Thorp Perrow Arboretum - Visitor Guide

Overview

Thorp Perrow Arboretum is one of Yorkshire's finest horticultural attractions, offering 85 acres of beautifully maintained arboretum in the lovely setting of Near Bedale. Whether you are a keen gardener looking for inspiration, a family seeking a peaceful day out, or simply someone who appreciates beautiful landscapes, Thorp Perrow Arboretum provides a thoroughly rewarding visiting experience.

The garden has been developed over many years, and the maturity of the planting is one of its greatest assets. The collection of trees is outstanding, representing species from around the world and providing year-round interest through changing leaf colours, bark textures, and seasonal displays.

Set near Bedale (3 miles), Thorp Perrow Arboretum is easily accessible and can be combined with visits to other attractions in the area. The gardens are well maintained throughout the year, with each season bringing its own particular beauty and interest, making this a place worth visiting at any time of year.

Garden Highlights

Thorp Perrow Arboretum offers a series of distinct areas and features that together create a varied and engaging visiting experience. The main borders and planted areas demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of colour, form, and texture, with carefully chosen plants arranged to provide interest and beauty throughout the growing season.

Beyond the main features, there are quieter areas to discover — secluded benches with views, specimen trees of great age and character, and seasonal plantings that change with the calendar. The woodland areas provide shade and shelter, with their own distinctive flora and atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the more open areas of the garden.

The garden is also home to wildlife, and observant visitors will notice birds, butterflies, and insects making use of the habitats provided by the diverse planting. This integration of garden design with ecological awareness is increasingly important and adds another dimension to the visiting experience.

Seasonal Interest

Thorp Perrow Arboretum offers interest throughout the year, with each season bringing its own particular character and beauty. Autumn is spectacular, with foliage colours transforming the landscape into a tapestry of gold, amber, and crimson. The quality of autumn colour in Yorkshire is exceptional, and the garden takes full advantage of this natural display.

Winter should not be overlooked as a time to visit. The structure of the garden — its paths, walls, trees, and hard landscaping — is revealed most clearly when the leaves have fallen, and there is a particular beauty in a frosty morning or a light dusting of snow. Winter-flowering plants, colourful bark, and evergreen plantings ensure that there is always something to appreciate, even in the quietest months.

Visitor Facilities

Thorp Perrow Arboretum provides excellent facilities for visitors. A well-stocked gift shop offers plants, gardening accessories, books, and locally made products. The cafe or tea room provides refreshments including hot and cold drinks, light meals, and home-baked cakes, offering a welcome break during your visit.

Accessibility varies across the garden, with some areas being more accessible than others due to the natural terrain. The paths are generally well maintained, though some areas may be steep or uneven. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters may be available to borrow — contact the garden in advance to arrange. Picnic areas are available for those who prefer to bring their own food, and toilets including accessible facilities are provided. Dogs may be welcome in some areas — check the garden's policy before your visit.

Getting There

Thorp Perrow Arboretum is located near Bedale (3 miles). A car provides the most convenient access. Follow the brown tourist signs from the main roads. Parking is available on site, though it can be busy during peak periods, particularly on sunny weekends and bank holidays. Allow at least two hours for your visit, though many visitors find they want to stay longer to fully appreciate the garden.

Nearby Attractions

The area around Thorp Perrow Arboretum offers plenty of other things to see and do. Bedale provides shops, restaurants, and additional attractions, while the surrounding countryside offers walking, cycling, and further exploration. A visit to Thorp Perrow Arboretum combines well with other nearby attractions, making it easy to fill a full and enjoyable day in this part of Yorkshire.