Harewood House

Life Inside a Historic Country Home

Harewood House is one of Yorkshire’s most beautiful and historic estates, set in stunning countryside just outside Leeds. Built in the 18th century, it is famous for its grand architecture, elegant rooms, and world-class art collections.

Inside the house, you’ll discover rooms filled with fine furniture, paintings, and treasures collected over hundreds of years. Outside, the gardens are just as impressive, with colourful flowerbeds, peaceful lakes, and even a Bird Garden where you can see penguins, flamingos, and exotic parrots.

Fun fact: Harewood’s gardens were designed by the famous landscape architect Capability Brown, who also created parts of Kew Gardens and Blenheim Palace.

A trip to Harewood is not just about history—it’s about exploring art, nature, and stories from the past all in one place.

Look out for:

The grand state rooms and chandeliers
Colourful flower gardens and the lake
Penguins and exotic birds in the Bird Garden

✏️ Your Task:

Find your favourite bird in the Bird Garden and write its name.
Count how many different colours of flowers you can spot in the gardens.
Imagine living in Harewood House 200 years ago. What would your favourite room be?

The Timetable for the Trip

0:00 – Meet at The University of Law's common room for a welcome and safety briefing by Activity Leaders.
0:05 – Depart The University of Law and Walk to CES Leeds to take a coach to Harewood House
1:00– Arrive at the Harewood House
1:05 – The group gathers outside the main entrance. Activity Leader gives an introduction to Tropical world.
1:10 – Begin the self-guided tour of Harewood House
2:40 – Regroup in front of the entrance
2:45 – Prepare for departure; students gather belongings and use restrooms if needed.
2:50 – Leave the Harewood House and begin the return journey by a coach.
3:20 – Arrive back at CES Leeds

The Grand House

Step inside Harewood House and explore grand state rooms filled with chandeliers, fine furniture, and world-class art. Each room shows how wealthy families lived in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Look out for: Sparkling chandeliers and portraits on the walls.

Fun fact: Harewood’s art collection includes works by Turner, Gainsborough, and even Italian masters.

The Gardens

Outside, Harewood is surrounded by beautiful gardens, from colourful flowerbeds to peaceful lakeside walks. These landscapes were designed to impress visitors and show the family’s wealth.

Look out for: Bright flower displays and the huge lake.

Fun fact: The gardens were designed by Capability Brown, the most famous landscape gardener of his time.

Reptiles and Creepy Crawlies

Harewood is home to over 40 species of exotic birds, including penguins, flamingos, owls, and parrots. It’s one of the most popular parts of the estate, especially for younger visitors.

Look out for: Penguins splashing in the water and parrots showing off their bright feathers.

Fun fact: The Bird Garden opened in 1970 and has been a favourite ever since.

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