THE Yorkshire Arboretum has opened up just in time for Spring and the cherry blossom season.

As lockdown restrictions are eased, the arboretum is now able to welcome visitors from further afield and groups who wish to meet outdoors.

Based in the grounds of Castle Howard, it was founded in 1997 as a partnership between the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Castle Howard while the Trust’s patron remains HRH The Prince of Wales.

Opening times for The Yorkshire Arboretum

The site is now open daily from 10am-4pm with takeaway café service available from Friday, April 2.

The Arboretum Café is open 10am-4pm throughout Easter weekend, then every Thursday to Monday.

 

Easter treat

The reopening of its café - offering takeaway drinks and a selection of homemade cakes - will take place on Good Friday.

There will be a range of sandwiches added to the menu from April 12.

Covid-19 measures

Hand sanitiser stations are in place at the entrance to the Visitor Centre and at the café counter.

Arboretum Director Dr John Grimshaw said: “We know how much the Arboretum Café is valued and enjoyed by so many people, and it gives us great pleasure to see it open again.

"The arboretum is looking spectacular as we move into spring, with cherry blossom – in particular Prunus ‘Tiltstone Hellfire’ - and rhododendrons beginning to appear, and many trees in the collection beginning to wake up after the long winter.

York Press:

"Our vast lawns are perfect for enjoying a takeaway coffee or for families looking for somewhere to spend the Easter break. There’s something to inspire everyone here – and plenty of space to explore.”