Sutton Park in York offers a welcoming events venue blending rich heritage with scenic charm and community spirit.
York Cold War Bunker
9.5 km
Explore York’s preserved Cold War bunker, a gripping museum revealing Britain’s nuclear defense history through authentic rooms and expert-led tours.
Holgate Windmill
9.8 km
York’s last working 18th-century windmill, grinding flour atop a suburban hill with historic charm and panoramic city views.
Miniature Railway
10.1 km
A charming miniature railway ride nestled within York’s National Railway Museum, blending family fun with historic railway heritage.
National Railway Museum York
10.2 km
Explore Britain's rich railway heritage with iconic locomotives, interactive exhibits, and historic carriages at York's National Railway Museum.
St Olave's Church York
10.4 km
Discover York’s medieval St Olave’s Church, a tranquil sanctuary rich in Viking heritage, stunning stained glass, and centuries of history.
Dame Judi Dench Walk
10.5 km
A peaceful riverside stroll in York honoring Dame Judi Dench, blending historic views with tranquil urban nature.
York City Sightseeing
10.5 km
Discover York’s 2,000 years of history aboard an open-top bus with live guides, hop-on hop-off freedom, and multilingual commentary.
Museum Gardens
10.5 km
Discover York Museum Gardens: a historic botanical oasis blending medieval ruins, lush greenery, and vibrant community life in the city centre.
Invisible Cities - Walking Tours York
10.5 km
Alternative walking tours of York led by local guides with lived experience of homelessness, blending history, personal stories, and social impact.
Yorkshire Museum
10.5 km
Explore Yorkshire’s rich history from prehistoric fossils to Viking treasures in York’s iconic Greek Revival museum nestled in tranquil gardens.
York Art Gallery
10.5 km
Discover centuries of British art and vibrant contemporary exhibitions in York’s historic and beautifully restored art gallery.
Essential places to dine
Roots York
10.4 km
Discover Roots York, a Michelin-starred gem offering seasonal farm-to-table tasting menus in a historic 19th-century setting with warm, refined ambiance.
The Star Inn The City
10.6 km
Elegant riverside dining in York offering seasonal British cuisine with a rustic countryside charm and stunning views of the River Ouse.
The Rise
10.6 km
Modern British dining with a Yorkshire twist in York’s only five-star hotel, featuring an open kitchen, terrace views, and award-winning afternoon tea.
Brew & Brownie
10.7 km
Cozy family-run café in York serving locally inspired breakfasts, artisan coffee, and indulgent brownies in a rustic, welcoming setting.
Guy Fawkes Inn
10.7 km
Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
Tomahawk Steakhouse York
10.8 km
Savor Himalayan salt dry-aged steaks and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Tomahawk Steakhouse.
Partisan
10.8 km
Artistic café serving seasonal brunch and lunch in a bohemian Parisian-inspired setting on historic Micklegate.
Skosh
10.8 km
Inventive small plates, global flavors, and theatrical kitchen views in intimate York setting.
Delrio's Restaurant
10.8 km
Experience authentic Italian and Sardinian cuisine in York’s cozy cellar setting, where passion and tradition create unforgettable flavors.
House Of The Trembling Madness // Stonegate (No table bookings)
10.8 km
A medieval ale house with a vast craft beer collection, quirky charm, and hearty Yorkshire fare in the heart of historic York.
The Botanist York
10.8 km
A vibrant botanical bar and restaurant on York’s historic Stonegate, blending fresh seasonal cuisine with live music and lush, nature-inspired interiors.
The Ivy St Helen's Square York
10.8 km
Elegant British brasserie in York’s historic heart, offering modern classics, vibrant interiors, and a lively yet refined atmosphere.
Kennedy's Bar & Restaurant
10.8 km
A vibrant York hotspot blending modern British cuisine, live music, and expertly crafted cocktails in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Forage Kitchen & Bar
10.8 km
Refined fire-cooked dishes and inventive Yorkshire cocktails in a lush, intimate setting on York’s historic Little Stonegate.
Côte York
10.8 km
Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Uniquely Local Experiences
8.6 km
Explore a unique gift shop in York offering local crafts, corporate gifts, and event planning services for a truly memorable experience.
Fairer World
10.5 km
Discover unique fair trade treasures and support global artisans at York’s dedicated ethical gift shop on historic Gillygate.
Snowhome
10.5 km
Discover Snowhome, York’s premier independent lifestyle store blending exquisite stationery, niche perfumes, and sustainable home accessories since 2001.
Old York
10.6 km
Explore Old York Antique Shop: A vintage treasure trove in the heart of York, perfect for history lovers and collectors seeking unique finds.
The Imaginarium
10.7 km
Discover York’s enchanting Victorian-style curiosity shop filled with unique art, vintage-inspired homewares, and affordable luxuries.
The Yorkshire Soap Company - York
10.7 km
A fragrant, playful haven of handmade soaps and scented treats in the heart of York – perfect for gifts and a little indulgence.
York Minster Shop
10.8 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
Hidden Treasures
10.8 km
Discover unique crystals and spiritual tools in a tranquil metaphysical shop at York’s George Hudson Street.
Shared Earth
10.8 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
10.8 km
Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
Rookscroft
10.8 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
The Cat Gallery
10.8 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
SOCTOPUS
10.8 km
Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
Paper Doll
10.9 km
Discover unique, colourful fashion and artisan jewellery in York’s charming Paper Doll boutique, a hidden gem for stylish and distinctive finds.
National Trust Gift Shop
10.9 km
Discover unique National Trust gifts and local crafts in a historic York setting supporting conservation and heritage.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
York Tap
10.5 km
Discover York Tap, a historic Edwardian pub at York Station, offering 32 rotating craft beer lines and a lively atmosphere for beer lovers.
Eagle & Child
10.6 km
Historic 17th-century timber-framed pub in York offering craft ales, good food, and a charming beer garden in a quaint, lively setting.
The Maltings
10.7 km
A quirky, friendly pub in York offering a wide beer selection and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tanner's Moat.
House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
10.7 km
Step into York’s medieval gem where historic ambiance meets an extraordinary craft beer selection in a quirky, lively setting.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
10.7 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
Lendal Cellars
10.8 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
The Punch Bowl
10.8 km
A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
Evil Eye
10.8 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Revolution York
10.8 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York’s historic centre with multiple bars, garden terrace, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
10.8 km
York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
Dusk
10.9 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
10.9 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Pitcher & Piano York
10.9 km
Lively riverside bar on Coney Street blending modern British cuisine, vibrant social events, and scenic views of the River Ouse in York.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
10.9 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Royal Oak
10.9 km
Traditional British pub charm in York’s historic heart, serving seasonal classics and local ales with a warm, dog-friendly welcome.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Flares - York
10.8 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
10.8 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
10.8 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
10.8 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Popworld York
10.8 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
BlueBox
10.9 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Kuda
11.1 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
12.1 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Arabian Night Lounge
31.7 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
New Inn
32.3 km
Traditional Headingley pub with roaring fires, cask ales, and community spirit on lively Otley Road—a cozy cornerstone of Leeds life.
Quadrophenia Night
32.4 km
Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
32.5 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
BOX Headingley
32.6 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Headingley at BOX Headingley, the ultimate sports bar and gastropub offering delicious food and a lively atmosphere.
Disco Stu's
32.6 km
Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
The Original Oak
32.6 km
Headingley's massive beer garden pub where sports, quizzes, hearty grub, and pints create unforgettable vibes on Otley Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Cultural Heritage
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
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Wheelchair Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
