Stainborough Castle
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Wentworth Castle Gardens

4.6
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore 60 acres of stunning gardens, parkland, and a folly castle with breathtaking Yorkshire views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Flowers in full bloom

CrowdMedium
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Stainborough Castle

Wentworth Castle Gardens

Best Time

Summer mornings

Flowers in full bloom

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore 60 acres of stunning gardens, parkland, and a folly castle with breathtaking Yorkshire views.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"A beautiful estate with lovely gardens and impressive views, especially from the folly castle."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check House Opening Times

The main house is only open on limited dates, often requiring advance booking. Plan ahead!

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The site is hilly, so sturdy footwear is essential for exploring the gardens and parklands. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Gardens

The Gardens

Various locations across the estate

Explore 60 acres of diverse gardens, from formal flower beds to woodland paths. A true feast for the eyes!

The Folly Castle

The Folly Castle

Top of the hill

Climb this impressive mock castle for breathtaking panoramic views of the Yorkshire countryside.

Deer Park

Deer Park

Parklands

Wander through the parklands and keep an eye out for roaming deer, adding a touch of wildlife magic.

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Planning Your Visit

House Access & Open Days

The main house at Wentworth Castle Gardens is not always open to the public. Check the National Trust website for limited viewing dates, as it often requires advance booking. This is a key point for many visitors planning their trip.Reddit

Navigating the Terrain

Wentworth Castle Gardens is situated on a fairly steep, hilly site. While there are courtesy buggies for assisted access, be prepared for uphill walking if you plan to explore the parklands and folly.Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Flowers in full bloom
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
When house is open
Why
See the interior
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

An English garden cafe 💜✨ 📍Ham House, Ham St, Ham, Richmond TW10 7RS Prettiest cafes Things to do in London Beautiful destinations Wisteria in London Best UK cafes Best National Trust @National Trust
@julestaylorinlondon
107.4K likes • 765.5K views

🎯 Check House Opening Times

The main house is only open on limited dates, often requiring advance booking. Plan ahead! Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The site is hilly, so sturdy footwear is essential for exploring the gardens and parklands. :athletic_shoe:

Replying to @khuloodz123 2,500 acres to explore 🥰 #stourhead #nationaltrustuk #england #travelengland #wiltshire #westcountry #englishcountryside #exploreengland
@shewillbewandering
80.9K likes • 548.1K views
🌳 WENTWORTH CASTLE GARDENS NATIONAL TRUST 🌳 AD| Located in Barnsley, this fab @ntyorkshire has lots for the family to enjoy, with a variety of additional activities over the summer as part of their Summer of Play! Despite the drizzly weather, our kids loved exploring Stainsborough Castle, adventuring on the playground and discovering hidden treasures in the beautiful gardens. The parkland also off...
northleedsmumbler
52 likes • 5.5K views

🚗 Consider the Shuttle Bus

A shuttle bus is available for assisted access, especially useful for navigating the steeper inclines. :bus:

🧺 Pack a Picnic

The cafe can be pricey. Bringing your own food and drink is a good option for a budget-friendly visit. :sandwich:

Yorkshire’s beautiful Wentworth Castle estate 🤩 Following on from Tuesday’s post, here we have a different perspective of the beautiful Wentworth Castle. This Reel depicts the grand Palladian facade, dating to 1759, with a small portion of the gardens and the stunning Yorkshire countryside also visible. Although not built on the same scale as Wentworth Woodhouse, Wentworth Castle was still one ...
xploreheritage
4K likes • 46.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check House Opening Times

The main house is only open on limited dates, often requiring advance booking. Plan ahead! Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The site is hilly, so sturdy footwear is essential for exploring the gardens and parklands. :athletic_shoe:

🚗 Consider the Shuttle Bus

A shuttle bus is available for assisted access, especially useful for navigating the steeper inclines. :bus:

🧺 Pack a Picnic

The cafe can be pricey. Bringing your own food and drink is a good option for a budget-friendly visit. :sandwich:

📸 Capture the Views

Don't miss the stunning panoramic vistas from the folly castle and various viewpoints. :camerawithflash:

🐶 Dog-Friendly Cafe

Bring your furry friends along! There's a dog-friendly cafe on-site. :dog:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally find Wentworth Castle Gardens to be a beautiful estate with lovely gardens and impressive views, especially from the folly castle. However, the limited opening of the main house and occasional maintenance issues in the gardens are recurring points of disappointment for some.

"Nice visit today. Please note that the main house is only open to the public once a month, see website, but makes for a lovely backdrop. I recommend using the website that contains all of the features. They have a nice cafe and bookshop, also in the long barn. The walks are many. The gardens are lovely. But note, seasonal. The views are tremendous. If you walk up the hill, you will find the castle. It is, in reality, a folly but very impressive. For those who are able, you can climb the steps up one of the towers for excellent views. As said, lovely walks through the gardens and around the estate, where you can see much wildlife roaming around. There are many architectural things to see all around the estate, so if you're able, we would thoroughly recommend them."

Stephen Brown

"Enjoyable visit here. Husband walked the parklands and found the deer. Parents and i liked the gardens and conservatory. Also the dragon at the top of the castle (if you can do steps). Buggy shuttle was very useful. Lunch at the cafe was nice if a bit pricey. Thank you to the chap on the reception desk too."

Susan Kay-Attwood

"Great place to walk. The park is stunning, the gardens are well kept, and there are lots of easy to walk paths for wheelchairs and buggy. I was disappointed the house wasn't open to exploring. It's only open 1 day a month and has to be booked in advance. They were out of maps when we went thankfully it's quite well signposted. It's a lot of uphill walking. The cafe, however, was pretty poor choices and expensive so would suggest taking your own food and drink. Also, there are no gift shops that I could see."

zoe lucas

What People Like

Beautiful gardens and views
Impressive folly castle
Dog-friendly facilities

What People Dislike

Limited house access
Hilly terrain
Cafe prices

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Wentworth Castle Gardens is located near Barnsley in South Yorkshire. It's best reached by car, with ample parking available on-site. For those using public transport, you can take a train to Barnsley and then a local bus service or taxi to the gardens.TikTok

Yes, there is ample parking available at Wentworth Castle Gardens. It's situated on a fairly steep sloped site, so be mindful of this when parking.Reddit

While a car is the most convenient way to reach Wentworth Castle Gardens, it is possible to use public transport. Take a train to Barnsley and then a local bus or taxi. Some visitors have noted it's a good mid-point to meet family if traveling from different locations.TikTok

The postcode for Wentworth Castle Gardens is S75 3DQ. This can be helpful for navigation apps when planning your journey.

Yes, there is assisted access from the entrance via an on-site electric courtesy buggy. However, the site is hilly, so some areas may still present a challenge for those with walking difficulties.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry fees apply, and it's recommended to check the National Trust website for the most current pricing. Many visitors suggest having an annual pass to save money if you plan to visit multiple National Trust properties.TikTok

The main house at Wentworth Castle Gardens has limited viewing dates and often requires advance booking. It's crucial to check the National Trust website for specific open days before your visit.Reddit+1

Tickets can typically be purchased on the day of your visit, but for special events or house open days, booking in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.Reddit

National Trust members get free entry. For non-members, check the website for any seasonal offers or family ticket options. An annual pass is often the most cost-effective for frequent visitors.TikTok

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to consult the official National Trust website for Wentworth Castle Gardens for the most up-to-date information on opening times for the gardens, cafe, and any special events.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors can explore 60 acres of gardens, including formal beds and woodland paths, wander through the parklands to spot deer, and climb the folly castle for views. There's also a playground for children and seasonal activities.InstagramReddit+1

Yes, there are many walks around the estate, including parklands, wooded areas, and garden paths. Some paths are well-maintained and suitable for wheelchairs and buggies, though the site is generally hilly.Reddit+1

Yes, Wentworth Castle Gardens has a playground area that children often enjoy. They also host seasonal activities like 'Summer of Play' and 'Egg-stravaganza'.Instagram+1

Yes, Wentworth Castle Gardens is dog-friendly, and there is a dog-friendly cafe on-site. Dogs are welcome in the parklands and gardens, but should be kept on a lead in certain areas.InstagramReddit

The 'castle' is actually a folly, a mock castle built for architectural interest. It's impressive and offers excellent views from its tower if you're able to climb the steps.Reddit+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe located in the Long Barn, offering refreshments and lunch options. It's also dog-friendly and provides great views if you sit outside.Reddit+1

Reviews suggest the cafe offers nice food, though some find it a bit pricey. It's a convenient option for a bite, but many recommend bringing your own food and drink to save money.Reddit+1

While not explicitly mentioned as designated picnic areas, the extensive grounds and parklands offer many spots where visitors can enjoy a picnic. Bringing your own food is a popular choice.Reddit

For dining options beyond the on-site cafe, you would need to travel back towards Barnsley or surrounding towns. The cafe at the gardens is the primary food service available within the estate.

Absolutely! Many visitors find it more economical to bring their own food and drinks, especially given that the on-site cafe can be a bit expensive.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The folly castle offers stunning panoramic views, perfect for landscape shots. The formal gardens with their vibrant blooms, the Palladian facade of the house, and the roaming deer in the parklands are also highly photogenic.Instagram+2

Yes, Wentworth Castle Gardens provides a variety of photographic opportunities, from grand architecture and manicured gardens to natural landscapes and wildlife. The changing seasons also offer different visual appeal.Instagram+2

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for the gardens and house. Midday can be harsh, but the folly castle's views are impressive regardless of the time. Summer mornings are great for vibrant floral shots.Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for professional shoots or commercial use, it's advisable to check with the National Trust for any specific guidelines or permissions required.

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both landscapes and architectural details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the expansive gardens and views from the folly. A telephoto lens can help with wildlife photography if you spot deer.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Wentworth Castle Gardens is a fantastic destination for families. The estate offers a playground that kids love, and seasonal events like the 'Summer of Play' and 'Egg-stravaganza' provide engaging activities.Instagram+1 The parklands are perfect for running around, and spotting the resident deer can be a highlight for younger visitors.Instagram

While the site is hilly, the availability of an assisted access buggy service can be a lifesaver for parents with strollers or young children who tire easily.Reddit Bringing a picnic is also a great idea to keep energy levels up and manage costs, as the cafe can be a bit pricey.Reddit The variety of gardens and the folly castle offer plenty to explore and spark imagination.

🚶‍♀️ Walkers and Nature Lovers

For those who enjoy a good walk, Wentworth Castle Gardens offers extensive parklands and woodland trails. You can wander for miles, enjoying the fresh air and scenic beauty.Reddit The deer park is a particular draw, offering opportunities to observe wildlife in its natural habitat.InstagramReddit

The gardens themselves provide a beautiful backdrop for a stroll, with diverse planting and well-maintained paths, though some areas might be a bit overgrown.Reddit The folly castle at the top of the hill offers a rewarding destination for walkers, providing stunning panoramic views as a well-earned reward.Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Wentworth Castle Gardens is a welcoming spot for dog owners, as it's dog-friendly! Your canine companions can explore the parklands and gardens with you, and there's even a dog-friendly cafe where you can both relax.InstagramReddit Remember to keep dogs on a lead in certain areas to respect other visitors and wildlife. It's a great place for a long walk with your furry friend.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Gardens and Estate

Wentworth Castle Gardens boasts 60 acres of diverse landscapes, offering a rich experience for visitors. The formal gardens are a highlight, featuring a variety of planting styles that change with the seasons. Many visitors praise the beauty of these areas, though some reviews mention they can be 'badly maintained' at times, with overgrown sections.Reddit Beyond the manicured beds, the estate includes extensive parklands and woodland, providing ample opportunities for leisurely walks and wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for the resident deer, a common sight that adds to the charm of the estate.InstagramReddit

The terrain of Wentworth Castle Gardens is notably hilly. While this contributes to the dramatic views, it means visitors should be prepared for uphill climbs. For those with mobility concerns, the National Trust offers an assisted access buggy service from the entrance, which is highly recommended for navigating the steeper sections.Reddit The variety of paths, from paved walkways to more natural trails, ensures there's something for most visitors, though accessibility can be a consideration for some.Reddit

Social media content often showcases the vibrant floral displays during summer, with reels highlighting the 'buzz, bloom, and beauty' of the gardens.Instagram+1 The folly castle, perched atop a hill, is another significant feature. While its design is described by some as 'laughably bad,' it offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding Yorkshire countryside, making the climb worthwhile for many.Reddit+1 The combination of manicured gardens, natural parkland, and architectural curiosities makes Wentworth Castle Gardens a multifaceted destination.

The Wentworth Castle House and Folly

The main house at Wentworth Castle Gardens is a grand Palladian structure, dating back to 1759.Instagram However, it's important to note that the house itself is not consistently open to the public. It often serves as a college and has limited viewing dates, frequently requiring advance booking.Reddit+1 This is a crucial piece of information for visitors planning their trip, as many reviews express disappointment when they arrive to find the house closed.Reddit When it is open, it offers a glimpse into the history and architecture of the estate.

In contrast to the main house, the folly castle is a prominent and popular feature. This mock castle, situated on a hill, provides a dramatic focal point and, more importantly, breathtaking vistas over the Yorkshire landscape.Reddit+1 Visitors are encouraged to climb the tower for the best views, though this requires a degree of physical ability. The folly is a testament to the estate's varied architectural interests, offering a different kind of historical experience compared to the main house.Instagram

Many visitors find the combination of the grand house (when accessible) and the picturesque folly to be a key draw. The contrast between the historical residence and the romantic ruin-like folly adds a unique dimension to the Wentworth Castle estate. The views from the folly are consistently praised, making it a must-visit spot for photographers and sightseers alike.InstagramReddit

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