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York Gate

An internationally acclaimed one acre jewel of a garden with 14 individual garden 'rooms'. Many unusual plants and architectural topiary. Exciting recent additions include a new café, gift shop and heritage exhibition as well as new gardens and plant nursery. Owned by Perennial, the charity that looks after horticulturists and their families in times of need.

Owner Info

York Gate
York Gate
York Gate
York Gate
York Gate
York Gate
York Gate
York Gate
York Gate
York Gate
York Gate
York Gate
York Gate
York Gate
York Gate
York Gate

About York Gate

York Gate is a one acre garden tucked away behind the ancient church of St. John the Baptist in Adel, on the northern outskirts of Leeds. It was created by the Spencer family between 1951 and 1994 but is now owned and maintained by the horticulturists’ charity, Perennial.

When the Spencer family bought the property in 1951 it was intended as a continuing farm business. Over the next 30 years this gave way to their love of gardening and York Gate has come to be recognised as an outstanding example of late C20 garden design.
A garden of immense style and craftsmanship, it is divided into a series of garden rooms with different themes and in contrasting styles. A succession of delightful vistas links the different areas.
Traditional materials such as reclaimed timbers and stone have been used to create striking architectural features and detailing is exquisite. There are many unusual plants, and evergreens clipped into strong architectural shapes are used to spectacular effect throughout. The garden has received much acclaim and was given Grade II Heritage Status by Historic England in 2020. Also featured on television and in the national press and is a mecca for students of garden design.

Location details

York Gate,
Leeds,
Yorkshire,
LS16 8DW

Directions to York Gate
A660 to Adel, turn R at lights after the Co-op. L on to Church Ln. After church, R onto Back Church Ln. Garden on L.

York Gate openings

No opening times available.

Accessibility

  • Narrow gravel & cobbled paths make most of the original garden inaccessible to wheelchairs. The cafe and WC are accessible.
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FAQs

Payment is by cash only. Please get in touch with the owners for more details.

Yes, coaches are accepted at York Gate. Please get in touch with the owners for details.

Sorry, no dogs are allowed in the garden at this time.

Yes, there are various plants offerred for sale at York Gate, please enquire with the owners for more details.

Sorry, York Gate does not yet accommodate wheelchair users.

Yes. York Gate seeks to offer a sustainable refuge for nearby fauna and wildlife. These sanctuaries host diverse habitats supporting indigenous flora and fauna and nurturing local biodiversity.