Plumpton Rocks
Parkland with tranquil lakeside walks, dramatic Millstone Grit rock formations and romantic woodland trails.
Plumpton, Knaresborough, North Yorkshire, HG5 8NA
Facilities
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Accessible loos
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Accessible parking
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Free parking
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Garden only
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Pet friendly
Plumpton Rocks is a Grade 2* listed man-made lake and surrounding pleasure gardens against a backdrop of towering rocks eroded by the wind. It has been described by English Heritage to be of outstanding interest.
The large picturesque garden was formed in the 1760s by creating a lake at the foot of an extensive range of weathered and contorted gritstone outcrops.
The 30 acre park provides seemingly endless opportunities to explore, with tranquil lakeside walks, dramatic Millstone Grit rock formations with names including Lion’s Den, Lover’s Leap and Needle’s Eye, romantic woodland walks winding through bluebells and rhododendrons.
Known as Plompton Rocks in Turner’s time, an early guide mentioned that seats are placed in different parts from whence the spectator may have the most advantageous views of the different objects that compose this romantic scene.
The view from the south end of the lake looking north, which is situated on the dam at the outflow of the lake, is remarkably well preserved and Turner’s view is almost unchanged.
The striking contrasts of the weather-beaten rock, with the blooming verdure that surrounds it, affords a pleasing instance of what nature, properly assisted by art, is capable of producing.
Important information: opening info is generated by artificial intelligence; check specific attraction details before travelling.
The indicator above will show ‘open’ when the public have any kind of access to any part of this property. That could be the park, a shop, or a special event, and may not reflect regular admission times to the main attraction. Always consult the website of the house or garden you intend to visit before travelling to check that the attraction you are interested in is open.
Plumpton Rocks is a scenic and historic landscape garden located in Harrogate, North Yorkshire. It features dramatic Millstone Grit rock formations, tranquil lakes, and woodland trails, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors of all ages.
Opening Hours
Plumpton Rocks is open to visitors during the following times:
- Regular weekends: Open every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, starting from Easter weekend and continuing through to the first weekend of October. The last admission is at 4:00 PM.
- Bank holidays: Open on all bank holidays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Summer holiday term: Open every Friday to Monday during the six-week summer holiday term from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Admission
Entry to Plumpton Rocks costs £5 per person. Children under 16 years of age can enter for free. Parking is also free.
Facilities
On-site facilities include:
- A snack shop offering cold drinks, crisps, chocolate bars, and other simple refreshments.
- A Portaloo for visitor convenience.
Additional Information
Visitors are welcome to bring their own picnics. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a lead at all times. Please note that the terrain is uneven and steep in places, making it unsuitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs.
Plumpton Rocks is a Grade II* listed garden, restored to its 18th-century glory. It has inspired artists like J.M.W. Turner and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historic charm.
£5 for adults (Children free)
Historic Houses members free, no prior booking required
Getting here
Plumpton, Knaresborough, North Yorkshire, HG5 8NA
Between Harrogate & Wetherby on A661, 1m SE of A661 junction with the Harrogate southern bypass.
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