Goddards Garden

About

Goddards House and Garden is a hidden gem on the outskirts of York that takes visitors back to the world of the famous Terry chocolate family and the Arts‑Crafts style that defined early 20th‑century England. The five‑acre garden features formal terraces, lily‑filled ponds, ancient glasshouses, colourful herbaceous borders, a small orchard and a wildlife pond that supports a thriving colony of midwife toads. The house, a Grade I listed building, is closed to visitors but houses the National Trust’s regional office. The site offers a tranquil escape from the city, with plenty of shaded paths, benches, a café kiosk for refreshments, a second‑hand bookshop, and a silent, contemplative atmosphere ideal for walkers, nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Open from early March each year, Goddards welcomes visitors on a schedule that balances the quiet of the gardens with the needs of a family-friendly outing – typically 11:00 am to 4:00 pm during the peak season – and offers free entry for National Trust members and children under five. The National Trust’s online page lists ticket prices ranging from £8.50 for adults to £12.75 for families, making a visit both affordable and accessible. Whether you stroll through the carefully manicured rooms, sample a chocolate‑inspired treat at the kiosk, or peruse the small bookshop, the experience is one that blends natural beauty, horticultural expertise and a touch of chocolate history. Goddards is especially rewarding during spring and summer when the beds explode with colour, making it a perfect midway stop for day‑trippers and long‑teller visitors alike.

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes