Location
Harewood, Leeds, West Yorkshire LS17 9LQ
A1 N or S to Wetherby.
A659 via Collingham, Harewood is on A61 between Harrogate and Leeds. Easily reached from A1, M1, M62 and M18.
History
Harewood House, the Yorkshire home of the Earl and Countess of Harewood, is much more than a historic house, it is also the home of one of England's most distinguished families. Designed by John Carr in 1759, it has been continually lived in by the Lascelles family ever since. The magnificent interior, created by Robert Adam, has superb ceilings and plasterwork and contains a noteworthy collection of English and Italian paintings. The furniture throughout the house reflects what many experts have described as 'the richest collection of Chippendale in the world', much of which was made especially for Harewood. Newly refurbished dedicated Watercolour Rooms showcase key historic works.
The Earl of Harewood is the son of the late Princess Mary, daughter of King George V, and is a cousin of HM Queen Elizabeth II. Princess Mary lived at Harewood for many years and some of her pictures and possessions are on display in her rooms.
The Terrace Gallery was established in 1989 as a venue for exhibitions showing the best of contemporary art.
In the grounds, landscaped by 'Capability' Brown, are lakeside and woodland walks and Sir Charles Barry's parterre design on the terrace has recently been restored to its original condition of intricate patterns made with box, seasonally planted. Two hugely popular adventure playgrounds provide endless fun for younger visitors, from toddlers to teenagers. Harewood Bird Garden has one of the most comprehensive collections in the north of England including exotic species, many endangered, from Africa, America and Australia. Please telephone for details of special events.
Facilities & Amenities
Shops and plant centre. Grand piano, clay pigeon shooting, cricket and football pitch, ballooning, jousting, cricket matches arranged. Marquees can be accommodated, concerts (175 max) and product launches.
Ideal for corporate entertaining including drinks receptions, buffets and wedding receptions.
Disabled visitors may alight at entrance, before parking in allocated areas. Most facilities accessible. Wheelchair available at house and bird garden. Disabled WC. Special concessions apply to disabled groups.
Ample parking. Cars 400 yds from house. 50+ coaches 500 yds from house.
Audio tour of house. Lectures by arrangement.
Dogs allowed on leads in grounds but no dogs in house or bird garden (except guide dogs).
