You’ll find Howick Hall Gardens and Arboretum along the Northumberland coastal route, between Boulmer and Craster is the gem you definitely need to add to your Northumberland itinerary. Built in 1782 and seat of the Earl Greys, the 2nd of which he once prime minister and who the famous tea was named after!
With 65 acres to explore, snowdrops trails, daffodil displays, woodland and beautiful gardens as well as the all important tea room! The peaceful Howick Hall is truly a tranquil wonderland to walk around, there are several marked routes to take which are marked on a map you receive on entry.
In the Hall itself you’ll find a visitor centre, with a wealth of information about the history of Howick Hall as well as current day plans and exhibits. Walk further into the hall and you’ll find the Chinese Room and Old Dining Room, with exquisite chandeliers, period furniture and impressive portraits hanging on the walls you’re transported back in time. When I visited there was a pianist at the grand piano within the Chinese Room playing it was quite magical to listen to as I explored around.
The Chinese room has had the hand painted Chinese wallpaper from the first floor of the hall reproduced and covers the walls here is truly beautifully striking,. The Old Dining Room is the only true link to the 1776 building, as sadly the Hall was damaged in a fire in 1926. This room was restored to exactly what it would have looked like when first built.
The main building also houses the Earl Grey tearoooms where you can sample a cup of the famous tea named after the halls owner! With a light bite lunch menu and a vast array of gorgeous cakes and scones it is well worth a stop if you are here visiting.
Within the ground you’ll find St Michaels and All Saints church, nestled by the running stream and within view of the mighty hall the early victorian building and graveyard houses many memorials to the Grey family including the tomb of Prime Minister 2nd Earl Grey.
With its beautiful stained glass windows and gothic gargoyles (which were actually carved by the 5th Countess Grey) dotted around the exterior I highly recommend a look if you’re exploring the gardens.
While exploring around the grounds you may find the Sensory Garden, a recent addition with plants and materials designed to stimulate all the senses touch, taste, smell and sight. The aim of the sensory garden is to provide both children and adults with autism a safe and stimulating environment to explore their senses.
Howick Hall is open 10.30-4 during early season and 10.30-6 during the main season. An adult ticket is £11.00 and child £3.30 with concessions, family tickets and season tickets available. For more information on Howick Hall follow this link to their website Howick Hall
