Harewood in Bloom 2026: 40,000-bulb display and stunning indoor floral art to take over historic Leeds estate
One of Yorkshire’s most iconic historic houses is set to undergo a dramatic transformation this May as it launches its first-ever Harewood in Bloom festival.
The 140-acre grounds of Harewood House will burst into colour, headlined by a staggering 40,000-bulb spring display - the largest single planting the estate has seen in over a century.
The event is designed to celebrate the fleeting window of the British spring, offering visitors a rare look at botanical highlights that are often gone within days.
The celebration isn’t restricted to the gardens. Inside the house, the State Floor will be transformed by vibrant floral installations created in partnership with award-winning local florists, Leafy Couture.
These displays are inspired by Harewood’s world-class collections, with the iconic Adam sculpture by Jacob Epstein in the Entrance Hall set to be framed by bespoke floral artistry.
In addition to professional displays, the festival will showcase the work of local community groups and volunteers, with The Gallery hosting seven breathtaking handcrafted paper flower arrangements, each designed by a different award-winning florist to create an immersive, indoor spring landscape.
For nature lovers, the outdoor displays offer a glimpse of some of the most elusive plants in the North.
Head Gardener Trevor Nicholson highlighted the Davidia involucrata, better known as the "pocket handkerchief tree," as a star attraction. Its delicate white bracts flutter like handkerchiefs in the breeze, but they only bloom for a very short period in early May.
Across the park, the results of months of preparation will be on show as camassias and alliums transform the former playground into a dramatic landscape. Visitors can also expect to see carpets of bluebells and wild garlic, alongside the exotic honey spurge in the Archery Border, which brings an unexpected scent of Madeira to the Leeds countryside.
The weekend isn't just for garden enthusiasts; it’s designed to be a hands-on experience for all ages.
Younger visitors can take part in paper flower crown making or join the ‘Little Gardeners’ sessions, where Harewood’s own gardening team will help children plant their own seeds to take home.
Speaking about the debut events, Zoë Hughes, Head of Public Programme at Harewood House Trust, said: ”May is one of the most exciting times to experience Harewood, as the landscape bursts into colour and fragrance.
“Harewood in Bloom brings this to life through workshops, trails, and artistic displays designed to spark a sense of joy for all ages."
When is Harewood in Bloom taking place?
The inaugural Harewood in Bloom festival takes place over the May Bank Holiday weekend from May 2 to 4.
The house and grounds will be open throughout the weekend, though visitors are encouraged to check the official website for specific opening times for the State Floor and Walled Garden.
Do I need tickets to attend Harewood in Bloom?
Tickets are required for entry, and visitors are strongly advised to book online in advance to secure the best available prices.
Adult tickets are available for £26.50, while child tickets are priced at £10.00 (provided they are booked before 8:30 am on the day of the visit.)
In a significant move to ensure the event remains inclusive and accessible to the wider community, Harewood is also offering £3.00 tickets for those in receipt of Universal Credit, Pension Credit, DLA, or PIP.
As always, entry remains free for Harewood Members and children under the age of four.