Things To Do

A visit to the Castle Howard Arboretum can be action-packed or completely relaxing - it's entirely up to you. Whether you are visiting alone, with friends or family, or as part of a group we look forward to making you welcome. Our 120 acre garden of trees is yours to explore.

Red Squirrel Enclosure

On April 1st 2023 we opened our red squirrel enclosure to the public. The enclosure is set within a grove of oak trees and covers 2500m2 of ground in which the squirrels live natural lives. It is open every day from 10:00am to 15:00pm. Standard Arboretum admission charges apply, with no extra charge to enter the enclosure. If you would like to know more, you can visit our page about Red Squirrels. or drop in for a talk with our squirrel keepers on Tuesdays and Saturdays at 10.30am from March to October (weather permitting).

Events

Our events programme runs throughout the year and is constantly expanding, with new events and activities being added all the time. For the latest information on what's going on during your visit please check here Natural Environment Events

FREE Drop-In Guided Tours

Every Thursday from March to the end of October one of our friendly, expert guides will be on hand to introduce you to the collection, explain the arboretum's history, and show you the very best of our seasonal treasures.

Tours start from the Visitor Centre at 1.30pm and last between 1 and 2 hours (depending on the season, the weather, how much we chat and how slowly we walk!) Tours are free of charge. Standard arboretum admission charges apply. Well-behaved dogs on leads welcome. No need to book - just turn up and join in!

We also have a drop-in Squirrel Talk every Tuesday and Saturday morning at 10:30am (March To October) located in the Squirrel Enclosure. Standard admission fee applies but the drop-in tours are free of charge. Dogs are not permitted within the Squirrels Enclosure.

Bespoke, private tours may also be booked in advance for your party. Please contact us on visit@yorkshirearboretum.org or phone 01653 648598.

Children's Activities

There are a range of trails and activities for people of all ages to do whilst they visit the arboretum.

Children’s Parties

Make their birthday a day to remember and have an outdoor party at the Castle Howards Arboretum! To find out more, visit our Children’s Parties page.