Crayke Open Gardens 2026: Spring celebration returns with hidden gems, brass bands and hilltop views
One of Yorkshire’s most picturesque villages is throwing open its gates this month, offering visitors a rare chance to explore the ‘hidden gems’ of the historic hilltop parish.
Looking for an excuse to leave the hustle and bustle of Leeds as spring seems to be in the air? Then might we suggest an expedition to one of Yorkshire’s historic location...
Crayke, situated in North Yorkshire and an hour’s drive away from the city centre, will host its annual Open Gardens event. Perfectly timed to coincide with the iconic display of thousands of daffodils on Church Hill (famously dubbed a ‘Field of Gold’ by The Dalesman), the day promises a quintessentially British spring experience.
Perched at an elevation of 379 feet with panoramic views of the Vale of York and the Howardian Hills, it is a designated conservation area home to 30 listed buildings.
Visitors can explore the grounds of the 15th-century St Cuthbert’s Church and catch a glimpse of the privately owned Crayke Castle.
The village’s roots stretch back to the 7th century, when King Ecgfrith of Northumbria gifted the land to St Cuthbert of Lindisfarne.
For centuries, Crayke actually existed as a detached ‘exclave’ of County Durham, only being restored to Yorkshire in 1844.
The day offers a rare opportunity to explore approximately 10 private gardens, ranging from intimate, quaint cottage-style plots to sprawling hilltop gardens that take full advantage of the village’s breath-taking panoramic views.
As visitors wander between the displays, the nostalgic sounds of the Easingwold Town Band will provide a classic British brass soundtrack to the afternoon.
Green-fingered guests can also pick up something for their own gardens, with local growers Mill Green Garden & Plant Nursery on hand, selling a variety of culinary herbs and herbaceous perennials.
For those looking to step inside, both the Church and Village Hall will host curated displays of local history and artwork, showcasing the parish's creative talent and deep-rooted heritage.
No country open-garden event would be complete without a warm welcome, and home-made refreshments will be served throughout the day in both the Village Hall and the Church.
Visitors can also try their luck at a massive tombola featuring an array of local prizes, with every penny raised supporting the village’s vital community hubs and the local primary school.
When and where can I get tickets to attend Crayke Open Gardens 2026?
Tickets for the Crayke Open Gardens are priced at £5 for adults, while children can enjoy the event for free. Your ticket also serves as a guide to the village, as each one includes a detailed map to help you navigate between the participating gardens and historic landmarks.
There is no need to book in advance; tickets can be purchased on the day of the event at the Crayke Sports Club and Village Hall, located on Easingwold Road (YO61 4TZ).
For those driving into the village, free car parking is also available at the Sports Club, which sits in the shadow of the historic Crayke Castle.
The gardens will be open from 11am to 5pm on March 29.
All proceeds from the day are split locally, supporting the vital work of St Cuthbert’s Church, Crayke C of E Primary School, and the Village Hall and Sports Club, ensuring this historic "village on the hill" continues to thrive for the next generation.