Back to 1986: Leeds Harewood House Trust celebrates 40 years with tickets from just £1.50

It was established with a simple but enduring ambition: to protect, preserve and share Harewood House, its collections, gardens and grounds for generations to come.

From landmark exhibitions and unforgettable events to protecting the past while creating new ways for communities to connect with Harewood, the Trust has spent four decades shaping Harewood’s future while celebrating its extraordinary past.

Harewood will mark this milestone with a special anniversary weekend, inviting visitors to look back at some of the Trust’s most memorable exhibitions, events and achievements, while discovering what lies ahead for Harewood.

In a nod to the year the Trust was founded, 400 tickets for October 17 and October 18 will be available at 1986 prices, with bookings opening on September 14. Tickets will cost just £3.50 for adults and £1.50 for children.

Highlights include:

In Conversation with David Lascelles

October 16, The Gallery £15 per person

Join David Lascelles, 8th Earl of Harewood, for a special In Conversation event as he discusses his new book, Out of Colditz. Set against the final days of the Second World War, the book

explores the remarkable story of Gottlob Berger, a senior Nazi figure who played an unexpected role in saving the life of David’s father, George Lascelles, then heir to the Harewood title.

Drawing on family archives and historical research, David reflects on memory, history and the challenges of understanding the past, uncovering a little-known chapter in Harewood’s family story.

Memories and Reflections from Harewoods Last Butler

17 + 18 October, 10.30 + 1pm Entrance Hall £15 per person

Molly Kelly has been part of Harewood’s story for more than 36 years, including 25 years working closely with the Lascelles family. Becoming Under Butler in 2001 and Butler in 2006, Molly was one of the few women to hold the position at the time. Based in the private apartments, she cared for the 7th Earl and Countess of Harewood, developing an unparalleled knowledge of the House, its collections and traditions. Join Molly during Harewood 40 for a special private apartment tour and a rare opportunity to explore these spaces with someone who has cared for them for decades.

A Garden’s Journey: Looking back, Growing Forward

17 + 18 October, 12pm The Terrace £15 per person

Having cared for Harewood’s gardens for more than 30 years, award-winning Head Gardener Trevor Nicholson is uniquely placed to share their stories. Join Trevor for a fascinating guided walk through the Terrace, West Garden, Pleasure Grounds and South Garden, exploring the evolution of Harewood’s landscape and plans for the future. From the reopening of the Walled Garden to the redevelopment of the Himalayan Garden, Trevor has witnessed and shaped remarkable changes across three decades. Discover his contribution to the gardens, from planting 40,000 bulbs to introducing no-dig methods in the Walled Garden. Whether you’re a keen gardener or simply love Harewood’s landscape, this is a walk not to be missed.

Princess Mary’s Owls Display

17 + 18 October Yellow Drawing Room Included in membership and day tickets

Princess Mary adored owls and collected many throughout her life, with her collection displayed in her private rooms and gifted by friends and family. The owl is also the emblem of the City of

Leeds, a fitting connection for a princess who once described Yorkshire as “the best place.” To celebrate Leeds 400 and Harewood 40, Princess Mary’s most treasured owls will be displayed together in the Yellow Drawing Room for the first time in over a decade. Created by Royal jewellers Fabergé and Cartier, each model is intricately carved from precious hardstones, showcasing exceptional craftship and the rich tradition of royal collecting.

Time Capsule Creations

17 + 18 October Servants Hall Included in membership and day tickets

Create your own time capsule for the future! Visit the Servants’ Hall and make a personal time capsule filled with whatever you choose. Share a favourite memory, write a message, draw a picture, include a story, or add something that captures a moment in your life right now. Your time capsule will be preserved as a snapshot of today, ready for future visitors to discover and enjoy.