Goddards National Trust garden in York to reopen to public

Hidden away on the edge of York racecourse, Goddards is the former home of the Terry family, part of York’s chocolate heritage.

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The National Trust team of gardeners and volunteers are putting the finishing touches to the garden, ready to welcome visitors back from March 1.  

Goddards through the blossom (Image: National Trust Tom Longridge) Tom Longridge, National Trust senior gardener, said: “Spring at Goddards is a visual treat, and people always enjoy coming back to see what the new season will bring.

"It’s a large and varied site, with lots of different spaces to explore, and visitors can expect to see lots of daffodils, crocus in the orchard and rock gardens, and beautiful hyacinths on the terrace. It really is the most lovely, peaceful location to enjoy a pot of tea and some cake away from the bustle of central York.” 

Today, the house itself is used as an office by the National Trust’s Yorkshire teams, but the lovingly cared-for gardens are open for the public to explore.  

The public can stroll around the grounds (Image: ©National Trust Images/James Dob) The gardens are designed in the arts and crafts style, with separate outdoor garden ‘rooms’ set over five acres.

The lavish green spaces enjoyed by visitors today are the same designs as those created by George Dillistone in the late 1920s.

Although a takeaway café only, the popular kiosk features seating on the raised outdoor terrace with commanding views over the formal pond.  

The view of York racecourse from the gardens (Image: National Trust Tom Longridge) Visitors are advised that only accessible parking is available at Goddards, but it is served by several bus routes from York city centre.

The gardens and café kiosk will be open again to the public from March 1 at weekends only, although opening is extended during the summer months.

Entry is free for National Trust members and under-fives. Charges apply to other visitors.