Temple Newsam is one of Leeds’ greatest treasures, a magnificent Tudor–Jacobean mansion set in over 1,500 acres of beautiful parkland. Often described as the “Hampton Court of the North,” this historic estate is a place full of art, history, and natural beauty. The house dates back to the early 16th century and has been home to many important families, including the Ingrams and the Tennants. It is also the birthplace of Lord Darnley, the ill-fated husband of Mary, Queen of Scots.
Inside the house, you will step back in time as you walk through lavishly decorated rooms filled with fine art, furniture, and treasures from centuries past. From grand halls and elegant drawing rooms to hidden servants’ quarters, every corner tells a story about the lives of the people who once lived here.
Surrounding the mansion are vast landscaped gardens designed by the famous Capability Brown, along with woodlands, lakes, and open parkland. You can stroll through formal rose gardens, admire colourful seasonal displays, or simply enjoy the peaceful countryside atmosphere so close to the city.
Temple Newsam is also home to a working rare-breeds farm, where you can meet pigs, cows, sheep, and chickens, and learn how farming has shaped the land over the centuries.
On our visit, we will explore the house, and gardens. You’ll discover fascinating stories about the families who lived at Temple Newsam, enjoy the beauty of its grounds, and experience both history and nature in one extraordinary place.
0:00 – Meet at CES Leeds’s common room for a welcome and safety briefing by Activity Leaders.
0:05 – Depart CES Leeds and travel by coach to Temple Newsam.
1:00 – Arrive at Temple Newsam. The group gathers outside the main entrance. Activity Leader gives an introduction to the site.
1:05 – Begin the self-guided visit inside Temple Newsam House.
1:50 – Regroup outside the house for a short break.
2:20– Explore the gardens and parkland
2:30 – Regroup in front of the main entrance. Prepare for departure; students gather belongings and use restrooms if needed.
2:35 – Leave Temple Newsam and begin the return journey by a public bus
3:20 – Arrive back at CES Leeds.
Step into one of the finest Tudor–Jacobean mansions in England. Wander through grand halls, elegant drawing rooms, and servants’ quarters, each filled with treasures, paintings, and furniture from centuries past. You’ll feel like you’ve travelled back in time.
Look out for: The Long Gallery, one of the longest rooms in any English house.
Fun fact: Temple Newsam is the birthplace of Lord Darnley, husband of Mary, Queen of Scots!
Stroll through beautifully designed gardens and wide-open landscapes. From colourful rose gardens to sweeping lawns and lakes, the grounds are a mix of peace and beauty, designed by the famous landscape gardener Capability Brown.
Look out for: Seasonal flower displays and sweeping views across 1,500 acres of parkland.
Fun fact: The gardens were redesigned in the 18th century to look like “natural” countryside – a style that influenced estates across Britain.
Meet rare-breed animals including pigs, cows, sheep, goats, and chickens on this working farm. Discover how farming shaped the land around the estate and how people cared for animals in the past.
Look out for: Tamworth pigs, Shorthorn cattle, and other rare animals you don’t often see on modern farms.
Fun fact: Temple Newsam’s farm is one of the leading centres in the UK for conserving rare breeds!