Duncombe Park

Duncombe Park’s pleasure grounds date from c. 1718-30 and are ‘a landmark in the development of the English natural style’ (Jellicoe et al 1986). There are links with Charles Bridgeman and Sir John Vanburgh. Duncombe Park is on the HE Register at Grade I and it is also a National Nature Reserve (ancient and veteran trees). Duncombe Park National Nature Reserve - NE414.  It is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) SSSI detail (designated for the ancient and veteran trees and their associated wildlife; particularly insects). We are delighted that Craig Ralston of Natural England who manages Yorkshire’s National Nature Reserves will be with us. This will be a good opportunity to share how management of parkland can help Nature Recovery as well as supporting and conserving the historic environment.

The park was probably created in the early 18th century and early to mid19th century partially on the site of a medieval deer park associated with Helmsley Castle. Peter Goodchild and Val Hepworth will lead the day of exploration starting in the House (Listed Grade I) where we will have tea/coffee/biscuits in the Stone Hall. We suggest that that members remove their boots for the House and put them on again before we go out down the steps into the gardens on the East Front and to the curving Terrace along the edge of the wooded escarpment above the river Rye with its Ionic and Tuscan Temples (both Listed Grade I).

We anticipate that members will have their own picnic lunch in the garden c.12.30pm. We can use the Orangery/Conservatory, (1851, Banks and Barry Listed Grade II), if wet where there will be tea and coffee making facilities. 

The tour will continue in the afternoon finishing c. 3.30pm. Please have stout footwear and waterproof clothing in case the weather is wet. There will be a fair amount of walking (2-3 miles), some on rough ground.

Tickets cost: £16.00 YGT members, £18.00 non-members

This event can be booked by either:

1. online at eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/organizations/events
2. completion of the booking form sent to members which can be returned by email (events@yorkshiregardenstrust.org.uk) and a BACS transfer to Yorkshire Gardens Trust (sort code 05-09-94, account number 25555237) using your 'Events' and your name as reference, or
3. completion of the booking form sent to members which can be returned by post to: The Events Secretary, 5 Belle Vue Terrace, Bellerby, DL8 5QL and including a cheque payable to Yorkshire Gardens Trust

Joining details will be sent out one week before the event.