1928-2026: A Garden Re-opened - From Princess Mary to Today

First opened in 1928 - reopened for a new era in 2010

There are milestones that matter quietly, and then there are those that deserve to be marked properly. This year, Goldsborough Hall reaches one of the latter.

In 2026, we celebrate a total of 20 garden openings for the National Garden Scheme – a moment that connects nearly a century of history with the gardens as they stand today.

Goldsborough Hall and its garden in the 1920s when HRH Princess Mary and Viscount Lascelles lived there

The original NGS document detailing the 1920s openings

The story begins in 1927, when the National Garden Scheme was first founded. Just a year later, on 4th July 1928, Princess Mary opened the gardens at Goldsborough Hall to the public for the very first time. The response was extraordinary. More than 3,500 visitors are believed to have attended, with takings of £180 13s 6d – a sum significant enough at the time to purchase a house.

The gardens opened again under Princess Mary in 1929 and 1930, drawing continued interest from visitors keen to experience a royal garden at its height.

Pre-2005 the garden was in decline and overgrown, with weeds everywhere, uncut hedges and inpenetrable woods

Over the decades that followed, the gardens fell into decline. By the time the Oglesbys arrived in 2005, the gardens were largely derelict – overgrown, neglected, and far removed from their earlier prominence. What followed was not a quick transformation, but a careful and determined restoration. Clearing, cutting back and reclaiming the structure of the gardens came first, with replanting beginning in earnest the following year.

By March 2010, the gardens were ready to reopen for the National Garden Scheme. The response, once again, exceeded expectations. Around 1,800 visitors arrived for Spring opening, overwhelming both the Hall and the village, which quickly became gridlocked. It was a lesson learnt quickly.

Reopened by Lizzie Balmforth, then Head of RHS Harlow Carr with Oglesbys and family, and former Head Gardener Ray Farrer

By July that same year, with better planning and local support, 2,700 visitors attended a second opening, this time with proper parking in place. That reopening was led by Lizzie Bamforth, then Head of RHS Harlow Carr, marking a significant moment in the gardens’ return to national relevance.

View down the main borders at the 2010 opening

Hundreds of people attended the summer 2010 opening

Since then, the gardens have continued to evolve. What visitors see today is the result of sustained vision and expert care. Seasonal highlights include extensive spring bulbs and snowdrops, a developing woodland walk, a structured rose garden, herbaceous borders, and the terrace with its balustrade planting. The kitchen garden, with its fountain, rill and large glasshouse, has become a defining feature.

None of this would be possible without the dedication of our gardening team, led by Head Gardener Debbie, alongside Paul and Lucie, whose work ensures the gardens are not only maintained but continually improved.

This year marks our 17th opening since restoration began. When combined with Princess Mary’s original three openings, it brings the total to 20 – a full circle moment that ties past and present together.

Looking down the main borders - image from the 1920s

In recognition of this milestone, the Oglesbys are honoured to be receiving a certificate and ceremonial fork from the National Garden Scheme in July – a meaningful acknowledgement of both the gardens’ history and their ongoing contribution.

As the NGS itself approaches its 100th anniversary in 2027, this feels like the right moment to reflect. What began as a single royal opening has become a long-standing tradition, rooted in community, generosity and the enduring appeal of a well-tended garden.

When can you visit the Goldsborough Hall gardens?

You can visit the gardens at our July opening on Sunday 26th July 2026 from 11-4. There will be an exhibition where you can find out more about ‘Goldsborough Hall 1928-2026: A Garden Re-opened’.

The Orangery will be serving hot drinks and light lunches, while Head Gardener Debbie will be giving garden talks at 12 and 2pm. Plant sale with Summerfield Nursery. Dogs on leads welcome. Adults: £7.50 and under 12s are free. All proceeds to charity.

The gardens are also open daily (unless there is a function) and tickets can be booked online here.