11am – Step inside the House
Explore the magnificent State Rooms, admire world-famous Chippendale furniture and experience our latest exhibition, Cecil Beaton: Staging Icons, celebrating one of Britain’s most influential photographers.
Families can also enjoy the Spot Simba the Pug Trail, searching for Cecil Beaton’s beloved dog hidden throughout the historic rooms, making exploring the House even more fun for younger visitors. Don’t forget to visit the family space downstairs, with family friendly craft, construction and games.
12.30pm – Enjoy lunch
After a busy morning, take a break and enjoy lunch in our Courtyard Cafe, serving everything from light bites and homemade cakes to hearty lunches.
If the sun is shining, why not pick up a takeaway and enjoy a picnic overlooking the lake before continuing your adventure?
1.30pm – Take to the water
One of the highlights of a summer visit is hopping aboard Harewood’s daily ferry, running every day from 11am–3pm throughout the summer holidays.
Cruise across the lake and enjoy spectacular views of the House, gardens and surrounding landscape from a completely different perspective. It’s a relaxing way to experience the Grounds and Gardens and a favourite with visitors of all ages.
2pm – Choose your afternoon adventure
With so much happening across the Grounds and Gardens, every visit to Harewood can be different.
For those looking to discover more about Harewood’s landscape, join our Discover Harewood’s Hidden Landscapes guided tour (Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 10.15am, 11.30am, 12.45pm and 2pm).
This 45-minute guided experience by trailer takes you beyond the usual paths and reveals the stories, wildlife and history that shape Harewood’s Grade I listed landscape. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, red kites and Highland cows as you discover how our dedicated team cares for and conserves this remarkable place.
With exclusive access to areas not normally open to Trust visitors, it’s a unique way to see a different side of Harewood and add something special to your day. Tours cost £4.50 per person and are available thanks to the generous support of Vertu Land Rover Leeds.
Spot Wildlife on our Harewood's Hidden Landscape Trailer Tour - Sponsored by Vertu Land Rover Leeds
If you’re visiting on one of our special event days, don’t miss the chance to join in with one of our seasonal activities:
- Wild Harewood: Family Den-Off (selected dates: 22 & 27 July, 5, 10, 19 & 24 August, 11am–3pm) – Build your own woodland shelter using natural materials before putting it to the test.
- Little Gardeners (every Tuesday during the summer holidays, 11am–3pm) – Sow a seed to take home while discovering the flowers and plants growing throughout Harewood’s gardens.
- Thomas’ Terrace School (selected dates: 28 & 29 July, 11, 12, 25 & 26 August, 2.30pm) – Help our conservation team care for Harewood’s historic stone statues and discover how we preserve them for future generations.
- Snaps Through Time (every Tuesday during the summer holidays, 2.30pm) – Join our Collections Care Team to explore the fascinating history of photography and learn how museums preserve treasured images.
- Tashi Lhunpo Monks (10–15 August) – Experience Tibetan Buddhist culture through colourful performances, sacred music and family workshops during this special six-day visit.
Plant your own Harewood memory at Little Gardeners
Or simply continue exploring the Grounds and Gardens at your own pace.
The Adventure Playscape, Sylvascope and Woodland Wonderland Willow Maze are all open until 6pm, making them the perfect place to spend the afternoon. Climb towering play structures, race across bridges, zoom down slides, explore the magical treehouse or weave your way through the willow maze before heading home.
4pm – Slow the pace
Before your day comes to an end, take time to enjoy everything that makes Harewood so special.
Wander through the beautiful gardens, take in the sweeping Capability Brown landscape, stroll along the Terrace or simply find a quiet bench overlooking the lake. It’s the perfect opportunity to slow down and soak up the beauty of the Grounds and Gardens.
Before you leave…
Don’t forget to browse the Courtyard shops for a souvenir of your visit or treat yourself to an ice cream before heading home.
With so much to see and do, one visit is rarely enough. From outdoor play and historic discoveries to seasonal events and peaceful walks, every trip to Harewood offers something different.
Top tips for your visit
- Arrive from 10am to enjoy the Grounds and Gardens to make sure you get the most out of your day.
- Plan your visit around the daily ferry (11am–3pm) for one of the best views of Harewood.
- Check the events calendar before you visit, as some activities take place on selected dates.
- Leave plenty of time to explore both the House and the Grounds and Gardens.
- Wear comfortable footwear, as there’s plenty to discover across Harewood.
Whether you’re looking for one of the best family days out in Yorkshire, a relaxing day surrounded by nature, or an inspiring visit to one of England’s great country houses, Harewood has everything you need for a memorable summer adventure.