Parcevall Hall Gardens

Located in the heart of Wharfedale, the gardens offer magnificent views over unspoiled Yorkshire Dales countryside. Parcevall Hall Gardens are unusual in the variety of plants, shrubs and trees which are seldom seen growing at such an elevation. The formal terraces give way to an orchard, rock garden and cliff walks enfolded in the shelter of surrounding woodland orchestrated by running water of rill and pool and accompanied by birdsong.

Situated at the head of a valley, the sixteen acres of formal and woodland gardens rise up the hillside and command impressive views of Simons Seat and Wharfedale. The gardens were laid out by Sir William Milner from 1927 onwards, and are planted with many specimen trees and shrubs collected from Western China and the Himalayas. As a gardener Sir William chose his site wisely. At the top of the gardens an alkaline soil overlays limestone rock and at the foot of the hill an acidic soil overlays gritstone, which makes it ideal for rhododendrons.

There is year round interest not only for the plantsman, but also for anyone who enjoys peace and tranquillity in this natural setting. The Hall itself is let to the Bradford Diocese as a retreat house. It is not open to garden visitors but its architectural features can be appreciated from several vantage points. The overall design style is Arts & Crafts with obvious Lutyens influences on the formal terraces. However Sir William took his influences from many religions and this can be seen throughout the garden.