The rear of the house looking stunning!
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Howick Hall Gardens and Arboretum

4.6
·974 reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore the ancestral home of the Earls Grey, featuring stunning gardens, a diverse arboretum, and a renowned tea room.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring (Snowdrops)

Magical snowdrop displays

CrowdMedium
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The rear of the house looking stunning!

Howick Hall Gardens and Arboretum

Best Time

Spring (Snowdrops)

Magical snowdrop displays

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the ancestral home of the Earls Grey, featuring stunning gardens, a diverse arboretum, and a renowned tea room.

4.6
(974 reviews)

"A quiet hidden oasis in Northumberland, beautiful and peaceful, well worth the entry cost."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Explore the extensive gardens and woodlands with ease. :athletic_shoe: Lots of walking involved!

Allow a Full Day

There's so much to see and enjoy, including lunch! You could easily spend all day here. :clock1:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Festival of the Snowdrops

Festival of the Snowdrops

Woodlands and Gardens

Witness a magical carpet of snowdrops transforming the woodlands into a winter wonderland. A truly enchanting sight.

Sensory Garden

Sensory Garden

Gardens

Engage all your senses in this thoughtfully designed garden, offering a unique and immersive botanical experience.

Arboretum and Woodland Walks

Arboretum and Woodland Walks

Arboretum and Woodlands

Wander through a diverse collection of specimen trees and flowering shrubs, offering peaceful and scenic routes.

Earl Grey Tea Room

Earl Grey Tea Room

East Wing

Savor delicious treats and the iconic Earl Grey tea in a beautiful setting overlooking the gardens.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Peak Bloom

Howick Hall Gardens & Arboretum is renowned for its stunning floral displays. For the best experience, plan your visit during spring for the Festival of the Snowdrops or early June for vibrant cottage garden colors. Consider weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful exploration of this Northumberland gem.

Embrace the Earl Grey Legacy

Discover the ancestral home of the Earls Grey and immerse yourself in its rich history. Explore the diverse arboretum, tranquil woodlands, and the unique sensory garden. Don't miss the chance to enjoy a delightful afternoon tea, a nod to the Earl's famous blend.

Best Times

When
Spring (Snowdrops)
Why
Magical snowdrop displays
Crowd
Medium
When
Early June
Why
Vibrant cottage garden colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🌙✨ Still buzzing from tonight! Midwinter Lights Festival 2025 at Howick Historical Village was straight-up magical. 🔥 Twinkling cottages. Glowing gardens. Roving performers in full LED glory. Add some soul jazz by Big Tasty, mulled wine, and street eats — winter officially won. 🙌❄️ Felt like walking through a Victorian fairytale with fairy lights on full blast. ✨ 🎟️ it was today 14th June 2025, wo...
@kiwipunjabi
1.8K likes • 14.6K views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Explore the extensive gardens and woodlands with ease. :athletic_shoe: Lots of walking involved!

Allow a Full Day

There's so much to see and enjoy, including lunch! You could easily spend all day here. :clock1:

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@nz_chase
563 likes • 15.9K views
Passionate about gardening? Maybe even pondering a career change to work in horticulture? Join us and find out why WFGA means so much, to so many. 🌳 Exclusive visits & tours to gardens such as Howick Hall Gardens & Arboretum, Cressing Temple’s walled Tudor garden, Hampton Court Palace’s kitchen garden 🌿 Practical workshops and skills days including composting, border design, plant sketching, ...
wfga_uk
35 likes • 760 views

Don't Miss the Tea Room

Excellent food, friendly staff, and a great selection of teas, including Earl Grey loaf. :tea:

Check for Events

Look out for special events like Wildlife Days or Midwinter Lights. :sparkles:

Ad. What a lovely sunny day at Howick Hall Gardens & Arboretum for the final wildlife day of the summer holidays. Loads of families enjoying the different activities 11-4pm. . #northumberland_uk #howickhallgardensandarboretum #howickhallgardens #wildlifeday
rangerjanebeachschool
2 likes • 143 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Explore the extensive gardens and woodlands with ease. :athletic_shoe: Lots of walking involved!

Allow a Full Day

There's so much to see and enjoy, including lunch! You could easily spend all day here. :clock1:

Don't Miss the Tea Room

Excellent food, friendly staff, and a great selection of teas, including Earl Grey loaf. :tea:

Check for Events

Look out for special events like Wildlife Days or Midwinter Lights. :sparkles:

Sensory Garden is a Must

A unique and immersive experience for all visitors. :seedling:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(974 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Howick Hall Gardens for its beautiful and diverse landscapes, from the tranquil woodlands to the vibrant floral displays. The historical connection to the Earl Grey family and the excellent tea room are frequently highlighted as significant draws. While entry fees are noted, most feel the experience is well worth the cost for a peaceful and enriching day out.

"Beautiful garden and arboretum well worth a visit. We spent most of the day there including lunch in the tea rooms. Will definitely visit again when we are in the area."

DE5 Pete

"It was really interesting to learn about how they had developed the hall and gardens over time. The gardens were lovely to walk round and the woodland walk we did was very peaceful. Excellent tea room, with a great selection of tea, of course, and gluten free cakes."

Rich M

"Absolutely fabulous place, could have spent much longer there.
The grounds are well kept and signposted. A map showing where the benches are, for those less able was a bonus.
The guide supplied free of charge was descriptive and useful.
The house has two completed rooms which are beautiful. The cafe was excellent as well as the staff. Recommend a visit to this too."

Andrea Pomphrey

What People Like

Beautiful gardens and arboretum
Peaceful woodland walks
Excellent tea room

What People Dislike

Entry fee can be high

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Howick Hall Gardens and Arboretum is located in Northumberland, UK. Visitors can drive and find parking on-site. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus routes or considering a taxi service from nearby towns is advisable if not driving. Instagram

Public transport to Howick Hall Gardens can be challenging. It's best to check with local bus operators for routes serving the area. Many visitors opt to drive, as parking is available. Instagram

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official Howick Hall Gardens website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and any special event hours. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available for visitors at Howick Hall Gardens and Arboretum. This makes it convenient for those traveling by car. Instagram

Yes, Howick Hall Gardens is a popular day trip destination from Newcastle. The drive typically takes around 45-60 minutes, making it an accessible option for a scenic escape. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry fees can vary, but as of recent information, it's around £12.10 per adult. It's always best to check their official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts or special offers. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons or for special events, is often recommended to guarantee entry and potentially save time. Check their website for booking options. TikTok

Information on discounts can vary. It's advisable to check the official website or inquire directly about potential concessions for seniors, students, or group bookings. Reddit

Admission typically grants access to the gardens, arboretum, woodland walks, and the sensory garden. Access to the house itself might be limited to specific rooms. Reddit

The gardens offer a free map highlighting benches for those with mobility concerns, and some areas are relatively flat. However, some woodland paths may be uneven. The sensory garden is designed to be accessible. Reddit

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the Festival of the Snowdrops in spring, the vibrant cottage gardens in early June, the peaceful arboretum and woodland walks, and the unique sensory garden. The tea room is also a highlight. InstagramReddit

Generally, dogs are not permitted in the formal gardens or tea rooms to protect the delicate plants and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. However, some areas of the wider estate might allow dogs on leads. It's best to confirm their specific policy. Instagram

While specific guided tours might not be a daily offering, free descriptive guides are often provided, which are very useful for exploring the grounds. Keep an eye out for any special guided event days. Reddit

You'll find a stunning variety, including spring daffodils, snowdrops, a wide array of specimen trees in the arboretum, flowering shrubs, and a diverse collection in the sensory and bog gardens. InstagramReddit

Yes, families often enjoy the open spaces for exploring and the sensory garden. Special events like 'Wildlife Days' are also geared towards families. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is an excellent tea room located in the East Wing, overlooking the gardens. They offer a great selection of fresh food, including delicious Earl Grey tea loaf and gluten-free cakes. Reddit+1

The tea room serves a range of lovely fresh food, with a great selection of teas, including their signature Earl Grey tea loaf. They also offer gluten-free cake options. Reddit+1

While specific picnic areas might not be designated, visitors can often enjoy their own food in designated spots or on benches throughout the grounds, provided they are respectful of the gardens. It's best to check their policy on picnics. Reddit

The tea room generally offers fresh food, and it's likely they have vegetarian options. For specific vegan requirements, it's advisable to inquire directly with the tea room staff upon arrival. Reddit

The tea room's opening hours typically align with the garden's seasonal opening. It's best to check the official website for current operating hours, especially outside of the main spring and summer seasons. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The gardens offer endless photographic opportunities, from the vibrant cottage flowers in early June to the delicate snowdrops in spring. The arboretum's specimen trees and the tranquil woodland paths also provide beautiful backdrops. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in most garden attractions to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors and to protect wildlife. It's essential to check the official website or inquire directly about their drone policy. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, creating softer shadows and a more atmospheric feel. Golden hour can be particularly stunning. Instagram

Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is welcomed. However, professional photography or filming may require prior permission. Always be mindful of other visitors. Instagram

A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, is great for capturing landscapes and details. A macro lens can be useful for close-ups of flowers. Don't forget a wide-angle lens for sweeping garden vistas. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Howick Hall Gardens offers a wonderful day out for families. The open spaces are perfect for children to explore, and the Sensory Garden provides an engaging and interactive experience for younger visitors. Instagram+1 Look out for special 'Wildlife Days' which are often organized with activities tailored for children, making the visit even more exciting. Instagram

Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone, as there's plenty of ground to cover. The tea room is also a great spot for a family lunch or snack, with options that should please most palates. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy in designated areas if your children prefer to eat outdoors. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

For solo travelers and couples seeking a peaceful retreat, Howick Hall Gardens is an ideal destination. The tranquil woodland walks and the serene arboretum offer ample opportunities for quiet contemplation and romantic strolls. Reddit The gardens provide a beautiful and inspiring backdrop for photography or simply enjoying nature's artistry. Instagram

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea at the Earl Grey Tea Room for a perfect end to your visit, savoring the flavors and the picturesque views. Reddit Visiting on a weekday can enhance the sense of tranquility, allowing for a more personal and unhurried experience. Reddit

🌸 Garden Enthusiasts

Garden lovers will be in paradise at Howick Hall. The diverse collection of specimen trees in the arboretum, the vibrant cottage garden displays, and the unique Sensory Garden offer a wealth of horticultural interest. InstagramReddit The estate's commitment to showcasing a wide variety of plants means there's always something new to discover, regardless of the season. Instagram

Don't miss the chance to learn about the estate's history and its connection to the Earl Grey family, adding a layer of historical context to the botanical wonders. The free descriptive guides are invaluable for understanding the plant collections and the garden's design. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Earl Grey

Howick Hall Gardens and Arboretum is intrinsically linked to the Earl Grey family, the ancestral home of the Grey family for over 300 years. This historical connection adds a layer of depth to the visitor experience, allowing you to walk the grounds where generations of the family have lived and shaped the landscape. The famous Earl Grey tea itself is said to have originated from this very estate, adding a touch of iconic British heritage to your visit. Reddit

Exploring the gardens, you can feel the history woven into the fabric of the place. The East Wing tea room, for instance, offers a direct connection to this legacy, serving the renowned tea and treats in a setting that overlooks the very grounds that inspired it. It's a chance to not just see a beautiful garden, but to connect with a piece of British history and a globally recognized brand. Reddit

While the house itself has limited public access, focusing on the two completed rooms, the true star for visitors is the expansive estate. The gardens and arboretum are a testament to the family's enduring connection to the land, showcasing a passion for horticulture that has been cultivated over centuries. Reddit

A Horticultural Haven: Gardens and Arboretum

The gardens and arboretum at Howick Hall are a true delight for any nature enthusiast. The estate boasts an incredible variety of plant life, from the delicate snowdrops that herald spring to the vibrant blooms of early summer. Visitors rave about the cottage garden flowers and the sheer diversity of specimen trees found within the arboretum, making each visit a new discovery. InstagramReddit

Beyond the formal gardens, the woodland walks offer a more tranquil and immersive experience. These peaceful routes allow you to wander through natural beauty, providing a serene escape. A particular highlight for many is the Sensory Garden, thoughtfully designed to engage all senses, offering a unique and memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Reddit The bog garden is another unique feature, showcasing plants adapted to wetter conditions, adding to the diverse horticultural offerings. Reddit

Repeat visits are highly recommended to fully appreciate the changing seasons and the vast array of plants. The grounds are well-maintained and signposted, with maps available to help navigate the extensive estate, ensuring visitors can make the most of their exploration. Reddit

The Howick Hall Tea Room Experience

No visit to Howick Hall Gardens is complete without a stop at the tea room, housed in the elegant East Wing. Overlooking the beautiful gardens, it provides a perfect spot to relax and refuel after exploring the grounds. Visitors consistently praise the excellent selection of tea, with the Earl Grey tea loaf being a particular standout. Reddit+1

The tea room is known for its friendly staff and the quality of its offerings, including a good range of fresh food and gluten-free cake options. This makes it an inclusive and enjoyable dining experience for many. The ambiance, combined with the delicious food and drink, makes it a highly recommended part of the visit. Reddit

Whether you're seeking a light lunch, a sweet treat, or simply a comforting cup of tea, the Howick Hall tea room offers a delightful experience that complements the beauty of the gardens. It's a place where you can truly soak in the atmosphere and reflect on the stunning surroundings. Reddit

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