Grounds & Gardens
Of Grantley Hall
Set against the stunning backdrop of North Yorkshire’s countryside, Grantley Hall is home to 38 acres of meticulously crafted gardens and grounds that provide a peaceful retreat to guests. Each garden and landscape is a carefully curated living space shaped by centuries of tradition and ongoing stewardship. From the moment you enter the grounds, the tranquillity of the surroundings invites you to explore, whether you are a passionate gardener or someone seeking a quiet corner of nature to unwind.
Japanese Garden
Rill Garden
One of the first landmarks you encounter is the Rill Garden, a formal water feature that flows gently as the focal point at the front of the Hall. This rare example of prairie planting features a unique mix of North American grasses and perennials, adding a distinctive charm to the estate. The swaying movement of plants like hostas, asters and hydrangeas creates a tranquil atmosphere, while the vibrant addition of euphorbia and heuchera injects deep purple and vibrant hues into the landscape.
Rose Garden
The Rose Garden at Grantley Hall offers a truly sensory experience, with over 100 different varieties of roses filling the air with their sweet fragrance. These stunning blooms change with the seasons, offering a blend of vibrant hues and delicate pastels. The garden’s secluded nature invites quiet reflection, providing a perfect space to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. A striking statue, commissioned from a local Yorkshire artist, adds a personal touch to this timeless space.
Kitchen Garden
Grantley Hall’s Kitchen Garden, supplying fresh ingredients to the renowned Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall restaurant, is a true testament to the estate's commitment to sustainability. The garden grows a variety of herbs, vegetables and fruits used in the creation of signature seasonal dishes. Aromatic herbs like rosemary, thyme and bronze fennel are complemented by borage and alpine strawberries. Like Shaun's menu, the garden evolves with the changing seasons, providing fresh, organic produce year-round.
Love Island
The estate’s 'Love Island' is a charming, romantic spot, surrounded by a tranquil moat and accessed via stepping stones crafted from Brimham Rocks. This picturesque island, often chosen as a setting for proposals, enhances the romantic allure of the estate. It is home to some of the most photographed and ancient oak trees, which have stood for centuries. These majestic trees are protected by Tree Preservation Orders, ensuring their continued presence on the estate. The combination of the stunning natural beauty of the island and the grandeur of these timeless oak trees adds to the magical atmosphere that defines Grantley Hall’s grounds.
Wildlife and Conservation
As part of The Skell Valley Project, a partnership with the National Trust and the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the estate is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the local ecosystem. The River Skell, which flows through the estate, has been carefully managed to reduce flooding risks while providing an ideal habitat for protected species, such as English crayfish. The grounds are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, rabbits, and a remarkable variety of birds of prey, such as red kites, buzzards, and kestrels.
The River Skell
The River Skell, a picturesque 12-mile tributary of the River Ure, meanders through the Grantley Hall estate. Throughout the grounds, small man-made waterfalls enhance its natural beauty, creating a soothing ambience. Guests enjoying a leisurely lunch in the summer months on the Norton Courtyard or The River Terrace - gracefully perched above the water in summer - can relish the gentle, tranquil sounds of the river as it flows past.