The Pleasure Grounds

Winding paths, mature trees, and a sweeping mass of almost 40,000 handplanted bulbs offer a glimpse into the past of what was once a private feature of Harewood’s grounds.

Unlike Harewood’s terraces and stunning views of the landscape which were designed to impress guests of the Earl and Countesses of Harewood, the ‘Pleasure Grounds’ were designed specifically for the family and friends to enjoy.

Following the relocation of the playscape in spring 2025, the Pleasure Grounds ‘Reimagining’ Project began with the hand planting of nearly 40,000 flower bulbs.

Purple Sensation Allium

The stunning Allium ‘Purple Sensation’ is a real showstopper, with bold violet pom-pom flowers that perch atop tall, slender stems like floating fireworks. Before flowering, its tightly wrapped buds resemble tiny paper lanterns, slowly unfurling into dazzling globes that bring a touch of magic and drama to the garden.

Starlight Sensation

The delicately fragrant, multi-bloom Narcissus ‘Starlight Sensation’ is an enchanting daffodil with soft, creamy-white flowers with slightly reflexed outer petals. Before the flowers open, its tight buds gather like little constellations, hinting at the sparkling, star-like display to come, bringing a dreamy, celestial glow to any garden.

Allium Siculum

Allium siculum, sometimes known as honey garlic, is an elegant species of wild onion, native to southern Europe and the Middle East. The metre-tall stem supports a nodding umbel from which hang exquisite bell-shaped flowers in soft shades of cream, green, and purple. These emerge slowly from a slender, papery sheath before settling into its graceful display of hanging bells. After they are pollinated by insects the flowers eventually turn upright and transform into delicate seedheads.

The start of a new era for the pleasure grounds

The Pleasure Grounds around the Bakehouse formed a richly planted garden setting, designed as a naturalistic, ornamental space rather than a formal garden. This was an area where planting was arranged to feel natural, immersive and enclosed, with trees, flowering shrubs, winding paths and meadows, creating secluded havens within the wider estate.

Historically, these gardens softened the contrast between the rectilinear and productive kitchen garden and the expansive, Arcadian landscape setting of Harewood House. They offered a quieter, more contemplative and personal environment for resting, walking, and seasonal activities, often with covered seats and idyllic framed views across the landscape.

Today a stunning array of nearly 40,000 handplanted bulbs guide you through winding paths, inviting guests to stop, pause and soak in the beauty of a landscape being retaken by flowers.

A stroll along the The Pleasure Grounds is a stunning opportunity to immerse yourself in part of Harewood’s historical landscape.

The swathe of colour from the Spring blooms is a truly magical experience that all ages can enjoy.

In the autumn of 2025, our Gardens & Grounds team, gratefully supported by volunteers, introduced nearly 40,000 bulbs across the Pleasure Grounds, each one lovingly planted by hand. To witness the transformative impact of this work, and especially the sheer joy it is bringing to our members and guests has been a hugely rewarding experience for me."
Trevor Nicholson - Head Gardner