Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens

With so much to see and do, a trip to Belsay is one of the best value family days out in north-east England. Explore the medieval castle, the Grecian inspired Hall and acres of impressive gardens.

You can spend hours exploring both inside and out on fair and wet weather days. The Hall is an unfurnished architectural masterpiece inspired by the temples of ancient Greece, with its fabulous pillars. Explore the great room of the ruined medieval castle and don't miss the stunning views from the top of the tower.

Guided Tour of Gardens with Head Gardener

The garden tours are led by the Head Gardener, Jo Harrigan who will take you on a journey of discovery through the amazing gardens of Belsay Hall. Hear the history behind the creation of the unique gardens and the work that goes into preserving them.

Belsay Hall, in the heart of the Northumberland countryside, houses over 30 acres of magnificent formal and informal gardens, including the famous Quarry Garden with its distinctive microclimate; here Species Rhododendrons can be seen in flower from November until August. Based on the ancient quarries of Syracuse in Sicily, the stone was quarried for Belsay Hall, leaving dramatic canyons and pinnacles and planted with newly introduced exotics, captivating all who visit. 

With formal Terraces below the Hall, this area is the highlight of a summer visit. Old English Pinks and musk Roses combined with original Magnolias and overflowing herbaceous borders result in a feast for the senses, overlooking the spectacular Rhododendron Garden, giving Belsay’s most photographed view in June.    

Grade 1 listed, the garden is one of the finest examples of the Picturesque movement in Britain and a true plantsman’s dream, with many rarities including a National Collection of Iris and a large collection of species Lilies in flower throughout the garden, being highly regarded by both garden experts and amateurs alike.

Finally restored to its former glory, the gardens have something for everyone, be it the summer scents of the Terraces and watching Croquet on the sunken lawn, the vast range of wildlife to be seen or the truly enchanting Quarry Garden, Belsay has it all.