Mr Yorke’s Walled Garden to open for Richmond MayFest

Mr Yorke’s Walled Garden in Richmond, will welcome visitors on June 14 from 1pm to 5pm, with all money raised going towards next year’s Richmond MayFest.

The garden, an 18th-century gem once part of the Yorke family estate, has been lovingly restored by current owners Dennis and Marcia McLuckie, who transformed the once-overgrown space into a tranquil, informal haven.

Iris Eckersley Amongst the Blooms in Mr. Yorke’s Walled Garden (Image: Supplied)

Mrs McLuckie said: “I love coming into the garden early in the morning when the dew is on the grass and the birds are singing away.

“The garden feels fresh and lush and full of promise.

“Dennis and I like to share the garden whilst raising money for local charities, such as MayFest and Just the Job.”

Peonies and Euphorbia in Mr. Yorke’s Walled Garden, Richmond (Image: Supplied)

Visitors will be treated to live flute and harp performances, while Richmond artist Judi Allinson will be painting in the garden and offering her artwork and handmade gifts for sale.

A plant sale will also take place, organised by the charity Just the Job, with proceeds supporting their Big Green Build project to improve facilities at their Gallowfields site.

Homemade cakes and refreshments will be available throughout the afternoon.

Marcia McLuckie Serving Cakes at Mr. Yorke’s Walled Garden Open Day (Image: Supplied)

Mr Yorke’s Walled Garden was built by John Yorke II and formed part of a grand estate that once included a 17th-century mansion, formal gardens, stables, the Green Walk, Culloden Tower, and Temple Grounds.

The family mansion was demolished in the early 19th century, and the walled garden later became a market garden.

During the 1980s, it was planted with saplings intended for sale, many of which remain as mature trees today.

Rose ‘Champagne Moment’ Mr. Yorke’s Walled Garden, Richmond (Image: Supplied)

Since acquiring the garden, the owners have worked to preserve its historical features while gradually redesigning the space.

The garden now extends over an acre, featuring a mix of mature trees, shrubs, fruit trees both old and new, lawns, parterres, herbaceous borders, roses, ponds, and a stream.

Its informal style stands in contrast to more structured planting schemes and offers a peaceful retreat behind Cravengate’s high walls.

Mrs McLuckie said: “I have lost count of the number of plants we have introduced from our local garden centres and as gifts from friends and family.

“We have some beautiful roses and this year has been fantastic for the crab apple, cherry, and apple tree blossom.”

All proceeds from ticket sales and refreshments will go towards funding next year’s Richmond MayFest.

Richmond MayFest is now an established weekend of music, dance and storytelling in the Richmond calendar.

Plant sales will support Just the Job’s Big Green Build project, which will improve the facilities at their Gallowfields site.

Visitors are advised that there is no parking at the garden itself.

Parking is available at Nuns Close and Yorke Square pay-and-display car parks, as well as disc parking areas in Newbiggin and the Market Place.

The garden is situated on a hill, and while main grass paths are wheelchair accessible, they are quite steep.

Admission is £6 for adults and free for accompanied children under 16.

Guests are asked to bring cash as no card payment facilities will be available.