What is Grassington’s connection to All Creatures Great and Small and what can visitors see there?

Grassington doubles for the fictional village of Darrowby in the television adaptation; visitors can stroll the village to spot many of the exterior locations used for street scenes and village settings while respecting residents and private property.

What is the World of James Herriot in Thirsk and what does it focus on?

The World of James Herriot in Thirsk is a museum dedicated to the life and work of James Herriot, showcasing exhibits and memorabilia connected to his veterinary practice and stories; check the museum directly for current opening information and events.

The Secret Garden filming locations

Exploring the North Yorkshire locations behind one of the most beloved film adaptations

Stories & Inspiration
The Secret Garden Locations

Few tales celebrate the restorative power of the outdoors quite like The Secret Garden. First published in 1911, Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic has charmed generations with its themes of renewal and friendship.

When young Mary Lennox is sent from India to the remote Yorkshire home of her uncle, the imposing Misselthwaite Manor, she arrives withdrawn and unsure of her new world. But everything begins to change when she stumbles upon a long‑forgotten garden, locked away since tragedy touched the family years before. As Mary, her cousin Colin and friend Dickon set about bringing the garden back to life, they too begin to blossom.

Both the 1993 and 2020 film versions turned to North Yorkshire’s atmospheric scenery to bring the story’s most memorable moments to life, and now you can follow in Mary’s footsteps as we guide you through the key filming locations.

Where was The Secret Garden filmed?

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Gardens

Few places rival the entrancing beauty of Fountains Abbey, the largest monastic ruins in the country and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, set just outside the charming city of Ripon.

In the 1993 version, Fountains Hall country house provided the exterior for the fictional Misselthwaite Manor, with a doorway opposite appearing as the entrance to the long‑neglected garden. For the 2020 film, the dramatic Cistercian abbey ruins were transformed into a mystical sunken temple, complete with vine‑covered walls, tropical plants and carefully constructed temporary pools for Mary and Colin to splash through.

Today, visitors can explore the sweeping Studley Royal Water Garden, wander through the ancient deer park and enjoy far‑reaching views towards Ripon.

Helmsley Walled Garden

Sheltered beneath the dramatic ruins of Helmsley Castle, the five‑acre haven of Helmsley Walled Garden became one of the standout locations in the 2020 adaptation. First built in 1758 as the kitchen garden for the neighbouring Duncombe Estate, it was lovingly restored by volunteers in the 1990s and brought back to life.

Its intimate garden rooms, apple orchards, vibrant borders and peaceful corners beautifully capture the atmosphere of Burnett’s tale. Time your visit for May, when the laburnum arches burst into a golden tunnel of cascading flowers, or explore from summer into October, when the Hot Border brings a vivid sweep of colour to the garden.

Farndale

Located in the heart of the North York Moors National Park, Farndale is known for its swathe of native wild daffodils which burst into a sea of yellow each spring, and its landscape starred in the 2020 adaptation of The Secret Garden.

"Daffodil Dale" as it's known is a popular spot for walkers thanks to its scenic trails, unspoilt views and sleepy hamlets. The 3½‑mile route along the River Dove is one of the most loved spring walks in the North York Moors, with daffodils appearing between mid‑March and mid‑April. The daffodils are protected within the Farndale Nature Reserve, which was established to safeguard the valley's famous flowers, so please do not pick any flowers.

Allerton Castle

One of England’s finest Gothic Revival stately homes, the grand exterior of Allerton Castle features prominently in the 1993 film adaptation of The Secret Garden, which starred Dame Maggie Smith. The house provided most of the exterior shots of Misselthwaite Manor, as well as several interior scenes.

Set within 200 acres between York and Harrogate, this striking building offers opulent state rooms, sweeping staircases and dramatic architecture - all of which you can experience on a guided tour.

Gardens of North Yorkshire

North Yorkshire is blooming with picturesque gardens to visit, from small wonders with cottage core vibes to expansive, manicured estates, each offering its own distinctive atmosphere and horticultural character. If you're feeling inspired to take a garden break, here are a few ideas to inspire you...

Castle Howard

Set within almost 1,000 acres of Grade I listed parkland, Castle Howard's grounds are as regal as its house. Stroll through landscapes dotted with lakes, temples and statues, woodland paths and the charming walled garden, all adding to the rich sense of drama.

RHS Garden Harlow Carr

Combining inspiration and exploration across more than 60 acres on the edge of Harrogate, RHS Garden Harlow Carr serves up streamside gardens and wildflower meadows, woodlands and themed borders, and imaginative family areas.

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Stillingfleet Lodge Gardens

This charming family garden at Stillingfleet has been lovingly nurtured over 40 years to create a wildlife oasis with themed garden rooms, wildflower meadows, cottage‑garden planting and a well‑stocked nursery.

Kiplin Hall and Gardens

Kiplin Hall and Gardens adds yet another layer to North Yorkshire’s garden heritage. Set within 90 acres of grounds, the estate combines a productive walled garden, formal borders, woodland walks and scenic lakeside paths that create a tranquil escape in the heart of the county.

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If you're seeking a peaceful escape, North Yorkshire offers the perfect blend of beauty, tranquillity and the same quiet magic that fills The Secret Garden. As you explore its moors, walled gardens and hidden corners, remember Burnett’s gentle reminder: “If you look the right way, you can see that the whole world is a garden.”

Article Tags

What is Grassington’s connection to All Creatures Great and Small and what can visitors see there?: Grassington doubles for the fictional village of Darrowby in the television adaptation; visitors can stroll the village to spot many of the exterior locations used for street scenes and village settings while respecting residents and private property.
What is the World of James Herriot in Thirsk and what does it focus on?: The World of James Herriot in Thirsk is a museum dedicated to the life and work of James Herriot, showcasing exhibits and memorabilia connected to his veterinary practice and stories; check the museum directly for current opening information and events.