Relax & Reset This Winter in Yorkshire’s Most Restorative Natural Spaces

Woodland wanders, deer spotting and quiet moments in the fresh air – National Trust sites offer simple ways to recharge this winter.

After the highs of Christmas, a slow stroll in a peaceful landscape can bring welcome breathing space. Cold, crisp landscapes serve up unexpected beauty, while you can beat the crowds at some of Yorkshire’s most stunning landmarks. Here are four ways to relax and reset at National Trust sites this winter.

Find your calm at a UNESCO World Heritage Site

© Copyright National Trust Images/Andrew Butler

The quiet beauty of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal is even more stirring during winter, where soaring arches and deer-strewn parkland create a soul-soothing setting. The silence around the ruins encourages you to explore at a slower pace, tracing the curves of the magnificent monument.

In the water garden, ornamental lakes and temples unfold in a series of restorative views. Wander along the water’s edge, pause by the lake and listen out for the gentle notes of birdsong – a mid-winter treat that’ll leave you feeling good long after you return home.

What? A UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient ruins, water features and deer parks.
Where? Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 3DY.
Find out more: nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/yorkshire/fountains-abbey-and-studley-royal-water-garden

Marvel at striking natural landscapes

© Copyright National Trust Images/Annapurna Mellor

Sweeping moorland dotted with gravity-defying rock formations, Brimham Rocks has an almost otherworldly feel to it. The experience is especially dramatic during winter time, as frosted paths and wide open expanses make the ancient formations even more imposing.

After taking in the prehistoric wonder, head to the visitor centre where you’ll find a cosy second-hand bookshop. Whether you pick up your latest read or just have a browse while you warm up, this comforting ritual is the perfect way to wrap up your day.

What? Weird and wonderful rock formations, created millions of years before the first dinosaurs walked the earth.
Where? Brimham Rocks, Brimham Moor Road, Summerbridge, Harrogate, HG3 4DW.
Find out more: nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/yorkshire/brimham-rocks

Forest bathe amongst ancient woodland

Credit: Nick Singleton Photography

Over in Wakefield, Nostell’s 300 acres of parkland invite you to look up, switch off and wander without a plan. While the Hardwick Beck and Carriageway paths offer plenty of room for running and cycling, it’s equally as rewarding to slow the pace right down and soak up the scenery.
There’s even a wellness trail, guiding you to ten secluded benches around Nostell’s quietest corners. Grab a moment by the lake or under the trees, taking in words of advice and mindful activities designed to help you stop and appreciate the present moment.

What? 300 acres of ancient woodland, wildflower meadows and family-friendly spaces.
Where? Nostell, Doncaster Road, Nostell, Wragby, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF4 1QE.
Find out more: nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/yorkshire/nostell

Wander through a winter garden

© Copyright National Trust Images/Sam Shipman

Beningbrough’s garden is the perfect place to spot the first signs of the year ahead. From early January, snowdrops scatter across woodland floors, joined by carpets of yellow winter aconite later in the month – a gentle reminder that spring is on the way. And don’t miss the Mediterranean Garden, still full of life during the winter.

It’s not uncommon for your winter walk to be soundtracked by the territorial drumming of woodpeckers – winter is a wonderful time to watch them as they forage for nuts and seeds. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a waxwing or a short-eared owl hunting over the fields.

What? An eight-acre garden providing year round colour.
Where? Beningbrough Hall, Gallery and Gardens, York, North Yorkshire, YO30 1DD.
Find out more: nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/yorkshire/beningbrough