Nunnington Hall: A Timeless Yorkshire Manor by the River Rye
Explore the timeless charm of Nunnington Hall, a 17th-century Yorkshire manor with historic interiors, exquisite miniature collections, and tranquil organic gardens.
Nunnington Hall is a charming 17th-century country house nestled in North Yorkshire, England, beside the tranquil River Rye. Managed by the National Trust, it offers visitors a unique blend of architectural history, period interiors, and organically maintained gardens featuring orchards, rose beds, and wildflower meadows. The hall also showcases the renowned Carlisle Collection of miniature rooms and hosts rotating art exhibitions, all set within peaceful grounds that invite exploration and relaxation.
A brief summary to National Trust - Nunnington Hall
- York, Nunnington, YO62 5UY, GB
- +441439748283
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays or early in the day to enjoy a quieter experience, especially in the gardens.
- Don’t miss the Carlisle Collection of miniature rooms on the second floor for a unique artistic experience.
- Check the schedule for seasonal family trails and craft workshops to enhance your visit.
- Enjoy refreshments in the tea garden by the River Rye for a peaceful break surrounded by nature.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the gardens have gravel paths and some grassy slopes.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Bus
From York railway station, take a direct train to Malton (approximately 30 minutes). From Malton, catch the local bus service 128 towards Helmsley, which stops near Nunnington village (about 25 minutes). The hall is a short walk across a stone bridge from the village center. Bus services run hourly but are limited on Sundays. A combined train and bus ticket costs approximately £10–£15 GBP.
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Car
Driving from York city center takes around 45 minutes via the A64 and local roads. There is free parking available on-site at Nunnington Hall. Note that the access roads are rural and narrow, so cautious driving is advised. The property is accessible year-round, but winter weather may affect road conditions.
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Taxi
Taxis from York to Nunnington Hall take approximately 40–50 minutes and cost around £40–£55 GBP. This option offers flexibility in timing and is suitable if public transport schedules do not align with your visit plans.
National Trust - Nunnington Hall 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 - Nunnington Hall
Historic Layers of a Yorkshire Manor
Nunnington Hall’s origins trace back to the 13th century, evolving through centuries of ownership and architectural transformation. The present building primarily reflects 17th- and 18th-century renovations, notably those in the 1680s under Richard Graham, 1st Viscount Preston. Later, in the 1920s, the Fife family undertook significant restoration, shaping the hall into the atmospheric and comfortable home you see today. The house’s interiors retain much of the period character, with oak-paneled halls, original tapestries, and rooms preserved as they were in the 1920s, offering a vivid glimpse into English country life across eras.Architectural and Artistic Treasures
Inside, visitors encounter a rich tapestry of historical features and collections. The oak-paneled hall is a centerpiece, exuding warmth and grandeur. The house also houses the Carlisle Collection, a remarkable display of miniature rooms crafted with extraordinary detail, featuring tiny portraits, musical instruments, and Shakespearean works. This collection, permanently exhibited on the second floor, adds a unique artistic dimension to the visit. Throughout the year, the hall hosts changing exhibitions, blending contemporary art with its historic ambiance.Serene Gardens and Organic Landscapes
Set within eight acres of organically managed grounds, Nunnington Hall’s gardens are a highlight in every season. The main walled garden to the south features formal rose beds, mixed borders, and orchards of traditional Ryedale fruit varieties. Below the fruit trees, wildflower meadows bloom with cowslip, primrose, fritillary, and buttercup, creating vibrant, naturalistic scenes. The garden’s peaceful spots, colorful peacocks, and riverside views along the Rye invite visitors to unwind and connect with nature.Family-Friendly Activities and Seasonal Events
Nunnington Hall offers engaging experiences for all ages. Family trails, craft workshops, and artisan stall days enliven the grounds throughout the year. The Lion’s Den play area provides a fun outdoor space for children, while seasonal events celebrate local culture and heritage. The tea gardens and tea room offer refreshments with scenic views, perfect for relaxing after exploring the house and gardens.Setting and Surroundings
The hall sits on the banks of the River Rye, which forms a natural boundary separating the property from the nearby village of Nunnington. The surrounding landscape includes the Vale of Pickering to the south and the North York Moors to the north and east, providing a picturesque rural backdrop. A stone bridge connects the hall’s grounds to the village, enhancing the sense of place within the historic Ryedale district.Preservation and Public Access
Bequeathed to the National Trust in 1952 by Margaret Rutson Fife, Nunnington Hall is meticulously preserved as a visitor attraction. The Trust maintains the house and gardens with a commitment to organic and sustainable practices. Accessibility is provided on the ground floor and gardens, though upper floors have limited access. Visitors are encouraged to explore the hall’s rich heritage and tranquil environment, making it a rewarding destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Skelton Tower
20.0 km
Historic Skelton Tower stands as a romantic ruin with sweeping views over Newtondale and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.
Medieval Walls
27.8 km
Walk England’s longest medieval walls, tracing 2,000 years of York’s history with stunning city views and iconic fortified gateways.
Sundial Column
28.1 km
An elegant 18th-century sundial column on stone lions, quietly marking time just east of York Minster in a peaceful corner of the cathedral precincts.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
28.1 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.
Bootham Bar
28.1 km
Explore Bootham Bar, York’s medieval gateway with Roman roots, historic portcullis, and stunning views of the city’s ancient walls and Minster.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
28.1 km
Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
REMAINS OF FORMER KIRBY HALL
28.1 km
Explore the evocative remains of Kirby Hall and the iconic Thompson Mausoleum, treasures of North Yorkshire’s 18th-century aristocratic heritage.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
28.1 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
Roman Column
28.2 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
York Oratory
28.2 km
Experience the beauty and serenity of York Oratory, a stunning Catholic church and historical landmark in the heart of York, England.
The Norman House
28.2 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
St Olave's Church York
28.2 km
Explore St Olave's Church in York, a stunning Anglican heritage site with rich history, exquisite architecture, and peaceful ambiance, perfect for tourists.
Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate
28.2 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Holy Trinity Church in York, a captivating Anglican landmark and must-visit tourist attraction.
Anglian Tower
28.2 km
Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
The Deathly Dark Tours
28.2 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
Helmsley
6.9 km
Historic market town at the edge of North York Moors, blending medieval heritage with stunning landscapes and vibrant local culture.
Helmsley Castle
7.2 km
Discover 900 years of history at Helmsley Castle, where medieval fortifications meet Tudor elegance amidst stunning North York Moors scenery.
Castle Howard
10.4 km
Experience the grandeur of Castle Howard, a historic English country house set in stunning gardens and parkland, blending heritage, nature, and family fun.
Rievaulx Abbey
10.9 km
Explore the tranquil and majestic ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, a 12th-century Cistercian monastery set in the stunning North York Moors National Park.
Hutton-le-Hole
11.1 km
Discover the idyllic charm of Hutton-le-Hole, a picturesque village nestled in the North York Moors with rich heritage and stunning countryside.
Byland Abbey
12.1 km
Explore the grand ruins of Byland Abbey, a masterpiece of early Gothic architecture nestled in North Yorkshire’s tranquil moorlands.
North Yorkshire Moors Railway
13.5 km
Step back in time at Pickering Station, the charming 1930s terminus of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, and journey through Yorkshire’s breathtaking moorland.
The Black Swan at Oldstead
13.9 km
A Michelin-starred country pub in Yorkshire blending tradition, sustainability, and modern culinary artistry in a picturesque rural setting.
Medieval Village of East Lilling
14.9 km
Explore the haunting earthworks of East Lilling, a deserted medieval village near York steeped in history and surrounded by serene countryside.
Kirkham Priory
15.2 km
Peaceful riverside ruins of a 12th-century Augustinian priory, with a magnificent gatehouse and a secret WWII past, set in the scenic Derwent Valley near York.
Kilburn White Horse
15.7 km
Explore England’s largest and most northerly white horse hill figure, a stunning Victorian landmark carved into the Yorkshire hillside.
Sutton Park
17.3 km
Historic Sutton Park in York offers a welcoming events venue blending rich heritage with scenic charm and community spirit.
Rosedale Abbey
17.3 km
Historic Yorkshire village with medieval monastic roots, scenic moorland walks, and a rich mining heritage in the heart of the North York Moors.
Howsham Mill
17.7 km
Historic Georgian Gothic watermill restored as a renewable energy and environmental education centre on a scenic island in the River Derwent.
YWT Strensall Common
18.3 km
Vibrant heathland sanctuary where military heritage and nature conservation create a unique Yorkshire wilderness.
Essential places to dine
The Star Inn
3.6 km
Michelin-starred gastropub in historic Harome, blending rustic charm, exceptional Yorkshire cuisine, and warm hospitality in the scenic Howardian Hills.
Restaurant Mýse
3.8 km
An acclaimed Michelin-starred modern British restaurant in Hovingham delivering innovative, locally inspired multi-course tasting menus in a cozy, elegant setting.
Pignut Restaurant
7.1 km
Experience innovative, locally inspired fine dining in the heart of Helmsley at Pignut Restaurant.
Dewars Restaurant And Rooms
10.8 km
Boutique luxury and exceptional dining in a tranquil North Yorkshire village retreat with heated pool and sauna.
The Hare Restaurant
12.7 km
An intimate North Yorkshire gem offering exquisite tasting menus that celebrate local flavors with modern finesse and warm hospitality.
The Stone Trough Inn
15.3 km
Historic Yorkshire inn with rustic charm, local cuisine, and stunning views overlooking Kirkham Abbey’s scenic countryside.
Huckleberrys American Diner
18.0 km
Classic American diner fare with a friendly vibe, hearty burgers, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of York.
The Fox & Rabbit Inn
19.5 km
A cosy, dog-friendly country pub in Pickering serving hearty British fare with vegetarian options, set amidst North Yorkshire’s scenic beauty.
Crab & Lobster Hotel & Restaurant
27.7 km
Eclectic seafood dining and uniquely themed rooms combine for a memorable stay in tranquil North Yorkshire countryside.
Little Italy
28.0 km
Authentic Italian dining and deli in York’s historic heart, serving traditional flavors since 1992 in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Ambiente Tapas Goodramgate
28.0 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm Andalusian charm in York’s historic Goodramgate, with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse vegan options.
Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen
28.1 km
Experience hearty Southern American flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic Minster Quarter.
Arras
28.2 km
Innovative British cuisine with Mediterranean flair in a stylish, intimate setting tucked away in historic York.
Guy Fawkes Inn
28.2 km
Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
Fat Hippo York
28.2 km
Savour bold, creative burgers and dirty fries in York’s historic Low Petergate, where casual meets flavour-packed indulgence.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Duncombe Park Shop
7.1 km
Discover unique Yorkshire gifts and local treasures at Duncombe Park Shop in the heart of historic Helmsley.
Kemps General Store Ltd
13.8 km
Discover unique gifts and books in a friendly, independent emporium at the heart of Malton’s historic Market Place.
Unique Gifts
24.2 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and unique local gifts in the heart of Thirsk’s historic Market Place.
Uniquely Local Experiences
25.5 km
Explore a unique gift shop in York offering local crafts, corporate gifts, and event planning services for a truly memorable experience.
The Village Store And Gift Centre
27.1 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local Yorkshire treasures in the charming village of Goathland, open daily for a warm and authentic shopping experience.
Old York
27.4 km
Explore Old York Antique Shop: A vintage treasure trove in the heart of York, perfect for history lovers and collectors seeking unique finds.
Fairer World
27.8 km
Discover unique fair trade treasures and support global artisans at York’s dedicated ethical gift shop on historic Gillygate.
Snowhome
27.9 km
Discover Snowhome, York’s premier independent lifestyle store blending exquisite stationery, niche perfumes, and sustainable home accessories since 2001.
Monk Bar Model Shop
28.0 km
York’s historic model shop offering a vast selection of trains, kits, and collectibles with expert staff and a welcoming atmosphere.
Village Shop
28.0 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage treasures in York’s historic heart at the Village Shop, open daily with expert guidance and a warm atmosphere.
Cleggs
28.0 km
Discover unique gifts, handcrafted homewares, and stylish accessories in the heart of York’s historic Goodramgate at Cleggs.
National Trust Gift Shop
28.1 km
Discover unique National Trust gifts and local crafts in a historic York setting supporting conservation and heritage.
The Knutti Store, a Viking Trading Post
28.1 km
Step into York’s Viking past at The Knutti Store, where authentic craftsmanship meets legendary tales in a charming trading post setting.
York Minster Shop
28.1 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
Shared Earth
28.2 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Royal Oak
28.0 km
Traditional British pub charm in York’s historic heart, serving seasonal classics and local ales with a warm, dog-friendly welcome.
Eagle & Child
28.1 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 Black Swan
28.2 km
Medieval timber-framed pub with 17th-century interiors and live cultural performances in historic York.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
28.2 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
Evil Eye
28.2 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
28.3 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Punch Bowl
28.3 km
A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
28.3 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
28.3 km
York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
Vudu Lounge
28.3 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Victor J's
28.3 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Pivní York
28.3 km
Historic 16th-century timber-framed pub in York offering an exceptional selection of local and global craft beers in a cosy, multi-floor setting.
House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
28.4 km
Step into York’s medieval gem where historic ambiance meets an extraordinary craft beer selection in a quirky, lively setting.
Lendal Cellars
28.4 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
Dusk
28.4 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BlueBox
28.4 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Flares - York
28.5 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
28.6 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
28.7 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Kuda
28.7 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Popworld York
28.7 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
28.7 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
28.7 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Videotheque Disco's
38.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Videotheque Disco's in Whitby, where music and fun come together to create unforgettable memories.
Flares & Popworld - Middlesbrough
44.6 km
Middlesbrough’s premier two-room nightclub blending retro vibes and modern beats for unforgettable nights out.
Stereo Club Tees
44.7 km
Experience Middlesbrough’s energetic nightlife at Stereo Club Tees, a lively nightclub hosting up to 500 guests with late-night music and dancing.
The Queen's Head, Finghall
49.8 km
A quintessential English country pub and inn in Finghall offering hearty British fare, cozy rooms, and warm hospitality in scenic North Yorkshire.
Louis Bar
51.5 km
A vibrant nightclub and bar in Catterick Garrison offering live music, quality food, and a lively atmosphere for all-night entertainment.
sherdy sherd primary school
53.3 km
Experience Richmond’s vibrant nightlife at Sherdy Sherd Primary School, a uniquely named nightclub with extensive hours and lively atmosphere.
The Cavern Music Bar
54.3 km
Experience the pulse of Richmond's nightlife at The Cavern Music Bar, where live music and vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
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
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
