Goddards House and Garden

York

Visitors walking through the lush spring garden with yellow and purple irises and rhododendrons at Goddards.

Goddards House and Garden: Step into the beautiful Arts and Crafts world of the Terry family

Discover the enchanting garden of the Terry family, famous for the Chocolate Orange, and enjoy a green escape. This Arts and Crafts gem, cared for by the National Trust, is an oasis of peace with a sweet history.

Highlights

Why you shouldn't miss this attraction

Immerse yourself in the history of the Terry's chocolate dynasty, inventors of the famous Chocolate Orange. 

Discover a beautiful five-acre Arts and Crafts garden with distinct 'rooms', fragrant borders, and a historic glasshouse.  

Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the view across the racecourse to the old chocolate factory's clock tower.  

A perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, lovingly cared for by the Goddards National Trust team.  

Gallery

Arts and Crafts style brick building with formal gardens, terraces and relaxing visitors on the lawn.

Diverse collection of succulents, palms and flowering plants in terracotta pots in Goddards greenhouse.

Idyllic garden seating area with wooden bench, brick wall and flowering perennial beds with lavender and catmint.

Brick façade of the Arts and Crafts Goddards house with raised perennial beds, lavender and garden benches.

Bright white Victorian greenhouse surrounded by sunflowers and potted plants in the garden of Goddards.

What awaits you on site

Goddards House and Garden: A sweet slice of history and English gardening tradition

Welcome to Goddards House and Garden, a hidden gem on the edge of York that transports you into the world of the famous Terry's chocolate-making family. This impressive property was once the home of Noel and Kathleen Terry, a name synonymous with the legendary Chocolate Orange. Today, the garden is cared for by the Goddards National Trust team and invites you on a journey back in time. The garden at Goddards York was designed in the 1920s by landscape architect George Dillistone in the exquisite Arts and Crafts style. Spread across five acres, you'll find a series of distinct 'garden rooms' separated by hedges and shrubs. Stroll through fragrant borders, discover formal ponds, an orchard, a kitchen garden, and a historic glasshouse. Each area has its own unique character and charm, from the manicured lawns to the wilder corners that are a haven for wildlife. A special highlight is the view from the garden across York Racecourse, where you can spot the clock tower of the former Terry's factory – a constant reminder of the site's sweet heritage.

While the house itself now serves as a regional office for the National Trust and is closed to visitors, the garden is open to offer you a peaceful retreat. And the great news for all dog owners: your furry friend is welcome here! Dogs are allowed on a lead in most of Goddards garden, so you can explore the beautiful grounds together; only the kitchen garden is excluded. Take a break from the city, enjoy the peace and beauty of this special place, and feel the spirit of the family that shaped York's chocolate history.

Good to know for your visit

The house itself is not open to the public as it is used as a National Trust office. However, the garden, kiosk, and a small second-hand bookshop are open for you to enjoy. There is accessible parking only on site. Other parking options are available on nearby streets.

Visitor information

Opening times:

Garden & Kiosk: 11am - 4pm. Opening days vary seasonally. Please check the attraction's official website for detailed and up-to-date opening times before your visit.

Address:

27 Tadcaster Rd, Dringhouses, York YO24 1GG, United Kingdom